Keystone Stories: Drive-Ins


Pennsylvania is host to America’s second drive-in theatre, Shankweiler’s Drive-in which opened in 1934. In the late 1950s, at the height of the drive-in’s popularity, Pennsylvania had more than 180 in operation. This number has dropped significantly; 85% have closed. However, today Pennsylvania has nearly 30 drive-in theaters in operation, and this is second in the nation, only behind New York. The recent need for social distancing has provided drive-ins with several new income streams, and has boosted what some feel is a dying business.

Watch on the PBS Video App »

More Episodes

Woman with long blonde hair dressed in a denim long sleeve shirt with red undershirt, standing among various antique items on shelves.

Secondhand Treasures

Season 4 Episode 4 | 27 min

Whether it’s shopping at the 100-mile yard sale in the Quehanna region or visiting Antique Capital USA in Lancaster County, thrifting, antiqueing, and yard saling have become favorite pasttimes of people who love to find a good deal. Watch on the PBS App »

Aired 10/21/24

 

beer glass being filled from tap.

Libations

Season 3 Episode 6 | 27 min

Breweries, wineries and distilleries. This region is experiencing a boom in the business of libations. But the story is much more than the creation of an alcoholic beverage. It’s about the positive effects on the community, the amazing food and the science behind the beverages. Watch on the PBS App »

Aired 10/23/23

 

It Came from Pennsylvania

Season 2 Episode 4 | 27 min

Pennsylvania and its citizens have a long history of innovation and creativity. The Slinky, Jeep, cheesesteaks, the Ferris wheel, the polio vaccine, revolving doors and movie theaters are just a few things that came from Pennsylvania. Watch on the PBS App »

Aired 01/23/23

 

More from Keystone Stories »