Historic outdoor movie theater offering double features beneath the stars and preserving the classic drive-in cinema experience along Route 66.
Gates generally open around 6:30pm to 7:00pm
Movies begin at dusk, usually around 8:00pm to 8:40pm
Check current show schedule before visiting
Children (6–12): $4
Children 5 and under: Free
How to Get There
From Joplin (13 mi): Take I-44 east to Exit 18A toward Carthage, follow Historic Route 66 and Old 66 Boulevard east, and continue to the drive-in theater located on the western edge of Carthage.
Overview
The 66 Drive-In Theatre is one of the last remaining operating drive-in movie theaters on historic Route 66 and a cherished piece of America's automotive culture. Opened in 1949, the theater was built during the golden age of outdoor cinema, when families packed into their cars for evenings of entertainment beneath the stars. Its vintage marquee, classic ticket booth, and expansive outdoor screen continue to evoke the nostalgia of postwar road travel and small-town America.
Unlike many drive-ins that disappeared with the rise of multiplex theaters, this landmark has survived for generations and remains an active entertainment destination. Visitors can enjoy double-feature presentations from the comfort of their vehicles while experiencing a style of moviegoing that has become increasingly rare. Located directly on the Mother Road, the theater combines Route 66 history with a uniquely American tradition, making it one of the most memorable attractions in southwest Missouri for travelers and film enthusiasts alike.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the 66 Drive-In Theatre, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
