Drive-in theatres might seem like a thing of the past, but there’s nothing more serene than watching a movie while cozied up in your own car. Plus, there’s the added benefit of being able to talk during your movie and not have just about the entire theatre shush you so loudly that it made more of a disturbance than your whisper did. Oh, and you don’t get little kids spitting popcorn kernels in your hair — yes I speak from very unfortunate experience. Pack up the car and take a look at these drive-ins close enough to Toronto that you can catch a sweet flick before bedtime.
5 Drive-In, Oakville
The 5 Drive-In in Oakville is the closest drive-in theatre to Toronto. It’s only a quick 30-minute drive from the downtown core. With 50s inspired diner snacks and the classic drive-in vibes, the 5 Drive-In is a great way to spend your summer nights. Bring a hot date or enjoy a car-full with friends at this drive-in.
The Stardust Drive-In Theatre, Newmarket
If you make your way an hour north of the city one night and find yourself in Newmarket, stop by The Stardust Drive-In Theatre. This sweet spot is also owned by Premier Theaters, just like the 5 Drive-In so you know you’ll have a quality night. The Stardust reminds us to look up every once and a while and enjoy the cloudless starry night. Take a moment before your movie starts to enjoy these clear summer nights.
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Starlite Drive-In Theatre, Hamilton
The Starlite is a cute spot just 50 minutes away from Toronto. To make the best of your drive-in experience, try to arrive as soon as the box-office opens and grab the best spot in front of the screen. A little car comfiness goes a long way, too! Bring as many blankets, pillows, and even sneak in some of your own snacks and drinks to keep as cozy as possible. Enjoy this star-lit drive-in and make the best of summer.
Can-View Drive-In, St. Catherines
I know St. Catherines sounds pretty far when you’re coming from Toronto, but not to worry. If you’re taking a drive on one of the seemingly infinite summer nights, then that hour and 20 minutes will feel like nothing. If you’ve got an SUV or pick-up truck, then you’ll have ideal drive-in watching comfort with a few blankets and pillows. Open the trunk of the SUV or hop in the back of your old pick-up truck and get cozy for all the movies that will take you late into the night.
Sunset Barrie Drive-In Theatre, Barrie
A drive out to Barrie might just be worth it to visit the Sunset Barrie Drive-In Theatre. With the long summer nights, you’ll definitely be able to catch the sunset. If you’re lucky you might even get to watch the sun go down as the movies begin. It’s a quintessential summer experience that is totally worth checking off your summer musts bucket-list.
Mustang Drive-In, Guelph
The Mustang Drive-In around Guelph, not to be confused with the Mustang Drive-In all the way out in London, is a great little spot to set up camp and watch a movie. Many drive-in theatres will make sure to warn you about knowing how to turn off your daytime running lights in the car. The Mustang is no exception. If you have a make or model of car that just can’t seem to turn those lights off, the Mustang recommends you bring blankets, towels, cardboard, or duct tape to keep those lights covered. We wouldn’t want the vibe spoiled for the rest of the movie-goers.
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Port Hope Drive-In, Cobourg
Possibly the furthest drive-in on the list, Port Hope is still a cute one to see. Depending on what time you’re getting in the car, you may or may not hit some traffic getting out of the city. Expect at least an hour and 30-minute drive. Make sure to bring some bug spray if you want to sit outside and watch the movies so that you can enjoy in full relaxation mode.
