It’s hard to beat watching a blockbuster on the big screen. The only thing better is taking your pet along! Luckily, there are hundreds of pet friendly movie theaters throughout the United States and Canada where you can do just that.

If you ask me, it’s time to take your cat (or dog) to the movies!

 

Drive-In: Pet Friendly Movie Theaters

It shouldn’t surprise you, given North America’s love of automobiles, that this is where drive-in movies were invented. The first drive-in theater opened in New Jersey in 1933 and by the early 1950s the United States had thousands of theaters.

During the 1970s drive-ins began to close and the land was developed shopping malls and subdivisions. By the turn of the century, there were only a few hundred drive-in theaters left. And pressure on the remaining theaters increased when the film production companies announced that they would no longer provide film reels to theaters. While the companies were willing to subsidize the cost of investing in digital projectors for inside movie theaters, drive-ins had to fund the large investment themselves.

As a result, even more mom-and-pop theaters failed.

Now, outdoor movies are experiencing a minor Renaissance. Several new theaters have been built in recent years, and old theaters are being refurbished. Some theaters are even positioning themselves as entertainment centers – complete with game rooms, sit-down restaurants, and beer gardens.

Fueling the drive-ins’ comeback is the growth in the number of people looking for fun activities they can enjoy with their pets. And outdoor movies are one of the most pet friendly entertainment options out there!

Here’s what you need to know before planning a trip to a pet friendly movie theater with your pets.

Outdoor Movie Tips For Newbies With Pets

If you’ve never been to a drive-in movie, or haven’t attended in decades, there are a few things you need to know.

Many Drive-ins Are Cash Only

Even theaters that accept debit or credit cards at the concession stand require cash at the box office to keep the line of cars moving quickly.

Theaters that accept only cash are noted in the list below. But check the website for the theater you’re planning to visit to make sure you have the cash you need before you arrive.

Arrive Early

Drive-in theaters open at least 90 minutes before the movie starts. Cars usually line up at the entrance (and along the roadways approaching the theater) on busy nights.

Arriving early gives you time to find your spot, get something to eat, and walk the dog. Also, popular movies on weekends can sell out, and getting there early will ensure you get a ticket.

The Sound Comes Through FM Radio

While some theaters have a few car speakers for nostalgia’s sake, all theaters play the movie sound over FM radio. If your radio doesn’t work, or if you’re worried about the charge on your battery, you’ll need to bring a portable radio with you. (Some theaters rent radios for a small fee.)

 

Most Drive-ins Show Two Movies for One Price

Nearly every drive-in movie theater offers two movies (and sometimes even three or four) per screen for one price. This makes for one of the most affordable nights out you can find.

Support the Concession Stand

Most drive-ins strictly prohibit you from bringing in outside food. Or if they allow it, they’ll charge you at least $5 for a food permit.

As any drive-in owner will tell you, the movie suppliers take as much as 90% of the box office sales. To keep the lights on, drive-ins (as well as indoor theaters) rely on concession sales to turn a profit.

The good news is that, unlike indoor theaters, outdoor theater concession prices are a bargain. Drive-in popcorn will cost about half of what you’d pay at your local metroplex. And besides candy and popcorn, drive-ins serve hot food like pizza and burgers. Some drive-ins even sell locally-sourced eats and craft beers!

Modern Cars Aren’t Made for Drive-in Movies

Many cars have lights that stay on when you’re running the radio or other accessories. Check your owner’s manual before you go to be sure you know how to keep your lights off. If you can’t figure it out, bring tape and heavy paper to cover over your headlights.

And the number one rule of  drive in etiquette …

Don’t Block Anyone’s View

Some theaters direct people to different parts of the theater based on the height of their vehicle. If you try to pull your SUV or truck into the front row, you’ll be asked to move.

If you decide to back your car into your spot and put the hatch back up, bring a bungee cord or twine to tie it so it doesn’t rise any higher than the roof of your car.

Finally, be sure to check the website of any theater you visit to learn about their policies, and to make sure they still allow pets.

Tips ForTaking Your Pet To The Movies

On a lovely weekend night, the drive-in can be a crazy place. Before taking your pet, you’ll want to be sure they feel comfortable with crowds and that they don’t take their guard dog responsibilities too seriously.

