Breaking: Spiess family sells Milton-Freewater drive-in theater
Published 8:00 pm Monday, June 1, 2026
MILTON-FREEWATER — The last drive-in movie theater in Eastern Oregon is under new ownership.
Mike and Lorie Spiess and family announced on Facebook they have sold the M-F Drive In Theater at 84322 Highway 11, Milton-Freewater.
“On Tuesday, May 26th, we signed official documentation to begin the transition of ownership to Andrew and Stephanie Brown,” according to the announcement.
In an interview, they reported the sale price for the business was $150,000 and the land was $470,000.
Dick and Loretta Spiess purchased the drive-in in 1961, opening for the first season under their ownership in 1962, the year their first child, Mike, was born.
Dick and Loretta lived in Pendleton from 1961-69, where he owned and ran the Pendleton drive-in with his brother. The family moved from Pendleton to Milton-Freewater in 1969.
The Brown family has deep roots in Milton-Freewater. Their children, Katie, Addi and Kooper have all worked at or do work at the drive-in, according to the post. The Spiess family in their post expressed confidence the Browns will carry on the tradition of community that is important to the drive-in experience.
The Spiess’ final day of operations will be June 30, with the Browns taking over on July 1.
“Lorie and I were recently asked, ‘If the Drive In could talk, what would it say?’” the announcement on Facebook states. And the answer would be: “Everyone is welcome here!”
The Spiesses also reported they are planning a “Farewell /Appreciation/ Welcome” event at the drive-in for the weekend of June 26-27, with more details coming soon.
The La Grande Drive-in closed in May, leaving the M-F Drive In Theater as Eastern Oregon’s remaining drive-in.
East Oregonian correspondent Sheila Hagar contributed to this report.