Want to See a Movie with the Kids? There’s Big Fun to Be Had at the Drive-In Theater (Full Schedule)
If you’re looking for fun things to do with the whole family, check out the drive-in! There are tons of drive-in movies for kids & families that are perfect for a family night out!
The 1st 4K drive-in is right here in KC…
Also, check out our Guide to Summer Movies, and our Movie Reviews too!
What Drive-In is Near Me?
No matter what part of town you are in, there is at least one drive-in movie theater within 20-30 minutes. You can find the location of each option below the name.
Twin Drive-In Movie Theater
Independence, MO
Drive-in movies begin at 9 pm. There are 2 screens operating, so there are 2 movies to choose from each night.
Cost/How to Purchase: This theater charges by the carload – $22 per car. You can purchase tickets online beforehand or at the gate.
When: This theater plays movies every night of the week with 2 movies to choose from.
Boulevard Drive-In Theater
Kansas City, KS
This theater is showing movies only on the weekends right now. The theater gates open at 7:30 pm, so your family can get set up before it gets dark.
Cost/How to Purchase: Admission is $15 per person. They only take cash, so be sure you come with some on hand. Tickets must be bought on-site.
** Children 11 & younger are FREE!
When: Friday & Saturday each week.
The Drive-In at Midway
Paola, KS
A short drive from southern Johnson County, located between Paola & Osawatomie, off Hwy 169. They accept cash only for entry, and cards are accepted at the concession stand. Movie sound is broadcast on FM band but some spots still have the old-school drive-in speakers that hang on the window glass. Show the kids what it was like back in the day!
Gates open at 7 pm
Cash ONLY business!
Admission is $10 per person. Kids 12 and under are $3.
Tips for the Drive-In Theater:
If you’ve never been to a drive-in movie before, you may want to read over some tips on what to bring and things to consider.
The most important part of being prepared is covering all your bases. If you have small children, you know
What to Bring?
- Blankets & pillows
- Folding chairs
- Snacks
- Drinks (& a cooler)
- Cups & napkins
- Flashlight
- A bag for trash
- Bug spray
Use the Bathroom Before You Go
If you have little ones, be sure to use the bathroom before you head to the theater. Or, if you’re an adult…
Because most drive-ins are older, the bathrooms aren’t always the nicest. It can also be a long walk to the bathroom. You don’t want to miss the middle of the movie!
Arrive Early
This will allow you to set up before it gets dark or the movie starts.
There also could be a line to get tickets so you’ll want to allocate extra time just in case.
Grab a Spot Near the Exit
Your first instinct would probably be to grab a spot near the front. But parking near the exit makes things A LOT easier when the movie is over.
There can be a long line that forms when trying to leave so this may be the most important drive-in tip!
Plan for a Late Night
Oftentimes, there are two movies shown in one night. With the first movie generally beginning around 9 pm, the second movie can go past midnight.
Dress Your Children in PJs
If you have small children, consider dressing them in PJs before you head to the movie, so all you have to do is carry them up to bed after the movie night is over. Make it easy on yourself!
Don’t Stress About the Spot
No matter where you find parking inside the theater, you’ll be sure to see the screen. Both drive-in movie theaters in Kansas City offer 4K viewing, so the screens are nicer than most drive-ins.
Bring Things to Do Before the Movie
You’ll want to bring things to do between arrival when the movie starts since it can’t start until dusk. Ideas of things to bring are board games, yard games, or puzzles.
Bring Cash
most local drive-ins are older and operate as such. It’s wise to bring cash with you so that you can buy snacks or tickets if they don’t have a credit card system.
Be Patient with Your Kiddos
Small children can get antsy at the drive-in so be patient if they’re running around of fidgety. It can be a good idea to pack other things to do if some children get bored during the movie.
Pack a Backup Plan for Sound
Most drive-ins have speakers posted at each parking spot, but they aren’t the most reliable. Bring a portable radio as a backup if you’re planning to sit outside the car.
Don’t Forget the Jumper Cables
Your other option is to listen to the movie with your car speakers. If you’re listening to the movie in your car, be sure to pack jumper cables in case the car battery dies.
Be Prepared for the Kids to Ask to Sit on the Roof
If you’ve never been to a drive-in movie, many moviegoers sit on the roof of the car. As you know, kids always ask for things they see, so be prepared for the questions.
We truly love packing the kids up in their PJs and watching a movie together in the car. But if you’re looking for more ideas, bookmark our Things to Do with Kids in KC.
We hope your family has fun at the drive-in movies!
From our family to yours, iFamilyKC
