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Drive-In Movie Theaters In and Around Chicago for Outdoor Movie Nights with Kids

ChiTown Movies is a drive-in movie theater in Chicago. Photo courtesy of ChiTown Futbol, Facebook
ChiTown Movies is a drive-in movie theater in Chicago. Photo courtesy of ChiTown Futbol, Facebook
5/13/22 - By Maureen Wilkey

Drive-in movies made a comeback during the pandemic, and some of them are here to stay! While you still have to drive quite a ways to get to some of the traditional drive-ins, the new ChiTown Movies in Pilsen lets you take in a movie from the near south side with the backdrop of the Chicago skyline. And Davis Theater is partnering with Lincoln Yards to continue to offer movies on its lawn. Movies range from family classics to '80s throwbacks to recent blockbusters, so there's something for everyone!

But outdoor movies can't start until night falls, and you'll need some daytime activities, too. There are plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy this summer in Chicago, from zoos to outdoor dining to visits to a local farm. Be sure to check out our event calendar to find something new and exciting to do every single day.

 

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Movies on the Lawn at Lincoln Yards, photo courtesy of the Davis Theatre
Movies on the Lawn at Lincoln Yards, photo courtesy of the Davis Theatre

Drive-in Theaters (and a Lawn Venue)near Chicago

ChiTown Movies

Pilsen
Enjoy more than just soccer at this drive-in movie event in Pilsen. Movies include kids' classics like Finding Nemo and The Lion King. Servers can bring popcorn, tacos, wings, frozen mangoes and more to parked cars. READ MORE

Golden Age Cinemas

McHenry
This nostalgic drive-in movie theater aims to recreate the classic fun of a 1950s movie-going experience. Kids in pajamas are encouraged, and families can enjoy two movies for the price of one if they want to stay for the late feature. The concession stand features popcorn, burgers, brats, pizza, soda, and more. READ MORE

Route 34 Drive-in Theater

Earlville (West of Oswego)
Cartoons and previews still play before the features at this classic drive-in theater southwest of Chicago. The concession stand serves fried chicken and fried shrimp dinners and uses real butter on its popcorn. Route 34 Drive-in Theater has an extra-long season, showing movies from April through September. READ MORE

49'er Drive-in Theatre

Northwest Indiana
This northwest Indiana drive-in theater has been around for decades. It features a full concession stand and plays two movies per night on weekends. The theater is cash only, so make sure you have a Hamilton for each adult! READ MORE

Melody Drive-In

Northwest Indiana
This drive-in theater shows first-run movies and concerts on weekends all summer long. The concessions are part of the fun, with pork tenderloin or Italian beef sandwiches, wings, pizza, popcorn, snow cones, caramel apple slices, and breadsticks available. READ MORE

Movies on the Lawn at Lincoln Yards

Lincoln Park
The Davis Theater presents weekly movies, including kids' favorites, for viewing from the lawn at Lincoln Yards. Concessions are available for purchase on-site. Families can also book the lawn for a private movie showing. READ MORE

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