Drive-in movie Soldier Field Chicago
Photo by Henrique Kerch

The nostalgia of drive-in theaters is making a comeback with movie theaters closed around the nation due to coronavirus. The favorite ’50s pastime can be recreated at one of these Chicago-area drive-in movie theaters. So grab the kids―clad in their pj’s―for a night of cinema magic under the stars.

CHI-Together Drive-In at Soldier Field

Soldier Field is home to the latest drive-in pop up in Chicago thanks to events company Fueled Events. Some 375 cars can be accommodated in the parking lot at Soldier Field and movies will showcase Wednesday through Sunday. Not driving? Groups of up to six pedestrians can also enjoy screenings. While the $55 price tag may seem steep, it also includes a bucket of popcorn, pre-show DJ sets, live music and special contests. Plus, the Greater Chicago Food Depository will receive $1 from each ticket sold.
Address: 1410 S. Museum Campus Drive, Chicago
Website: chi-together.com

Drive-in at Lincoln Yards

On June 25th, a new pop-up drive-in is making its way to Lincoln Yards. Developer Sterling Bay is partnering up with Lincoln Square’s Davis Theater and nonprofit Facets. Movies will screen at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The 55-acre property is the future Lincoln Yards Development–which will connect Bucktown and Lincoln Park with bustling community spaces such as parks and plenty of recreational areas for Chicagoans to come together.
Address: In the heart of Lincoln Yards at 1397 W. Wabansia Avenue, Chicago
Website: davistheater.com/drivein

Chi-Town Movies

ChiTown Futbol in Pilson has now opened ChiTown Movies. The drive-in theater will screen two movies a night and you can order concessions that are delivered to your car from ChiTown Grille.  
Address: 2343 S. Throop Street, Chicago
Website: chitownfutbol.com/chitown-movies

McHenry Outdoor Theater – Golden Age Cinemas

The McHenry Outdoor Theater is around an hour northwest of Chicago and is a great place to catch a double feature. Some upcoming cult favorites include The Burbs, The Big Lebowski, The Wizard of Oz and Willy Wonka.
Insider Tip: We suggest getting there early because tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Address: 1510 Chapel Hill Road, McHenry
Website: goldenagecinemas.com

Chicago Drive-In Theater

Chicago families have a brand new pop-up drive-in theater just outside of SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview. Moviegoers can take in classics this summer including Moana and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids on their 70-foot screen.
Address: 7000 S. Harlem Avenue, Bridgeview
Website: chicagodrivein.com