Where to Watch Outdoor Cinema in New York City

There's always something magical about watching a movie under the stars, especially in New York. As the summer months bring calm evenings to the city, the Big Apple transforms into an outdoor moviegoers’ paradise — creating  the perfect backdrop for cinematic adventures across the boroughs.

Film buffs and casual viewers alike can look forward to a quintessentially New York experience this summer, as the city offers an array of exceptional outdoor screening venues. From iconic parks, to historic ships, and rooftops with stunning skyline views, enjoying outdoor movies in NYC is a fantastic way to spend the season. Here are some great spots you’ll want to be sure to visit! 

Bryant Park Paramount+ Movie Nights

Bryant Park is celebrating a true New York tradition with another great year of summer movies on the lush Midtown lawn. Every Monday night, both New Yorkers and visitors spread blankets across Bryant’s grass to enjoy classic films in the shadow of the city's skyscrapers. The lawn opens at 5pm (arrive early if you want a good spot!), and screenings begin around 8pm as the sun sets. The atmosphere is convivial and classically New York, with people picnicking and socializing before the film begins.

Free Fridays on the Intrepid

Check out the monthly Free Friday series aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum if you’re on the hunt for an experience you simply can’t have anywhere else. During summer months, the aircraft carrier's massive flight deck transforms into an open-air theater at sunset. The museum cleverly screens classic "ship-themed" films against the backdrop of the Hudson River and twinkling city lights. There's nothing quite like watching a maritime adventure while actually floating on the water!

Pride Summer Movie Nights at Rockefeller Center

In celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride, Rockefeller Center partners with NewFest (New York's leading LGBTQ+ film organization) and Universal Pictures to host special screenings throughout June. Taking place at the iconic Rockefeller Center Rink, these events showcase important and entertaining films from the LGBTQ+ community in one of the city's most recognizable locations.

Oculus Outdoors

The striking Oculus transportation hub and shopping center hosts free outdoor screenings on select Friday nights and Saturday afternoons during New York’s summer months. This year's program features a thoughtful mix: family-friendly evening films on Fridays and kid-focused movies for Saturday matinées. The futuristic architecture of the Oculus serves as a fascinating contrast to the often classic films being shown.

Seaport Cinema

Seaport Cinema at The Rooftop at Pier 17 offers a fantastic lineup of music-themed films with the Brooklyn Bridge and East River as a stunning backdrop. The elevated location provides spectacular views of the harbor and city skyline as day turns to night. Beyond the films, visitors can expect lots of special surprises (like live concerts) throughout the screening season.

Elizabeth Street Garden

Tucked away in NoLita, the charming Elizabeth Street Garden hosts Movie Night in the Garden on select Wednesdays starting at 8pm. Watching films amidst the garden's collection of sculptures and lush greenery offers an intimate, almost secret cinema experience that feels worlds away from the vibrant city streets just beyond its gates.

Union Square’s Summer in the Square

Union Square's popular summer series includes movie nights on the Central Lawn at 8pm. Bring a blanket and picnic dinner, then settle in with friends or family to enjoy films in this historic square. The contrast of classical architecture, modern buildings, and the lively energy of Union Square creates a distinctly New York viewing environment.

Movies With A View

Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy's aptly named "Movies With A View" series has become one of the city's most popular outdoor film events. Every Thursday evening in July and August, films are screened against the breathtaking backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. The wide-ranging film selection typically includes crowd-pleasing classics as well as thought-provoking contemporary works.

Skyline Drive-In NYC

Skyline Drive-In NYC in Greenpoint, Brooklyn offers a traditional drive-in movie experience right on the East River waterfront. No car? No problem! The venue also offers seating for walk-in guests, allowing everyone to enjoy spectacular Manhattan skyline views while catching big films on the massive screen. Watch a huge story…several stories high!

Central Park Conservancy Film Festival

The heart of Manhattan becomes a cinematic paradise when the Central Park Conservancy hosts its annual Film Festival. Screenings take place in the picturesque area between Sheep Meadow and 72nd Street Cross Drive, offering a serene natural setting surrounded by the park's lush landscape and framed by the city's iconic buildings.

Lincoln Center Outdoor Film Series

The legendary Lincoln Center brings its artistic expertise outdoors with free screenings on select nights in June and July. The carefully curated film selection always reflects the institution's commitment to artistic excellence and cultural flair, creating an outdoor cinema experience that's both entertaining and enriching.

Hotel Beacon is Your Perfect Home Base for Movie Magic

After an eclectic evening under the stars, there's nothing better than returning to comfortable accommodations just minutes away from these standout screens. Hotel Beacon (situated on the Upper West Side), offers the perfect home base for your New York outdoor cinema adventures. With spacious rooms, kitchenettes, and a prime location, you can easily access Central Park, Lincoln Center, and multiple subway lines to reach any outdoor screening in the city.

Before planning your cinematic tour of New York, be sure to check out Hotel Beacon's special NYC travel offers, ideal for helping you experience the best of the city and its magnificent outdoor movie scene. Your perfect New York summer story, complete with unforgettable nighttime screenings under the stars, begins right here. Plan your stay today!