Skyline Drive-In
Catch a movie under the stars with the iconic Manhattan skyline as your backdrop at this unique Brooklyn drive-in theater.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Classic drive-in experience
Skyline Drive-In
Best Time
Classic drive-in experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Catch a movie under the stars with the iconic Manhattan skyline as your backdrop at this unique Brooklyn drive-in theater.
"One of the coolest places to watch movies in New York City!"
Bring Cash for Tickets
Ticket booth is cash-only! Hit an ATM before you go. :moneybag:
Arrive Early for Best Views
Gates open at 6:30 PM for 7 PM shows. Secure your spot! :alarm_clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manhattan Skyline Backdrop
East River
Catch current releases with the iconic Manhattan skyline as your dazzling, open-air movie screen.
Double Feature Fun
Both Screens
Enjoy two movies for the price of one! Most tickets grant access to two films shown on the same screen.
Walk, Bike, or Drive-In
Entrance
No car? No problem! This unique spot welcomes moviegoers on foot, by bike, or by car.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King at the Gate
Arrive Early for Prime Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Tickets
Ticket booth is cash-only! Hit an ATM before you go. :moneybag:
Arrive Early for Best Views
Gates open at 6:30 PM for 7 PM shows. Secure your spot! :alarm_clock:
Snack Bar Delights
Classic movie snacks available, but beware of buttery popcorn in your car! :popcorn:
FM Radio for Sound
Audio is broadcast via FM radio. Tune in with your car stereo or a portable radio. :radio:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Tickets
Ticket booth is cash-only! Hit an ATM before you go. :moneybag:
Arrive Early for Best Views
Gates open at 6:30 PM for 7 PM shows. Secure your spot! :alarm_clock:
Snack Bar Delights
Classic movie snacks available, but beware of buttery popcorn in your car! :popcorn:
FM Radio for Sound
Audio is broadcast via FM radio. Tune in with your car stereo or a portable radio. :radio:
Check Movie Schedule
See what's playing and plan your visit in advance. :movie_camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of watching movies with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop and the value of double features. The friendly staff and classic drive-in atmosphere are frequently praised. However, some reviewers note that the picture quality can be inconsistent, and the cash-only ticket policy requires advance planning.
"This was such a great experience. The gentleman on the gate was very friendly and informative.
They have a snack bar which has everything you would expect from a regular cinema. Although if you want to keep the inside of your car nice and clean avoid the butter on the popcorn!!
It poured down with rain throughout most of the film but that didn't matter. You can stay and watch 2 films but they have to be on the same screen.
The picture quality wasn't brilliant but if you've got any modern car the sound was amazing.
I cannot rate this place more highly.
July 2025 Just been back to see Fantastic Four. Again the screen is still quite dark but it really doesn't take away from the experience. The same gentleman on the gate was yet again very welcoming."
Chris McLaren
"We have been coming to this drive in for around 6 years now, that pales in comparasion to the awesome proprieter Martin who has operated this drive in since 1996 (almost 30 years). We have never had a bad time at this drive in (we dont think it is possible). The prices are excellent, the service is great, the bathrooms are clean and the people are amazing. We really hope more people are able to discover this great experience, it really is the best and only way in our opinion to see movies. Wherever you are going to or coming from you really should consider dropping into the Skyline Drive in to see a movie, it is cash only so make sure hit an ATM before arrival if you need it. It is $13 for each adult (great price) and they also have a full service snack bar with all kinds of candy, popcorn and a bunch of drinks plus more. It is open Fri-Sun Ticket office opens @ 6:30 pm and movies start @ 7 pm, we hope to see you there!"
Jessica Brown
"I took my grandchildren and we had a great time. It was special because I use to take their parents to the drive in nearly every weekend because it's cheap family entertainment. In my home town they closed the drive ins years ago and I believe there is only one left in western Washington. I got opportunity to take them for the first time. Smack bar food was fair price and good. Enjoyed watching freaky Friday and the other screen didn't bother us. Will be going again very soon"
Sandy Hooks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Skyline Drive-In is located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, right on the East River. You can drive, walk, or bike to the venue. Public transportation options include subway lines that get you close, followed by a short walk.
Yes, parking is available for cars. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot, especially for popular movie showings.
Absolutely! Skyline Drive-In welcomes walk-ins and bike-ins, making it accessible for those without a car.
