Tips for Visiting a Drive in Theatre with Your Dog

Drive-in movies have been around since 1933 and are still providing us with entertainment today. With more people staying inside or social distancing, the opportunity to do fun activities has dwindled. And that’s exactly why you and your pooch should stop by a local drive-in the next time you can. If you’ve never been to a dog-friendly drive-in theatre, there are few things you’ll probably want to know ahead of time.

Arrive with Fido Early

Most drive-ins open at least 90 minutes before the first movie begins. So, you have plenty of time to get there early and find a good spot for both you and your pooch. Plus, if it’s a weekend, you might not get a ticket at some theaters if you don’t get there early enough.

Know What Your Dog Can Handle

Drive-ins can be a lot of fun, but they can also be a bit crazy with cars and people everywhere. Be sure your canine is alright with crowds and that they aren’t too territorial; otherwise, your pooch might be barking the whole movie. Also, if you’re going to take Fido to a drive-in movie, be sure they actually enjoy being in the car.

What You Can Expect

Most pet-friendly theaters will allow you to sit on a blanket with your pup in front of your car. And if your four-legged friend needs to relieve themself, they’ll ask that you take them away from the concession stand and any play areas. They’ll most likely have a designated corner far off to the side that you can take your pooch to. Because of this, you’ll either want to have a flashlight handy or have your phone fully charged to use as a light so you can see where you’re going.

The Typical Rules for Pets

At just about every pet-friendly drive-in, you can expect there to be rules in place that apply to your pup. Here are the most common ones to expect:

• Your dog must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet whenever they are outside your vehicle.
• Your pup must be tolerant of other people and dogs.
• Your canine can’t bark or do anything else that might disturb other viewers’ experiences.
• Your furry friend must be accompanied by an adult at all times with proper cleanup supplies on hand.
• Your dog must stay away from the concession stand and play areas.

A few theaters require your canine to stay in the car the whole time, which many pet parents dislike. So be sure to check the drive-in’s specific rules in advance.

Pet-Friendly Drive-In Theaters in Tennessee

Here are some pet-friendly drive-ins that you can go to in Tennesse.

Swingin’ Midway Drive-In
2133 State Route 30
Athens, TN 37303

They host occasional dusk to dawn shows where you can see 4 movies for one low price.

Moonlite Drive-In
931 W Main Street
Woodbury, TN 37190

StateLine Drive-In
2306 State Line Road
Elizabethton, TN 37643

Hi-Way 50 Drive-In
1584 Fayetteville Highway
Lewisburg, TN 37091

Parkway Drive-In and Café
2909 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy
Maryville, TN 37804

Sparta Drive-In
220 Roberts Matthews Highway
Sparta, TN 38583

This theater only accepts cash. Pets are not allowed in the playground area and must be walked at the back of the lot.

Stardust Drive-In
310 Purple Tiger Drive
Watertown, TN 37184