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Route 66 Drive-In Theater

4.6
·574 reviews·Springfield, United States

Step back in time at the Route 66 Drive-In Theater, offering classic double features under the stars on two screens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Evenings

Warm nights for outdoor movies

CrowdHigh
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What a great place!!!

Route 66 Drive-In Theater

Best Time

Summer Evenings

Warm nights for outdoor movies

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at the Route 66 Drive-In Theater, offering classic double features under the stars on two screens.

4.6
(574 reviews)

"Such a great experience for anyone better than a regular movie theater!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Arrive Early for Best Views

Get there at least an hour before showtime to snag prime parking spots.

🧺 Pack Your Own Snacks

Save money by bringing your favorite treats and drinks.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Double Features Under the Stars

Double Features Under the Stars

Two Screens

Experience classic movie magic with back-to-back films shown on two screens. A perfect nostalgic outing!

Retro Drive-In Ambiance

Retro Drive-In Ambiance

Entire Venue

Relive the golden age of cinema in a classic drive-in setting. Perfect for date nights or family fun.

Route 66 Road Trip Stop

Route 66 Road Trip Stop

Historic Route 66

An iconic stop along the legendary Route 66, blending automotive history with movie entertainment.

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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Prime Spots

Secure your favorite viewing spot by arriving at least an hour before showtime. Popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends. Pack blankets and chairs for extra comfort outside your vehicle. TikTok

Snack Smart & Save

While the drive-in offers concessions, bringing your own snacks and drinks can save money. Some reviewers note high prices for certain items. Check their policy on outside food before you go. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Summer Evenings
Why
Warm nights for outdoor movies
Crowd
High
When
Weekends
Why
More movie options available
Crowd
High
When
Wednesdays & Thursdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Route 66 road trip⛽️🗺️🇺🇸 #america #usaroadtrip #roadtrip #route66 #seligman #kingman #historicroute66
@emmarobertts_
383.9K likes • 2.3M views

🚗 Arrive Early for Best Views

Get there at least an hour before showtime to snag prime parking spots. TikTok

🧺 Pack Your Own Snacks

Save money by bringing your favorite treats and drinks. TikTokReddit

The announcement you have all been waiting for! The first of 4 movies been shown on Dusk to Dawn! Any guesses of the other 3? #illinois #newmovie #drivein #fyp #ozzyosbourne
@midwaydrivein
54.3K likes • 1.3M views
Get ready to load up the car, grab some snacks, and head to the Route 66 Drive In Theater to celebrate #NationalDriveInMovieDay! 🚗🍿📽 Enjoy a movie under the stars Wednesdays - Sundays, now - August! ✨ Book your next movie night on our website's sites and attractions page, 🔗 in bio. 🎥: lzrtravels #visitspringfield #springfieldil #route66 #themotherroad #drivein #roadtrip #MiddleofEverything *...
visitspringfield
38 likes • 1.6K views

📻 Check Radio Reception

Ensure your car radio works or bring a portable one for clear audio. Reddit

🪑 Bring Extra Seating

Chairs or blankets are great for lounging outside your car. TikTok

Looking for some #summerfun that's a mere one-gas-tank-trip away? Make plans to visit Knight's Action Park along with the Route 66 Drive In Theater. It's a destination all in its own. For park information or to get your #seasonpass go to www.knightsactionpark.com or movies at www.route66-drivein.com. Where FUN Rules!!
knightsactionpark
9 likes • 184 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Arrive Early for Best Views

Get there at least an hour before showtime to snag prime parking spots. TikTok

🧺 Pack Your Own Snacks

Save money by bringing your favorite treats and drinks. TikTokReddit

📻 Check Radio Reception

Ensure your car radio works or bring a portable one for clear audio. Reddit

🪑 Bring Extra Seating

Chairs or blankets are great for lounging outside your car. TikTok

💡 Turn Off Headlights

Remember to disable automatic headlights to avoid disturbing others. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(574 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Route 66 Drive-In Theater, calling it a 'great experience' and 'legit fun' that's better than regular movie theaters. The nostalgic atmosphere and double features are big hits. However, some find concession prices a bit high, and a few have had issues with refund policies.

