Minnesota had about 80 drive-ins when this fun activity was at its peak in the 1950s, and there are still several places in the state where you can watch a film on a big screen from the comfort of your car. Here are some of the best drive-in movie theaters near Rochester, Minnesota.
Vali-Hi Drive-In
Vali-Hi Drive-In is about an hour and 20 minutes away from Rochester in Lake Elmo. It shows three movies for the price of one in spring and summer, whether it’s rainy or sunny outside. A family-friendly movie usually starts at dusk, and the films become more risque as the time becomes later and the little ones get sleepy. Children under five years old can watch for free, and kids from 6 to 12 can watch for only a dollar. They don’t accept credit or debit cards, but an ATM is on-site.
There’s an old-fashioned picture booth, an arcade, a mini Harley that small kids can ride, and plenty of bathrooms. Orville Redenbacher popcorn, Armour hot dogs for only a dollar, and lots of other snacks are available. You can listen to the movies in stereo sound or with your car radio by tuning to 90.1 FM.
ELKO Speedway
ELKO Speedway plays one film per night, which starts about 15 minutes after the Speedway’s final race for the day. You can tailgate, have a picnic, or barbecue while you enjoy the movie. There’s also a concession area with a variety of delicious stadium food and two fully stocked bar areas. However, outside alcohol is not allowed.
ELKO holds amateur races and NASCAR stock car races, and you can often listen to live music there. This speedway and drive-in theater has been open since 1965, and it’s about an hour away from Rochester in Elko New Market.
The Starlite Drive-In
This theater opened in 1955 with a single screen, and it closed in 1981. Then, a new owner restored and reopened it in 1998. They added three additional screens, making it a four-screen theater. In 2015, it was sold again to a new owner who decided to show movies on just two screens. It’s in Litchfield, about two and a half hours away from Rochester, and many double features are available. You can hear the movie by tuning your cars FM radio or using a portable version.
Pets on leashes are welcome, and a snack bar and playground area is available. Mosquito repellent is recommended, and you can bring your own portable furniture. The speed limit is 10 mph, and you should keep your headlights off to avoid distracting others while you’re watching the movie.
If you’re feeling nostalgic, visit one of these fun drive-ins. You can see an awesome movie without needing to worry about finding a seat in a crowded theater or sitting next to a stranger. Visiting a drive-in is an ideal way to give your kids a unique experience or spend a romantic evening with your spouse.
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