Apache Drive-in Theatre (Closed)
Globe, AZ
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

The Apache Drive-in Theatre of Globe, Arizona is an example of the recent fate of drive-in theatres throughout the country. Seemingly in decent shape, weeds on lot notwithstanding, the Apache sports its proud single-screen right next to the major highway. However, giving away its fate is a single solitary sign on the lot advertising a multiplex theatre coming soon. Goodbye Apache. Sorry we hardly knew ya'.

The Apache name has a long cinematic history in the area. The original drive-in opened back in October 1950 between Globe and Miami, but after its wooden screen tower was destroyed by a fire in 1972, the Hollis family rebuilt and relocated the theater to this hillside spot in 1974. Designed as an intimate outdoor venue with spaces for around 150 cars, the second Apache served generations of Gila County families, local teens, and travelers looking for a night of starlit entertainment.

Multiplex sign
Globe, AZ
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

For decades, the theater ran on classic 35mm film reels powered by vintage carbon-arc projectors. However, when the film industry transitioned entirely to digital distribution, the steep six-figure cost to convert the outdoor booth proved too much for the small independent operation. The drive-in hosted its final regular showings in September 2013, followed by a special farewell gala screening on September 28, 2013, as the family shifted operations toward their nearby indoor multiplex, the Hollis Cinema 4.

Apache Drive-in Marquee
Globe, AZ
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

UPDATE: The Apache Drive-in is still open for business and going strong! See photos taken in 2003 below. Many thanks to Rob Svirskas for update. 07-03

UPDATE: This (2013) is the last season for the Apache Drive-in. They plan to close the drive-in around Labor Day weekend, as they don't want to or plan to go digital. Many thanks to David Hughes for update. 07-13

UPDATE: Here's the update for the Apache Drive In in Globe. The final weekend for the drive-in is Sept. 27 and 28th. they are planning a farewell party at the drive-in theatre on Saturday night. and playing American Graffiti for the last show forever. Many thanks to David Hughes for update. 10-13

Ticket booth
Globe, AZ
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

UPDATE: Today, the Apache Drive-in sits quiet and vacant along the highway corridor. While weeds have grown across the old ramps and the elements have weathered the property, the iconic single-screen tower remains standing tall against the desert hills, an enduring roadside silhouette honoring Globe's outdoor movie heritage. 08-26

Here are more photos of the Apache Drive-in Theatre

Snack bar Globe, AZ Photo by RoadsidePeek.com	Apache Drive-in Theatre screen Globe, AZ Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

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