Closed for Season Seasonal

M.E.L.S Back to the 50's Drive-in

Thorntown, IN

Opens: Spring

Last updated: Jan 22, 2026 • Some details may not be current. Please verify with theater.

What Visitors Say

MELS at the Starlite Drive-In Theatre offers a nostalgic and budget-friendly movie experience in rural Indiana. Despite some aging infrastructure, it provides a welcoming family environment with ample space for kids to play and affordable entertainment. The drive-in maintains the classic outdoor cinema experience while offering modern conveniences like double features and flexible food policies.

Based on 55 reviews

What People Love

Family-Friendly Environment

• Plenty of space for kids to play
• Welcoming atmosphere
• Safe outdoor movie experience

Affordable Entertainment

• Reasonable car load pricing
• Good concession prices
• Budget-friendly family night out

Things to Know

Facility Maintenance

• Aging restroom facilities
• Some overgrown areas
• Occasional infrastructure issues

💡 Insider Tips

Bring an FM radio for audio
Arrive early to secure best parking spot
Bring bug spray
Pack chairs or blankets for comfort
Bring a portable speaker to save car battery

The Experience

🍿 Concessions

Decent prices and good selection of food. Offers variety for movie-goers with reasonable menu options.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly

Very family-friendly with ample space for kids to play before movies, including areas for games like soccer and frisbee.

💵 Value

Affordable pricing at $25 per car load, making it an economical entertainment option for families and groups.

🎬 Picture & Sound

Audio requires FM radio, with occasional reports of signal challenges. Picture quality generally described as good.

🏢 Facilities

Clean grounds with some aging infrastructure, including older restrooms that occasionally need maintenance.

👥 Service

Staff generally described as friendly and helpful, with occasional inconsistent customer service experiences.

🚗 Parking

Plenty of parking space with good viewing opportunities for most vehicles.

About This Drive-In

M.E.L.S. at the Starlite Drive-In Theatre is located at 8721 N State Road 39, Thorntown, IN 46071. The drive-in is currently closed for the season and looks forward to serving guests again in Spring 2026. The box office opens at unspecified times, and the first feature begins at dark. The theater accepts cash, credit/debit cards, and tap to pay for ticket purchases. For more information, you can reach them at +1 765-325-2230 or via email at Elaine@melsdrive-intheatre.com. They also have a Facebook page for updates and announcements.

Established in 1946