When’s the last time you saw a drive-in movie? If you’ve been meaning to get nostalgic and see a movie from the comfort and freedom of your car, it’s time to take advantage of this dwindling pastime while the theaters are still around. Check out these drive-in theaters in the Rochester area. Whether you want to make it a weekend trip or head home after the movie, this is your chance to relive your past or get acquainted with something your parents loved. Bring some lawn furniture if you want to enjoy an open-air experience.
Elko Drive-In Theater
The closest drive-in theater from Rochester is the Elko Drive-In Theater in Elko New Market, about 70 miles away. Because it’s also the home of the Elko Speedway, you could go see a race and then enjoy a current popular movie. The movie starts about 20 minutes after the last race. In addition to a well-stocked concession stand, the theater provides barbecue grills. The speedway and theater are at 26350 France Ave.
Vali-Hi Drive-In
Also nearby is the Vali-Hi Drive-In in Lake Elmo, around 85 miles from Rochester. You get three movies for the same price. Come early so you can play some video games in the arcade, where you can also capture some memories with the vintage photo booth. Children will enjoy a fun ride on the Mini-Harley. Grab hot dogs, snacks, and a drink for the flick. Vali-Hi is at 11260 Hudson Blvd.
Starlite Drive-In Theater
The Starlite Drive-In Theater just outside of Litchfield is just over 150 miles from Rochester. The Starlite, which opened in 1955, offers two screens and sometimes offers double features. It has a snack bar and a playground area. The theater is located at 28264 Minnesota Highway 22.
Long Prairie Drive-In Theater
The Long Prairie Drive-In Theater is the farthest away on this list at about 210 miles, but the advantage is that you can spend the night. RV and tent sites are reasonably priced and must be reserved ahead of time. Sites don’t have electric hookups, but generators are allowed outside of movie times. You can use the outlet outside the concessions building to blow up air mattresses.
The theater, which is at 24257 Riverside Drive in Long Prairie, plays back-to-back movies and sells a wide variety of food, snacks, and beverages.
Stardust Drive-In
Cross the border into Wisconsin for the Stardust Drive-In in Chetek, which is about a 130-mile drive. This is the place to be if you want a concession stand that offers just about everything. With corn dogs, burgers, cotton candy, funnel cakes, pickles on a stick, and much more, it’s like going to a movie at a county fair. Kids can also ride the Cirus Train for just a quarter per rider. You’ll find the Stardust at 995 22nd St.
Drive-in movie theaters are no longer common, but if you’re willing to drive for an hour or two, you can find several a reasonable distance from Rochester. Minnesota has six drive-ins, and you can find more in Wisconsin and Iowa. If seeing a movie on an outdoor screen appeals to you, try out these options and expand beyond to enjoy the experience at different locations. We’re sure you’ll have a great time.
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