Smith's Ranch Drive-In

Smith's Ranch Drive-In has been projecting films under the vast desert sky near Joshua Tree National Park since 1956, making it one of California's oldest continuously operating drive-in theaters. Located along Adobe Road in Twentynine Palms, the single-screen theater draws both desert locals and national park visitors exploring the high Mojave. The theater operates Thursday through Saturday, with gates opening at 5:30 PM and the movie beginning at dusk. General admission is $10, with children ages 4 and under admitted free. The star-filled desert sky and minimal light pollution create a truly magical viewing environment — one of the most atmospheric drive-in experiences anywhere in California. An on-site snack bar provides classic concession fare to complete the evening under the Mojave stars.