Outdoor Movies in New York City, 8 Places to Watch

Clocking in at 9.6 acres, Bryant Park is far from the largest park in New York City, but it often feels the most full. The park is nestled amidst towering skyscrapers in Midtown and attracts locals year-round. But summer seems to have the largest draw, because Bryant Park hosts nostalgic family-friend outdoor movies in NYC.

Now in its 31st season, the lawn opens every Monday at 5pm but the films don’t start until after sunset (around 8pm). Food and beverages (including beer) are available for purchase and all movies are played with subtitles, to ensure everyone enjoys the show.

Dates. Mondays from mid-June to late-August

Since 2000, Brooklyn Bridge Park has been a local hot-spot for enjoying outdoor movies in New York City. The epic Manhattan skyline looms behind the movie screen, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Family-friend movies take place every Thursday from July through August at Pier 1 Harbor View Lawn.

This event is great for the whole family because PG-13 and R rated selections are clearly noted in advance. In terms of food, feel free to bring your own, if not, there’s a slew of Time Out Market vendors dolling out drinks and food.

Food and music starts at 5pm (on the Pier 1 Promenade) and the lawn opens at 6:00pm. Movies typically begin at sundown (generally around 8pm). I suggest arriving around 4:30pm to give yourself ample time to pass through bag check, grab a bite and stake out a good spot.

Dates. Every Thursday in July and August

Good to know Chairs and pets are not allowed, but you can bring your own food and picnic blanket!

Located near Wall Street along the East River, Pier 17 is buzzing with fun events and concerts year-round. Not easily outdone, Pier 17 hosts free outdoor rooftop movies in NYC once a month in July, August and September. The rooftop (called Seaport Cinema) is one of the few places where you can watch outdoor movies in NYC on a chair rather than a picnic blanket.

As you can imagine, space is limited so arrive early to secure a spot. Due to the venue’s popularity, advance reservations are required. Doors open at 6:30pm and films begin at 7:30pm (concessions available for purchase).

Dates. Once a month in July, August & September

The Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment has teamed up with Parks & Recreation to host more than 400 movie across the five boroughs throughout the summer. From popular spots, like Prospect Park and Van Cortlandt Park, to small neighborhood parks, ensuring everyone has access to outdoor movies in NYC.

The screenings typically start mid-May and feature a diverse range of genres. The showings take place practically every day in the summer, check out the official website for the full lineup.

In collaboration with Film at Lincoln Center, Governors Island Arts hosts outdoor films on the Parade Ground ever summer. There’s typically a theme in mind (in 2023, theme was “Rule Breakers and Troublemakers”), which keeps things fun.

Screen­ings are free and open to the pub­lic with pre-show enter­tain­ment like live music kick­ing off around 7:30pm. Food and drink is avail­able for pur­chase at the Parade Ground from Piz­za Yard and Kinky Taco Truck. Just know that reaching Governors Island requires a 10-minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn ($4 per person).

Dates. Once a month in July, August and September

Swap out a picnic blanket for a beach towel at Flicks on the Beach in Coney Island. The event transforms the beach at West 12th Street into an open-air movie theater, where folks can enjoy a variety of films ranging from modern blockbusters to indie films.

The screenings take place on Mondays during July and August, starting at dusk, with festivities beginning at 7:30 pm. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own blankets or chairs to sit on the sand comfortably while watching the movies.

Dates. Mondays in July and August

Rooftop Cinema Club (at the Embassy Suites Hotel) has completely revolutionized the movie-watching experience by combining the magic of film with epic city skylines under the stars. The venue offers lounge chairs and personal headphones, which makes the experience very unique.

As for snacks, you’ll find all the usual suspect, traditional concession drinks and snack are available for purchase. When making reservations, know that guests must be 18+ for showings after 7pm. Arrive early (with your entire party) because seats are first come, first served.

Dates. May to September

Greenpoint’s Skyline Drive-In is one of the best movie outdoor movie theaters in New York City. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to own a car to catch a movie here. There’s two viewing areas. a lot for vehicles and a seating area (with chairs) for pedestrians.

Gates open 1.5 hours before showtime, concessions available onsite (popcorn, pretzels, chips). Tickets must be purchased online (in advance), there’s no ticket office on site. Also worth mention, this one of the few NYC outdoor movie venues that welcomes dogs!

Fun fact. The Skyline Drive-In is one of the best places to watch Macy’s Fourth of July Firework Show. On Independence Day they’ll clear out the cars and screens so folks can watch the show.

Dates. Subject to the weather, mostly year-round