The Last Drive-In in Arizona Has Been Packing Cars Into Glendale Since 1979

In 1933, the first drive-in movie theater was established in New Jersey, and over the years, the concept quickly spread across the country. At the height of their popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, there were approximately 4,000 drive-in theaters across the United States, including around 20 in Arizona. Today, only one drive-in remains in the Grand Canyon State, and watching movies under the stars here is the ultimate nostalgic activity for summertime fun. If you haven't yet taken your friends or family to West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In, you should add it to your bucket list.

To some, a drive-in movie theater is a thing of the past. And while, to an extent, this is true as many have gone out of business and closed down over the years, there's just something magical about watching a movie on a massive screen from the comfort of your car. As someone who appreciates historic places with a nostalgic element, I have seen movies at numerous drive-in theaters throughout the country, and even one in Canada. I have even (proudly) introduced my kids to the excitement and nostalgia of drive-in movie theaters.

Living in Arizona, we only have the West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In, which has been a staple of family-friendly fun since 1979. It's the last drive-in of a bygone era, but it doesn't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. Located in Glendale, Arizona, it's an easy place to get to for those of us who live in and around Maricopa County. Best of all, it's open year-round, but summer is a wonderful time to pile the family into the car and watch a movie at the drive-in.

With nine screens and a concession stand offering a variety of foods, including popcorn, pizza, chicken tenders, ice cream, candy, and churros, you can enjoy dinner, dessert, and a movie. For anyone 21 and older, a selection of adult beverages, including beer, margaritas, and canned cocktails, is available. You can even order concessions from your phone, bringing this retro drive-in into the modern era.

If you arrive early to stake out a good parking spot in front of the screen and you have kids with you, take them to the on-site playground. It's an excellent way for them to get the wiggles out before the movie starts and the time between a double feature. The playground is also available if you visit West Wind Glendale 9, which hosts a Public Market, held year-round on Saturdays and Sundays from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you're looking for family-friendly activities this summer, make plans to watch a blockbuster at West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In. Not only is it one of the best things you can do in summer in Arizona, but it's a retro throwback for those of us who love nostalgic places. You can view the current movie selection and purchase tickets on the West Wind website. Pre-sale tickets for some of the summer's most highly anticipated films may also be available.

Still feeling nostalgic? How about a road trip to some of Arizona's most charming Route 66 towns?