Stewart’s Drive-In + Delsea Drive-In – Retro Food & Movies, Vineland

The drive-in theater was patented in New Jersey back in 1933. In June of that year, America’s first drive-in was opened to the public in Pennsauken Township. While that theater (the Hollingshead Drive-In) shut down after just three years, the concept caught on. Drive-in theaters opened by the thousands, all across the United States, dozens more popped up in New Jersey. Every single one eventually shut down, but the Delsea Drive-In was given new life. Built in 1949, it closed in 1987 but was reopened in 2004. Since then, it’s been a hit!

The Delsea Drive-In is the last remaining drive-in movie theater in New Jersey. Located at 2203 S Delsea Drive in Vineland, it is open Thursday-Sunday during peak season. You’ll enjoy modern movies, and every showing is a double feature (sometimes a triple feature). Tickets are just $11 for adults. All the action is projected onto the big screen, tune into the sound using your radio. Relax in your car or bring a blanket and sit outside on the grass.

If you’d like to bring your own food, you must purchase a permit. However, they do offer a full menu at the concession stand. More than just soda and popcorn, you’ll find a sizable selection of options, including gluten-free and low carb choices. Expect to find burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, spring rolls, onion rings, pizza, pretzels and plenty more. While this theater is a blast from the past, you’re now able to order and pay for your food via smartphone!

Delsea isn’t the only drive-in in town! While it may be the only theater, Vineland is also home to a drive-in restaurant. If you’d like to grab your meal before the movie, head to Stewart’s. A popular chain that dates back to 1924, this retro-chic location (opened in 1977) is overflowing with charm. You may be familiar with the root beer and, indeed, they are quite famous for their delicious root beer floats. You’ll also find the best cheese fries and mouthwatering cheesesteaks on the menu. Find Stewart’s Drive-In Restaurant at 584 S Delsea Drive, Vineland. They’re open daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and you can grab your food and go or enjoy your meal from the comfort of your car.

So, how much will this date night run you? It depends on what you eat. At the Delsea Drive-In, subs can cost a pretty penny. If you’re looking to save, a cheeseburger combo with fries and a drink is $9.45. You can also score a chicken tenders combo for $9.95 or a hot dog combo for $7.20. At Stewart’s, a cheeseburger, fries and large soda will run you $8.87. For just over $5, you can get a grilled cheese sandwich and small drink – try the black cherry n’ cream cola. Yum!

Quickie: There’s just one drive-in theater left in New Jersey and you can find it in Vineland. All shows are double features and concessions are available. If you’d like to grab a meal beforehand, do it retro style at nearby Stewart’s Drive-In. Try the cheese fries or a rootbeer float.

Images: Facebook/Delsea Drive-In & Facebook/Stewart’s Drive-In