Did you know that the world’s oldest drive-in is a 20-minute drive from our campus? Learn more about it in Lyana Cintron’s review.

 In 1934, Shankweiler’s Drive-In was opened in Orefield, Pennsylvania, as a continuation of the Shankweiler’s drive-in theater chain. While this particular theater is not the first drive-in in the country to be opened, it continues to operate as America’s oldest drive-in.

At one point, Shankweilers was one out of 4000 drive-ins available to visit in America. As of today, it is currently one of only 300 drive-ins left in the country. With Shankweiler’s under new management as of 2022, the drive-in theater now operates year-round. 

As autumn settles in with coloring leaves and chilly breezes, people welcome it through fall festivities- such as visiting pumpkin patches or thriller attractions. As for me, a scary movie night with a dear friend was a great way to set the tone for this fall season. That’s where Shainkweiler’s drive-in rose to the occasion and proved to be a great location for this festivity.

Shankweiler’s screens a variety of movies that are fitting to the season. This fall season the Shankweiler’s features movies such as Final Destination series and Scream. They also host events for the entire family, such as an upcoming Trunk-or-treat before a movie marathon. 

The drive-in also provides a variety of movies in terms of production. Besides typical mainstream films, they also screen indie and more “underground” films. For people who would like to explore options beyond what the regular cinemas have to offer, exploring what’s at the drive-in is definitely worth a shot.

The parking lot opens to guests an hour before the movie begins. This time allows guests to settle in a parking spot and set up their vehicle to their liking for viewing pleasure. 

Pillows and blankets are encouraged to be brought for viewers to stay comfortable and warm, especially if their viewing place is from an outside portion of the car, such as the trunk. However, the great thing about drive-in movies is that viewers can stay in the comfort of their car and watch the movie while avoiding the bother of outside elements. 

On this particular night, movie-goers and staff alike were pleasantly surprised to see the northern lights make an appearance after sunset. Shankweiler’s staff generously dimmed the outside lights for our viewing experience. For a moment, the experience brought staff and guests together to enjoy the sight together. 

The trip also turned out to be considerably more affordable than expected. With under $20, I was able to supply two people with various snacks- including a large popcorn, two soft pretzels, and two different drinks. A stark comparison to typical cinemas, such as AMC, where couples or parties of three or more can expect to pay at least $20 just for snacks. 

The airing of advertisements signaled viewers to tune in on the correct channel on the radio before the movie began. During my visit, the theater screened Abruptio, an indie puppet horror film released in 2023. Definitely one of the more bizarre movies I’ve ever watched, but it made for amusing conversation, which we could enjoy in the privacy of the car. 

All in all, my first experience of the drive-in theater was one that will influence me to go more. It gives viewers the chance to be in control of their viewing experience without inconveniencing others. Especially great for those who are sensitive to sensory overload.

While Shankweiler’s is not the only drive-in theater in the area, it is neat to know the world’s oldest drive-in is just about a half-hour drive from our university. It offers viewers the opportunity to be in charge of their viewing experience while keeping the retro era of American culture alive.