The Best Drive-In Movie Theaters Near Boston
Add some nostalgia to your summer.
Considering there are only about 300 drive-in movie theaters left in the US, Bostonians are lucky to have a number of options right in our backyard. From pop-up theaters in the city proper to old-school options around the state that are a quick drive from the city, you can get a taste of this classic summer activity without going too far.
We’ve done a bit of research to help you along your quest to plan the perfect drive-in movie night. So keep reading for our list of nearby drive-in movie theaters across Massachusetts, equipped with big screens, movie snacks, and more.
Jamaica Plain
For a nearby drive-in experience, give JP Movie Night a try. Founded by two local neighbors with a shared love for all things film, JPMN shows mostly independent flicks—many with a local connection. And after the movie, the audience is encouraged to stick around for lively conversation, with some filmmakers onsite for Q&As. For more information on when you can check out the next show, visit the theater’s website.
Distance from Boston: None! It’s at the Center for Faith, Art and Justice at First Baptist in Jamaica Plain
Mendon
The Mendon Twin Drive-In has been in business for more than 60 years. Sitting on 16 acres of forested land, the theater offers ample space to get a good view and plenty of food and beverage options like Pop’s Beer Garden, Judi’s Snack Shack, and Ernie’s Ice Cream. Snack-wise, we’re talking soft pretzels, fries, nachos, mozzarella sticks, and Table Talk Pies—you know, those pies that come in perfectly petite boxes, for some extra nostalgia. The drive-in really doesn’t get much better than that. For the latest showings, check out the theater’s Facebook page or website.
Distance from Boston: About an hour
Tewksbury
Merrimack Valley Pavilion, which houses family-friendly fun from mini-golf to laser tag to arcade games, also happens to have drive-in movies on Friday and Saturday nights. While you’re there, stop by MVP cafe for onion rings, mozzarella sticks, popcorn chicken, and most importantly, some sundaes in flavors piña colada, cinnamon toast crunch, mint chocolate chip, frosted animal cracker, and plenty more. For the latest shows and showtimes, visit the website.
Distance from Boston: About an hour
Wellfleet
No escape to the Cape is complete without a trip to the Wellfleet Drive-In, which has been around for an impressive 65 years. With mini-golf and a dairy bar open daily, there’s plenty to keep you and the family busy while waiting for your movie to start. Plus, the theater hosts a flea market featuring up to 150 vendors and endless bargain hunting each Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 3 pm, so you can make a whole day of it. To look into purchasing tickets and find out what’s playing next, visit the website for more.
Distance from Boston: About two hours
Oak Bluffs
Presented by Circuits Arts and the YMCA, you can add another drive-in to the mix for your getaway on the Cape. Located at the YMCA of Martha’s Vineyard, a quaint little spot in Oak Bluffs, the drive-in also has a food truck available most nights, serving up everything from chicken tenders to burgers to bags of fries sprinkled with lemon salt and rosemary. For more on shows and showtimes, check out the drive-in’s website.
Distance from Boston: About three hours