Date Night at the Delsea Drive In – NJ’s Last Drive in Movie Theater
With activities being limited during this time of Covid-19, it’s great when you can find ways to spend an evening that also support a local NJ business. The Delsea Drive-In Theatre, located off Delsea Dr in Vineland, is New Jersey’s last drive-in theater. This drive-in makes it easy to see new releases while keeping six feet apart.
The Delsea Drive-In was built in 1949, closed in 1987, and reopened in 2004. Located in Vineland, New Jersey, it is New Jersey’s only drive-in movie theatre. The number of drive-ins has fallen from over four thousand to less than four hundred over the past few decades, and it’s important to support this NJ institution.
Fun Fact (via their website): On June 6, 1933, the first drive-in movie theatre was opened by Richard Hollingshead Jr. in Pennsauken, New Jersey. The admission cost was 25 cents per car and 25 cents per person.
Though usually first come first serve, during this time tickets must be purchased in advance since spaces are currently limited and they are obeying the current Covid-19 laws. You can purchase tickets here.
We decided to visit the theatre on a Sunday night since dogs are currently allowed to visit on Sundays only. It’s important for us to find activities where we can bring our dogs, and during the Spring and Summer is when these events are usually more available. (Our fingers were crossed that Peppy wouldn’t cry or bark during the movie.)
Since we were heading to the theatre early, we decided to order dinner at the drive-in. They have an awesome & cheap menu with everything from popcorn, movie snacks, hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches, gluten-free items, and more. We decided to get a chicken cheesesteak and hamburger (both deluxed) which was more than enough food.
Having said that, the popcorn smelled so good that we couldn’t resist grabbing a tub. Peppy even got a few pieces as well which she was really excited about.
The double feature for the evening was “The Invisible Man” (2020) and “Bad Boys for Life”. For two movies the price was only $11! Can’t beat that.
While we waited for the movie to begin, we listened to the radio station for our movie screening which was playing 1950s and 60s music. Very nostalgic.
Despite leaving early (the first movie ended at 11pm and we’re old), we have a great time enjoying popcorn and conversation from our private vehicle. Peppy enjoyed sleeping the entire time, which was fine by me.
Here are things you need to know about the Delsea Drive-In:
– Admission is always for a double feature…sometimes a triple feature (if you can stay awake)
– There are two screens showing different movies
– Adults tickets are $11
– No alcoholic beverages allowed. No open fires/grilling.
– They show movies rain or shine
– No outside food is permitted unless you spend $20 for a permit to bring in your own food.
– You can rent chairs and radios there
– You cannot switch screens, but you can leave after the first movie if you choose
– They are open currently open Thursday through Sunday seasonally.
– Box office currently opens early at 6/6:30 pm for first come, first serve “seating”
It’s also was a fairly cheap date night which is always a good thing.
Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @DelseaDriveIn for movie schedule and fun events!
