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.

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More Episodes

The Arts are Alive

Season 1 Episode 3 | 27 min

Creativity thrives in the Commonwealth—from community art projects to makerspaces, galleries and festivals, the arts play a pivotal role in bringing people together throughout our region. Watch on the PBS App »

Aired 05/19/22

 

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

 

A State of Service

Season 3 Episode 4 | 27 min

We are constantly bombarded with bad news ranging from the struggling economy to climate change, and it can be easy to feel discouraged. But where there are problems, there are almost always solutions, and Pennsylvanians across the state are finding innovative ways to address the challenges in their communities. Watch on the PBS App »

Aired 10/09/23

 

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