A SPUD-TACULAR COMEBACK: Historic Spud Drive-In in Driggs set for major rebuild

DRIGGS, Idaho (KIFI)– The iconic Spud Drive-In has been closed since a 2022 windstorm destroyed its movie screen. Now, developers are moving forward with plans to rebuild the theater and transform the property into a larger entertainment destination.

Tom Hedges, an owner and developer with MD Spud, says crews could break ground as early as October 1, weather permitting, and the redevelopment will happen in phases.

"The first phase is prioritizing getting the theater back up and running for the community," Hedges said.

The second phase will add a new concession and restaurant building, called Murphy's Mountain Diner.

Developers also plan to add 10 overnight cabins on the back portion of the property, turning the Spud into what Hedges describes as a drive-in theater and resort.

The project is designed to keep some of the features longtime visitors remember while adding new amenities.

One of the biggest changes will be the construction of a new movie screen designed to better withstand Teton Valley's weather.

"Under the new special use permit, we can use steel to build the structure for the screen. And so it will be fully wind proof, climate proof, blizzard proof. The actual front of the screen will be a wooden facade instead of a screen. So it will be, as burly as you can make build a drive in movie screen," Hedges said.

The redevelopment has also brought concerns from nearby residents about noise.

"They've had a lot of quiet time over the last four years, which I'm sure they enjoyed," Hedges said, "We've agreed to some conditions to do so, including making sure that we do a really good job of screening the theater, all around the property with both fencing and landscaping, big trees, and face the speakers downwards and centered."

Hedges says the new and improved Spud Drive-In will be fully open by early to mid Summer 2028.