Cozy Corners in Our Universe contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.
Nestled in the heart of the charming town of Marshall, Arkansas, lies the crown jewel of this Ozark Mountain community: the Kenda Drive-In. For decades, this iconic drive-in theater has been a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Its retro charm and stunning natural surroundings make it the perfect place to take a trip back in time while enjoying a movie under the stars. From the moment you pull up to the classic marquee, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a bygone era of American cinema. So, grab your friends and family, pack your car with snacks and drinks, and get ready for a night of fun and nostalgia at the Kenda Drive-In!
What Is The Kenda Drive-In?
The Kenda Drive-In is a drive-in movie theatre in Marshall, Arkansas. It’s a place that has one ginormous central screen and multiple parking spaces in a six-acre field where cars can park. People can stay in their vehicles and watch movies being projected onto the screen. If you don’t feel like sitting in your car to watch the movies, you can set out chairs and blankets to watch the movies from there. They give you wireless old-fashioned-looking Bluetooth speakers to put in your car to hear the movie. You can also hang up the speakers on poles near every vehicle spot so if you would like to listen while your windows are down or when you are sitting outside you are able to. However, they also have a radio station that plays the audio of their movies if you would just like to have the radio on in your vehicle during the movie. Finally, they play the audio of the movie over their speakers, so no matter where you are at the drive-in, you will always be able to hear the movie. Each week they play two movies that are usually new in theatres. Sometimes they will bring back old classics if there aren’t any recently new in-demand movies to play.
Where Is the Kenda Drive-In Located?
The Kenda Drive-In is located in Marshall, Arkansas. Specifically, 107 Westwood Drive, Marshall, Arkansas 72650, United States.
Marshall is in the Ozark Mountains at the foot of the Boston Mountain Range. It’s just a short drive from the Buffalo National River. Which coincidentally was America’s first National River. It’s a great place to stay for a long weekend getaway.
When Is The Kenda Drive-In Open?
The Kenda Drive-In is open every weekend all year long! The official days that they are open are Friday through Sunday. However, in the summer, the schedule does change. For their summer schedule, the drive-in is open Thursday through Monday. The box office opens at 7 pm, and the movie generally starts around 8:15 pm, but it changes depending on the season, so make sure to check their website or Facebook page to see the official starting time.
The Kenda Drive-In is different than usual drive-ins because of the fact that it is open all year round. Most drive-ins are open for the summer but close down for the winter. Not the Kenda. Instead, they provide you with heaters in case you get cold in your car during the chillier months. It’s wonderful having a classic drive-in open all year round so no matter when you want to go; you’ll always be able to return to this retro landmark that gives you all the old fashion feels in modern day.
How Much Do Tickets Cost At Kenda Drive-In?
The box office opens at 7 pm for you to get your tickets. Tickets are:
- Ages 5 and under are free
- $2 for ages 6-11
- $6 for ages 12 and up
It is very IMPORTANT to know that they only accept cash. They do not take credit cards or any other kind of payment. They charge the exact amount, so it won’t be more than what is priced. Make sure to have enough cash for everyone in your car as well as the concession stand!
The box office is right across from the school, and the drive-in is directly behind the box office. If you get there early, you will more than likely be waiting in a line of cars. In the summer it can get very crowded on Friday-Saturday nights. So if you want to get one of the closest spots to the screen, you’ll need to be one of the first people in line. I recommend getting there by about 30 to 45 minutes before to be in a good spot.
What Is The History of The Kenda Drive-In
The Kenda Drive-In opened in 1966 by owners Kenneth and Marilyn Sanders. The couple had already been running the indoor Ken theatre in downtown Marshall when building the new outdoor drive-in theatre began. When trying to come up with a name for their new drive-in, they wanted it to be meaningful. They decided to name it the Kenda Drive-In in honor of their daughter. Unfortunately, only two years later, the indoor Ken Theatre burned down in 1968.
With the rising success of their drive-in as well as the growing popularity of others, they knew they needed more help. Ken and Marilyn decided to add their two sons, Bill and Steve, as well as their daughter Kenda to the crew. The drive-in was running all seven days long and playing up to four different movies a week. However, by the 1980s, drive-in movies became less and less popular everywhere. Even though their business took a hit due to cable and VHS tapes, they were able to get through. In 2003 Ken and Marilyn decided it was finally time to retire, and so they gave the Kenda Drive-In to the one it was named after, their daughter, Kenda, and her husband, Todd Dearing.