Most drive-in theaters, but not all, allow your pet to join you on a lawn chair or blanket in front of your car. And if you have to walk your dog, they will ask you to stay away from the concession stand and play areas in front of the screen. A far corner of the property is usually designated for potty breaks.

In fact, you might want to bring a flash light in case nature calls for your pup in the middle of the movie.

Most drive-in theaters have the same rules for pets. They must:

• be on a leash no longer than 6 feet whenever they are outside the car.
• be friendly or at least tolerant toward other people and dogs.
• not bark or otherwise disturb anyone watching the movie.
• be accompanied by a responsible person at all times equipped with the means to clean up after them.
• stay away from the concession stand or the playground areas.

A few of the theaters only allow pets as long as they remain in the car. Normally I would not consider that a pet-friendly policy, but some dogs who dislike crowds feel quite comfortable in their car. That makes a drive-in movie a great activity for reactive dogs—as long as they don’t bark every time someone walks by.

The following list is of drive-ins that, at the time of this post, were pet friendly movie theaters.

While people assume that dogs are the only pets going to the movies, when contacting theaters, we asked about “pets,” not just dogs. If a theater made any mention of cats or other animals, it’s noted on the list.

 

United States Pet Friendly Drive-Ins By State

Alabama Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Grand River Drive-In
6200 Grand River Pkwy
Leeds, AL 35094

This pet friendly movie theater comes complete with its own off-lash dog park!

California Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Skyline Drive-In
31175 Old Highway 58
Barstow, CA 92311

Vineland Drive-In
443 N Vineland Avenue
City of Industry, CA 91746

Lakeport Auto Movies
52 Soda Bay Road
Lakeport CA 95453

Lakeport asks that dogs be kept in the vehicle at all times. If you need to walk them, they ask that you do so along the fence on the north-east side of the lot (opposite of the entrance).

Madera Drive-In
201 E Lincoln Avenue
Madera, CA 93638

Sunset Drive-In
255 Elks Lane
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Hi-Way Drive-In
3170 Santa Maria Way
Santa Maria, CA 93455

Colorado Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Comanche Drive-In
27784 Co Road 339
Buena Vista, CO 81211

88 Drive-In
8780 Rosemary Street
Commerce City, CO 80022

Tru Vu Drive-In
1001 Highway 92
Delta, CO 81416

True-Vu is one of the theaters asking that dogs be kept in the vehicle at all times. If they need a walk for relief, please return them to the car immediately afterwards.

Holiday Twin Drive-In
2206 South Overland Trail
Fort Collins, CO 80526

Theater accepts cash only at the box office but takes credit and debit cards at the concession stand.

Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In Theater
801 Ed6
Minturn, CO 81645

This is a mini, urban drive-in. You can walk-in, ride your bike, or bring a car. If you drive, you must pay for a car spot and individual admission for everyone besides the driver. You can reserve a spot online before you arrive which is a good idea on weekends when they are busy. The Blue Starlite is the highest drive-in in the country at 8,000 feet above sea level.

Star Drive-In
600 East Miami Road
Montrose, CO 81401

Mesa Drive-In
2625 Sante Fe Drive
Pueblo, CO 81006

Theater accepts cash only.

 

Connecticut Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Pleasant Valley Drive-In
47 River Road
Barkhamsted, CT 06063

Theater accepts cash only.

Florida Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Joy-Lan Drive-In
16414 Highway 301
Dade City, FL 33523

Silver Moon Drive-In
4100 New Tampa Highway
Lakeland, FL 33815

Ruskin Family Drive-In
5011 Highway 41 North
Ruskin, FL 33572

Theater accepts cash only.

Georgia Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Swan Drive-In
651 Summit Street
Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Theater accepts cash only.

Tiger Drive-In
2956 Old Highway 441 S
Tiger, GA 30576

Tiger allows you to bring your RV or tent to camp after the movie. Camping is $20 and includes bathroom and showers plus a BBQ grill you can use.

Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater
217 Old Hales Gap Road
Trenton, GA 30752

Theater accepts cash only.

Idaho Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Terrace Drive-In
4011 Lake Avenue
Caldwell, ID 83605

The Spud Drive-In
2175 S Highway 33
Driggs, ID 83422

Parma Drive-In
29522 Highway 95
Parma, ID 83660

Teton Vu Drive-In
1114 N Yellowstone Highway
Rexburg, ID 83440

Idan-Ha Drive-In
162 W 2nd Street South
Soda Springs, ID 83276

Illinois Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Skyview Drive-In
5700 North Belt West
Belleville, IL 62226

Skyview is one of the most permissive theaters. It allows you to bring in both food and alcohol, as well as pets. They advise you to bring a pad for your pet if they’ll be enjoying the movie outside since the ground is rocky. Cash only for admission but debit and credit cards are accepted at the concession stand.

