Amazing Drive-In Movie Theatres in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana

Jun 6, 2023

Today Is National Drive-In Movie Day!

Here’s some great drive-in theatres in the area to check out and make a stop off on your next road trip. It will be a memorable experience to last a lifetime! We’ve included picks from Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana, so you can find one wherever the road may take you!

Wondering what to bring along for your guests? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a breakdown of suggested items to pack for the best drive-in experience from young to old!

Going to the drive-in is an exciting experience for little ones, and a unique date night idea for those looking to switch things up a bit. And we love to keep a little bag of tricks in our trunk to ensure things go swiftly and smoothly no matter what!

For Kiddos:

Pack an overnight bag with extra clean clothes – one spare outfit per child. Choose something that’s easy to put on such as PJs or sweatpants or leggings. For babies or toddlers, consider packing at least two onesies or sleepsuits. Plan for being out late, and perhaps having some spills or accidents needing a swap.
Pack little lunch boxes with juice boxes, baggies of fresh fruits and veggies, and of course plenty of little crackers and munchies to keep them satisfied. Make sure to include some insulated water bottles to keep them hydrated.
Bring something cuddly and cozy such as a hooded blanket, an easy-to-clean fleece blanket, or a cotton throw.
Consider adding some easy outdoor toys such as velcro mitts with a tennis ball, a frisbee, beanbag toss, or similar to play outside a little before the movie starts.
A box or two of glowsticks or glow bracelets and little spinning flashlights for kids to play with in the dark, and make it less scary.

For Everyone:

Soft, comfortable cushions with waterproof material for sitting outside, or even for using in your vehicle for added luxury.
A few lap blankets to keep you warm and cozy and comfortable in your car, or to lay across your lap if you’ve opted to sit outdoors.
Folding chairs for those who need a change of pace from sitting in the car and want to sit outside.
A box filled with your favourite movie theatre snacks, chips, crackers, and other snack packs and candies.
A cooler filled with canned beverages and bottled drinks and water, and some fresh fruits or veggies. Or fancy it up with a premade charcuterie tray for a date night twist!
Lots of wet wipes, napkins, paper towels, and hand sanitizer (and you might even want to toss a spare roll or two of toilet paper in there in case the bathrooms are less than equipped.)
Bring some bug spray in case you leave your windows open or opt for the outdoor seating.
Flashlights and LED candles can add a little ambiance and also make it easier to find your way to and from the concessions or bathroom in the dark.
Last but not least, a few plastic grocery bags and a trash bag to gather up your garbage at the end of the night or to bag up wet clothing.