Spoiler alert: These are the Top 5 drive-in theaters in Washington State, but they’re also the Middle 5 and Bottom 5; the Best 5 and the Worst 5…because they’re the only 5! Yes, the entire state only has 5 drive-in movie theaters, but the great news is that they’re ALL fantastic. And no matter where you hail from—or which area you’re driving through on a road trip—chances are you’ll be pretty close to at least one of these dog-friendly Washington drive-in theaters!
1. Rodeo Drive-In
If you’re looking for a little slice of Washington history, the Rodeo is just what the vet ordered. Built in 1949, it’s one of the first drive-in theaters, and remains the largest operating drive-in north of California to this day. The season runs March through September with a capacity of 1,000 cars. Three screens regularly rotate 4-6 films, which you can check online. Puppers are more than welcome, but must be leashed when outside of your car. And don’t furget to pick up any messes! Tell doggo to bring his own snacks—the snack bar is just for humans.
2. Auto-Vue Drive-In Theater
The only drive-in theater in the northeastern part of the state, Auto-Vue is a quaint little one-screen theater in Colville that has been showing movies since 1953. They have great double feature deals, and Sundays are Car Load Nights; pack that car up with as many people (and dergs) as you can for $15! Please keep pets leashed, and stock up on goodies at the concession stand—no outside food is allowed.
3. Blue Fox Drive In
If you grew up in the greater Seattle area, you undoubtedly have memories at the Blue Fox. It’s one of the closest Washington drive-in theaters to the city (90 minutes including a ferry ride), but it’s an absolute ~experience~. You’re not just getting a beautiful venue or catching a flick, there’s also an onsite arcade, go-karts, and the option to sleep over after! That’s right, patrons of The Blue Fox can make a night of it by pitching a tent and sleeping under the stars after a double feature! No outside food allowed, but don’t worry—there are plenty of snacks at the concession stand and arcade. You know the drill: dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after.
4. Wheel-In Motor Movie
Opened in 1953, the Wheel-In (like many of its sister theaters) has that old-school, nostalgic feel that we love. Drive up, turn your radio to their specific channel, and get that audio powered right in your car. And don’t expect just the usual chips and soda at their snack bar; Wheel-In staff make fresh-to-order meals like pizza, burgers, nachos, and more. No outdoor food or alcohol is allowed, and tickets must be purchased in advance—no walk-ins please! That means you, Fido.
5. Skyline Drive-In Theater
A Shelton staple since 1964, humans and floofs alike are bound to have a good time at the Skyline Drive-In Theater. Gates open Friday through Sundays at 7 p.m. sharp, and movies start at dusk. Turn that radio to 89.1FM (if you don’t have a radio, you can rent one from the snack bar). Patrons can sit in their cars, or if you want to bring chairs and sit right in front of your car (ideal for nice weather), that’s fine too! Keep those dogs on leashes, and please wear a mask when you’re outside the vehicle.
Have you been to any of these Washington drive-in theaters? Which is your favorite? Bark at us in the comments and tag us at #SidewalkDog in all your movie night pics.
Featured photo: Kasey McCoy
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