Here is a truly unique experience.

There are only 11 drive-ins left in Australia and one of them is just on the edge of Mareeba – the Rodeo Drive-In.

On a clear night the backdrop ensures guaranteed star gazing, but even without that, the atmosphere is really special. With two great movies for the night, it’s one of the best evenings the family has had in a long time.

Pack the blankets, pillows, doonas and chairs and have them ready to set up inside or outside the car.

You’ll see all types of vehicles there – the utes with sofas in the back, the 4x4s backed up to the screen with foam mattresses in the back, the saloons with kids snuggled against the front bumper and the parents smooching inside.

As the Rodeo has hot and cold food, drinks and treats on offer, it’s a good excuse to spoil the family.

There’s even a small play park so kids are entertained before the movies start.

If you’re new to the experience, don’t panic. Simply drive up to the gate anytime from 6.30pm (movies start at 7.30pm), talk to the friendly staff at the gate who’ll take you through the process of parking, etc and then drive on through.

As you drive in, simply choose your space and park up, remembering to angle the car upwards to get the best view.

Tune in the radio, hook up the speakers and get ready for the night. You’re guaranteed to make new friends and will be quickly planning the next visit.

If you're coming from Cairns, take the Kennedy Hwy to Mareeba, continue along the Kennedy Hwy until a "T" intersection and follow the directions to Atherton.

It is 3km along the road. If you see the airport or war museum you’ve gone too far.

• Atherton Tableland tourist information
• Cairns driving tours
• Cairns region maps
• Cairns kids' activities

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