Route 34 Drive-In
4468 E 12th Road
Earlville, IL 60518

Theater accepts cash only. Dogs and cats are allowed.

Harvest Moon Drive-In
1175 South Sangamon Avenue
Gibson City, IL 60936

Theater accepts cash only at the box office but takes credit and debit cards at the concession stand.

Sky View Drive-In
1500 Historic Route 66 N
Litchfield, IL 62056

McHenry Outdoor Theater
1510 Chapel Hill Road
McHenry, IL 60050

 

Indiana Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Starlite Drive-In
7630 South Old State Road 37
Bloomington, IN 47403

Auburn Garrett Drive-In
1014 State Route 8
Garrett, IN 46738

Huntington Twin Drive-In
1291 Condit Street
Huntington, IN 46750

Tibbs Drive-In
480 S Tibbs Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46241

CenterBrook Drive-In Theater
6735 Route 67 North
Martinsville, IN 46151

Holiday Drive-In
646 N State Road 161
Rockport, IN 47625

Theater accepts cash only.

Skyline Drive-In
3986 East Michigan Road
Shelbyville, IN 46176

Cinema67 Drive-In
2037 State Highway 67
Spencer, IN 47460

Bel-Air Drive-In
337 North Hwy 421
Versailles, IN 47042

Theater accepts cash only.

13-24 Drive-In
890 North Road 13
Wabash, IN 46992

Hummel Drive-In
2870 East Route 32
Winchester, IN 47394

Iowa Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Blue Grass Drive-In
774 W Mayne Street
Blue Grass, IA 52726

Valle Drive-In
4074 Highway F48
Newton, IA 50208

Valle is one of the few theaters that allows alcohol on the premises.

Superior 71 Drive-In
1482 300th Avenue
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Kansas Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Kanopolis Drive-In
804 North Kansas Avenue
Kanopolis, KS 67454

Kanapolis asks that dogs be kept in the vehicle at all times.

Boulevard Drive-In
1051 Merriam Lane
Kansas City, KS 66103

Theater accepts cash only.

Starlite Drive-In
3900 S Hydraulic Avenue
Wichita, KS 67216

 

Kentucky Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Calvert Drive-In
111 Drive In Lane
Calvert City, KY 42029

Maine Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Bridgton Twin Drive-In
383 Portland Road
Bridgton, ME 04009

The Big Sky Drive-In
15 Front Street
Farmington, ME 04938

Bangor Drive-In
1674 Hammond Street
Hermon, ME 04401

Saco Drive-In
969 Portland Road
Saco, ME 04072

Maryland Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Bengies Drive-In
3417 Eastern Boulevard
Middle River, MD 21220

Theater accepts cash only at the box office but takes credit and debit cards at the concession stand.

Massachusetts Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Mendon Twin Drive-In
35 Milford Street
Mendon, MA 01756

Mendon has a beer/wine garden. Dogs, however, are not allowed in that area.

Wellfleet Drive-In
51 Route 6
Wellfleet, MA 02667

Michigan Pet Friendly Drive-ins

Hi-Way Drive-In
2778 E Sanilac Road (M-46)
Carsonville, MI 48471

Hi-Way Drive-In asks that dogs be kept in the vehicle at all times.

Capri Drive-In
119 West Chicago Road
Coldwater, MI 49036

Theater accepts cash only.

Ford Drive-In
10400 Ford Road
Dearborn, MI 48126

This theater is open year-round and supplies in-car heaters in the winter. It’s a perfect theater for you to enjoy with your pets in any season. Michigan in winter is definitely more comfortable when you have a warm pup to cuddle!

Five Mile Drive-In
28190 State Route 152
Dowagiac, MI 49047

US 23 Drive-In
5200 Fenton Road
Flint, MI 48507

Getty Drive-In
920 E Summit Avenue
Muskegon, MI 49444

Sunset Drive-In
69071 Red Arrow Highway
Hartford, MI 49057

Cherry Bowl Drive-In
9812 Honor Highway
Honor, MI 49640

 

Minnesota Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Starlite Drive-In
28264 Highway 22
Litchfield, MN 55355

Theater accepts cash only.