People from all over Arkansas and southern Missouri come to the Kenda for their old-fashioned hometown experience. There are only three drive-ins left in the state of Arkansas, and theirs is wonderfully unique.
The Kenda Drive-In Throwback Thursday
Every summer Thursday, something special comes to the Kenda Drive-In. You’ll hear rumbles of engines from years past and tunes that originated in yesteryear. That’s right; it’s classic cars night every summer Throwback Thursday at the Kenda Drive-In! During these Thursdays, they feature classic movies from the 80s, 90s, and beyond. Whether you’re a child of the 80s looking to relive your favorite films from back in the day or a younger moviegoer curious about the movies that defined a generation, Throwback Thursdays at the Kenda Drive-In is the perfect event for you. Want to hear about the best part? Admission is free! However, the field is only for 1980s cars and older. If you don’t have an older car, you will have to park on the other side of the road and come in with chairs and blankets.
You can kick back in your car, grab a bucket of popcorn and a drink, and enjoy classic films like Gremlins, Top Gun, The Breakfast Club, and many more! So, mark your calendar and get ready for a throwback movie experience you won’t forget at the Kenda Drive-In.
What Does The Kenda Drive-In Have On Their Menu?
The Kenda Drive-In’s menu is actually very expansive. They have everything from burgers, hot dogs, and BBQ to candy, popcorn, and chips. The food is so good that a lot of people will go for lunch during the week to get a burger, chicken sandwich, pulled pork sandwich, hot dog, and different styles of nachos. They are reasonably priced as well. The most expensive item on the menu is the Southwest Chicken Nachos for $7.00.
What Is There To Do Near The Kenda Drive-In?
You can do a few things near Kenda Drive-In. The biggest thing is going to the Buffalo River. Most people like kayaking or canoeing down the river. Probably the most popular thing to do, however, is tubing. Everyone brings their family and friends to the river for a weekend getaway. You can also go hiking, camping, exploring, and going on guided tours.
Another area is the town of Leslie. Leslie has a very quaint antique shopping district. There are multiple stores that are perfect for any vintage or antique shoppers.
While there isn’t much to do at night, that just makes it even more enticing to go to the Kenda Drive-In.
What Hotels Are Near The Kenda Drive-In?
While there is no official hotels here, there are plenty of wonderful vacation rental properties. Although it might not have an overwhelming number of lodging options, the ones available offer visitors a comfortable and memorable stay. Here are a few.
1. The Bridge House
Escape to Nature’s Luxury at the Bridge House, an enchanting A-Frame Tree House Chalet perched high above Tomahawk Creek at Nature’s Loft, a remote resort near Gilbert, Arkansas, and the Buffalo River. A unique 45-foot suspension bridge will lead you to this gorgeously decorated tree house, where you’ll experience all the comforts and amenities you need for a romantic getaway or solo relaxation. Luxurious bath towels await you for your hot tub experience, and bathrobes are provided for your comfort. The Bridge House is equipped with everything you need for your stay, including a full kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, a Smart TV, a cozy dining area, and an inviting living space. You can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings from the comfort of your own hot tub, while a fire pit provides the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings. With nearby activities like swimming, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking, the Bridge House is the perfect place for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.
🏨 Check Prices and Availability for the Bridge House Here 🏨
2. The Red Oak Getaway
Looking for a cozy and convenient getaway near Marshall, AR? Look no further than Red Oak Getaway, located just 9 miles north of Searcy County on Hwy. 27. This one-room cabin with a bathroom is the perfect distance from Marshall and the Buffalo River, with Crockett’s Canoe Rental just 2 miles away. With a sleeper sofa, Red Oak Getaway comfortably sleeps up to 4 people and is equipped with all the essentials you need, including linens, towels, and kitchen supplies. Relax and unwind with entertainment options like a Roku TV and games for both kids and adults. You can even enjoy a night out at the nearby Kenda Drive-In. Spend your evenings roasting marshmallows around the fire pit or enjoying the beautiful outdoors from the comfort of your own outdoor furniture. Red Oak Getaway is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
🏨 Check Prices and Availability for the Red Oak Getaway here:
Expedia | VRBO.com
3. The Buffalo River Lodge
Escape to the serene beauty of the Ozark Mountains and book your stay at this incredible lodge that sits on 63 acres of picturesque land, just 3 miles from the Buffalo River. This Stone and Wood Lodge boasts 5 suites with private bathrooms and can accommodate up to 18 guests. With a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor charcoal grill, fire pit, fireplace, and a game room, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable vacation with family and friends. Activities in the area include the Kenda Drive-In, hiking, kayaking, and fishing, and the tranquil surroundings will make you want to return every year. You can even rent kayaks and canoes from the lodge and explore the beautiful river. Book the Buffalo River Lodge now for the ultimate family reunion, corporate or private event, church retreat, or a private getaway that you’ll never forget!
