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The Legacy of Fun-Lan:
Honoring the Past at Marquee Square Apartments
Long before Marquee Square became a modern residential destination, this corner of Tampa held a special place in the hearts of generations. Opened in January 1950, the Fun-Lan Drive-In Theatre wasnt just a movie spotit was a vibrant gathering place and a cultural icon. With space for nearly 700 cars, an on-site restaurant, and a playful "Kidde-Lan" playground, it delivered more than entertainment. It offered a full-family experience, where dinner was served right to your car, and kids played beneath the glow of the big screen.
Admission was just 48 cents when it opened with The Story of Seabiscuit, starring Shirley Temple. As decades passed and moviegoing habits changed, Fun-Lan evolved tooadding more screens and introducing a lively flea market in the '80s to keep the spirit alive. For many locals, it became more than a place to shop or watch a filmit became family. "Weve gone through marriages, divorces, babies, and graduations together, said one long-time vendor. Even through the pandemic, the community stayed connected.
By the mid-1990s, Fun-Lan was the last drive-in standing in Tampa enduring symbol of simpler times and shared memories. Its final screening in 2021 marked the end of an era, but not the end of its story.
The name Marquee Square is itself a nod to the former marquee lights that once lit up the site. Our brand message, A Cornerstone of Community, pays tribute to the lasting connection that defined Fun-Lan and reflects the strong sense of home our property provides. Today, we carry that same spirit forward, reimagining this historic ground as a place where new stories are made, neighbors know each other, and community lives on.
Fun-Lan Drive-In Theatre entrance sign, 2302 East Hillsborough Avenue. 1950. Burgert Brothers. Courtesy, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System
Marquee Square Apartments Exterior in Tampa, Florida. 2302 East Hillsborough Avenue. 2025. Richman Property Services