FIRST TIME VISIT? Here’s a comprehensive look at what to expect!
We hope these answers help! If this is your first visit to the outdoor andu still have questions - ask here!
What is the cost to attend?
$15 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under Kids 3 and under are free. Military with ID and Seniors are $10 Upgraded parking is $10 for gold (first 2 rows) and $5 for blue (rows 3 and 4) Carload Nights are Tuesday and Thursday when we are open 7 days a week in the summer are just a flat rate of $15 for everyone in your car.
Will I make it in time or will it sellout?
Sellouts do NOT happen often so getting there closer to the movie start time should be ok. Obviously the earlier you get there the better parking spot you may get. However, upgrading parking to the first four rows is an option too. IF there is a sellout we will post on our Social Media Pages
What time should we arrive?
Box Office will open at at various time due to the sun setting later throughout the season. Check the specific showtimes for box office open and movie start times.
What time does the movie start?
Because our screen is located outdoors, we must wait until it is completely dark before the movie may begin. This does not mean at sunset as it is still light out. Again, check movie showtimes or social media for updates.
How do we listen to the movie?
In order to provide the best movie watching experience possible, we provide multiple ways to listen to the movie. We offer radio checkouts with a valid photo ID for $5. We have a limited amount, so while supplies last! If you don’t want to rent a radio or use your car, bring a portable stereo or radio to use and tune into 89.9FM! Some will bring a portable radio or “boom boxes”. We do NOT stream the movie as there is a delay - we’ve tested it and it would not be ideal for sound. There are speakers throughout the theater to listen as well. But, if you’re not close enough to them you may want to use your car radio. If you use your car radio we do suggest starting your vehicle periodically so the battery doesn’t go dead. Sadly, the over the window speakers you may know from years past have been stolen, wires cut, and more. They are not operational.
How do i know where to park?
At Golden Age Cinemas, McHenry Outdoor Theater, we do our best to ensure that everyone’s night is as fun and enjoyable as possible. In order to ensure that all cars have an adequate view of the screen we do have a few parking rules. If you need help with parking or have an issue please see a manager at the concession stand or talk to a lot attendant.
GOLD POLES: Premier parking for any size vehicle in the front 2 rows for $10 per vehicle.
BLUE POLES: $5 (Rows 3 and 4)
RED POLES: Vehicles larger than 67″ will be required to park next to a red colored pole. Red poles are located near the outside, front, and back.
SILVER POLES: Vehicles shorter than 67″ will be required to park next to a silver colored pole. Silver poles are located in the center of the lot.
HATCHES: Any vehicle hatch that is blocking the view of those behind them may be asked to be lowered or shut.
You CAN back into spots and sit in the bed of a truck or the hatchback of your vehicle.
What food and drink is available in concession stand?
Popcorn, Candy, Hotdogs, Burgers, Beer Brats, Nacho, Hot Pretzels, Pizza (select nights) Large Pickles, Slushies, Fountain Drinks, Gatorade, Beer, Hard Seltzers, funnel cakes (on select nights), and more!
Can I bring my own food?
Yes! We do ask (not required) you think about getting a popcorn or snack at concessions as it’s our main way of making a profit and making improvements for the future. Much of the admission price goes to the movie studios, as much as 70-75%.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are allowed as long as they are leashed! We even have a Bring Your Dog to the Movies event this season.
Do you have a sensory night?
We do! Find details to attend here.
Do you offer close captions for the hard of hearing?
Yes, on Wednesday evenings you can watch with subtitles.
Can I come for just one movie?
Yes! You may come to the first movie or the second if you wish. You will have to pay the same price regardless. If the box office is closed you can enter through the exit (carefully) and a parking attendant will direct you to the concession stand to pay.
What if I want to leave and come back?
Upon leaving our theater grounds you must pay to reenter.
What if we are meeting someone who arrives later in the evening? Can we save a spot?
All parking at the McHenry Outdoor Theater is first come first serve. Any objects blocking or saving spaces may be asked to move. We recommend arriving together whenever possible.
How do I leave the theater?
The EXIT is at the lower right side of the screen and marked with signs at the end of each row with arrows.
Do you accept debit, credit, and Apple and Google Pay, aka, Tap to Pay.
Yes, we accept all forms of these payments.
What if it rains?
We will always play through our movies rain or shine! We cannot issue rain checks or refunds.
Are grills / firepits / gas heaters allowed?
No sort of grilling is allowed at the McHenry Outdoor. That includes propane, charcoal, or electrical grills. No fires of any kind are allowed.
Can I bring in alcohol?
We do not allow outside alcohol, but do serve it at the concession stand for those interested. We do not serve the drive of the vehicle who gets a hand stamp upon paying at the box office.
Is the season pass attached to a individual vehicle or can I use it with other vehicles?
The season pass is issued to a person/family and NOT bound to one particular vehicle. Where can I buy a season pass? Click here to shop for a pass and more!
What if my lights won’t go off on my car?
Our lot attendants can help with that. We do go around and put black garbage bags over headlights that are on and use painters tape to help them stick.
My battery is dead and I need a jump, what should I do?
Please find a lot attendant or go to the concession stand and for a small fee we have portable battery jumpers that are available. We recommend starting you car for a few minutes throughout the evening if you’re using your radio for the evening. It will help to keep it charged.
Can I have a birthday party or group outing at the theater?
Yes! It’s better to arrange ahead of time if you are looking to park together. That way we can have you and your attendees park together for the outing.
If you didn’t find the answers you were looking for you can ask on our contact page here!