🏨 Check Prices and Availability for The Buffalo River Lodge here: Expedia | VRBO.com
What Restaurants Are Near The Kenda Drive-In?
While there might not be a ton of activities to do in Marshall, the food is top-tier comfort-wise. This town has most of my favorite restaurants in all of Arkansas. Marshall has a diner-like restaurant, Mexican food, pizza, smoked meats, and the Kenda’s concession stand. Here are my top favorite places to eat at.
Boston Mountain Pizza
Boston Mountain Pizza is a little pizza place right past the Kenda Drive-In. The pizza place has a lovely aroma that hits you as soon as you walk through their door. You are immediately greeted by a warm smiley face of a woman who knows what she’s doing. She is the best waitress/manager I have ever met. Even though I will not come to town too often, she always remembers my order. The pizza is delicious, and the service is truly top-notch. On top of all that, they have a very reasonably priced RV camp in their yard. I highly suggest staying there if you are an RV owner. If you have an electric car, you can stop to plug in at one of their spaces.
Daisy Queen
Daisy Queen is that classic southern roadside diner. Great made-to-order fresh food and service with a smile. The wait time is long, but it’s worth it. There’s a reason why tourists from all over come to Daisy Queen for food. It’s so delicious that you can’t help but think about it for months after. Their menu is incredible, and all of the Southern food you could ever want they have. They have different variations of the most popular foods, like hamburgers, chicken strips, catfish, hot dogs, and more. The whole menu takes up half the wall! No matter who you are, there is something for you at the Daisy Queen.
Courseys Smoked Meat
Courseys Smoked Meat is a small family-owned business. They sell smoked turkey, bacon, cheddar, Swiss, bone and boneless ham, summer sausage, and deer sausage. I personally love their smoked turkey. You can really taste and smell the smoke coming from the meat. Most places I go to don’t smoke their meat properly, but this family does. I highly suggest stopping by and getting some to take home or use for a delicious picnic.
My Personal Journey With The Kenda Drive-in
We all have that one place in our lives that is special for us. A cozy corner in our universe, some would say…😉 One where all of the memories are pure, and no matter what, you always get drawn back to it. Well, that one place is Marshall, Arkansas, for me. I went when I was little for the first time with my family and my best friend, Stormy, to go to the Kenda-Drive-In. The drive up from mid-Arkansas was gorgeous and just long enough to feel like a real road trip. When we got to Marshall, we had amazing food at Daisy Queen and brought it into the drive-in to eat. Stormy and I played around and explored the grounds like any tweenagers would do and finally got settled in for the movie. Ever since that trip, I have made multiple journeys back by myself, with my family, friends, and loved ones. I can’t count all of the wonderful life memories I’ve made in this beautiful place.
Conclusion: How The Kenda Drive-In Is The Crown Jewel of Marshall, Arkansas.
The Kenda Drive-In is truly the Crown Jewel of Marshall, Arkansas. People from all over come to see movies in the beautiful outdoors while inside their cars. The number of delicious food options, new and classic movie choices, as well as the gorgeous surrounding nature make the Kenda Drive-in an unmissable attraction when traveling through Arkansas.
As for Marshall, Arkansas, there is just something about the spirit of this tiny town that is so calming and fun. You can just let your worries melt away and be present in the moment. Every time I come up, I feel like some part of my soul is home and that I am safe. I can’t recommend enough a visit to not only Marshall but the Kenda Drive-In, where everything is just simpler.
If you want to get to know more about me and my backstory, read my welcome blog here. Love this blog and are planning to go to Marshall, AR? Read my article on The 10 Best Products to Buy That Make Packing A Breeze for an easier trip.
