Sienna Rhodes
The Summer Drive-In in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the last remaining drive-in movie theatres in the South. It is owned by Malco Theatres, which has embraced digital projection and sound to enhance the overall viewing experience. While the Summer Drive-In originally played B-movies, it now screens first-run blockbusters. Attendees can listen to the audio of the films through their car FM radios or old-fashioned speakers that hang on car windows. The drive-in theatre is open during the summer and on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the year, with admission priced at $7 per person, while kids under 10 are free.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Summer Drive-In |
| Location | Memphis, Tennessee |
| Owner | Malco Theatres |
| Ticket Price | $7 per person; kids under 10 are free |
| Food and Beverage | Popcorn, soda, burgers, specialty coffees |
| Audio | FM Radios |
| Screens | 3 or 4 |
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What You'll Learn
- Summer Drive-In in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the last remaining drive-in theatres in the South
- Viewers can tune into the audio of the films via FM radios
- The drive-in theatre is open during the summer and on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the year
- Viewers can enjoy a range of food and beverages, from popcorn and soda to burgers and specialty coffees
- The theatre has four screens and offers a carload special
Summer Drive-In in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the last remaining drive-in theatres in the South
The Malco Summer Drive-In in Memphis, Tennessee, was one of the last remaining drive-in theatres in the South before it closed in May 2025. It had been in operation for almost 60 years, opening in 1966. At the time, there were at least seven other drive-ins in the Memphis area, and over 4,000 across the United States. However, with the upgrade of indoor theatres and the expansion of movie menus via multiplexes, the number of drive-in theatres declined.
The Summer Drive-In was a beloved institution in Memphis, offering a unique experience for moviegoers. It was a place where families gathered, first dates blossomed, and memories were made under the stars. The theatre also offered a range of food and beverage options, from traditional popcorn and soda to gourmet items like burgers and specialty coffees.
In its final weekend, the drive-in theatre drew large crowds of nostalgic moviegoers and families seeking one last chance to experience the magic of outdoor cinema. The closure marked the end of an era for drive-in theatres in the Memphis area, leaving the region without a drive-in movie theatre for the first time since 1940.
The audio at the drive-in was broadcast via FM radio, and patrons could tune in using their car stereos. Some patrons expressed frustration with having to keep their car engines running between movies to charge their car batteries, resulting in a haze of exhaust. Despite this, the Summer Drive-In held a special place in the hearts of many Memphians, and its closure was met with sadness and nostalgia.
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Viewers can tune into the audio of the films via FM radios
The Summer Drive-In in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the last remaining drive-in movie theatres in the South. It offers a unique experience, allowing viewers to watch movies under the stars from the comfort of their cars.
While drive-in theatres traditionally used old-fashioned speakers that hung on car windows, the Summer Drive-In has embraced innovation and offers a modern audio experience. Viewers can tune into the audio of the films via FM radios, ensuring a clear and immersive sound experience without the need for external speakers. This upgrade in technology enhances the overall viewing pleasure, combining the nostalgic drive-in theatre setting with high-quality sound.
The drive-in theatre encourages a community-oriented atmosphere, with viewers piling into their cars, often bringing coolers, popcorn, blankets, and lawn chairs to enhance their comfort and enjoyment. The experience is further elevated by the theatre's food and beverage options, ranging from traditional movie snacks like popcorn and soda to gourmet items such as burgers and specialty coffees.
By utilising FM radio technology, the Summer Drive-In ensures that viewers can enjoy the films' audio without disturbance or the need for additional equipment. This modern approach to audio transmission is a significant upgrade from the traditional hanging speakers, providing a crisp and clear sound experience for all attendees, regardless of their car's stereo system.
In conclusion, the Summer Drive-In's utilisation of FM radio technology for audio transmission is a testament to its commitment to providing a modern and immersive viewing experience. By prioritising sound quality and convenience, the drive-in theatre creates a memorable and enjoyable environment for movie-goers, combining the nostalgia of outdoor cinema with the comforts of modern technology.
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The drive-in theatre is open during the summer and on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the year
The Malco Summer Drive-In Theatre in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the last remaining drive-in theatres in the South. It is open during the summer and on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the year.
