The sandy shoreline isn’t the only place with amazing views in South Carolina
. The state has three drive-in movie theaters that will leave you feeling just as awestruck as a long walk on the beach. South Carolinians know there it doesn’t get much better than enjoying a movie under the Lowcountry stars. Here’s a guide to the best drive-in movie theaters in South Carolina, put together by the car insurance
comparison and broker app Jerry
. 25 Drive-In Movie Theatre
Address: 3109 Highway 25 South, Greenwood, South Carolina 29646
Schedule: Open Friday and Saturday nights year-round—closed during inclement weather
Ticket prices: $5 for ages 3-11, $10 for ages 12 and older
Pet-friendly? Yes—they must be leashed, cleaned up after, and quiet during showtime
The 25 Drive In
opened for its first season in 1945. After a 20-year hiatus and multiple owners, Tommy and Carolyn McCutcheon bought the movie theater and began renovations in 2007. The new and improved movie theater has grown the number of screens from one to three, doubled restroom capacity, and added a concession stand patio.
Movies
The 25 Drive In plays new releases every Friday and Saturday as double features. Remember to retain your ticket and don’t leave if you want to watch the second movie—there is no re-entry and you will have to pay for readmission.
Trucks, SUVs, and other lifted vehicles are not allowed to park in the first row. Liftgates must be tied no higher than the roofline.
How to listen
Tune into the theater’s designated FM radio station. If you’re going to sit in the bed of your truck or somewhere outside of your vehicle, you can rent a radio to hear the movie better.
Snacks
If you plan to eat dinner, arrive at least an hour early to ensure you have enough time to order and get settled before showtime. Fresh, hand-pattied burgers are the menu highlight, but the concession stand also offers a variety of chicken and steak sandwiches, hot dogs, nachos, and more!
Rather than banning outside food and beverages, there is a $20 food/drink permit per vehicle to bring your own refreshments. Take into account that grilling on theater grounds is not permitted.
RECOMMENDEDNo spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
The Monetta Drive-In Theatre
Address: 5822 Columbia Highway North, Monetta, SC 29105
Schedule: Open weekends March-November, rain or shine
Ticket prices: $5 for ages 4-11, $10 for ages 12 and older, free for kids 3 and under—CASH ONLY
Pet-friendly? Yes—they must be leashed or kept in your vehicle and you must clean up after them
The Monetta Drive-In Theatre, affectionately nicknamed “The Big Mo,” premiered as a single-screen theater in 1951. Following a 35-year intermission, the theater reopened its doors in 1999. Over the next decade, it added two additional screens and in 2014—staying true to its Georgia roots—constructed a giant peach structure to house its prized digital projector
. Movies
When in season, The Big Mo
offers 3 double features every weekend with a mix of new and old releases. The ticket booth is cash only. There is no re-entry, no refunds once the show begins, and no rain-checks for bad weather. Keep your ticket stub as proof of purchase. One ticket is for one double feature on one field only. If you are caught on another field, you may get booted out or charged additional fees.
Vehicles over 6 feet tall cannot park in rows 2-4, and conversion vans and other high-clearance vans must be parked in the last two rows. The theatre supplies twine to help you tie down your hatch. Last but not least, do not sit or place anything on top of your vehicle and be sure to turn off all vehicle lights.
How to listen
Turn your dial to The Big Mo’s assigned FM radio station. You may also rent a radio for $5, plus a returnable deposit of $5 and your driver’s license.
Snacks
In addition to the traditional fare—popcorn, hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, and pizza—Big Mo’s concession stand serves up Southern classics like boiled peanuts and cinnamon-glazed pecans. In warmer weather, Sno-Kones and Dippin’ Dots join the menu.
Pro Tip If your car battery dies, head to the concession stand for help. An employee will jumpstart your car for only $1.
Highway 21 Drive-In
Address: 55 Parker Dr, Beaufort, SC 29906
Schedule: Open year-round—7 nights a week in the spring and summer, weekends only in the fall and winter
Ticket prices: $7 for adults, $3 for kids 5-12, free for kids 4 and under, $6 for seniors (60+), $6 for military with ID
Pet-friendly? Leashed pets are welcome so long as you clean up after them
In operation since 1978, Highway 21 Drive-In
exhibits 2 screens and has a 500-car capacity. Being just 1.5 miles from the Marine Corps Air Station means active and retired military members are eligible for reduced ticket prices. Movies
Two screens regularly project double features—and triple features, on occasion. They play strictly new releases, but if you’re looking for more variety, Highway 21 also streams concerts!
How to listen
Sound is broadcasted through their FM radio station. If you plan to sit outside under the stars, you may want to bring a portable radio to have the best sound set-up.
Snacks
Highway 21 has a thoughtfully curated menu. You can enjoy burgers, hotdogs, and pulled pork, along with snacks such as soft pretzels and cheese sticks. If the bugs are bugging you, they sell mosquito spray and coils. If you’re starting to doze off on a triple feature night, perk up with a cup of their coffee before your journey home.
The concession stand also has a convenient ordering system—place your order at the window and when your order is ready they will call your phone. What a treat on cold or busy nights!
RECOMMENDEDThis app is great, but the customer service is even better! Not to mention convenient! My husband and I got the lowest rate (much lower than the rates I was finding online through my own searches), quickly, and pretty much all through text message! Thank you so much for a hassle free experience👍
How to find affordable car insurance
Spoiler alert! You’re probably paying more than you need to on car insurance.
If you want cheap car insurance quotes fast, get Jerry
. A licensed broker that offers end-to-end support, the Jerry app gathers affordable quotes, helps you switch plans, and will even help you cancel your old policy. “This app is all about savings! Jerry
just saved me $193/month on my car insurance. They literally found me the cheapest policies out there and with better coverage! Seriously, just sit back and watch Jerry work its magic.” —Rachel B.
FAQs