Home > Finger Lakes Drive-Ins: Your Guide

Finger Lakes Drive-Ins: Your Guide

Your complete guide to the drive-in movie theaters of New York's Finger Lakes. See who survived, who didn't, and how to do a drive-in night right.
Disclaimer: Photos and illustrations are used to capture the spirit of the Finger Lakes. Some may be artistic interpretations rather than exact depictions of real locations.

So, you want to see a movie... outside? In your car? The Finger Lakes region still has a few classic drive-in theaters where you can do just that. Here's the lowdown on where they are, how they started, and what to do when you get there.

A classic drive-in movie screen at dusk, with cars parked in rows and a colorful sunset in the background.

The Drive-In Experience

When the sun sets in the Finger Lakes, you can follow a gravel path into a big green field. A giant white screen waits against the sky. The air smells like cut grass and popcorn from the concession stand.

You find a spot and kill the engine. Families set up lawn chairs, and kids chase fireflies. It's your own private space, but you're also part of a big crowd watching the same thing.

The real magic starts with a crackle from the radio. You tune to a specific FM station, and the movie's sound fills your car. Your vehicle is now a personal screening room, with a ceiling of stars. 1

A Quick History

How It All Started

The drive-in is a classic American invention, thanks to our love for cars. It started in a New Jersey driveway in 1932. A man named Richard M. Hollingshead, Jr. wanted to help his mother, who found normal movie theater seats too small. 3

A black and white recreation of the first makeshift drive-in theater, with a projector on a car hood and a screen tied between trees.

His setup was simple, a 1928 Kodak projector on his car hood, sheets tied between trees for a screen, and a radio behind them for sound. 1 He figured out how to use ramps so every car could see, patented the idea, and opened the world's first drive-in on June 6, 1933. 5 His slogan was a hit with parents: “The whole family is welcome, regardless of how noisy the children are”. 3

Original Slogan: The original drive-in slogan was a hit with parents: “The whole family is welcome, regardless of how noisy the children are.”

The Golden Age... and the Fall

After World War II, drive-ins exploded. Families were moving to the suburbs and buying cars, so outdoor theaters were a perfect fit. 1 These "ozoners" were social spots with playgrounds and snack bars. 7 By 1958, there were over 4,000 drive-ins across the U.S. 3

A bustling 1950s drive-in theater full of families, with a playground visible near the screen.

But things changed in the 1970s. The oil crisis meant smaller cars, VCRs made staying home easier, and indoor multiplexes offered more choices. 3 The biggest problem was money. The huge lots drive-ins needed became more valuable for building shopping malls. 4

The Comeback Kids

The Finger Lakes region once had over 100 drive-ins. 12 Statewide, New York had about 150, but only a few are left today. 14 A wave of nostalgia helped them hang on, cherished by their towns. 11

Then the COVID-19 pandemic happened. Suddenly, the drive-in's built-in social distancing was a huge plus. 1 A new generation discovered watching movies from their car, and the survivors became treasured landmarks.

The Survivors: Where to Go

The few drive-ins left in the Finger Lakes are keepers of a cultural flame. Each one has its own personality and a different story of survival. Here’s a look at the ones still lighting up the night.

The Vintage Drive-In (Avon)

Just south of Rochester, the Vintage Drive-In has a fun secret, its name is a bit of a fib. It's actually the region's newest drive-in. 17 In 1997, owner Paul Dean built a state-of-the-art theater on the 23-acre site of the East Avon Flea Market because Rochester's original drive-ins were all gone. 13

The modern four-screen Vintage Drive-In in Avon, NY, with its distinctive 1950s-style concession stand.

It was a hit and has since grown to four screens. 19 The parking lots are flat (no old-school ramps), and sound comes through your FM radio. 19 The heart of the place is the concession stand, which looks like a 1950s diner. 19

The menu is huge, think funnel cakes, fried dough, Zweigle red hots, and even 13-inch pizzas from Caraglios Pizzeria. 21 Before the movie, you can play in the arcade or hit the mini-golf course. 19

The Silver Lake Drive-In (Perry)

Near Silver Lake and Letchworth State Park, this drive-in is a perfect end to a summer day. 23 Opened in 1949, Silver Lake has both survived and evolved. 25 It’s the main attraction of a larger entertainment complex that includes the Charcoal Corral restaurant. 23

The family-friendly Silver Lake Drive-In in Perry, NY, showing a playground in front of one of its screens.

The vibe is super family-friendly, with playgrounds in front of both screens. They even welcome dogs and sell a "Doggie Dish Sundae" at the ice cream parlor. 26 The Charcoal Corral serves burgers, hot dogs, pizza, and Perry's Ice Cream, so you can have a full dinner there. 23

It's a mix of old and new. You can still use the old clip-on window speakers in the front rows of Screen 1. But the movies are shown with modern 4K laser projectors, and most people listen on FM radio (106.3 for Screen 1, 100.1 for Screen 2). 26

The Elmira Drive-In (Elmira Heights)

This place is a monument to sticking around. For over 70 years, the Elmira Drive-In has been a 19-acre landmark on Route 352. 30 It opened on April 16, 1949, and has been owned by the Zurich family since 1985. 31

The massive main screen of the Elmira Drive-In in Elmira Heights, NY, towering over the parking area.

The main screen is a monster-50 feet tall by 100 feet wide, one of the biggest in New York State. 30 It added a second screen in 2000 and upgraded to Dolby Stereo Surround Sound in 2004. 30 The price is often per person, but its policy of letting kids under 12 in free (with an adult) makes it a family favorite. 32

Ghosts of the Roadside

To really get why the survivors are special, you have to remember the ones that are gone. At one time, the 14-county Finger Lakes region had over 100 drive-ins. 12 Now, their names are just memories.

Some might recall the Dryden Drive-In between Ithaca and Cortland, which opened in 1949. 13 Or maybe Auburn's East Drive-In, a long-gone sibling to the one that's still there. 13 Most of these places were bulldozed for shopping centers and office parks. 35

An aerial satellite view of an overgrown field showing the faint, curved outlines of former drive-in parking ramps.

Sometimes, the only thing left is an overgrown field. If you look at it from a satellite, you can just make out the faint, fan-shaped curves of the old parking ramps. 37 They're quiet reminders of why we should appreciate the ones still in business.

Drive-In Pro-Tips

Going to a drive-in is a ritual. Here’s how to do it right. First, turn your car into a comfy lounge. Pack lawn chairs for warm nights and a cozy blanket for cool ones. 38

Pro-Tip Checklist: Don't forget these essentials: a portable FM radio (with extra batteries!), lawn chairs, blankets, bug spray, and rope to tie down your hatchback.

The most important item? A portable FM radio with fresh batteries. This saves your car's battery and lets you put the sound wherever you want. 39 Also, pack bug spray, you'll thank yourself later. 38

A family's car set up for a drive-in movie, with lawn chairs, a portable radio, and a cooler.

Arrive early, long before it gets dark. This gets you a good spot and lets you soak in the fun atmosphere as the field fills up. 38 If you’re in a big SUV or truck, park in the back or on the sides so smaller cars can see. It's just good manners. 41

If you plan to open your hatchback, bring rope or a bungee cord. You need to tie it down so it doesn't rise above your roof and block the view for the people behind you. 42 Once you're parked, tune your radio and head to the concession stand. 43

Buying their popcorn and sodas is how these theaters make money and stay open. 39 Finally, as the movie starts, turn off ALL your lights. Headlights, daytime running lights, and interior dome lights need to be off for everyone to see the screen. 38

More Than a Movie

Sure, you can stream anything from your couch. But the drive-in is different. It’s a movie, a history lesson, and a community night out all rolled into one.