The drive-in theatre originally opened 365 days a year, but now operates on a seasonal schedule. Admission is $7 per person, with kids under 10 admitted for free, making it a popular choice for family entertainment. The theatre offers a carload special, where moviegoers can pile into their SUVs with coolers, popcorn, blankets, and lawn chairs for a unique cinematic experience.
The theatre features four screens, including Screen 3, the most distant and largest at 118 by 54 feet, located 730 feet from the booth. It utilizes bright light bulbs ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 watts to project the image onto the screens. The sound is transmitted through FM radios in cars, as opposed to the traditional hanging speakers.
Malco Theatres has embraced digital projection and sound, enhancing the viewing experience with high-quality presentations. They also offer a range of food and beverage options, from traditional popcorn and soda to gourmet items like burgers and specialty coffees. The theatre frequently hosts special events, including early screenings, film festivals, and community gatherings.
The Summer Drive-In has a rich history, with employees like James Lloyd, who has worked there for 43 years, passionate about outdoor film. It continues to be a beloved landmark in Memphis, carrying on the tradition of outdoor cinema.
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Viewers can enjoy a range of food and beverages, from popcorn and soda to burgers and specialty coffees
The Summer Drive-In in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the last remaining drive-in movie theatres in the South. It has been a beloved landmark for many years, offering a unique and magical experience under the stars.
While the Summer Drive-In has a rich history, it has also embraced innovation. The theatre utilizes digital projection and sound technology to enhance the viewing experience, ensuring high-quality presentations. In addition, viewers can enjoy a wide range of food and beverage options to suit all tastes. From traditional movie theatre snacks like popcorn and soda to more substantial options such as burgers, there is something for everyone. For those with a sweet tooth, there are also specialty coffees to indulge in.
The theatre frequently hosts special events, including early screenings, film festivals, and community gatherings. With exclusive screenings and a variety of food and drink options, the Summer Drive-In provides a memorable cinematic experience.
Viewers are encouraged to bring their own coolers with refreshments and snacks, such as popcorn, to enjoy during the movie. Blankets and lawn chairs create a cozy atmosphere, and with affordable tickets, it's no wonder that the Summer Drive-In is a popular choice for families. The theatre offers a fun and affordable night out, with the added convenience of being able to bring your own food and drinks.
The Summer Drive-In continues to be a beloved fixture in Memphis, offering a nostalgic and enchanting experience for movie-goers of all ages. With its combination of classic charm and modern amenities, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of drive-in theatres.
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The theatre has four screens and offers a carload special
The Malco Summer Drive-In Theatre in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the last remaining drive-in theatres in the South. It has been a beloved Memphis landmark for many years, carrying a colourful history of outdoor cinema. The theatre has four screens and offers a carload special, allowing moviegoers to pile into their SUVs with coolers, popcorn, blankets, and lawn chairs for a unique viewing experience.
The drive-in theatre originally opened 365 days a year but now operates only during the summer and on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the year. It offers a mix of first-run blockbusters and B-movies, with double or triple features on some nights. The theatre utilises bright light bulbs of 6,000 to 7,000 watts each, projecting images onto screens hundreds of feet away. Screen 3, the largest at 118 by 54 feet, is situated 730 feet from the booth.
The Summer Drive-In continues to be a popular attraction, especially for families, with admission set at $7 per person and kids under 10 admitted for free. The theatre also offers exclusive screenings, including early releases, film festivals, and community events. In addition to traditional movie snacks like popcorn and soda, patrons can enjoy gourmet items like burgers and specialty coffees.
The theatre has embraced digital projection and sound, enhancing the viewing experience with high-quality presentations. It is committed to sustainability and implements eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient lighting and waste reduction programs. The Summer Drive-In remains a cherished part of Memphis' cultural landscape, providing a nostalgic and enjoyable movie-going experience for all ages.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Summer Drive-In in Memphis, Tennessee, does have sound. Movie-goers can use FM radios for audio, as opposed to the old-fashioned speakers that hang on car windows.
Admission is $7 per person, but kids under 10 are free. They also offer a carload special, where you pay per car rather than per person.
Viewers are encouraged to bring a cooler, popcorn, blankets, and lawn chairs. Food and drinks are also available for purchase.
