Palm Beach County, located in the southeastern part of Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. But did you know that it also has a rich history when it comes to theatres? From traditional movie theatres to unique drive-in theatres, Palm Beach County has something for every movie lover.
The Rise of Drive-In Theatres
Drive-in theatres were first introduced in the United States in 1933 and quickly gained popularity. They offered a unique movie-watching experience where people could watch films from the comfort of their own cars. This concept became even more popular during the 1950s and 1960s when drive-in theatres became a popular destination for families and couples. However, with the rise of multiplex cinemas and home entertainment systems, drive-in theatres started to decline in popularity.Many of them were forced to shut down, and by the 1990s, there were only a handful of drive-in theatres left in the entire state of Florida.
The Last Remaining Drive-In Theatre in Palm Beach County
Despite the decline of drive-in theatres, Palm Beach County is home to one of the last remaining drive-ins in Florida – the Lake Worth Drive-In & Swap Shop. This iconic theatre has been operating since 1967 and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The Lake Worth Drive-In & Swap Shop offers a unique movie-watching experience with its large outdoor screen and FM radio sound system. Visitors can bring their own food and drinks or purchase snacks from the concession stand. The theatre also has a swap shop where visitors can browse through various items before or after the movie. One of the best things about this drive-in theatre is its affordable prices.Tickets are only $7 for adults and $2 for children, making it a budget-friendly option for families. The theatre also offers double features, so visitors can watch two movies for the price of one.
The Return of Drive-In Theatres
In recent years, drive-in theatres have been making a comeback, and Palm Beach County is no exception. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, drive-in theatres have become a popular alternative to traditional movie theatres. They offer a safe and socially distanced way to enjoy movies with friends and family. In addition to the Lake Worth Drive-In & Swap Shop, there are also pop-up drive-in events happening throughout Palm Beach County.These events are organized by local businesses and organizations and offer a variety of movie genres for all ages.
Traditional Movie Theatres in Palm Beach County
Aside from drive-in theatres, Palm Beach County also has a variety of traditional movie theatres. One of the most popular is the iPic Theaters at Mizner Park in Boca Raton. This luxury theatre offers a premium movie-watching experience with its plush reclining seats, gourmet food options, and full bar service. Another popular option is the Cinemark Palace 20 and XD in Boca Raton. This theatre has 20 screens, including an XD screen with enhanced sound and picture quality.It also offers special events such as classic movie screenings and live broadcasts of opera performances. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, there is the Regal Royal Palm Beach & RPX. This theatre offers discounted tickets on certain days of the week and has a rewards program for frequent moviegoers.