It's a trip back to a time when the family car meant freedom and fun. 1 The drama on screen is matched by the stars coming out overhead. These theaters are living museums and vital parts of their communities.

So pack the car, grab your family, and head out into the twilight. Go support a local treasure, and create your own starlit memory.

Works cited

  1. The Birth of Drive-In Theaters: How the 1933 Innovation Revolutionized Outdoor Cinema, https://www.premiereoutdoormovie.com/the-birth-of-drive-in-theaters
  2. Tech and the Revival of Drive-Ins - CES, https://www.ces.tech/articles/tech-and-the-revival-of-drive-ins/
  3. The History of Drive-In Movie Theaters (and Where They Are Now), https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/the-history-of-drive-in-movie-theaters-and-where-they-are-now/
  4. The History of the Drive-In Movie Theater - Smithsonian Magazine, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/the-history-of-the-drive-in-movie-theater-51331221/
  5. en.wikipedia.org, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drive-in_theater#:~:text=The%20drive%2Din%20theater%20was,212%20Thomas%20Avenue%20in%20Riverton.
  6. The DIY Beginnings of America's Drive-In Movie Theaters - History.com, https://www.history.com/articles/drive-in-movie-theaters
  7. 8 Drive-In Movie Theatres That Evoke the Golden Age of the Automobile, https://savingplaces.org/stories/8-drive-in-movie-theatres-that-evoke-the-golden-age-of-the-automobile
  8. The Rise & Fall of Drive-In Movie Theaters in the United States | Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/video/Rise-and-fall-American-drive-in-movie-theater-car-culture-Midwest-regional-suburban-development/-247420
  9. The Days of the Drive-In Movie Theaters Through Rare Photographs, 1930-1950, https://rarehistoricalphotos.com/drive-in-movie-theater-history-1930-1950/
  10. Why Did Drive-In Movie Theaters Decline? - Beverly Boy Productions, https://beverlyboy.com/uncategorized/why-did-drive-in-movie-theaters-decline/
  11. The Rise, Fall and Lasting Wonder of the Drive-in - Midstory, https://www.midstory.org/the-rise-fall-and-lasting-wonder-of-the-drive-in/
  12. www.lifeinthefingerlakes.com, https://www.lifeinthefingerlakes.com/movies-under-the-finger-lakes-stars/#:~:text=From%20Avon%20to%20Auburn%2C%20Bath,ozoners%E2%80%9D%20as%20they%20are%20called.
  13. Movies Under the Finger Lakes Stars, https://www.lifeinthefingerlakes.com/movies-under-the-finger-lakes-stars/
  14. Here Are The 23 Drive-In Theaters Left In New York State - 107.7 GNA, https://wgna.com/here-are-the-23-drive-in-theaters-left-in-new-york-state/
  15. 22 Drive-In Movie Theaters Still Standing In New York State - WYRK, https://wyrk.com/drive-in-theaters-ny/
  16. America's Drive-Ins Are Making a Comeback - American Lifestyle Magazine, https://americanlifestylemag.com/life-culture/editorial/americas-drive-ins-are-making-a-comeback/
  17. New York's Nostalgic Finger Lakes Charmer Boasts Historic Structures, Trails, And A Vintage Drive-In - Islands, https://www.islands.com/1920623/avon-new-york-nostalgic-finger-lakes-charmer-boasts-historic-structures-trails-vintage-drive/
  18. Vintage Drive-In - Explore Genesee Valley, https://exploregeneseevalley.com/entries/vintage-drive-in/6e4fa5e7-50eb-4975-8567-2e58e0e80653