Long Drive-In
24257 Riverside Drive
Long Prairie, MN 56347

Theater allows primitive camping for tents and RVs for $10. Make reservations in advance.

Verne Drive-In
1607 S Kniss Avenue
Luverne, MN 56156

Sky-Vu Drive-In
34914 Highway 1 West
Warren, MN 56762

Missouri Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Starlite Drive-In
15605 N State Hwy 21
Cadet, MO 63630

66 Drive-In
17231 Old 66 Boulevard
Carthage, MO 64836

19 Drive-In
5853 Highway 19
Cuba, MO 65453

Twin Drive-In
1320 North 291
Independence, MO 64055

Montana Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Amusement Park Drive-In
7335 Mossmain Lane
Billings, MT 59106

Pets must stay in your car during the movie.

Silver Bow Twin Drive-In
Silver Bow Road
Butte, MT 59750

Theater accepts cash only. Pets must remain inside car or cab of truck.

Nebraska Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

TK-Starlite Drive-In
1000 US-275
Neligh, NE 68756

New Hampshire Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Northfield Drive-In
981 Northfield Road
Hinsdale, NH 03451

Theater accepts cash only.

Weirs Drive-In
76 Endicott Street E
Laconia, NH 03246

Milford Drive-In
531 Elm Street
Milford, NH 03055

New Jersey Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Delsea Drive-In
2203 South Delsea Drive
Vineland, NJ 08360

Pets are allowed on Saturdays ONLY. Bring a bowl for your pet and fill it in the restrooms. Outside water is forbidden under the food policies.

 

New York Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Bay Drive-In
State Route 26
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Four Brothers Drive-In
4957 New York 22
Amenia, NY 12501

Four Brothers is a new era theater with food trucks serving locally-sourced food. You’ll also find dog treats on the menu.

Fingerlakes Drive-In
1064 Clark Street Road
Aurelius, NY 13021

Hollywood Drive-In
9254 Averill Park Road
Averill Park, NY 12018

Ozoner 29 Drive-In
837 Route 29
Broadalbin, NY 12025

Theater accepts cash only.

Hi-way Drive-In
10699 Route 9W
Coxsackie, NY 12051

Delevan Twin Drive-In
11771 State Route 16
Delvan, NY 14042

Elmira Drive-In
2431 Route 352
Elmira, NY 14903

Midway Drive-In
2475 Route 48
Fulton, NY 13069

From the Midway Drive-in website: “Pets are discouraged but allowed provided they are: not vicious, are quiet and kept on a leash at all times, and under the supervision of an adult. Please “walk” the tree line with your pet, not the ramps or the area in front of the screen, it’s your responsibility to clean it up. Pets are not allowed in the concession building.”

Jericho Drive-In
21 Jericho Road
Glenmont, NY 12077

Greenville Drive-In
10700 Route 32
Greenville, NY 12083

Greenville shows classic films. Buy a Pup Pass at the gate. You can buy locally-sourced food and meet brewers at the beer garden.

Valley Brook Drive-In
Burdicks Crossing Road
Greig, NY 13368

Hyde Park Drive-In
4114 Albany Post Road
Hyde Park, NY 12538

Transit Drive-In
6655 S Transit Road
Lockport, NY 14094

Malta Drive-In
2785 Route 9
Malta, NY 12020

Sunset Drive-In
9950 Telegraph Road
Middleport, NY 14105

Fair Oaks Drive-In
365 Bloomingburg Road
Middletown, NY 10940

Hathaway’s Drive-In
4762 State Route 67
North Hoosic, NY 12133

El Rancho Drive-In
6070 Route 5
Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

Theater accepts cash only.

Silver Lake Twin Drive-In
7037 Chapman Avenue
Perry, NY 14530

Theater accepts cash only. From the Silver Lake Drive-in’s staff: “Pets are allowed at all of our outdoor facilities (excluding Mini-Golf). We’re very Dog friendly… stop by the Ice Cream parlor for a Doggie Dish Sundae.”

