Many people love to sit around and talk about the good old days and how wonderful it would be to be able to relive those experiences. It turns out that you can go back in time in some ways, especially around Cincinnati, and one way to do it is to visit a nostalgic drive-in movie theatre. One of the closest to the Queen City is not too far and has been around since 1948. Holiday Auto Theatre is a Cincinnati drive-in theatre that takes you back to those good old days and is a night of fun for the entire family.

The Holiday Auto Theatre in Hamilton dates back to 1948 and continues to delight movie-goers today. It's open seasonally, spring through fall, and is one of the only drive-in movie theatres left in our region.
Facebook/Holiday Auto Theatre
Many have fond memories of meeting up with friends at the drive-in, and you can still do so at this 70-year-old destination. It's not far from Cincinnati, and since you get to watch two movies, the experience is worth the drive.
Facebook/Holiday Auto Theatre
The entrance to the drive-in is original to the theatre and welcomes you in a nostalgic fashion. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online for a specific date, or at the gate if the movies are not yet sold out.
Google/Nick Corder
Despite its age, Holiday Auto Theatre shows current blockbusters, and always two, back to back. The movies begin at 8:15 p.m., and you can check out what's playing on the theatre's website, linked below.
Facebook/Holiday Auto Theatre
All of the technology, including the massive screen, is state-of-the-art. You get the best of both worlds with this night out — a retro experience but with modern movies and technology.
Google/Josh Reed
Spots at the drive-in are first come, first served, so plan on arriving early. Two cars are expected to fit between the two designated poles, and then you can decide whether to watch from your car or from chairs and blankets in front of your vehicle.
Facebook/Holiday Auto Theatre
Make sure to hit up the snack bar during your visit, as they offer all of the classic movie-watching favorites. You can bring your own snacks with you, but you'll need to purchase a $5 food permit to do so. More information on this and other guidelines is available at the Holiday Auto Theatre website.
Google/Josh Reed
Holiday Auto Theatre is an iconic destination near Cincinnati that welcomes guests to go back to a simpler time. Grab your family and friends and make plans to visit this retro drive-in for some quality fun this season.
Facebook/Holiday Auto Theatre

Holiday Auto Theatre is open for the season and ready for you to visit for a fun-filled, nostalgic experience at this retro drive-in near Cincinnati. Have you been to the drive-in recently? Is the Holiday your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Holiday Auto Theatre is located at 1816 Old Oxford Rd., Hamilton, OH, 45013. For more information and to purchase tickets ahead of time, visit the official Holiday Auto Theatre website and follow along on Facebook.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

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Nostalgic Theatre Near Cincinnati

Sarah M. | April 03, 2023

What are some other nostalgic places near Cincinnati?

Looking for a delightful trip back in time? There are all sorts of nostalgic and retro places in and around Cincinnati sure to scratch that itch:

  • The Esquire Theatre. In Clifton, The Esquire is a delightfully old-fashioned theatre that's known for its retro vibes and art-house flicks. It's also a place that regularly shows old-school movies, and folks love coming to the Esquire around Halloween to catch the "Rocky Horror Picture Show" on the big screen!
  • Coney Island. There's nothing as delightful as a day spent at this classic amusement park near Cincinnati. While the rides have been dramatically pared down over the years, Sunlite Pool remains as popular as ever and a favorite spot to beat the heat come summer in Cincinnati!
  • Kings Island. If you're looking for a comprehensive collection of classic coasters and new thrills, Kings Island is *the* place to go in Cincinnati! From The Beast to The Racer, you're in for a day of old-fashioned fun at this classic theme park in Ohio.
  • Old Milford. There are lots of charming downtowns in Greater Cincinnati that seem to be frozen in time, but none are quite as delightful as Milford. With an array of locally owned shops, galleries, and restaurants, you can easily spend a day discovering all sorts of great spots in this charming downtown district!

 

Is Holiday Auto Theatre the only drive in movie theatre in Cincinnati?

While there are certainly far fewer drive in theatres in Cincinnati than there used to be, our city loves the nostalgic and has kept a few of these old-fashioned places going strong! In addition to Holiday Auto Theatre, Starlite Drive-In Theatre is another fan favorite in the area. Along St. Rt. 125, Starlite Drive-In is another family favorite drive-in theater in Amelia. Then there's the Elm Road Drive-In Theatre up in Warren; this 1950s venue offers double features on three screens plus concession-stand basics!

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Featured Addresses
Holiday Auto Theatre, 1816 Old Oxford Rd, Hamilton, OH 45013, USA