"It was great! First time at a drive in, so much fun! Will definitely go again! Such a great experience for anyone better than a regular movie theater!"

Samantha Eliceche

"It was amazing and most legit fun..
Only thing is they overcharge yu for a slice of pizza that ain't even that big. Lol I've had Costco slice pizza bigger than that 😅 but hey it was amazing and I highly suggest you get to experience it with great people :) #great vibes"

Tadina-Ann Kaleila Marie Vogelpohl

"We went last night and had to leave because a family member ended up in the hospital and couldn't finish the movie but we paid extra for the refund if we couldn't stay. It didn't tell us that we had to go to the stand to tell them. Am I wrong for wanting our refund when we paid for it?"

Mia Gielda

What People Like

Great vibes
Nostalgic experience
Double features

What People Dislike

High concession prices
Refund policy confusion

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Route 66 Drive-In Theater is located along the historic Route 66. Specific directions will depend on your starting point, but it's a well-known landmark for those traveling the iconic highway. Many road trip vlogs highlight its location as a key stop. TikTok+3

Yes, as it's situated on the famous Route 66, it's generally easy to find. Look for signage indicating the drive-in theater as you travel along the route. TikTok+1

Parking is typically first-come, first-served. Arriving early is recommended to get a good spot with an unobstructed view of the screen. TikTok+1

While primarily designed for cars, some visitors might find ways to access it with bikes or by arranging drop-offs, though this is less common. The experience is best enjoyed from within a vehicle. Instagram

Absolutely! Route 66 is packed with attractions. In Springfield, Missouri, you can visit the Route 66 Car Museum or the birthplace of the drive-thru restaurant. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are typically per person or per carload, with double features often included in one price. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current pricing information. Instagram+1

While advance purchase might be available or recommended during peak seasons, tickets are often available for purchase at the gate. Checking their website is advised. Instagram

The drive-in typically operates on specific days of the week, often from Wednesday through Sunday during the summer season. Showtimes vary, so consult their schedule. Instagram

Refund policies can vary. One reviewer mentioned needing to go to the stand to request a refund, indicating it's not automatic. It's crucial to understand their policy upon arrival or ticket purchase. Reddit

Drive-ins often host special events, especially around holidays like Halloween. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements about themed movie nights or special screenings. TikTok+1

🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience

Audio is typically broadcast via FM radio. You can tune your car radio to a specific frequency or use a portable radio. Some cars may have issues with automatic headlights interfering with radio use. Reddit

Yes, many visitors bring chairs or blankets to sit outside their vehicles, especially if they arrive early and secure a good spot. TikTok

The drive-in shows a variety of films, often including double features. They cater to different tastes, from family-friendly movies to more adult-oriented films. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! Drive-ins are a fantastic family outing, offering a unique and fun experience for all ages. Instagram

Bring blankets, chairs, bug spray, and any personal comfort items. Snacks and drinks are also a good idea. TikTok

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

The drive-in typically has a concession stand offering classic movie snacks like popcorn, candy, and drinks. Some reviewers mention pizza, though prices can be a point of discussion. TikTokReddit

Yes, bringing your own food and beverages is generally allowed and a popular way to save money. TikTokReddit

Being on Route 66, there are often numerous dining options nearby, ranging from fast food to local eateries. Instagram

While specific menu items aren't highlighted, classic drive-in fare like popcorn and hot dogs are usually safe bets. Bringing your own favorites is also a great option. TikTok

Some reviews suggest that concession prices, particularly for items like pizza, can be on the higher side. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the iconic marquee, the rows of cars under the stars, and the vintage atmosphere. Sunset shots with the screen in the background are also popular. TikTok+1

Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of not using flash that could disturb other moviegoers. TikTok

The Route 66 signage and the drive-in's own marquee are prime spots for memorable photos. TikTok+1

