5 Best Drive-in Theatres Ottawa (A Local’s Guide)

Are you looking for the best drive-in theatres in Ottawa? I’ve got you covered.

As a local, I have discovered the best Drive-in Theaters in Ottawa as well as the best drive-in theatres near Ottawa.

Drive-in theatres have been bringing joy to many Ottawa citizens since 1948 when theatres such as the Britania Drive-In opened. 

Today, many drive-ins have closed, but the remaining theaters are still fan favorites. I spent most of my childhood going to one in Muskoka and now I get to go to ones in Ottawa that bring back all the nostalgia.

On a night when you want to feel as though you have stepped back in time or you can’t be bothered getting out of your pajamas, a trip to drive-in movie theaters is the way to go.

So, without further ado, let’s find out where the best drive-in movie theatres are in and near Ottawa.

1. The Drive-in Experience Ottawa

The Drive-in Experience Ottawa is the only place to play outdoor movies in Ottawa.

It has two locations: RCGT Park parking lot at 300 Coventry Road (East location) and RBC Festival Field at Wesley Clover Park (West location).

Concessions are currently closed, but you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. 

Sitting in chairs outside of your vehicle is permitted as long as you remain in your parking spot.

Both locations show one movie per night, with up to 5 movies each week.

The Drive-in Experience Ottawa is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night.

In case of bad weather, the movie will still be played.

Drive-in Theatres near Ottawa

The drive-in in Ottawa doesn’t suit you? No worries! There are four other drive-in theatres located within two hours of Ottawa.

2. Cine-Parc Saint Eustache

The first drive-in near Ottawa is Saint Eustache. Located 2 hours from Ottawa, it is one of the biggest and most modern outdoor cinemas in Canada. 

There are 5 screens with a double program. At the end of the first movie, you can switch screens for the second movie.

Movies begin at sunset, so movie times vary depending on the sunset. Be sure to check the precise time when booking your ticket.

There are also arcade games for you to enjoy throughout the evening.

The theatre may be closed in cases of heavy rain before the movie. If rain begins after the movie starts, the film will not be interrupted.

3. Mustang PEC Drive-In Theatre

Located in the heart of Prince Edward County, the Mustang PEC Drive-in Theatre is a 2-hour drive from Ottawa.

There are two screens that run a double feature from Wednesday until Sunday.

Movies begin when it is dark, and the time will differ depending on the month. During August, movies begin around 8:45 pm – 9:00 pm, with gates opening an hour before the movie begins.

If you have a well-behaved dog, they are allowed to join you as long as they remain on a leash.

You can purchase your tickets online or take your chances when you arrive at the theatre.

Parking spots are based on a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure you arrive early for good parking.

4. Port Elmsley Drive-In Theatre

Port Elmsley Drive-In theatre is located an hour away from Ottawa, halfway between Perth & Smiths Falls, Ontario.

Your admission allows you to remain at the theatre for all the movies shown throughout the night.

You will find a snack bar at the theatre that serves regular movie snacks such as ice cream, popcorn, and beverages. The snack bar also serves the famous poutine.

Cars must park in the spaces with yellow poles, and SUVs, RVs, and campers must look for the white poles.

Each car spot fits TWO vehicles, do not park in the middle of the space.

The movies will never be canceled (except for exceptional circumstances), so there is no need to be worried about the weather.

Your dogs are welcome if they remain on a leash and you clean up after them.

5. Skylight Drive-in Theatre

The Skylight Drive-in Theater is located in Pembroke and shows at least two movies per night.

All movies begin at dusk, so the times will alter depending on the month. Make sure to arrive early (around an hour early is best). All parking spaces have enough room for one car.

The last three rows are reserved for SUVs and vehicles that will obstruct the view of the screen. Parking spaces near the snack bar are limited.

If you cannot turn off the daytime lights on your car, you should bring a blanket or cardboard to cover your lights.

The movies will run regardless of the weather. No refunds will be given under any circumstances. In the event of a power outage, passes will be provided for another evening.

Things to know before going to a drive-in theater in Ottawa

Here are some tips to make sure you have the best drive-in experience:

• Book ahead of time: At the cinemas that allow you to purchase tickets online, it is highly recommended. Some cinemas release tickets at the beginning of the season, and others release them at the beginning of the week.
  
• Check concessions: Before going to the theatre, check if the concessions are available and if you’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks.
  
• Alcohol: Alcohol (and drugs) are not allowed at the drive-in theatre. Police are known to stop by and have stops set up around the drive-in.
  
• Arrive early: To get the best parking space make sure you arrive early. The gates usually open an hour before sunset. Some of the theaters only sell tickets at the gate and have a limited number available.
  
• Be comfortable: You have the comfort of your own car, so be as comfortable as you can. Wear something comfortable and bring blankets and pillows for when the temperature drops and when the sun goes down.
  
• Parking: Follow all directions from the staff as to where to park. Some drive-in theatres have rules as to where you can park and how many cars are allowed in each parking space.
  
• Trucks: Trucks are encouraged to park at the back of the parking lot.  If your tailgate can be raised, make sure it does not obstruct anyone’s view and that it can be tied down.
  
• Portable radio and spare batteries: It is always a good idea to bring a portable radio to prevent your card battery from going flat and to reduce the fumes from having your car running. If using a portable radio, don’t forget to bring spare batteries. Portable radios are also great if you are sitting outside your car.
  
• Bug spray/mosquito coils: Don’t let the bugs ruin your evening. Spray yourself and your vehicle with bug spray and bring mosquito coils to sit outside your car.
  
• Avoid fog: To avoid your windows fogging up, clean your windows before the movie and use an anti-fog spray to wipe down your windows. If it is warm enough, you should have your window slightly ajar to reduce the amount of fogging.
  
• Bring your own chair: If you would like to sit outside of your car, make sure to bring your own chair. In most cases, you will be required to sit within your own parking lot.
  
• Screen tents: In general, you are not allowed to bring a screen tent. All cinemas state their rules around screen tents on their website. Some cinemas will allow screen tents during the week when it is less busy, but you must park towards the back of the parking lot.
  
• Payment method: Check the theatre’s website for the payment methods accepted at the snack bar and for onsite tickets. You don’t want to be deprived of snacks if they only accept cash and you are not prepared.

FAQs About Drive-In Theatres Ottawa

Final Thoughts: Drive-in theatres ottawa

Since 1946, drive-in theatres have been a tradition for many friends and families. 

Despite the decline in drive-in theaters throughout the years, there are still five outdoor cinemas in and around Ottawa.

Drive-in Theatres are the most popular Ottawa movie theatres and are an excellent activity for a warm summer evening.

So, grab a blanket and your favorite people, and head to the drive-in. Get comfortable with some delicious snacks, relax, and enjoy a movie (or two!)

For the cinemas outside of Ottawa, consider turning your trip into a weekend away, as there are plenty of things to see along the way.

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