Largest Drive-Ins in the United States
The Varsity drive-in restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia is the world’s largest, spanning two city blocks and accommodating 600 cars. Originally a small hot dog stand called the Yellow Jacket, founded in 1928 by student Frank Gordy, its instant success led to relocations and expansions.
The Ford Drive-In in Dearborn, Michigan has five screens and parking for 1,700 cars. The Bengies Drive-In Theatre in Middle River, Maryland has the biggest movie screen in America at 120 by 52 feet. Detroit’s Ford-Wyoming drive-in once had nine screens and space for over 3,000 cars, making it briefly the world’s largest.
Drive-In Theater Trends
There are currently only around 350 drive-in theaters still operating in the United States, down from 4,000 in the late 1950s. Some have seen a comeback recently due to social distancing needs. Rules include no smoking and keeping lights off.
The Race Drive-In in Madrid, Spain
The Race in Madrid, Spain, opened in 2017, is one of Europe’s largest with 350 spaces, 160 hammocks, and an onsite restaurant. The 25,000 square meter space also hosts concerts and events. Drive-ins allow enjoying films in a fun and different way.