Sunny days are storming into cool nights as summer seeps into September. School will soon begin, work schedules will fill up, weekend plans may be a little harder to make. Drive-in movie theaters provide an easygoing mode of entertainment to ease the transition of summer break into a fall state of mind, especially since most theaters are open rain or shine until mid-September. If you are looking for an evening of nostalgia from the glow of the silver screen, a whimsical summer night with starry lights and blankets on the plush grass, or a breezy family night, cruise around the Hudson Valley to spend an evening at one of these eight locations before summer slips away.

Overlook Drive-In

Poughkeepsie, 30 minutes, 18 miles from Beacon

Located in Poughkeepsie, Overlook Drive-In proudly offers a screen about the size of a six-story building, the largest in the tri-state area. Opened in 1955, Overlook hosts 750 cars to view their double-feature movies. Classic movie theater snacks such as popcorn and candy are sold here, along with pizza, hot dogs, and burgers. In addition to the massive screen, the freshly made funnel cakes set Overlook apart from the other drive-in movie theaters. Adults pay $10, children ages 5-11 pay $7, and kids under 5 are free. If you are able to make it to Monday Bargain night, everyone pays $7 for a ticket.

Hyde Park Drive-In

Hyde Park, 35 minutes, 21 miles from Beacon

If you are looking for a simple setting, this is the place. Hyde Park Drive-In consistently screens recent releases, accommodates around 670 cars in this pet-friendly location, and offers fried dough and cappuccinos, in addition to fast food and theater snacks. Bargain night is Tuesday night, when all tickets are at times reduced to $7.

Four Brothers Drive-In

Amenia, 50 minutes, 45 miles from Beacon

Established in 2014, this ’60s themed drive-in provides a modern yet whimsical aesthetic. General admission is set at $11, seniors pay $8, children 5-10 pay $6, and children under 5 are free. Four Brothers has a playground, mini-golf course and a hotel on site. Movies are centered around family-friendly content, ranging from comedy to drama, with the occasional cultural indie film. Their grounds boast a lively atmosphere, a wheelchair accessible park, and a communal litter box for the welcomed pets. The elaborate menu goes beyond the classics and dives into innovative, including hand-spun shakes with flavors such as baklava or wine, grilled burgers that go beyond beef to include salmon or veggie options, and paw treats for pets. I could probably write a separate piece on the menu alone.

Warwick Drive-In

Warwick (Orange County), 50 minutes, 41 miles from Beacon

Open seven nights a week with three screens, this rustic setting plays recent releases. First opened in 1950, this drive-in serves usual theater snacks and fast food, most notably their popcorn chicken. Adults ages 12 and up pay $12, children 4-11 and seniors are $8, and children under 4 are free.

Hi-Way Drive-In

Coxsackie (Greene County), 1 hour, 68 miles from Beacon

Open seven nights a week since 1951, four screens showcase a different double feature every night. Offering only a classic snack bar, this location plays recent releases. Admission is set at $10 for adults, $5 for children 3-11, and free for kids under 3.

Greenville Drive-In & Beer Garden

Greenville (Greene County), 1 hour 18 minutes, 77 miles from Beacon

In business since 1959, this drive-in leans toward playing independent films, shorts, community works and the occasional classic. Locally produced beer, wine, and spirits are served here. Occasionally, drinks are coordinated to theme with the scheduled film, such as a kryptonite drink for the Superman movie. Outdoor seating provides a stage for live music, and the snack bar includes potato skins, ice cream and locally made popsicles.

Hollywood Drive-In

Averill Park (Rensselaer County), 1 hour 41 minutes, 102 miles from Beacon

Look out for random free passes at the bottom of your popcorn boxes at this charming drive-in. First opened in 1952, the Hollywood Drive-In plays a double feature seven nights a week. Crunch on nachos and pizza as recent Hollywood releases flicker across the silver screen. General admission for adults is $10, kids pay $5.

Jericho Drive-In

Glenmont (Albany County), 1 hour 25 minutes, 87 miles from Beacon

Jericho Drive-In provides an old-time feel but plays recent releases. Pets are welcome - bring your pup on Sundays after 6 pm to receive a free Doggie Vanilla treat. An on-site ice cream shop sells fun flavors such as s'mores or Raspberry Rumble, a heavenly blend of raspberry swirls and truffles. Classic snacks and fast food are available, ranging from mozzarella sticks to popcorn and slushies. Adults pay $10, kids $5. Oh, and be sure to save your ticket stubs for a prize at the door!