Airport Drive-In
1881 Catasauqua Road,
Allentown,
PA
18109
1881 Catasauqua Road,
Allentown,
PA
18109
1 person
favorited this theater
The Airport Drive-In, on Airport Road (Route 987) in Allentown about a mile north of Union Boulevard and just south of the U.S. 22 Thruway, was opened on August 13, 1949 with Ray Milland in “California”. At that time it was in an undeveloped area. It was about a half-mile from the ABE Airport, from which it drew it’s name. It was the first drive-in theater in Allentown, the Boulevard Drive-In opening also in 1949 on Union Boulevard.
The Airport Drive-In was first operated by Max Korr and Rappaport with a 650-car capacity. It showed primarily second-run films at reduced rates. Had a full concession stand and children’s play area. During its lifetime, the drive-in suffered from noise from airplanes either taking off or landing which was a distraction to the moviegoers. By 1955 it was operated by Fabian Theaters and had an increased capacity for 800-cars.
The Airport Drive-In was closed at the end of the 1960 season, however it sat unused for several years before the screen, concession stand and other parts of the theatre were torn down about 1963/1964. The drive-in today is totally obliterated by new development.
Contributed by
Sarah Boucher
Want to be emailed when a new comment is posted about this theater?
Just login to your account and subscribe to this theater.
Recent comments (view all 2 comments)
A 1955 aerial photo showed a drive-in just southeast of the intersection of US 22 and Highway 987. It was still intact in 1962 but razed by 1972.
Although part of the viewing field is now covered by the expanded highway intersection, a small cluster of motels and restaurants occupies another part. A decent address is 1881 Catasauqua Rd, Allentown, PA 18109.
The actual opening date is August 13, 1949 with Ray Milland in “California” with no extra short subjects.