Golden hour before the movie starts offers beautiful lighting. Night shots with the screen illuminated are also iconic. TikTok

A smartphone is sufficient for casual shots, but a camera with good low-light capabilities will yield better results for night photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Route 66 Drive-In Theater is a fantastic family outing, offering a unique and fun experience that kids will love. It's a chance to break away from traditional movie theaters and enjoy entertainment under the stars. Arriving early allows families to set up blankets and chairs for a comfortable evening. TikTokInstagram

Bringing your own snacks and drinks can help keep little ones happy and manage costs. The double features mean more movie magic for your buck. It's a memorable way to create family traditions and enjoy a classic piece of Americana together. Instagram

💑 Couples & Date Nights

For a romantic and nostalgic date night, the Route 66 Drive-In Theater is an ideal choice. The intimate setting of watching a movie from your car, or lounging on a blanket under the stars, creates a special atmosphere. TikTok+2

Arriving early allows couples to enjoy the pre-movie ambiance, perhaps with a picnic basket of their favorite treats. It's a charming alternative to a crowded indoor cinema, offering a more relaxed and personal experience. TikTok

🚗 Road Trippers on Route 66

If you're cruising down the iconic Route 66, a stop at the drive-in theater is a must-do. It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this historic highway, blending automotive nostalgia with classic entertainment. TikTok+2

Plan your itinerary to include an evening here for a truly authentic Route 66 experience. It's a chance to break up a long drive with a fun, memorable activity that’s deeply rooted in American road trip culture. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Drive-In Movies

The Route 66 Drive-In Theater offers a nostalgic escape, transporting visitors back to a simpler time. Unlike modern multiplexes, the drive-in experience is about more than just the film; it's about the atmosphere. Families and couples alike find joy in the unique setting, often arriving early to claim prime spots and set up chairs or blankets outside their vehicles. TikTokInstagram+1

The dual-screen setup means more movie choices, and the double features add to the value. It's a chance to enjoy entertainment under the open sky, a stark contrast to indoor theaters. Many reviewers highlight the 'great vibes' and the overall fun of the experience, making it a memorable outing. InstagramReddit

For those on a Route 66 road trip, the drive-in is an essential stop, blending automotive history with classic entertainment. It’s a chance to create lasting memories and experience a piece of Americana that continues to charm audiences. TikTok+2

Route 66: More Than Just a Drive-In

The Route 66 Drive-In Theater is a gem situated along the legendary 'Mother Road,' a highway steeped in American history and culture. Traveling Route 66 is an adventure in itself, with countless quirky attractions, diners, and historical markers dotting its path from Chicago to Santa Monica. TikTok+2

In the vicinity of the drive-in, particularly in Springfield, Missouri, visitors can explore other Route 66 landmarks. The Route 66 Car Museum showcases a fascinating collection of vintage vehicles, offering a glimpse into automotive evolution. TikTok Additionally, Springfield is recognized as the birthplace of the drive-thru restaurant, with Red's Giant Hamburg being a notable historical site. TikTok

Visiting the drive-in theater can be seamlessly integrated into a broader Route 66 road trip, providing a perfect evening activity after a day of exploring the iconic highway. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the spirit of classic Americana and create a truly unforgettable journey. TikTok+1

Tips for a Perfect Drive-In Night

To maximize your enjoyment at the Route 66 Drive-In Theater, a little preparation goes a long way. Arriving early is key, not just for securing a good parking spot but also for settling in comfortably. Bringing blankets and chairs allows for a more relaxed viewing experience outside your car. TikTok

Audio is delivered via FM radio, so ensure your car's system is functional or bring a portable radio. Some visitors have noted that certain car models require lights to be on to use the radio, which can drain the battery. Reddit Turning off automatic headlights is also a crucial tip to avoid disturbing fellow moviegoers. TikTok

While the concession stand offers classic movie fare, consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to manage costs, as some items can be pricey. TikTokReddit Ultimately, a drive-in movie is about the shared experience and the nostalgic charm, so embrace the retro vibe and enjoy the show!

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