New York City, one of the most iconic cities in the world, offers a host of experiences for both visitors and locals to enjoy. One of these experiences that many don’t consider is watching a movie outdoors. While you may think of the traditional movie theater experience when going to the movies, New York City has some great outdoor options too. Here are where the best places to watch outdoor movies in NYC, organized in different areas:
Upper East Side
• Central Park – Central Park is perfect for watching a movie outdoors as it features few of its own big screens that are used during the summer months. They are located in the north of the park and show a variety of family-friendly movies, as well as some blockbusters during special movie nights. It’s free to attend the shows, but it’s advised to arrive early as these shows are usually crowded and popular.
• Bryant Park – Bryant Park offers free movie screenings throughout the summer months, usually held on Tuesday evenings. It is situated in the center of midtown and there’s room for up to 2000 people. It’s advised to bring a blanket or low chair to the shows, as well as snacks and drinks as these movie events tend to run well over two hours.
Upper West Side
• Lincoln Center – The Lincoln Center is a popular destination for outdoor movie screenings that are usually held on Saturday nights between July and August. The events feature popular family-friendly movies and the screenings take place in the center’s main plaza. It is advised to arrive early and secure a good spot, bringing snacks, blankets, and chairs if needed.
• Riverside Park – Riverside Park is another perfect spot to watch a movie outdoors! It is located in the Upper West Side and features regular movie screenings throughout the summer months. The screenings are typically held at West 79th Street and feature various new and old film classics that are both family-friendly and appealing to adults.
Lower Manhattan
• Governor’s Island – Governor’s Island is the perfect spot for outdoor movie screenings and events. The year-round entertainment space usually holds screenings throughout the summer months, often paired with other activities such as food and light events. It is advised to get there early as it fills up quickly.
• South Street Seaport – Every Thursday night between April and October, South Street Seaport hosts movie screenings at the lawns of the seaport. Join for free screenings of a variety of genres, which makes this the perfect spot for both young and old to watch a movie outdoors!
Brooklyn
• Prospect Park – Every summer, the Prospect Park Alliance offers an indoor-outdoor film series on Wednesday evenings. This year’s program features a variety of movies perfect for anyone. The screenings are held in the park’s Long Meadow and are open to all.
• Brooklyn Bridge Park – Brooklyn Bridge Park is the perfect spot to spend a summer night and enjoy a movie outdoors. Events take place at Pier 5 and include movie screenings, food vendors, as well as a variety of activities that begin one hour before the start of the movie. Moreover, the park offers a wide selection of genres to choose from
Queens
• Socrates Sculpture Park – Socrates Sculpture Park is a perfect spot for movie screenings, situated in Long Island City. The park hosts free events organized by local organizations and the schedule for the summer usually includes a selection of family-friendly films, suitable for any movie lover. Moviegoers can relax with a blanket, food, and drinks as the screenings usually start shortly after sunset.
• Astoria Park – Astoria Park also offers a series of outdoor movie screenings every summer. The events generally run from May to October, featuring family-friendly movies suitable for all ages, along with a variety of activities, making it a great spot to have a fun outdoor evening with your family and friends.
These are some of the best spots to watch outdoor movies in New York City. Whether you are a local or a visitor, enjoy a night at the park or on the waterfront with a great movie, snacks, and drinks!
