If you are looking for an activity that gets you out of the house but still has that cozy feel, you should head to the Drive In.

Drive Ins offer a totally different experience than your regular movie chain like AMC or Cinemark. You’ll often be able to enjoy two movies from the comfort of your car for the price of one , on top of the price of admission being per car, not per person. This is where having an SUV, truck or hatchback gives you a leg up. But don’t worry, you can still enjoy the show from any car.

Now listen…. Most drive-ins have a concession stand and ask that you don’t bring food in. That being said , I didn’t tell y’all to bring food in.

maybe a little.

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Find a Theater

There aren’t many left but you can find the Drive In nearest you by searching Google with your zip code. If you are near DFW there is Galaxy Drive In – Ennis as well as Coyote Drive In and Encore Drive In – both in Ft Worth.

Drive In Basics

If you’ve never been to the Drive In, here are a few tips to get the most out of your first trip.

•  Get there early! The best spots for viewing will be the first ones to go.
•  You can bring lawn chairs and sit outside of the vehicle if you want.
•  If you plan on watching from the trunk or bed of the truck you’ll need to back in.
•  Most Drive In’s have a concession stand where you can get food. Some even have amenities like mini golf that you can use before the movies start.
•  (I didn’t say this but, pack snacks and bring them with you.)
•  Bring blankets and pillows for extra comfort. Especially if you plan on staying for both movies.
•  Try not to use your cars interior cabin lights. It’s the equivalent of using your cellphone in the theater.

Go Prepared and Informed

I wanted to make this tip it’s own category. Full transparency; the Drive In does have the ability to take a toll on your cars battery.

A few tips to protect your battery during the movie:

•  Turn off all the lights, headlights, and taillights.
•  Run the engine a while before turning it off. The charge from the alternator will help keep the audio system running during the movie.
• Don’t go on an old battery
• Crank the car on and let it run during intermission if you are staying for both films.
•  Most Drive In’s have a
•  If somehow you have your hands on an AM/FM radio, bring it- or download an app. You can use this to hear the movie and bypass leaving the car in idle.

Push to Start

With most push to start cars, when you go to turn on the radio you may turn on other functions like internal lights or even the engine. To avoid this there are a few things you can do.

• Bring an AM/FM radio or download a radio app. Brining a blutoooth speaker may enhance your audio experience more with this method.

• Hop on Youtube and learn how to keep just the radio.

This could also be a great family outing! Pack up the kids if they are able to sit and be entertained by movies. This may be a tough trip for littles who dont like to be in one place too long.