Portville Drive-In
1060 Olean-Portville Road
Portville, NY 14770

Overlook Drive-In
126 Degarmo Road
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603

Warwick Drive-In
5 Warwick Turnpike
Warwick, NY 10990

Black River Drive-In
28035 State Route 3
Watertown, NY 13601

From the Black River Drive-in website: “Pets are discouraged but allowed provided they are: not vicious, are quiet and kept on a leash and at all times, and under the supervision of an adult.  Please “walk” the tree line with your pet, not the area in front of the screen, it‘s your responsibility to clean it up.  Pets are not allowed in the concession building.”

 

North Carolina Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Badin Road Drive-In
2411 Badin Road
Albemarle, NC 28001

Eden Drive-In
106 Fireman Club Road
Eden, NC 27288

Raleigh Road Outdoor Theater
3336 Raleigh Road
Henderson, NC 27537

Theater accepts cash only. Raleigh Road provides dog treats at the ticket booth and asks that you keep your pets leashed, take your dog for potty breaks at the far edges of the property, and clean up after them.

Hounds Drive-In
114 Raven Circle
Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Theater accepts cash only. Owners also have a nearby campground.

Ohio Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Magic City Drive-In
5602 S Cleveland-Massillon Road
Barberton, OH 44203

Melody 49 Drive-In
7606 Pleasant Plain Road
Brookville, OH 45309

Mayfield Road Drive-In
12100 State Road 322
Chardon, OH 44024

Theater accepts cash only.

Dixie Twin Drive-In
6201 N Dixie Drive
Dayton, OH 45414

Holiday Auto Theatre
1816 Old Oxford Road
Hamilton, OH 45013

Holiday asks that you walk your pet in the grassy area on the East side of the property. You can get plastic clean-up bags at the concession stand.

Skyview Drive-In
2420 E Main Street
Lancaster, OH 43130

The Skyview website specifically states that dogs and cats are welcome.

Liberty Center Field of Dreams Drive-In
V602 Township Road 6
Liberty Center, OH 43532

Springmill Drive-In
1040 Springmill Road
Mansfield, OH 44906

Van-Del Drive-In
19986 Lincoln Highway
Middle Point, OH 45863

Theater accepts cash only.

Star View Drive-In
2083 US Highway 20 West
Norwalk, OH 44857

Sundance Kid Drive-In
4500 Navarre Avenue
Oregon, OH 43616

Midway Twin Drive-In
2736 State Route 59
Ravenna, OH 44266

Tiffin Drive-In
4101 N State Route 53
Tiffin, OH 44883

Blue Sky Drive-In
959 Broad Street
Wadsworth, OH 44281

Elm Road Triple Drive-In
1895 Elm Road NE
Warren, OH 44483

 

Oklahoma Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Beacon Drive-In
2404 S Division Street
Guthrie, OK 73044

Chief Drive-In
South Highway 81
Ninnekah, OK 73067

The Chief is open year-round on weekends.

Winchester Drive-In
6930 S Western Avenue
Oklahoma City, OK 73139

From the Winchester website: “Winchester allows only small dogs. All dogs must be on a leash, kept with you at all times, kept from barking or annoying others in any way, and you must clean up after them if they poop. Patrons who try to enter with larger dogs will be turned away. Thank you.”

Tower Drive-In
2214 N Broadway Street
Poteau, OK 74953

Cool Breeze RV Cinema and Resort
16653 US Highway 77
Springer, OK 73458

Cool-Breeze is part of an RV park, but you’re welcome at the theater even if you’re not camping.

Admiral Twin Drive-In
7355 E Easton Street
Tulsa, OK 74115

Oregon Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

M-F Drive-In
84322 Highway 11
Milton-Freewater, OR 97862

99W Drive-In
3110 Portland Road
Newberg, OR 97132

From the 99W website: “Can I bring my dog/cat/ferret/elephant? Yes, as long as the animal is harmless to the customers and our operation. You must keep your animal secured to your vehicle/parking space and are responsible for cleaning/removing any waste left by your animal. You will be solely responsible for damage caused by your animal to the drive-in, yourself, other drive-in patrons or property. Management reserves the right to refuse any animal (including human) admission. Elephants and other larger animals will be charged a single-occupant car admission due to the fact they would take up a car space by themselves. NOTE TO ELEPHANTS AND GIRAFFES: Our ticket window height clearance is 8 ft.”

