West Virginia Drive-Ins: Nostalgic Theaters & Restaurants

What better way to enjoy a summer night with family and friends than devouring a delicious drive-in meal or watching the newest movie underneath the stars? With only a few remaining drive-ins in the country, West Virginia is the perfect place to experience a nostalgic, night-on-the-town feel. So bring some blankets and spare change and head to Almost Heaven to bring back these simple yet sweet summer adventures.

Pipestem Drive-In Theatre

Cars haven’t stopped rolling into the Pipestem Drive-In Theatre since the first movie was shown in 1972. Five acres of rolling mountains provide the perfect backdrop to the movie on the screen. Buttery popcorn, soft pretzels, hot dogs and nachos are among the concession favorites. Set up your lawn chairs or relax on the bed of your truck. Movies are shown from May through October and make an ideal outing for couples, families and even pets – as long as they are on a leash.

Lynn’s Drive-In Restaurant

The only drive-in left in Mercer County, Lynn’s Drive-In Restaurant keeps the customers coming back for the nostalgic taste of cheeseburgers, chilly dogs, fries, milkshakes and more! First opened in 1950, cars can still pull right in and enjoy the convenience of car-side service or order at the window and enjoy a treat outside under a brightly colored umbrella. This town staple also receives a lot of love from machine riders cruising through town for a break from traversing the Hatfield-McCoy Trails.

Sunset Drive-In Theater

Sunset Drive-In Theater is West Virginia’s oldest drive-in and has been operating since 1947. This gem is best known for its homemade concession foods, which feature hoagies, pizza and pepperoni rolls, along with the classic movie theater staples. Films are shown on weekends, April through September, on property that accommodates up to 400 cars.

Shaffer’s Drive-In

Shaffer’s Drive-In is a well-known hotdog and hamburger joint located in Milton. One of the stops on the Huntington Area Hot Dog Trail, this spot is a must-add to your plans this summer. Cool down with a refreshing slushee or one-of-a-kind flavored milkshake. Stop by on the right weekend and catch a line of vintage cars participating in one of the cruise-ins.

Warner’s Drive-In

Warner’s Drive-In is a non-profit outdoor movie theater located in Franklin, WV and one of only two non-profit drive-ins in the entire country. This spot continues to add new and unique snacks to the menu by featuring baked goods and an abundance of other treats, all of which are local-made. A community gathering spot, this theater can comfortably fit up to 250 cars.

Pinnacle Drive Inn

Find Pinnacle Drive Inn nestled in the small town of Pineville. Here you can indulge in all the drive-in favorites including subs, salads and burgers along with an array of deep-fried appetizers. The friendly service found here has created loyal customers since the first hot dog was served in 1968. Besides the famous hot dogs, the “sandwich specialties” continue to be a big hit.

Learn about more stellar drive-ins as well as the multitude of other activities to do in Almost Heaven this summer with the help of our new West Virginia Vacation Guide!

This post was last updated on January 18, 2024