  19. Oct. 20: Vintage Drive In Theatre, Avon NY | Carload, https://carload.com/2017/10/oct-20-vintage-drive-in-theatre-avon-ny/
  20. Vintage Drive-In | Beyond the Nest (Rochester), https://rochester.beyondthenest.com/content/vintage-drive-in
  21. All Menu Items - Vintage Drive-In, https://order.vintagedrivein.com/menu
  22. Vintage Drive In - Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Updated September 2025 - Social Clubs in East Avon Village, Town Of Avon - Wheree, https://vintage-drive-in.wheree.com/
  23. Charcoal Corral & Silver Lake Twin Drive-In, Perry, NY | Explore Letchworth & Beyond, https://www.exploreletchworth.com/listings/charcoal-corral-silver-lake-twin-drive-in
  24. History Perry Perry, NY, https://www.townofperry.com/community.php?History-35
  25. PERRY, NY - MOVIE SHOWTIMES - DRIVE-INS NEAR ME, https://www.driveinsnearme.com/movie-theatres/new-york/perry/silver-lake-drive-in-69020588
  26. Silver Lake Twin Drive-In - Charcoal Corral, https://charcoalcorral.com/silver-lake-twin-drive-in/
  27. Charcoal Corral & Silver Lake Twin Drive-In - Fresh Air Adventures NY, https://www.freshairadventuresny.com/destinations/charcoal-corral-and-silver-lake-twin-drive-in
  28. Silver Lake Drive-In - Rochester Wiki, https://rocwiki.org/Silver_Lake_Drive-In
  29. Silver Lake Twin Drive-In Theater in Perry, NY - Showtimes - Screendollars, https://screendollars.com/theatres/silver-lake-twin-drive-in/
  30. About Elmira Drive-In, https://www.elmiradrivein.com/content/About+Elmira+DriveIn
  31. Oct. 25: Elmira Drive-In Theatre, Elmira NY - Carload, https://carload.com/2017/10/oct-25-elmira-drive-in-theatre-elmira-ny/
  32. Elmira Drive-In Theatre | Elmira, NY 14903 - ILoveNY.com, https://www.iloveny.com/listing/elmira-drive-in-theatre/8749/
  33. Ticket Pricing & Policies - Elmira Drive-In, https://www.elmiradrivein.com/content/Ticket+Pricing++Policies
  34. Oct. 16: Finger Lakes Drive-In, Auburn NY - Carload, https://carload.com/2017/10/oct-16-finger-lakes-drive-in-auburn-ny/
  35. Take A Look Back At The Iconic Drive-In Theaters Of Columbus, https://www.columbusnavigator.com/history-columbus-drive-in-theaters/
  36. Local Drive-In Theatre Saved From The Scrap Heap - WYRK, https://wyrk.com/local-drive-in-theatre-saved-from-the-scrap-heap/
  37. Remnants Of Drive-In Era Can Still Be Found | News, Sports, Jobs - Post Journal, https://www.post-journal.com/news/top-stories/2021/02/remnants-of-drive-in-era-can-still-be-found/
  38. Tips for Taking Your Family to the Drive-In Movies - Kansas City Mom Collective, https://kansascitymomcollective.com/drive-in-movies/
  39. 10 Tips to a Wonderful Night at the Drive-in Movie Theater! - Having Fun in the Texas Sun, https://havingfuninthetexassun.com/2023/02/17/10-tips-to-a-wonderful-night-at-the-drive-in-movie-theater/
  40. 8 Tips For A Great Drive-In Movie Experience, https://www.premiereoutdoormovie.com/8-tips-for-a-great-drive-in-movie-experience
  41. Drive-In Theater: Tips & Tricks from a Pro - Roper Honda, https://www.roperhonda.com/blog/2022/march/23/drive-in-theater-tips-tricks-from-a-pro.htm
  42. Our House Rules - Finger Lakes Drive-In, https://www.fingerlakesdrivein.com/rules.php
  43. I've never been to a drive in theater, what do i need to know? : r/NoStupidQuestions - Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/NoStupidQuestions/comments/5lsttg/ive_never_been_to_a_drive_in_theater_what_do_i/