Iowa’s 4 drive-in movie theaters make for retro summer fun
Learn about the four remaining drive-in movie theaters in Iowa and then head to one for a night of nostalgia, movies, and summer fun.
There’s not much more magical than sitting and watching lightning bugs light up a field somewhere in the middle of Iowa. That is except perhaps watching a movie from the back of your vehicle at one of the state’s four remaining drive-in movie theaters. At one time, there were some 70 drive-in theaters in Iowa. Today, these drive-in movie theaters scattered around the state carry on the legacy of adding some nostalgia, entertainment, and magical memories to your summer, guaranteed. Check out their upcoming movie schedules and enjoy!
Superior 71 Drive-In
1482 300th Ave., Spirit Lake
(712) 336-0700
The Superior 71 Drive-In Theater has been a staple in the Spirit Lake community and surrounding area since it was built in a former farm field in 2008. Located at the intersection of Highway 9 and Highway 71, they offer first-run double features on Wednesday through Sunday evenings on two different screens. Tickets are only sold upon arrival and are $10 for ages 13 and up and $5 for ages 5 to 12. Kids under 5 are free, and if you’re paying with a credit card you’ll add 50 cents to the price of each ticket.
The concession stand offers a variety of snacks including popcorn, corn dogs, chicken strips, fried pickle chips, ice cream, and more. Outside food or beverages are not allowed at the drive-in. There is also a playground for the kids to enjoy while you wait for the show to start. The show goes on “rain or moonshine,” as they say.
Valle Drive-In Theater
4074 Highway F48, Newton
(641) 792- 3558
Valle Drive-In is a popular option just outside of the Des Moines area for those looking for the outdoor movie experience. In fact, it’s the oldest drive-in theater in the state, first opening in 1949. Today, they have all the modern conveniences but still show original teasers before the first run feature presentation. Shows run every night of the week and the gates open at 6:30 p.m. at Valle so patrons can hang out, eat, and chat before the main movies begin at dusk. And you’ll definitely want to hit up the snack shack.
General admission for those ages 12 and up is $8. Kids ages 5 to 11 are $5 and kids 4 and under get in free of charge. Vehicle registration is an additional $5. They take cash or credit cards but do not offer rain checks. While you can purchase tickets when you arrive, purchasing through their website is really convenient, allowing you to see how many tickets are left for a particular evening so you know you won’t miss out on the fun. There are two shows each night, the main feature and the co-feature.
Voy 61 Drive-In Theatre
1228 Highway 61, Delmar
(563) 674-4367
In the heart of Eastern Iowa, you’ll find the Voy 61 Drive-In Theatre where they promise “family fun under the stars.” Located just five miles south of Maquoketa on Highway 61, this drive-in has been going strong for almost 75 years! The single-screen theater offers a double feature on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights starting at 9 p.m.
Their concession stand is also robust–offering cheeseburgers, walking tacos, brats, ice cream, and tons of candy options. Their prices are hard to beat as well. Tickets for those 13 and older are $7 a piece. Kids ages 4 to 12 are $4 and those 3 and under are free. The box office opens at 6:30 each night and tickets are first come first served.
They do allow you to walk in and watch the movie from chairs and a blanket (instead of your vehicle) in the event of a sell-out. But if you get there early there is plenty to do before the show begins including a swing set, a basketball court, a whiffle ball diamond, a sandbox, tetherball poles, a volleyball net, and a mini train to ride.
Blue Grass Drive-In
774 W Mayne St., Blue Grass
(563) 381-8888
It’s hard to miss the Blue Grass Drive-In while in the area, thanks to its four-sided movie screen. This drive-in, located just outside of the Quad Cities, shows movies year-round every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night. During the summer months, they are open every evening.
Operating for their ninth season, they show first-run double features as well as “carload” special movie showings of older films. The gates open at 6 p.m. and much like the others across the state, the Blue Grass Drive-In offers concessions (we recommend the pizza and the oreo nachos!) and activities before the movies begin.
Tickets (and concessions!) can be purchased in advance online. Adult tickets are $10 apiece. Kids ages 4 to 12 are $5 and kids 3 and under are free. They have put together some great birthday party packages as well for a fun way to celebrate.
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