Teepee Drive-in Theatre

The Tee Pee Drive-In, located in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, has a rich history of resilience and revival. It was built in 1949 and officially opened on May 5, 1950, with a screening of John Wayne's Tycoon. It was one of the few drive-ins at the time to have paved pathways, utilizing a material called Dustrol. Over the years, the drive-in became a beloved entertainment spot in the area. On May 5, 1960—exactly ten years after opening—a devastating F5 tornado struck Sapulpa, causing extensive damage to the theater. Remarkably, it was repaired and reopened within a month. Other setbacks included a fire in 1966 that destroyed the concession stand and multiple break-ins. Despite these challenges, the Tee Pee remained a local favorite. By the 1980s, however, the rise of indoor theaters led to a decline in drive-in popularity, and the Tee Pee closed in 1982. It briefly reopened in 1983 under new ownership but eventually shut down again in 1999, remaining abandoned for over two decades. In 2021, efforts began by Joni and Ben Kante to restore the historic drive-in. After extensive renovations, the Tee Pee Drive-In reopened on April 15, 2023, with updated amenities while maintaining its nostalgic charm. This year, in 2025, we proudly celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Tee Pee Drive-In, honoring its decades of history and community connection. The anniversary festivities will include special screenings, events, and tributes to the theater's legacy, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the magic of outdoor cinema. The Tee Pee Drive-In remains a testament to Sapulpa's rich history, blending classic Americana with modern entertainment for a new era of moviegoers. The drive-in features a paved parking surface and offers a variety of activities, including a playground and lawn games. Visitors can enjoy cozy overnight stays in authentic 1950's Spartan trailers, complete with modern amenities. The drive-in also hosts special events such as $10 Carload Wednesdays and $2 Hot Dog Thursdays, making it an accessible and fun destination for families. Additionally, the Tee Pee Drive-In has a strict no outside food policy, encouraging patrons to support the concession stand, which offers a selection of snacks and drinks. The venue is pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs, and is ADA compliant, ensuring accessibility for all guests.