Immersed in nostalgia and set against the backdrop of Austin's city skyline, catching a movie at a drive-in theater is an unforgettable experience. For those who cherish cinema and the allure of bygone days, Austin is the perfect place to be! From the iconic Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In in the heart of downtown to hidden gems on the city's outskirts, this guide will show you the best spots to enjoy a drive-in movie in Austin.
Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In
Blue Starlite Drive-In is an urban drive-in movie theater in Austin known for showcasing indie films, cult classics, and childhood staples. Right in the heart of the city, this outdoor theater has two venues, often putting on two films a night.
Their downtown location has an incredible rooftop view of the cityscape, perfect for a date night or a fun evening with friends. It’s a dual-screen experience, and they show a range of new releases and old classics. You can add concessions to your ticket, like freshly made popcorn, soda, and candy, which you can pre-order in advance or pick up after arrival. You can also rent out a private screening for an intimate date night or a celebration with friends.
For old-school Austin vibes, their Central Austin location is the place to be. They regularly screen ‘80s horror films, B-movies, family classics, and cult favorites like “Casablanca” and “The Sandlot.”
Doc's Drive-In Theatre
Just south of the city limits, in the charming town of Buda, you’ll find Doc's Drive-In Theatre. Boasting two massive outdoor screens and a spacious grassy lawn, Doc's offers a retro drive-in experience with a Texan twist. Grab some classic movie snacks from the concession stand– including homemade brisket—tune in to the radio, and enjoy a double feature under the Texas sky. For those preferring not to watch from their car, the option to view from a table on the second-story patio outside the concessions is also available.
Rocket Cinema
Rocket Cinema offers a unique leisure experience with its pop-up drive-in cinema, which appears at various locations across town. It adds an element of surprise and adventure to movie nights. Rocket Cinema specializes in creating memorable outdoor movie events, not just for private gatherings, schools, or businesses but for anyone looking to enjoy a film under the stars. From intimate screenings to large-scale events, Rocket Cinema ensures a versatile and dynamic drive-in movie experience.
When the weekend arrives, enjoy a creative date night by going to a drive-in movie theater in Austin. Whether you want to look out at the city lights or a starry night sky, these outdoor venues offer a wonderfully unique thing to do in the city. For movie buffs looking for more to do in Austin, check out the many film festivals that take place in the city throughout the year highlighting a variety of genres. For couples looking for more unique and interactive date ideas in Austin, check out top suggestions in our Austin Date Ideas article for more inspiration.