Smith's Ranch Drive-in
Twentynine Palms, CA
What Visitors Say
Smith's Ranch Drive-In offers a cherished outdoor movie experience in the high desert, combining affordable entertainment with nostalgic charm. Located near Joshua Tree National Park, this family-owned theater provides a unique cinematic experience with double features, friendly service, and a laid-back atmosphere that transports visitors back to the golden age of drive-in movies.
Based on 61 reviews
What People Love
Nostalgic Drive-In Experience
- • Preserves classic outdoor movie tradition
- • Family-friendly atmosphere
- • Affordable ticket and concession prices
Community-Oriented Operation
- • Supportive of local military families
- • Personal, hometown feel
- • Committed to maintaining drive-in cinema culture
Things to Know
Technical Limitations
- • Projector can be dim, especially for dark scenes
- • Limited movie scheduling information
💡 Insider Tips
- Bring a portable radio to avoid battery drain
- Arrive early to get the best parking spots
- Check movie schedule in advance
- Bring cash for admission
- Consider first few rows for better screen visibility
The Experience
🍿 Concessions
Affordable snack bar with diverse options including hot dogs, pretzels, and nachos. Mobile ordering available and card payments accepted.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
Kid-friendly venue with a nostalgic playground area and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
💵 Value
Very affordable pricing at $10 per adult, offering double features and competitive rates compared to indoor theaters.
🎬 Picture & Sound
FM radio sound transmission with provided radios, though screen brightness can be inconsistent.
🏢 Facilities
Clean restrooms, spacious parking, and outdoor viewing experience with desert landscape backdrop.
👥 Service
Consistently praised for friendly, helpful staff who provide personalized customer support.
🚗 Parking
Easy parking with ample space, though some reviewers suggest arriving early for best viewing spots.
About This Drive-In
The Smith's Ranch Drive-In features one screen, providing a classic drive-in experience. The box office opens at 6:30 PM, with movies starting at 7:00 PM. The drive-in has a concession stand that offers a variety of snacks including popcorn, hot dogs, and sweet treats, allowing guests to pre-order their favorites to skip the lines. Admission prices are reasonable, with kids' popcorn starting at $2.50 and large popcorn at $6.00.
Visitors are not allowed to bring outside food, and alcohol is not permitted on the premises. However, the drive-in does provide restrooms for guest convenience. Pets are not allowed, ensuring a comfortable environment for all attendees.
For those interested in catching a movie, tickets can be purchased at the gate, and the drive-in encourages guests to check their website for the current movie schedule. Smith's Ranch Drive-In continues to be a staple of the community, bringing joy and entertainment to Twentynine Palms since its inception.
Established in 1954
Features & Amenities
Policies
- Outside Food:
- not allowed
- Alcohol:
- not allowed
Snack Bar Menu
Popcorn, Drinks, Sweet Treats, Hotdogs, Soft Pretzel, Nachos
Videos
Official Website
Quick Info
- Screens
- 1
- Capacity
- 330 cars
- Admission
- Kids $2.50, Medium Popcorn $4.00, Large Popcorn $6.00, Add Popcorn Butter $1.00, Kids Drink $2.75, Medium Drink $3.50, Large Drink $4.00, Bottled Water $2.00, Snow Cones $2.00, Large Snow Cones $4.75, Ice-cream $2.00, Candy $2.50, Cotton Candy $3.00, Regular Hotdogs $5.00, Regular Pretzel $5.00, Nachos $5.75, Community Nachos $8.50, Large Dill Pickle $1.75
- Tickets
- at gate, pre-order snacks
- Box Office
- 6:30 PM
Contact & Directions
4584 Adobe RoadTwentynine Palms, CA 92277
Location & Directions
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
GPS: 34.16919, -116.05676