5 Eclectic Drive-In Movie Theaters To Visit In Georgia

Drive-In Movie Theaters are not extinct. They may be a little harder to find but there are some here in the deep south which make for a great date night out!

I still remember going to the Drive-In as a child and as a teenager in the 70’s. There were three different Drive-In’s as we called them back in the day, where I grew up. Two were more popular than the third and one was a favorite.

We had to deal with those old bulky speakers that hung on the side of the car and many times didn’t work well. More than once I have seen people drive off without removing the speaker first and rip it from the pole. What a headache that must have been for the owners. Thankfully we now have digital sound!

Some things are still the same at the drive in. You drive into the large parking lot and park facing the movie screen. Now, however you can bring a lawn chair and sit next to your car instead of inside it. Check the rules at each location first!

Here is your list of the fabulous 5 drive in movie theaters in Georgia! Let’s start in Atlanta with the Starlight.

1 Starlight Drive In Theatre

Located in Atlanta, the Starlight has been with us since 1949. Like many Drive-In’s you will also find a Saturday and Sunday Flea Market.

Movies 7 nights a week! Movies are posted on the website here and you can often find free printable activities for the kiddos on their Facebook page here.

Snack bar available. Showtimes vary depending on the seasons.

2 Jesup Drive-In Theatre

The Jesup Drive-in opened in 1948 on Savannah Hwy in Jesup Georgia. Open every night, year round. Located close enough to Savannah for you to plan a night out if in the area.

You will enjoy the 1950’s vibe with waiters and waitresses dressed in 50’s style attire! How fun is that! Concessions available to be delivered to your car. Don’t forget to tip! Text or call in your order. No need to leave the comfort of your car.

3 Swan Drive-In

The Swan Drive-In opened in 1955 located in Blue Ridge Georgia. The Blue Ridge area is rich with history and things to see and do year round.

Movies play seven days a week with double features on the weekends. Check their Facebook page for regular updates too.

Funnel cakes and Deep Fried Oreos are on the menu at the Concessions! The Swan is a cash only location so plan accordingly when you visit. Arrive early if going in the summer because they get pretty busy!

4 Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theatre

Another North Georgia jewel, Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theatre is located at the Georgia-Tennessee border less than 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee. There is plenty to see and do in the area.

Double Feature shown on both screens every Fri., Sat., and Sunday. The season begins in May and ends in September.

The concession stand has a full menu including an occasional Funnel Cake Friday!Outside food and drink is not allowed. Gates open at 7 pm, movies begin at 8:30. Follow their Facebook page for updates.

Number 5 is last on our list but certainly not least!

5 Tiger Drive-In

Another North Georgia best kept secret! Let’s all start planning a trip to the North Ga. mountains and be sure to add the Drive-In movies on our to-do lists!

Tiger Drive-In is located in northeast Georgia in the small town of Tiger, only 27 miles from Helen, Ga. or 25 miles from Franklin, Tn.

They have all grass terraces, FM broadcasts, outdoor speakers, Pandora pre-show music, Wi-Fi, and the delicious TDI Grill.

The most unique feature at the Tiger is their vintage campers Flamingle and Disco Daze! Both are available to book for the evening on Airbnb. The campers include their own movie viewing platform, two movie tickets, coffee and cereal for the morning, a hot and cold outdoor shower and bathrooms. Sounds like a fun adventure!

Common Rules and Information for most Drive-In Movies

You will need a working FM radio to transmit the sound for the movie.

It is a good idea to crank your car during intermission to charge your battery for a bit. Make sure you have a good strong battery to power the radio for sound over an extended period of time. Some movie nights are double features.

Large vehicles must park in the back

Some locations will allow you to bring lawn chairs and sit by your vehicle

Grills and open fires are not allowed

No animals allowed

Many locations are Cash Only. Check the site before you go

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