Pennsylvania Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Starlight Drive-In
1985 N Main Street Extention
Butler, PA 16001

Moonlight Drive-In
Route 322
Brookville, PA 15825

Skyview Drive-In
595 S Eighty Eight Road
Carmichaels, PA 15320

Dogs are allowed but must stay in the vehicle unless being walked to the designated pet area.

Sky-Vu Drive-In
813 E Market Street
Gratz, PA 17048

Garden Drive-In
26 US Highway 11
Hunlock Creek, PA 18621

Silver Drive-In
1664 Scalp Avenue
Johnstown, PA 15904

Theater accepts cash only.

Kane Family Drive-In
6627 Route 6 East
Kane, PA 16735

Mahoning Drive-In
635 Seneca Road
Lehighton, PA 18235

Mahoning hosts special events that people drive from miles around to join, like a Halloween costume contest and classic car shows.

Pike Drive-In
5798 South US Highway 15
Montgomery, PA 17752

Evergreen Drive-In
309 Drive-in Lane
Mount Pleasant, PA 15666

Theater accepts cash only. Please walk your pet in the designated area between screens 2 and 3 and clean up after them.

Cumberland Drive-in
715 Centerville Road
Newville, PA 17241

Riverside Drive-In
1114 Lees Lake Lane
Vandergrift, PA 15690

Point Drive-In
3569 Point Township Drive
Northumberland, PA 17857

Becky’s Drive-In
4548 Lehigh Drive
Walnutport, PA 18088

Super 322 Drive-In
1682 Woodland-Bigler Highway
Woodland, PA 16881

Theater accepts cash only.

 

Rhode Island Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Rustic Tri-View Drive-In
1195 Eddie Dowling Highway
North Smithfield, RI 02776

Please walk your pet in the designated area between screens 2 and 3 and clean up after them.

South Carolina Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Highway 21 Drive-In
55 Parker Drive
Beaufort, SC 29906

Highway 21 is open year-round.

The Big Mo Drive-In
5822 Columbia Highway North
Monetta, SC 29105

Theater accepts cash only.

South Dakota Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Hilltop Drive Inn
33575 US Highway 18
Gregory, SD 57533

Midway Drive-In
19808 Rainbow Ranch Place
Miller, SD 57362

Pheasant Drive-In
1600 20th Street West
Mobridge, SD 57601

Pheasant City Drive-In
17230 US-281
Redfield, SD 57469

Winner Drive-In
US Highway 18
Winner, SD 57580

Tennessee Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Swingin’ Midway Drive-In
2133 State Route 30
Athens, TN 37303

Swingin’ Midway hosts occasional dusk to dawn shows where you can see 4 movies for one low price.

Moonlite Drive-In
931 W Main Street
Woodbury, TN 37190

StateLine Drive-In
2306 State Line Road
Elizabethton, TN 37643

Hi-Way 50 Drive-In
1584 Fayetteville Highway
Lewisburg, TN 37091

Parkway Drive-In and Café
2909 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy
Maryville, TN 37804

Sparta Drive-In
220 Roberts Matthews Highway
Sparta, TN 38583

Theater accepts cash only. Pets are not allowed in the playground area and must be walked at the back of the lot.

Stardust Drive-In
310 Purple Tiger Drive
Watertown, TN 37184

 

Texas Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Town & Country Drive-In
2902 Vogel Street
Abilene, TX 79603

Tascosa Drive-In
1999 Dumas Drive
Amarillo, TX 79107

Theater accepts cash only.

Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In
2103 E M Franklin Avenue
Austin, TX 78723

This theater near Austin promotes an intimate experience by only allowing 30-50 cars and permitting patrons to walk or bike in. It shows classic and cult favorites. You can buy s’mores kits and toast your own marshmallows at fire pits set up near the concession stand.

Doc’s Drive-In
1540 Satterwhite Road
Buda, TX 78610

Doc’s is a new theater that has a bar and pet friendly tiny home vacation rentals with a Hollywood theme. Given their mascot, Doc, is a dog, we didn’t expect anything less!

Galaxy Drive-In
5301 N Interstate Highway 45
Ennis, TX 75119

Graham Drive-In
1519 4th Street
Graham, TX 76450

Brazos Drive-In
1800 W Pearl Street
Granbury, TX 76048

Showboat Drive-In
22422 FM 2920
Hockley, TX 77447

From the Showboat website: “Can we bring our dog, cat, hamster, bird or turtle?
Yes, as long as you keep your pet inside of your vehicle and it does not bother other patrons. The Showboat Drive-in is not responsible for any damage or injury to your pet, or any damage or injury that your pet may cause.”

