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Drive-In at The Vermont State Fair Tickets
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About Drive-In at The Vermont State Fair
The Drive-In at The Vermont State Fair is an outdoor drive-in theater set on the historic fairgrounds in Rutland, Vermont. Known by locals as the Norma Patterson Drive In, this venue offers car-based viewing with space for a handful of lawn chairs alongside vehicles. Capacity ranges from around 60 cars to up to 80–85 vehicles per show, depending on the night. The drive-in atmosphere combines nostalgic cinema with modern convenience, making it a popular pick for family outings, date nights, and community events.
Location details: The Vermont State Fairgrounds are at 175 South Main Street, Rutland, VT 05701. The drive-in entrance sits on Park Street, near the railroad crossing, making it easy to find from nearby highways. There isn’t a dedicated drive-in transit service, but Rutland’s The Bus system serves the area and nearby transit hubs provide access if you’re coordinating with other travel plans. Below, you’ll find practical information on seating, parking, and nearby hotels and dining to help you plan a smooth visit.
Pro tip: secure your seats early when the lineup is announced. We’ve got you covered with trusted, straightforward ticket options and local tips, from parking logistics to the best nearby places to stay and eat. For accommodations, consider partner-recommended options like Hampton Inn Rutland, Best Western Inn & Suites Rutland-Killington, and Quality Inn Rutland for convenient stays near the venue. If you’re driving in, allow extra time for parking on fairgrounds lots or the Diamond Run Mall overflow area when needed. For event updates and partner deals, check the official venue pages and our recommended merchants via the links below.
Nearby services and attractions: Rutland’s dining scene offers a mix of casual eateries and family-friendly spots. When you’re ready to wind down after the show, explore local cafes and restaurants within a short drive of the fairgrounds. We’ll help you find the right option without the hassle—because having a connection in the industry should feel easy and reliable.
Good to know
Seating, Parking & Venue Information
- Location: Vermont State Fairgrounds, 175 South Main Street, Rutland, VT 05701; drive-in entrance on Park Street (near the railroad crossing).
- Venue type: Outdoor drive-in theater on the fairgrounds, sometimes referred to as the Norma Patterson Drive In.
- Capacity: Initially ~60 cars; later reports show a capacity of up to 80–85 vehicles per show.
- Seating: Car-based viewing with some attendees bringing lawn chairs next to their vehicles; no fixed seating chart.
- Parking: On-site fairgrounds parking with overflow reportedly routed to nearby Diamond Run Mall.
- Transit: No dedicated drive-in transit; Rutland public transit (The Bus) serves the area and the Vermont State Fairgrounds are near transit hubs.
- Nearby hotels: Hampton Inn Rutland (47 Farrell Rd), Best Western Inn & Suites Rutland-Killington (5 Best Western Place), Quality Inn Rutland (253 S Main St).
- Notable events hosted: Jaws (opening 2020), Grease (2020), Trolls (2020), Sleepy Hollow (Oct 2021), Hocus Pocus (2021–2022).