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.

More Episodes

Man fishing on river bank.

The Outdoor Lifestyle

Season 5 Episode 3 | 27 min

From hunting and fishing to hiking and more, the outdoor lifestyle in Pennsylvania takes many forms. 

Aired 11/03/25

 

Polka

Season 3 Episode 3 | 27 min

Polka is more than just music. It’s heritage, culture, dancing and costumes. This rich history is celebrated every June at Polkafest, located in Johnstown. The city’s ethnic heritage makes it the perfect city to host this event, now in its 25th year.

Aired 10/02/23

 

church

Old Spaces, New Places

Season 2 Episode 3 | 27 min

Adaptive reuse is the term given to the repurposing of old buildings, and many of the buildings we use today are serving a very different purpose than originally intended. But repurposing a structure is not always easy.

Aired 01/16/23

 

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