Coyote Drive-In Theater & Canteen
223 NE 4th Street
Fort Worth, TX 76164

In addition to four movie screens, the Coyote has an outdoor restaurant with live music and features special events – like the ice rink in winter.

Stars & Stripes Drive-In
5101 Clovis Road
Lubbock, TX 79416

Open year-round. Pets are not allowed in the playground.

Big Sky Drive-In
6200 W Highway 80
Midland, TX 79706

Stars & Stripes Drive-In
1178 Kroesche Lane
New Braunfels, TX 78130

Utah Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Motor Vu Theatre
4055 State Highway 36
Erda, UT 84074

Vermont Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Sunset Drive-In
155 Porters Point Road
Colchester, VT 05446

Fairlee Motel and Drive-In
1809 US Route 5 North
Fairlee, VT 05045

The Fairlee requires pets to stay in cars.

 

Virginia Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Starlite Drive-In
275 Starlight Drive
Christiansburg, VA 24073

Goochland Drive-In
4344 Old Fredericksburg Road
Hadensville, VA 23067

Hull’s Drive-In
2367 N Lee Highway
Lexington, VA 24450

Central Drive-In
5113 Kent Junction Road
Norton, VA 24273

Family Drive-In
5890 Valley Pike
Stephens City, VA 22655

Washington Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Rodeo Drive-In
7369 State Highway 3 SW
Bremerton, WA 98312

Auto-Vue Drive-In
444 Auto View Road
Colville, WA 99114

Blue Fox Drive-In
1403 Monroe Landing Road
Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Wheel-In Motor Movie
210 Theatre Road
Port Townsend, WA 98368

Skyline Drive-In
182 SE Brewer Road
Shelton, WA 98584

West Virginia Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Hilltop Drive-In
Highway 8 & Highway 208
Chester, WV 26034

Theater accepts cash only at the box office but takes credit and debit cards at the concession stand.

Warner’s Drive-In
3169 Petersburg Pike
Franklin, WV 26807

The Warner is run as a community non-profit, allowing it to accept donations to buy digital projection equipment and remain open.

Wisconsin Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Stardust Twin Drive-In
995 22nd Street
Chetek, WI 54728

The Stardust requires pets to stay in the car.

Skyway Drive-In
3475 State Highway 42
Fish Creek, WI 54212

The Skyway is only one of many dog-friendly activities in Door County, Wisconsin.

Hi-Way 18 Outdoor Theatre
W6423 US Highway 18
Jefferson, WI 53549

From the Hi-Way website: “You may walk your dog in the east side of the theatre away from the parking ramps, but you must clean up after your pet. If your dog likes to bark at passer-bys, please leave them at home. Dogs are not allowed in the playground area (between Row 1 and the screen).”

Field of Scenes Drive-In
N3712 UNI Drive
Kaukauna, WI 54130

Field of Scenes has a basketball court and volleyball net; bring your own ball.

Moonlight Drive-In
1494 East Green Bay Street
Shawano, WI 54166

Big Sky Twin Drive-In
N9199 Winnebago Road
Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

Theater accepts cash only.

Wyoming Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

American Dream Drive-In
1070 Route 9
Powell, WY 82435

 

Canada Pet Friendly Drive-Ins By Province

British Columbia Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Starlight Drive-in
5341 Hwy 97A
Enderby, BC V0E 1V3

From the Starlight website: “Can I bring my cat/dog? Yes, as long as the animal is harmless to other customers and our operation. Management reserves the right to refuse any animal (including human) admission. Please clean up after your pet and he or she must be on a leash at all times when out of the vehicle. NO Pets in the concession building please. Certified Service Animals are always welcome.”

Twilight Drive-In
3350 260th Street
Aldergrove, BC V4W 2B1

Theater accepts cash only. From the Twilight website: “Can I bring my cat/dog/monkey/ferret?
Yes, as long as the animal is harmless to the customers and our operation. Management reserves the right to refuse any animal (including human) admission. Please clean up after your pet.”

Manitoba Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Big Island Drive-in
MB-10
Flin Flon, MB R8A 0P7

New Brunswick Pet-Friendly Drive-Ins

Neptune Drive-In
691 Main Street
Shediac, NB E4P 4Z9

Some movies are shown in French.

