4. Four Brothers Drive-In (4957 NY-22, Amenia, NY 12501)

Four Brothers Drive-in movie theater
Image courtesy Four Brothers Drive-In

Despite the vintage charm and retro aesthetic of Four Brothers Drive-In, it is one of the newest drive-in theatres in the country. The design concept for the theatre, which opened in 2014, is based on “American imagination, ingenuity, and lifestyle,” with their rocket ship logo calling back to the dreams of Americans in the 1960s. The character of the theatre is enhanced by signs, furniture, and art that are all made in America. An art-deco painting in the projection booth was the last public work created by local artist Peter Wing before his death.

Along with the carefully curated decor comes a carefully curated schedule of new releases, #ThrowbackThursday classics, and indie films presented on a 56 by 31-foot screen. Car hop service is available through the theatre’s app, by phone or at the concession shack which serves all locally sourced food and drinks. On special occasions there are pre-show activities such as face-painting, ice-cream making and pony rides before the show. Everyday there is a playground open for children, the “Lazy Lover Liz Lounge” with a fire-pit and pergola, and open space for pets to play and a giant liter box for them to do their business. Four Brothers is the first drive-in to feature EV charging stations for electric cars.