Whether you’re a movie buff playing it safe due to COVID, or you just want to experience the fun of an old-timey drive-in movie theater, catch a film at the Coyote Drive-In on Panther Island, just 2 miles from Olympus 7th Street Station.
The Drive-In Experience
Going to a drive-in for the first time is an experience in and of itself. Prior to the movie, a steady parade of cars are guided to their assigned locations in front of a large, outdoor screen. You listen to the movie via your car radio on a specified frequency, so it’s not exactly the high-tech audio experience you’ll get in a modern, indoor cinema – but, like we said, retro. You stay seated in your car or can sit in the bed of your truck or back of your SUV and watch the movie from there.
The audience usually arrives anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes prior to the movie’s start time, as parking spots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. There’s something of a low-key tailgate vibe as people relax, enjoy concessions, and hang out in their cars before showtime.
The Logistics
Located at 224 NE Fourth Street, Fort Worth’s Coyote Drive-In has four screens and shows both new releases and classic films. Screenings start around dusk, which is currently between 8:10 and 8:35 PM, but check the online ticketing for updated screening times and to see what’s playing. Gates open at 6:30 PM each night and the earlier you arrive, the better shot you have at nabbing a rock-star parking spot. Purchasing your tickets online in advance is recommended and ticket prices are $8 for adults aged 12 and up, and $5 for kids aged five to 11, with a $1 service fee per ticket for online purchases. Kids under four are free.
But Wait, There’s More
Concessions are available with a menu that includes a variety of classic movie fare, from burgers, hot dogs, and pizza to popcorn, sodas, and boxed candy. You can walk up to the concession stand, or download and use their app to order online for delivery directly to your car (for an additional fee). No outside food or beverages are allowed and you should check with the venue before you arrive to verify current health and safety requirements.
For more fun things to see and do around Fort Worth, Texas, check out our other blog posts.