Nova Scotia Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Valley Drive-In
5934 Hwy 1
Cambridge, NS B0P 1G0

Cape Breton Drive-In
865 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1P 1Y4

Theater accepts cash only.

Ontario Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Port Hope Drive-In
2141 Theatre Road S
Cobourg, ON K9A 4J7

Theater accepts cash only.

Can View Drive-In
1956 Route 20
Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0

Theater accepts cash only.

Starlite Drive-In
36752 Crediton Road
Grand Bend, ON N0M 1T0

Muskoka Drive-In
1001 Theatre Road
Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1R3

Theater accepts cash only.

Mustang Drive-In
5012 Jones Baseline
Guelph, ON N1H 6H8

Havelock Family Drive-In
800 11 Line
Havelock, ON K0L 1Z0

Theater accepts cash only.

Lindsay Drive-In
229 Pigeon Lake Road
Lindsay, ON K9V 4R6

Theater accepts cash only.

The Mustang Drive-In
2551 Wilton Grove Road
London, ON N6N 1M7

The 5 Drive-In
2332 Ninth Line
Oakville, ON L6H 7G9

Sunset Barrie Drive-In
134 Line 4 South
Oro-Medonte, ON L0L 2L0

Skylight Drive-In
199 Forest Lea Road
Pembroke, ON K8A 6W6

Port Elmsley Drive-In
333 Port Elmsley Road
Perth, ON K7H 3C7

Stardust Drive-In
893 Mount Albert Road
Sharon, ON L0G 1V0

Theater accepts cash only.

Starlite Drive-In
59 Green Mountain Road E
Stoney Creek , ON L8J 2V5

The Boonies Drive-in Theatre
4625 Richardson Side Road
Tilbury, ON N0P 2L0

Theater accepts cash only at the box office but takes credit and debit cards at the concession stand.

 

Prince Edward Island Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Brackley Drive-In
3164 Brackley Point Road
Brackley Beach, PEI C1E 2N7

RV parking is allowed in the last row of the drive-in.

Quebec Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Cine-Parc Mont St-Hilaire
800 Chemin du Cine Parc
Mont-Saint-Hilaire, QC J3G 4S6

Theater shows French films on one screen and English films on the other.

Cine-Parc Orford
2751 Rue Romo-Lacroix
Sherbrooke, QC J1N 0H1

Theater shows French films on one screen and English films on the other.

Saskatchewan Pet Friendly Drive-Ins

Twilite Drive-In Theater
Hwy 1
Wolseley, SK S0G 5H0

Theater accepts cash only.

More Pet Friendly Movies To Enjoy Together

In addition to hundreds of permanent drive-in movie theaters, cities and small towns host outdoor movies in their parks, many of which are pet-friendly.

Here are a a few pet-friendly outdoor movies to check out:

Eat See Hear is Los Angeles’ Premier Outdoor Movie, Food Truck, and Live Music Event Series. It holds movies and concerts at venues throughout the city. Pets are welcome at every venue. Learn more here.

San Diego’s Summer Movies In The Park series hosts movies in various locations every Friday and Saturday night. Click on a specific event to get details and to find out if there are any pet restrictions.

Portland Parks & Recreation has an extensive list of free movies and concerts on their calendar. Most are pet-friendly.

Chicago’s Park District has dozens of of free outdoor movies, as does the Pittsburgh Parks Department.

The Central Park Conservancy Film Festival screens classic films in Central Park, in Manhattan, at Frisbee Hill. Read the dog rules before you go.

Search community calendars online for outdoor movies in your area. Or visit your town’s parks department for a schedule of events.

Do More Together: Pet Friendly Movie Theaters

One of my earliest memories is sitting in the back of my dad’s Mustang in my pajamas watching a drive-in movie. As a teenager, my friends and I would load the back of a pick-up truck with chairs and sleeping bags and enjoy watching movies under the stars.

But no drive-in movie memory is as much fun as going with my dogs. Watching kids playing before the movie, enjoying popcorn (why does it taste so much better at the movie theater than at home?), and introducing Honey to pet lovers who didn’t think to bring their own dogs along was a blast.

If you haven’t been to a drive-in, or if you haven’t been in one since you were a kid wearing pjs in the back of your parents’ car, it’s time to go. And don’t forget to take your pet to the movies!

 

DO MORE TOGETHER

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