Entry No. 80 — the Des Moines file — filed under: after-dark

Valle Drive-In

Iowa's oldest drive-in, running since 1949, sits about 30 miles east of Des Moines and still throws double features under the open sky from spring through October. A March 2025 tornado tore up the screen, and the crew famously reopened by showing 'Twister' once it was rebuilt. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. so you can settle in before the picture starts at dusk, with sound piped through your car radio on FM 88.7.

The move: Reserve a spot, back into a parking row with the trunk popped and blankets piled in, and watch a double feature start under the stars with the audio on your car speakers.

📍 Before you go Seasonal (roughly April-October); online vehicle reservations must be made by 6:00 p.m. day-of. Cash or credit, no rainchecks, no grilling on site. Adults $8, ages 5-11 $5.

• 📍 Newton
• 💸 $
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: 4074 Hwy F48, Newton, IA 50208

Hours: Added 2026-06-23 — confirm current hours before you go.

⚠ Seasonal or scheduled — always check before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3 · source 4

last checked: 2026-06-23