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

Person in Bigfoot costume shrugging.

Quirky Festivals

Season 5 Episode 1 | 27 min

A look at quirky festivals in Pennsylvania, featuring Bigfoot, chainsaws, outhouse races and more. Watch on the PBS App »

Aired 10/20/25

 

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

 

The Forest

Season 1 Episode 1 | 27 min

In the early days of the Commonwealth, nearly 29 million acres of Pennsylvania were covered in forest. By 1895, this number dropped to 9 million acres. While Pennsylvania provided lumber to build a nation, this invaluable natural resource was almost lost. Watch on the PBS App »

Aired 05/05/22

 

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