Four classic drive-in movie theaters still operate in NEPA.

Drive-in theaters combine all the excitement of going to the movies with a little nostalgia and a beautiful, starry sky. Though they reached the height of their popularity during the 50s and 60s, the number of drive-in theaters in America has steadily waned since. There were once over 4,000 theaters across the country, now there are barely more than 300.

And yet, while it’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep these midcentury marvels up and running, Northeastern Pennsylvania’s love for the unique summer amusement is still going strong. With four classic theaters spread across NEPA, the region is practically a drive-in hotspot. So, load up the car, stop by the concession stand, and spend this summer at NEPA’s cinemas under the stars.

The Garden Drive-In Theater — Hunlock Creek, PA

A Luzerne County icon.

For more than 70 years, this Hunlock Creek drive-in has been one of NEPA’s favorite places to catch a summer flick. Generations of locals have flocked to the Garden Drive-In every summer since it opened in 1952 with one screen, a 325-car lot and a dream.

In the years since, the Garden Drive-In has expanded to fit over 600 cars. They also added a second screen and a fully digital projection system. When it comes to snacks, the Garden’s concession stand maintains its old school charm while serving up all the go-to treats.

Movies play Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, typically beginning at 8:45 p.m., or as darkness permits. Each screen features two films for the price of one. The drive-in also converts to one of NEPA’s largest flea markets every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Circle Drive-In — Dickson City, PA

Vintage design meets modern times.

Since 1949, the Circle Drive-In has been an essential summertime gathering place. You’ll find the classic drive-in along NEPA’s famous Route 6, just about 6 miles north of Downtown Scranton. It’s central location in Lackawanna County makes it accessible for visitors from all across the region.

The Circle has two screens, one of which is the largest in Pennsylvania, and a semicircular design, making viewing optimal for more than 800 cars at a time. And with fully digitized projection technology, the picture and sound quality are top notch. Be sure to stop by the full-service snack bar for pizza, pierogies, popcorn and more.

The Circle Drive-In is open all weekend, with each screen featuring two summer blockbusters, and occasionally a retro film. Gates open at 7:45 p.m. and movies begin as darkness permits. Like many other drive-in theaters, it transforms into a massive flea market on Sunday mornings and afternoons.

The Mahoning Drive-In Theater — Lehighton, PA

Staying true.

The Mahoning Drive-In Theater is a living, breathing time capsule. Built in 1947 and opened in 1948, it is NEPA’s oldest drive-in. The Mahoning is located in rural Lehighton, just outside of Jim Thorpe. Despite its small-town location, people visit from states away, making this drive-in destination a certified classic.

Catch old family favorites and cult classics from the last century on one of the largest Cinemascope screens in the country. Using primarily 35mm film, the Mahoning preserves the traditional viewing experience for future generations. Their concession stand even doubles as a retro VHS, DVD and vinyl record shop. Between special events, themed feature nights and a staff of film buffs, you’re guaranteed to feel the Mahoning movie magic with every visit.

The Mahoning shows films on Tuesday nights and weekends. They offer overnight passes for campers and out-of-towners. Be sure to check out their monthly schedule for upcoming features and events.

The Moonlite Drive-In — West Wyoming, PA

A triumphant return to glory.

After closing, seemingly for good, in the late 80s, this popular West Wyoming hangout had given way to weedy reclamation. For just over 30 years, the Moonlite Drive-In sat vacant. Then, in October of 2019, by the grace of one nostalgic soul, this nearly forgotten icon was once again flooded by a stream of headlights.

The new and improved Moonlite Drive-In features a modern, digital projection system. The remodeled, yet still-old-school concession stand offers all the usual movie theater treats. And there’s enough room to comfortably fit up to 400 vehicles. The Moonlite shows classic and contemporary double features every weekend. Check them out on social media for updates regarding showtimes and weekend show listings.