Health & Fitness
A Bit of Americana, at the Drive-in Theater!
Do you long for the good ol' days? Come and take a walk down memory lane with a double feature at a drive in movie!
Last year I discovered a drive in theater, not too far from Fredericksburg. It had a double feature, and I decided to take my son to see a piece of my childhood. This was an amazing place. People sitting around in lawn chairs, friendly puppies on leashes, music in the air, kids throwing footballs and Frizbees in front of the screen, waiting for the movie to start, and everything else I remember.
The parking lot has each name cleverly named (see the photos), and is neat and clean. They have special spots for larger vehicles so they don't get in the way of the smaller ones, and everyone has a good view of the screen. When you enter they give you a bag for trash to help keep it clean, and a friendly employee waiting to help you find the right parking area.
The snack bar has a wonderful variety of hot dogs, burgers, corn dogs, cotton candy, drinks, chicken nuggets, soft pretzels, tater tots, candy, and more. And nothing over $3.75. Which means, my so and I can get a large drink, large popcorn, and a soft pretzel for around $10. The bathrooms, around the side of the building, are spotless. They even have a switch to notify an attendant if they do need attention. In front of the snack bar is a playground with slides, teeter-totters, swings, monkey bars, and other fun things to keep the kids entertained.
The movies are preceded with classic cartoons from my childhood, including the "Let's go to the movies, enjoy the snack bar" ones I remember fondly. They also have classic movie trailers, chosen to go with the movie you are about to see. Last week my son and I saw Man of Steel and The Great Gatsby, and they played the original trailer for both of the older versions of the movies. On other trips I have seen Jaws, Bond, Star Wars and many other favorites.
The owner, John, obviously loves what he does. He is friendly and helpful, just as all the employees have been each of my visits. He even drives Bumblebee, the Autobot Transformer. He has had special weekends with retro movies, and anniversary celebrations for the theater, which included a dunk tank, bouncy house, and prizes for the kids.
This wonderful place is a slice of Americana. It brought back memories of a simpler time that I loved visiting once more. I really recommend you give it a shot. It is a bit of a drive, but well worth it!
http://www.goochlanddriveintheater.com