Many visitors opt for public transport to the nearest subway stations and then enjoy a walk or bike ride to the drive-in. Check local transit apps for the most convenient routes.
While not explicitly stated, it's best to follow the main entrance signs and inform staff if you are arriving without a vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally around $13 per adult, offering great value for a double feature. It's always best to check their official schedule for the most current pricing.
While advance purchase might be an option for popular events, it's often possible to buy tickets at the gate. However, for sold-out shows, booking ahead is wise.
The ticket booth at Skyline Drive-In is strictly cash-only. The snack bar does accept card payments. Make sure to have cash on hand for entry.
Gates typically open at 6:30 PM for movies that start around 7:00 PM. Arriving early is recommended to get a good spot.
Yes, a single ticket usually grants you access to two movies shown on the same screen, making it a fantastic value.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
The audio is broadcast through an FM radio frequency. You can tune in using your car's stereo system or a portable radio.
Reviews on picture quality vary, with some noting it can be a bit dark, while others praise it as nice and bright. It's part of the classic drive-in charm.
Yes, clean and well-stocked restrooms are available for both men and women.
While the drive-in has a snack bar, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
Walk-in and bike-in visitors can find spots to set up chairs or blankets, often closer to the screen or in designated areas.
🍽️ 🍿 Food & Dining
The snack bar offers a variety of classic movie treats including popcorn, hot dogs, pizza, nachos, candy, and a selection of drinks.
Prices at the snack bar are generally considered fair and comparable to other cinema concessions.
Popcorn is a popular item, but some advise caution with the buttered version if you want to keep your car interior clean.
Information on alcoholic beverages is not widely available, but typically drive-ins focus on non-alcoholic options.
There's no indication of pre-ordering food. It's best to order at the snack bar when you arrive.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photos are taken during sunset or twilight, with the Manhattan skyline illuminated in the background.
Yes, the waterfront area offers great views of the city skyline, perfect for pre-movie or post-movie shots.
For low-light photography, use a tripod if possible, a wider aperture, and a higher ISO. Experiment with long exposures for city lights.
While personal photos are generally allowed, be mindful of other moviegoers and avoid using flash that could disrupt their viewing experience.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned, but always be respectful of the venue and other patrons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the snack bar has classic kid-friendly treats, consider packing some of your own snacks and drinks to save money and cater to picky eaters. The ability to walk or bike in also adds an element of fun for active families. Just be mindful of the movie's rating and ensure it's appropriate for your children's age group.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, remember that the ticket booth is cash-only, so plan your ATM stops accordingly. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can further reduce costs, though the snack bar prices are considered fair. This is a great way to enjoy entertainment without breaking the bank.
👫 Couples
Pack a cozy blanket, grab some snacks from the concession stand, and enjoy a double feature. The relaxed vibe of a drive-in is perfect for a casual and intimate evening. Consider arriving a bit earlier to enjoy the waterfront views before the movie starts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Skyline Drive-In Experience
The drive-in operates with two screens, showing current releases. The audio is broadcast via an FM radio frequency, so attendees can tune in using their car's sound system or a portable radio. While the picture quality has received mixed reviews, with some finding it a bit dark, many visitors emphasize that this is part of the nostalgic charm of a drive-in movie. The overall atmosphere is often described as fun and memorable, especially for those seeking a different kind of movie night.
Beyond the movie itself, Skyline Drive-In boasts a full-service snack bar offering classic concessions like popcorn, hot dogs, and candy. While the ticket booth is cash-only, the snack bar accepts card payments. The venue is open on weekends, with gates opening at 6:30 PM for movies starting around 7:00 PM, and often features double features, providing excellent value for money.
Navigating the Drive-In: From Arrival to Audio
Once you're settled, the audio experience is delivered through FM radio. This means you'll need to tune your car's radio to the specified frequency or bring a portable radio. This system, while traditional, ensures that everyone can hear the movie clearly, regardless of their parking position. It’s a classic drive-in feature that adds to the retro feel of the experience.
For those without cars, finding a comfortable spot to set up chairs or blankets is key. The venue is designed to accommodate these visitors, often with designated areas that still offer good views of the screen. This flexibility makes Skyline Drive-In a versatile entertainment option for groups of friends or families looking for a unique night out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit