Some things never go out of style: a tub of popcorn, a starry night, and a double feature on an open-air screen. There’s nothing like going to one of the drive-in movie theaters in Iowa with someone special – lose yourself in a blockbuster as the last twilight fades and the dew settles onto the grass on an Iowa summer evening. There are no bad movies on nights like this, just fleeting summer moments that pass too quickly.

While these old drive-in theaters in Iowa have becomes as rare as cars with tail fins, across Iowa there are a few places where the show thankfully still goes on. Take your date or your kids out while you still can – here’s where to get a ticket to this season.

Blue Grass Drive-In
Facebook / Blue Grass Drive-In
Located in Blue Grass, this drive-in theater offers a classic experience in a facility that's completely modernized.
Blue Grass Drive, Blue Grass Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46228, USA
Facebook / Blue Grass Drive-In
The theater is near the Quad Cities. It has two fully digital screens, a modern concession stand and restroom, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The rest of the experience: right out of the 1950s!
61 Drive-In Theater
Facebook / 61 Drive In Theater
The 61 Drive-In Theatre in Delmar is one of the last and longest running drive-in theaters in the country. It offers a great deal - two movies for the price of one.
Drive-In Theater Road, Drive-In Theater Rd, Washington Township, IN 47167, USA
Facebook / 61 Drive In Theater
The 61 has lots of fun pre-movie games, including basketball, volleyball, whiffle ball, tether ball, a sand box, a swing set and train rides. Don't become so worn out you fall asleep during the movie!

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Valle Drive-in
Facebook / Valle Drive-In
Located in Newton, the Valle Drive-In was founded way back in 1949. it's the oldest drive-in in Iowa. If you have a classic car, take it to the Valle.
Valle Drive In, 4074 Hwy F48 W, Newton, IA 50208, USA
Facebook / Valle Drive-In
If you have never hung one of these on your window before, you need to head to the drive-in right now - the world's worst car's stereo will sound a lot better, but you must at least see what this sounds like!
Superior 71 Drive-In
Facebook / Superior 71 Drive In
In Spirit Lake, the Superior 71 shows first-run double features with bright and clear digital projection and sound. The sky is pretty great too.
Superior 71 Drive In Theater, 1482 300th Ave, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, USA
Facebook / Superior 71 Drive In
The concession stand has everything you need! Make sure to order the large popcorn - you don't go to the drive-in every day!

Have you been to any of these charming drive-in theaters? What did you think? Are there any other drive in’s that you think we need to cover? Once you’ve visited all of these Iowa drive-in movie theaters, check out these historic Iowa movie theaters.

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Old School Fun in Iowa

Sara Dager | May 05, 2023

Are there any old-school diners in Iowa that I can eat at?

Nothing makes me feel like I've traveled back in time quite like having a scrumptious meal at a classic diner, and the old-school ambiance somehow seems to make the food taste even better. There are lots of these gems all across Iowa where you can grab a burger, some crispy fries, and maybe even a shake if you've got room left.

The best diners in Iowa for a tasty meal are:

Where can I go antique shopping in Iowa? 

If you love shopping till you drop, but want to make sure your pieces are as unique as can be, nothing beats a good old treasure hunt for that perfect item at an antique store. Throughout the state there are shops where you can hunt down gorgeous relics from the past including clothing, jewelry, decor, and more.

The best antique stores in Iowa for treasure hunting are:

What are the most historic towns in Iowa? 

Who doesn't love discovering a new town? The shopping, dining, museums, parks, and so much more make even the smallest of villages its own adventure. What makes that adventure even better? Older architecture and a whimsical downtown to explore.

The historic towns in Iowa that you have to visit are:

  • Dubuque (founded in 1833)
  • Burlington (founded in 1833)
  • Davenport (founded in 1839)
  • Iowa City (founded in 1839)
  • Muscatine (founded in 1839)

 

 

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