Enjoy A Nostalgic Night Out at Wisconsin's Drive-In Theaters

Nothing says classic family fun like a summer night at a drive-in theater. Fortunately, Wisconsin is home to several top-notch outdoor theaters still serving up tasty concessions and movies under the stars. Read on to discover drive-ins throughout the state.

Big Sky Drive-In - Wisconsin Dells

With two full-sized screens playing double features of the latest big films, Big Sky Drive-In makes for the perfect summer outing with loved ones. Head toward Wisconsin Dells on summer evenings to get cozy with friends and family and enjoy concessions and the drive-in’s famous burgers. You can even bring your pup along for the fun!

Field of Scenes Drive-in – Freedom

With two screens, two snack bars and mini-golf, Field of Scenes in eastern Wisconsin is one of the largest outdoor movie venues in the state. Enjoy using the volleyball and basketball courts before the sun goes down and munch on pizza and funnel cake together for a perfect night out.

Highway 18 Outdoor Theatre – Jefferson

This classic 1950s-style drive-in offers a 90-foot screen with first-run movies for the whole family. The lot holds up to 600 cars and features more than 200 restored speakers as part of the impressive sound system.  An on-site playground will keep the kids busy until showtime and tasty concessions, including hot dogs and ice cream, will keep everyone satisfied.

Moonlight Outdoor Theater – Shawano

The Moonlight screen at the Shawano Cinema was rescued from another Wisconsin outdoor theatre to create this drive-in under the stars. With bleacher seating and plenty of space for pre-movie games, you and your crew can make a whole night out of this outing. And don’t forget the classic concessions!

Sky-Vu Drive-in – Monroe

Head to Sky-Vu in Monroe for features shown on a sharp image, high-reflective screen for easy viewing. The concession stand here is full-service with pizza, burgers and more tasty treats.

Skyway Drive-in Theater – Fish Creek

This family-owned theater with genuine 1950s flair offers classic speakers in the first four rows, as well as sound through your car’s FM radio. For an extra dose of nostalgia, cartoon advertisements created decades ago are still shown before the movie. Stop in at this Door County staple for the ultimate drive-in experience.

Milky Way Drive-In - Franklin

A newer addition to the drive-in movie scene, the Milky Way opened in 2020 just outside Franklin Field, home of the Milwaukee Milkmen baseball team. At the Milky Way, you get the classic drive-in experience with some modern touches. The 40-foot LED screen, for example, allows the drive-in to play movies during the day with crystal clarity. This drive-in also differs in that it plays classic movies from the 70s, 80s and 90s in place of new releases for true throwback fun.

Note: Outdoor theater schedules vary widely, so make sure you check for season openings and closings at each theater. Rain also may affect whether your favorite drive-in is open on any specific day, so be sure to check with the theater ahead of your visit.

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