A primarily American institution (though it appeared in other countries such as Japan and Italy), the drive-in theater now sits on the verge of extinction. During its heyday, drive-ins could be found in communities both large and small. Some of the larger theaters held up to 3,000 cars and were often filled to capacity on weekends. The history of the drive-in from its beginnings in the 1930s through its heyday in the 1940s and 1950s to its gradual demise in modern-day America is thoroughly documented here: the patent battles, community concerns with morality (on-screen and off), technological advances (audio systems, screens, etc.), audiences, and the drive-in's place in the motion picture industry.

The Drive-In meaningfully contributes to the complex picture of outdoor cinema that has been central to American culture and to a history of US cinema based on diverse viewing experiences rather than a select number of films. Drive-in cinemas flourished in 1950s America, in some summer weeks to the extent that there were more cinemagoers outdoors than indoors. Often associated with teenagers interested in the drive-in as a 'passion pit' or a venue for exploitation films, accounts of the 1950s American drive-in tend to emphasise their popularity with families with young children, downplaying the importance of a film programme apparently limited to old, low-budget or independent films and characterising drive-in operators as industry outsiders. They retain a hold on the popular imagination. The Drive-In identifies the mix of generations in the drive-in audience as well as accounts that articulate individual experiences, from the drive-in as a dating venue to a segregated space. Through detailed analysis of the film industry trade press, local newspapers and a range of other primary sources including archival records on cinemas and cinema circuits in Arkansas, California, New York State and Texas, this book examines how drive-ins were integrated into local communities and the film industry and reveals the importance and range of drive-in programmes that were often close to that of their indoor neighbours.

Have you noticed that drive-ins are experiencing a revival lately? Several drive-ins have been renovated and reopened, new ones have been built, and some have even added screens. Drive-in culture is thriving these days. Because of their nostalgic appeal, drive-ins offer a refreshingly unique alternative to cineplexes and other forms of today's commercialized entertainment. Drive-in movies appeal to young and old alike, especially families, all looking for good value for their entertainment dollar. Drive-ins are more than just movies; they're about starry nights, cruisin' in and cookin' out. They can offer quality programming, special events, and in-car stereo sound. If you or someone you know is thinking about visiting a drive-in, or just heading out on a cross country road trip, the Pocket Drive-In Locator is just the ticket. This quick reference of over 500 operating drive-in movie theaters around the world, lets you find drive-ins by name or metropolitan area. The United States drive-in listings are even cross-referenced with a state map providing approximate locations. You can also consult special sections highlighting Route 66 drive-ins and drive-ins operating all year. The Pocket Drive-In Locator is brought to you by brother-and-sister team, Kipp Sherer and Jennifer Sherer Janisch, who have been researching drive-ins since 1995 when they decided the world needed more good drive-ins. Their website, Drive-ins.com and this pocket guide are byproducts of their drive-in research over the years combined with contributions from drive-in goers and enthusiasts around the world. Today, the duo continues to research drive-ins in preparation for an entertainment facility they will open in Las Vegas, Nevada. They also make frequent road trips and visit drive-ins across the country whenever they can, sharing their experiences via the World Wide Web at Drive-ins.com.

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Hit the open road for fun and wackiness as the Butkos visit offbeat attractions from coast to coast--dinosaur parks, miniature golf courses, populuxe motels, vintage amusement arcades, classic diners illuminated in neon, and even the world's largest ball of twine. More than fifty fellow authors and artists offer stories about their favorite attractions or recall memorable trips. Visitor information is included to help plan quick visits or an entire road trip.