Do you remember going to the drive in movies when you were a kid? Boy, I sure do! Back then it was THE thing to do. I can remember piling in the car with as many people as possible on a Friday night. If you are looking for something fun to do in DFW then this is a great retro idea.
We would get there and wait in line because you wanted to be as early as possible. That’s how you got the good parking spots.
Over the years it seems that going to the drive-in fell out of fashion. Perhaps it has more to do with a love of air conditioning and comfortable seats than anything.
Sadly, there are not a ton of these left. The Astro Drive-In was destroyed by fire in 1998 but it was with us for decades. The Astro was a Dallas icon for many years, if you would like read more go here: Astros story.
However, if you are a lover of drive in movie theaters or just want to take your kids for an experience they likely have never had, then here are a couple of places.
Coyote Drive-In
This is a fun drive in movie theater in Ft Worth. Most people really enjoy going to this theater and one of the favorite parts is that you can see two movies for the $8 ticket. It cost $8 for adults and $6 for children.
There are a few considerations that you will want to take into account:
1. Get there an hour early
If you want anything from the concessions, you will want to get there early. This is important because you can not bring outside food or drink. You will likely want a snack and a drink during the course of watching two movies.
2. Make sure that your FM radio works
The sound of the movie is transmitted thru a special FM radio frequency. If your speakers are busted this will be a problem for you. There are places near the front where they have outside speakers but then you lose the comfort of your car.
3. Rain or shine
Unless the movie physically will not run, there are no refunds. They say that their screens can be seen quite well during a rain storm.
4. You may be able to leave your car running. Here are exceptions:
- After-market muffler
- Diesel engine
- Running / Head lights that stay on
- Unusually loud engine or fan
Note: You can turn your truck or SUV around and open the hatch. If you would find this type of seating more fun and comfortable, feel free.
They have folding chairs for rent but on a first come, first served basis.
What a great addition to the city of Fort Worth!! I love the idea of a drive in theater and this place definitely delivers! You get to see 2 movies for the price of one, they have an outdoor play place for the kids, it’s pet friendly, and there’s a cantina with lots of yummy concessions!
Jessica N Yelp Review
LOCATION
223 NE 4th Street
Ft Worth, TX | Route Map
TURF: Fort Worth
WHAT MAKES IT FUN?
You can throw a party on-site, you can walk or ride a bike in (don’t need a car at all!).
Categories: Fun Stuff
Galaxy Drive-In Theatre
This is the first theatre to bring 3D to the drive-in. If you are not a fan of 3D, don’t worry, they only show 3D on two of their screens. They provide the glasses required to watch 3D and you will need to return those at the end of your evening. As with Coyote, you get two movies for the price of one.
Just like at other drive-in theatres, you will not be allowed to bring in food or drink. This drive-in has 7 screens showing the most current films running. Galaxy is open 365 days a year, unless there’s a possibility of severe weather. If so, check their Facebook page for closures.
They post their snack menu and pricing online. The prices are super reasonable, not what you expect from a movie theatre these days. For example you can get a cheeseburger for $3, a grilled chicken salad for $6 and a “Texas Size” soft drink for $3.50.
LOCATION
5301 N Interstate Highway 45
Ennis, TX | Route Map
TURF: Outside of DFW
WHAT MAKES IT FUN?
The food is super affordable, they’re open 365 days a year, and you get two movies for the price of one.
Categories: Fun Stuff
I hate being hot more than pretty much anything but when the weather is nice, I just want to celebrate by being outside. Considering my love of movies, I can’t wait to see one outside this fall.
Have you been to the Drive-In? Do you have any childhood memories of sitting in a lawn chair in the back of the truck?
