Blue Ridge, Georgia - Swan Drive-In
Movies have been a popular pastime in Blue Ridge, Georgia, since the early 1930’s. Since there was no television available at the time, people flocked to the cinema. The first movie theater was located in the brick building on West Main Street that now houses the Fire Department. As the demand grew, two other theaters were erected on East Main. Jack Jones, Sr. and “H” Tilley built the Royal, which had a capacity for 200 in 1946, and the Rialto, which sat 500 in 1947. The price of tickets was 32 cents for adults and 15 cents for children. Sunday matinees were 25 cents and 10 cents respectively.
In 1955, Jack and “H” built the Swan Drive-In Theater, located on the edge of town at 651 Summit Street, just off Old Hwy 76. It got its name from the graceful swans floating in the lakes in England. “H” had been stationed there during World War II before he took part in the Normandy Invasion. Mr. Jones, ever the practical businessman, liked the name because it was short and easy to see on a neon sign.
Today, the Swan is one of four drive-ins still operating in Georgia. It’s a “blast from the past.” The small town feeling remains, but they continue to improve the technology. Radio transmissions have replaced the old squawk boxes that hung on car windows.
Newly-released movies are now presented on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Double Features (two for the price of one) are offered on Fridays and Saturdays. Adult admission prices are $6.00; children’s prices are $3.00 and kids under 4 get in free. Be sure to bring cash because the Swan does not accept credit or debit cards. You can bring lawn chairs and sit under the stars, or enjoy the movie in the privacy of your car. The Swan is a family-oriented theater which shows many family friendly films.
The Concession Stand offers the normal fare plus funnel cakes, onion rings, corndogs, hamburgers, nachos and French fries—all at a reasonable price! (Have you been to a movie recently? It costs a small fortune.) You can, of course, bring your own munchies.
The Swan Drive-in is handicap accessible. It has clean bathrooms and a play area for the kids. The website is updated regularly. Please come to Blue Ridge in the North Georgia Mountains and celebrate the Swan Drive-In’s 55 years in business. You’ll get a unique taste of the past. For current movie information, call (706) 632-5235 or go to www.swan-drive-in.com.
Georgia is a state proud of its natural beauty and friendly hospitality. There’s a lot to see and do. We hope you will spend some time exploring the North Georgia Mountains, while staying at one of our Blue Ridge, Georgia Cabin Rentals, Rainbow Cabins. Our location in Blue Ridge is a perfect “jumping off spot” for many day trips. We hope to see you soon!
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