Photo Credit: Benjamin Wick
There is something gratifying about watching a movie outdoors with a large group of strangers. It is a best of both worlds: nature and film. Another big bonus: no overcrowded multiplexes with too-cold air conditioning and someone kicking your seat. Pick a flick and head to one of these open-air venues.
The Keno Drive-In in Pleasant Prairie sadly just closed its doors to an anticipated Walmart, but there is one old-fashioned drive-in still standing: The little town of Jefferson boasts Wisconsin’s first digital cinema drive-in. The Hi-Way 18 Outdoor Theatre hosts double features beginning at dusk from April through September. They have a generous snack bar if you choose to use, and bring along a Frisbee or football to toss around until the sun goes down. One note: They do prohibit carry-ins, unless you have a dietary restriction. If so, you need to contact them ahead of time. Visit highway18.com for details.
Point Fish Fry & a Flick is always a festive option located at the Discovery World lakefront. More geared toward adults, it often features comedy classics that mature movie audiences will appreciate, such as Caddyshack and The Big Lebowski, or the thought-provokingly trippy Dark Side of Oz. You can enjoy delish and frosty Point beer with your show, as well as a nice fish fry courtesy of Bartolotta. Because the comfy wood amphitheater-style seats fill up quickly, fold-up camp chairs or a good-sized blanket are advised. Movies begin at sunset, typically between 8 and 9 p.m. The season usually begins in July, so check in at pointfishfryandaflick.com for a later update. Movies are free!
For something with a true neighborhood film fest feel, check out Paul’s Alley Cinema. Catering to the classic film buff, Paul’s sets up shop in Walker’s Point at 170 S. Second St. Paul Dorobialski projects his movies onto a good old projector screen and provides chairs for you to chill in. Best of all, no cover charge! Visit Facebook for the lineup.
Wanna bike? This is a fine choice for those sans motorized vehicle. Pedal over to Milwaukee Bike-In Movie Series right across from Trocadero. Sip a glass of vino or two on the second-floor lounge before staking out your territory for the show. These summertime movie nights are presented under the Holton Street Viaduct (south end). One has to love a cinematic freebie and here is yet another to enjoy. In a March post on their Facebook page, they were already jonesing for a return when the weather gets warm. They are also taking screening suggestions and requests. Find them on Facebook.
