12 Drive-In Movie Theaters Near NYC

Once upon a time, going to the movies meant a trip to a blissfully arctic oases that provided escape from the summer heat. In places like New York City, the chance to sit in a cool auditorium for two hours and lose yourself in a blockbuster has always been a particularly cherished tradition. While there's no telling exactly when these sanctuaries will open to the public again (New York City is still only in Phase 2 of reopening), the magic of a movie night isn't necessarily lost this summer.

Enter the drive-in theater. Alfresco movie viewing has been around since the 1910s, but it really took off in the '50s, thanks to a rise in car ownership and the migration of baby boomers to suburbia. Attendance at drive-ins has been on the decline ever since, but recent restrictions surrounding COVID-19 have sparked a resurgence in these retro venues, which are socially distanced by design.

Luckily for New Yorkers, there are a number excellent, old-school drive-in theaters located just an hour or two from the city. Here are 12 of our favorite spots.