Things to do

When’s the last time you went to a drive-in? Check out these theaters for movies under the stars.

Going to a drive-in movie may seem like a relic of a bygone era, but there are actually still some drive-in theaters near Charlotte.

While they may not have as many movies playing as a larger theater, drive-ins often offer good deals on tickets because many charge by the car rather than the number of people in your party. And many have special events, especially in spring and summer.

[WIN A TRIP: A new ‘Dream Big in Small Town NC’ sweepstakes means you could win a trip to the mountains]

Here are some drive-in theaters within driving distance from Charlotte to try the next time you want to add something extra to your trip to the movies:

Badin Road Drive-In

What to know: Located about an hour outside of Charlotte, Badin Road has two screens airing different double features on Fridays and Saturdays. In addition to the traditional concessions — popcorn and candy — Badin also offers ice cream and a grill station with burgers, hot dogs and more. Tickets are cash only, so make sure you’ve swung by the ATM before heading out. You can check the movie listings each week on its website or Facebook page.

Location: 2411 Badin Road, Albemarle, NC 28001

Cost: $7 per person 12 and older, $5 per children 6-11, free for children 5 and under

[RELATED: What’s your favorite small town in North and South Carolina?]

Hound’s Drive-In

What to know: Hound’s Drive-In, about 40 minutes outside of Charlotte, has three screens showing different double features on Fridays and Saturdays. Screenings are pet-friendly, and the concession stand offers pizza by the slice, burgers and more. The theater accepts cash and credit cards, and you can buy tickets ahead of time on its website. Movie listings are posted ahead of time on the website.

Location: 114 Raven Circle, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Cost: $20 per car

Hound’s Drive-In shows double features on weekends.
Hound’s Drive-In shows double features on weekends. Courtesy of Hounds Drive-In

The Sunset Drive-In Theatre

What to know: The Sunset isn’t open year-round, but when open it airs first-run movies, double features and special events such as concerts. You may bring in outside food and drinks, and various concessions are also sold. About an hour from Charlotte, the ticket booth is cash only, but the concession stand accepts cash or credit cards. Keep an eye on its website and Facebook page for movie listings and other details.

Location: 3935 Sunset Blvd., Shelby, NC 28152

Cost: $15 per car

Mary Ramsey
The Charlotte Observer
Mary Ramsey is the local government accountability reporter for The Charlotte Observer. A native of the Carolinas, she studied journalism at the University of South Carolina and has also worked in Phoenix, Arizona and Louisville, Kentucky. Support my work with a digital subscription
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER