Lights Out Forever: Coyote Drive-In Fort Worth Closes After 14 Years
Fort Worth’s Beloved Coyote Drive-In Says Goodbye After 14 Magical Years
TL;DR: After 14 wonderful years of movies under the stars, Coyote Drive-In in Fort Worth will close forever on Labor Day (Monday, September 7). The land is needed for a big city project called the Trinity River Vision. You still have a few weeks left to grab your popcorn and enjoy one last movie night!
What’s Happening?
Imagine a giant outdoor movie theater where you watch films from your car or a cozy blanket on the grass. That’s Coyote Drive-In — and it’s been a Fort Worth favorite since 2011. But now, after 14 years of family movie nights, first dates, and community events, the final curtain is coming down on September 7, 2026.
Where & When
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Fort Worth, Texas (near Panther Island) |
| Closing Date | Monday, September 7, 2026 (Labor Day) |
| Years Open | 14 years (opened in 2011) |
| Last Chance | Any night before Sept. 7! |
Why Is It Closing?
It’s not because people stopped coming — it’s because the city has big plans for the land.
Here’s the simple version:
- The Landlord: The land belongs to the Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) — they manage water and flood control for the area.
- The Lease Deal: When Coyote Drive-In opened, they signed a lease that said: "You can stay until we need this land for construction."
- The Big Project: The Trinity River Vision (also called Panther Island) is a massive project to build two new canals and a three-acre park right where the drive-in sits.
- The Timeline: Construction is starting this fall, so TRWD used their right to end the lease.
What the Owners Say
> "When we opened Coyote Drive-In, we hoped to create more than just a place to watch movies; we wanted to create a place where families and friends could come together and make lasting memories."
— Glenn Solomon, Managing Partner
Glenn also gave a special shout-out to Chris Fortune, the General Manager who’s been there since Day 1:
> "Chris is the heart and soul of Coyote Drive-In. His dedication and leadership helped make this a place families will remember forever."
Your Last Chance Checklist
Want to say goodbye properly? Here’s your plan:
- Check the schedule — Visit their website or social media for movie times
- Grab your crew — Family, friends, or that special someone
- Pack the essentials — Blankets, lawn chairs, bug spray, and snacks
- Arrive early — Good spots go fast on final weekends!
- Soak it in — Take photos, share memories, enjoy the North Texas sky one last time
What Made Coyote Special?
- Classic drive-in vibes with modern sound (FM radio in your car!)
- Double features — Two movies for the price of one
- Community events — Holiday shows, fundraisers, and more
- All ages welcome — From toddlers to grandparents
- Affordable fun — Way cheaper than indoor theaters
What’s Coming Next? (The "Panther Island" Project)
| New Feature | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Two Canals | Better flood control + pretty waterways |
| 3-Acre Park | Green space for picnics, walking, relaxing |
| Mixed-Use Development | Future homes, shops, restaurants nearby |
| River Access | Kayaking, paddleboarding on the Trinity! |
Think of it like trading a beloved old treehouse for a brand-new community playground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I still buy tickets for the final weeks?
A: Yes! They’re open every night until September 7. Check their website for showtimes and buy tickets online or at the gate.
Q: Will the other Coyote Drive-In locations close too?
A: Nope! This only affects the Fort Worth location. Coyote Drive-In in Dallas and Lewisville are staying open.
Q: What happens to the staff?
A: The team (including 14-year veteran Chris Fortune) will be moving on to new adventures. Many seasonal workers return each summer.
Q: Can I host a private event before they close?
A: They’ve hosted private events in the past — reach out ASAP through their website if you’re interested!
Q: Will there be a special closing night event?
A: Nothing officially announced yet, but follow their Facebook/Instagram for surprise announcements!
Summary: The End of an Era
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Closing | Coyote Drive-In Fort Worth |
| When | Labor Day, Monday, September 7, 2026 |
| Why | Land needed for Trinity River Vision / Panther Island project |
| Owner’s Message | "Thank you for 14 years of memories" |
| Your Move | Go watch one last movie under the stars! |
Final Thought: Drive-ins are rare magic — where the screen is huge, the stars are real, and the memories last forever. If you’ve never been, now’s your chance. If you have, go say goodbye. Either way, you’ll be part of Fort Worth history.
See you at the movies!