Classic Drive-In Movie Theaters in Georgia

Starlight Drive-In Theatre - Atlanta 

An Atlanta landmark since 1949, the Starlight Drive-In Theatre is a family favorite. Atlanta audiences come to see new-release movies from their cars but also to enjoy the ambiance the drive-in provides —from its art deco style to the surrounding lush trees. The theater offers four screens and guests listen through their FM radios (no WiFi here). 

Tiger Drive-In - Tiger

Families head to north Georgia to visit the historic Tiger Drive-In, which shows first-run movies on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. Guests love to order dinner from the grill, let their kids climb on the playground, and play a game of cornhole. This drive-in even allows tent and RV camping for an additional $20 and $40 respectively. 

When in Blue Ridge, head to Swan Drive-in Theatre for a show. Photo courtesy of the theater

Swan Drive-In Theatre - Blue Ridge

Visiting the Swan Drive-In Theatre in Blue Ridge, Georgia is like stepping (or driving) back in time. The historic drive-in theater has been a staple in Blue Ridge since 1959. These days, the drive-in movie theater shows a current movie on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. Moviegoers can purchase concessions like hot dogs, nachos, funnel cakes, and popcorn! 

Wilderness Theater - Trenton

Families who travel to Chattanooga, Tennessee or Cloudland Canyon State Park in northwest Georgia love to stop by this iconic drive-in movie theater. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights Wilderness offers a first feature and a second feature on each of their two screens, meaning four choices per night. Guests enjoy the fully-stocked concession stand, featuring usual offerings, like popcorn and soda, as well as hamburgers, chili dogs, and hot chocolate. 

Jesup Drive-In - Jesup 

Established in 1948 in south Georgia, Jesup Drive-In Theater is the oldest drive-in movie spot in the state of Georgia. Visitors come to see current movies as well as the experience Jesup provides. Carhops take food and drink orders at your car, or moviegoers can order food online or by phone. Movies are shown Thursday-Sunday nights. 

Provide movie snack caddies at your own outdoor movie night party. Photo by One Crazy House

Create Your Own Outdoor Movie Night Party 

Don't live near any of the aforementioned drive-in movie theaters or just want to create your own amazing outdoor movie night party? We've got ideas! Watching a movie under the stars makes for an unforgettable party, so follow our tips to make your outdoor movie night a cinematic success!

1. Set Up the Screen

If you don't already have a projector and screen, no problem. Rent outdoor movie night screens (some inflatable!) and projectors from Atlanta vendors like Bounce House Atlanta or Jump and Slide. The best part about renting is that the company sends a person to deliver, set up, and take down. 

2. Strategize Seating

Spread out blankets, sleeping bags and quilts, beach towels, and perhaps even pillows for kids to stretch out (or get super crafty and make cardboard box "cars" for each child to experience a drive-in movie). Include camping and folding chairs for those who don't (or can't) sit on the ground.

3. Consolidate Concessions 

Save yourself the constant up-and-down of serving kids and give them all of their snacks up front. We're talking candy, popcorn, and a drink; maybe add a hot dog and chips to keep kids full — all nestled in a handy container. We like popcorn tins or caddies with compartments. Personalize them with movie ticket name tags.

4. Roll Film! 

It's showtime! We at Mommy Poppins have awesome lists of movies for kids, including 35 Great Summer Movies and a Guide to Kids' Movies with Parent Reviews. 

5. Invite a Special Guest 

Make your outdoor movie party epic—hire a costumed character or lookalike to show up before or after the movie for a meet and greet. If you show Frozen 2, invite Elsa and Anna; watch Spider-Man then invite the web master himself. We have a great guide of Atlanta Birthday Party Entertainers to choose from.