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South Dakota Attractions

One Of The Oldest Drive-In Theaters In America Is Hiding Right Here In South Dakota

By Annie | Published August 30, 2018

Remember when you were 16 and saved all the money you made working part-time at Woolworth’s to go to the drive-in with your friends? While the days of our youth are but a distant memory, there are still some sweet reminders of it hiding out here in SoDak, including this historic drive-in theater:

Located "midway" between Miller and Lawrence is the aptly named Midway Drive-In Theater, which was just recognized by USA Today for being both the first screen to convert to digital and as the smallest drive-in in South Dakota.

Constructed in 1953, Midway has been open every summer since its inauguration, entertaining thousands of movie-goers each year!

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Through the years, many of these classic drive-ins have closed, which makes us appreciate Midway (and its impressive longevity) all the more.

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In addition to letting patrons "See the Stars from your Cars," the Midway also houses a giant concession stand chock-full of all of your movie favorites, including buttery popcorn, nachos and pizza, and even Mini-Melts ice cream.

As if all of this wasn't reason enough to visit, Midway also hosts a number of special events, ranging from classic car shows all the way to fundraisers.

Admission to the theater is FREE for those 12 and under, and costs $6 a ticket for ages 13 and up.

The Midway Drive-In Theater is located at 19808 Rainbow Ranch Pl in Miller and opens at 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the summer.

For even more historic fun, click on This Festival Is A 60 Year Old Tradition For South Dakotans And Can’t Be Missed.

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