Located halfway between Kent and Ravenna (hence its name), the Midway Twin Drive-In Theater is one of the oldest drive-ins in the Buckeye State. It opened in 1955 (that means it’s been in operation for 70-plus years) and was one of the last remaining drive-in movie theaters with an old-fashioned Vogel screen tower until a winter storm destroyed it in 2000. An old-fashioned screen took its place, but the theater still offers a unique perk that makes it one of the best retro places in Ohio: It boasts twin screens, so you can choose from two different films every warm summer night.
Why Midway Twin Drive-In Has Been An Ohio Favorite Since 1955
Drive-in movie theaters were at their peak before my time, but my parents always talk about their Friday night drive-in dates in the small town where they met. I long to turn back time and experience the simplicity of life during that era… but maybe that isn’t such a far-fetched idea, after all. Drive-in movie theaters may not be quite as popular as they once were, but they certainly aren’t obsolete, and the Midway Twin Drive-In is proof that this once-cherished tradition isn’t dead yet.
Stop by on a summer evening, and you’ll immediately understand why going to a drive-in has been a favorite tradition of Ohioans for generations. The theatre has certainly evolved over the years, but it hasn’t lost any of its magic. As you settle into the movie with the stars overhead, you’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back in time to a simpler era. Lastly, folks appreciate that the prices here are refreshingly affordable compared to other movie experiences.
What To Know Before Visiting Midway Twin Drive-In
From action to animation to horror, all genres are celebrated at the Midway Twin Drive-In. Showings are typically Thursday through Monday and include both first-run movies and retro classics. Admission is per vehicle. Gates open about an hour before the first screening begins, so you’ll have plenty of time to settle in and get cozy. Whether you set up lawn chairs or lay out blankets and pillows in the back of your car, I think we can all agree that the best part of a drive-in is not having to sit in cramped theater seats.
Stay for just one movie or keep the fun going with a double feature. Both screens show back-to-back films each night, so you can enjoy over four hours of cinematic bliss. Midway also has live bands on Fridays and Saturdays before the first movie starts. The theater operates from April until late October, concluding the season with a mix of scary movies (both kid-friendly and otherwise) and a Trunk-or-Treat event. The theater uses FM radio to broadcast sound for the films. If your vehicle doesn’t have it, you can bring a portable or rent one from the concession stand.
The Concession Stand Is Part of the Experience
Have you ever visited the Midway Twin Drive-In? What other retro places in Ohio instantly take you back to the good old days? One of our favorite nostalgic activities is taking an old-fashioned trolley tour of downtown Kent. The tour is free and shows you the best of the small college town, making it the perfect addition to your trip to the drive-in. Looking for more vintage fun? Check out this retro motel in Columbus, Ohio…