5 Georgia Drive-In Theaters You Can't Miss
Pack up the family and head out for a movie on the big screen at these Georgia drive-ins!
During the peak of the drive-in movie craze, the world saw more than 5,500 theaters – most of those in the U.S. Today, there are less than 350 worldwide. And what a shame, as they offer families such a fun, affordable option for adventure.
Luckily, Georgia boasts five drive-in theaters, including the world’s largest screen. Pack up the family and head out for a double feature this weekend!
Jesup Drive-In Theater in Jesup, Georgia
Jesup Drive-In Theater (Jesup)
Jesup Drive-In has been showing movies on the Georgia coast since 1948. Don’t miss the 1950s-esque car hops – their uniforms will take you back to the "good ol’ days." These high-school students work for tips only, so please be kind.
Open Friday and Saturday through August. Tickets are $5 per person or $10 per car load. Concessions are available, and there is a $5 food permit fee for those bringing their own picnic.
Starlight Drive-In Theatre (Atlanta)
Since 1949, Starlight Drive-In has entertained guests on the outskirts of Atlanta. Due to their strategic location and savvy growth decisions, they have remained an Atlanta staple.
Double features play seven days a week on high-quality digital projection. Tickets are $10 for adults and $1 for kids 5-9 years old. Concessions available. See the website for coupons. No pets.
Don’t miss their swap meet Saturday and Sunday with free parking. Admission is only 50 cents.
Swan Drive-In Theatre in Blue Ridge, Georgia
Swan Drive-In Theatre (Blue Ridge)
Swan Drive-In opened in Blue Ridge in 1955. At the time, there was no TV in the city, and demand for the movies was huge. The local businessmen could barely keep up.
It took much effort and fortitude to build the large drive-in theater, but once it was accomplished, Blue Ridge attracted people from miles around – all seeking to watch a movie on the big screen.
It was named "Swan" because of the beautiful, peaceful birds one of the owners admired while stationed in England before WWII.
Movies play on weekends. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids 3-11. Children under 3 are free. Concessions are available; no outside food or drink is allowed.
Tiger Drive-In Theater in Tiger, Georgia
Tiger Drive In Theatre (Tiger)
Tiger Drive-In, also in the mountains, originally opened in 1954, closed for a bit in the 1980s, and then reopened in 2004. Catch a flick Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Tickets are $10, and kids 4-11 are $5. Children under 3 are free. Concessions are available, and picnics are encouraged. Kids will love the playground, too.
On Saturdays, visit the Artisan Craft Market held May through October 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (weather permitting).
Looking for a cool camping spot? Bring your RV or tent and sleep at the theater after the movie for $20 for tent camping and $40 for RVs. Or, you can book a stay in one of the theater's three vintage campers, and your stay includes two movie passes!
Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater in Trenton, Georgia
Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater (Trenton)
On the Georgia/Tennessee border is Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater, which touts the largest outdoor drive-in movie screen in the world.
Double features play on weekends three seasons a year; the theatre is closed during winter months. Tickets are $7 – cash only. Ages 3 and under are free. Pets welcome.
Park in your car like a traditional drive-in theater guest, or bring your blanket and chairs to the great lawn while you watch.
Outside food and drink (including alcohol) are not permitted. An extensive selection of concessions are available.
Final Note: Most of the drive-in theaters are not making money from the movies they show. It’s the concession stand that drives the opportunity for these historic landmarks to stay in business. Please consider purchasing a hamburger, fries, popcorn or funnel cake while you visit. Even if they take credit cards, cash is always better. Let’s work together to see these family adventure spots are still around for the next generation to enjoy!
