Outdoor Summer Movies

It's easy to find outdoor summer movies in New York City. There are many locations for viewing free flicks under the sparkling lights of the city.

Below is a great selection of outdoor movie options, offered on a regular basis, all summer long. The movies generally start around dark but it's a good idea to arrive early to get a spot.

Movies with a View - Brooklyn

When: Thursday nights, July 7 - September 1, 2011
Where: Pier 1, Brooklyn Bridge Park in Brooklyn

"Movies with a View" in Brooklyn

It's hard to beat watching a movie on a big screen with the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan as a glittering backdrop. As the movie begins, see the sun set over the city from this scenic spot in Brooklyn. To make the night even better, combine the trip with a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge.

Music starts at 6 p.m. and the movies begin at sunset. See a complete movie schedule at brooklynbridgepark.org.

Intrepid Summer Movie Series

When: Select evenings, May through August
Where: Intrepid Museum

Watching a movie on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier is certainly unique. Feel free to bring lawn chairs and food but no outside alcohol is allowed. The venue opens at 7:30 p.m. and the movies start at sunset. Space is limited.

See the movie schedule on the Intrepid Museum website.

Bryant Park Summer Film Festival

When: Monday nights, June 20 – August 22, 2011
Where: Bryant Park Lawn

A crowd at Bryant Park waits for the movie to begin.

You'll be sitting between skyscrapers when you watch a film at this Midtown park. The lawn opens at 5 p.m. for blankets and picnicking and attracts large crowds. The movies start at dusk.

For the movie line-up see the Bryant Park Film Festival webpage.

River Flicks at Hudson River Park

River Flicks offers two outdoor summer movie series', one that's kid-friendly and one for grown-up tastes. Feel free to bring chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner. River Flicks provides free popcorn; other snacks and drinks are for sale. The movies start at dusk.

River Flicks for Grown-ups