Other advantages are that it is an affordable entertainment option for the whole family. Patrons will drive several hours, even sometimes coming from states away to attend outdoor theatres. Owners also enjoy special freedoms. Yet the outdoor nature creates a lot of work and expense for owners and sometimes puts the drive-in in jeopardy. Being out in the elements makes operating a drive-in problematic.
Owners deal with fog, rain, heat, and even unseasonable snow.
Nearly every ozoner has lost a screen from a storm sometime in its history. Another major problem is hiring staff who enjoy customers and can handle the extensive menu, hot conditions, and late hours. Financially, owners can have it tough due to the seasonal aspect of outdoor exhibition in cold-weather states. They also take great pride in their presentation and appearance. During the nine years that Mellor operated the Bucks, his attendance more than doubled.