10 Old-Fashioned Drive-In Movie Theaters Around Illinois That Will Make You Feel Downright Nostalgic
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
If you’re the type of person who doesn’t want to go back inside during the warm months, here are 10 drive-in movie theaters that will let you extend that outdoor time. Not only that, but you’ll get to enjoy a pastime that will take you back to the 1950s.
Pile your friends and family into the car and get ready for double features, twin screens, and car shows. Check ’em out:
Known as the last original drive-in that is still in operation on Route 66, this iconic place has been in busineess for nearly 70 years. It is open April through October and offers concessons as well as fun events throughout the year.
Address: 1500 Old Rte 66 North, Litchfield, IL, 62056
Address: 1500 Old Rte 66 North, Litchfield, IL, 62056
Believe it or not, there is another Skyview just an hour from the original. It has been in business just as long and features a playground and double screens. Get more details about this iconic spot from previous Only In Your State coverage here.
Address: 5700 North Belt West, Belleville, IL, 62226
Address: 5700 North Belt West, Belleville, IL, 62226
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An actual vintage movie-going experience, this is truly one of the best old-fashioned drive-in movie theaters in the country. Entry is free so you can spend your cash at the concession stands. Guests enjoy classic films like The Wizard of Oz and Caddyshack, which are projected on the giant wall at this place.
Address: 2875 West Main Street, Galesburg, IL, 61401
Address: 2875 West Main Street, Galesburg, IL, 61401
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Open April through September, this popular spot shows the latest and greatest movies while offering concessions. It is located right next to a small amusement park, giving you plenty on this side of town to enjoy in a day.
Address: 1700 Recreation Drive, Springfield, IL, 62711
Address: 1700 Recreation Drive, Springfield, IL, 62711
When talking about drive-in move theaters in Illinois, there is always much buzz around this one that's been in business since the 1940s. Guests always get to enjoy a double feature, a wealth of concessions, and an old-fashioned 1950s experience that is hard to find elsewhere.
Address: 1510 North Chapel Hill Road, McHenry, IL, 60051
Address: 1510 North Chapel Hill Road, McHenry, IL, 60051
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This is one of Illinois' newest drive-in movie theaters. It opened in 2005 but still offers an authentic experience. Situated in a small town in the northwest part of the state, it mostly serves students from the nearby high school and surrounding communities.
Address: 8 James B Young Road, Galva, IL, 61434
Address: 8 James B Young Road, Galva, IL, 61434
Featuring two screens and movies every night during the summer, this family-friendly drive-in is what the season in all about. The place was established in 1954 in central Illinois and has been popular since.
Address: 1175 South Sangamon Avenue, Gibson City, IL, 60936
Address: 1175 South Sangamon Avenue, Gibson City, IL, 60936
One of the oldest drive-in movie theaters in the state, this one features a retro spaceship ticket booth, a playground, and concessions stands. Enjoy modern-day movies in a 1950s time capsule.
Address: 91 Palmyra Road, Sterling, IL, 61081
Address: 91 Palmyra Road, Sterling, IL, 61081
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Established in 1953, this drive-in is situated in a corn field with space for 250 cars. It offers concessions and family-friendly movies to please the whole car.
Address: 16045 East, IL-33, Newton, IL, 62448
Address: 16045 East, IL-33, Newton, IL, 62448
Locals of this small town know that the drive-in is the best place to go in the summer to see a movie. You can catch two great films for one low price, and there are plenty of snacks available for purchase on-site.
Address: 4468 East 12th Road, Earlville, IL, 60518
Address: 4468 East 12th Road, Earlville, IL, 60518
Have you been to any of these drive-in movie theaters? If so, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.
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