Are you looking for free outdoor movies in New York City this summer?
Nothing is better than a summer evening in New York City. And on weekdays after work, my favorite thing is packing a picnic and heading to the park to watch a free outdoor movie. There is something about watching the sunset over the city that makes me happy.
If you're looking for something free and cheap in NYC, check out this list of free outdoor movies in New York City.
Where to Watch Free Outdoor Movies in New York City
Brooklyn Bridge Park
One of my favorite spots for outdoor movies in NYC is Brooklyn Bridge Park. The green is spacious, the views of lower Manhattan are incredible, and they always put on a fantastic event with food trucks, DJs, and live entertainment.
The Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy hosts these events every Thursday evening beginning July 6. Doors open at 6 pm, and the movies start at sunset.
2023 Schedule for Brooklyn Bridge Park
- July 6: E.T. Extra-Terrestrial (PG)
- July 13: Smoke Signals (PG-13)
- July 20: Top Gun (PG)
- July 27: Psycho (R)
- August 3: GoodFellas (R)
- August 10: Despicable Me (PG)
- August 17: Everything Everywhere All At Once (R)
- August 24: Public Choice: The Addams Family (PG-13), Greta Gerwig's Little Women (PG), or Romeo + Juliet (1996, PG-13). You can vote for your choice here beginning in August.
Location: Harbor View Lawn, Pier 1, 80 Furman Street, Brooklyn, NY
Bryant Park
Bryant Park's summer movie series happens every Monday night in the summer, and it is another favorite. This is one of the most popular spots for free movies in NYC, so it is recommended to get there early to grab a good spot.
Bring a blanket to sit on the lawn for the best views. Or you can also grab a seat at one of the park tables and chairs. Note that lawn chairs and beach chairs are not permitted on the lawn.
The lawn opens at 5 pm, and the movies start at 8 pm.
2023 Schedule for Paramount + Movie Nights at Bryant Park
- June 12: Almost Famous
- June 19: Dreamgirls
- June 26: Mean Girls
- July 3: School of Rock
- July 10: Roman Holiday
- July 17: Reality Bites
- July 24: Star Trek III: The Search for Spock
- July 31: Swingers
- August 7: 48 Hrs
- August 14: Zoolander
- August 21: Good Burger
Location: The Lawn at Bryant Park
Intrepid Museum
This summer, you can catch a flick on a ship because the Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum is hosting free summer movie nights. This is a great way to spend a Friday night and a unique NYC experience.
Be sure to show up early because spots fill up fast. Movies start at sundown.
2023 Schedule for Intrepid's Summer Movie Series
- June 30: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
- July 28: Crimson Tide
- August 25: Top Gun: Maverick
Location: Intrepid Museum, Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Fort Greene Park
This year the Movie Nights in Brooklyn with Paramount + start on June 29 in Fort Greene Park. Be sure to arrive early as spots fill up quickly. The movies start at sunset.
2023 Schedule for Movie Nights in Brooklyn with Paramount + at Fort Greene Park
- June 29: Marcel the Shell with Shoes On
- July 6: House Party
- July 13: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
- July 20: RRR
Location: Fort Greene Park, South Portland Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Prospect Park
Movie Nights in Brooklyn with Paramount + continue in Prospect Park beginning Thursday, June 29. The movies start at sunset.
2023 Schedule for Movie Nights in Brooklyn with Paramount + at Prospect Park
- July 26: Top Gun: Maverick
- August 2: Bring it On
- August 9: The Nutty Professor (1996)
- August 16: Guardians of the Galaxy
Location: Prospect Park Long Meadow near the Grand Army Plaza entrance.
McCarren Park
I grew up in Williamsburg and have been coming to McCarren Park for as long as I can remember. It's definitely a treat to watch a movie under the star here. Movie Nights in Brooklyn with Paramount + start in McCarren Park beginning Sunday, August 20. The movies start at sunset.
2023 Schedule for Movie Nights in Brooklyn with Paramount + at McCarren Park
- August 20: Ferris Bueller's Day Off
- August 30: Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
- September 6: Everything Everywhere All at Once
- September 13: The Big Lebowski
Location: McCarren Park, 776 Lorimer Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222
South Street Seaport
Living in lower Manhattan means spending a lot of time at the south street seaport. And the fantastic thing about the seaport is that there is always something free to do.
Seaport Cinema hosts free movies on the Rooftop on Pier 17 throughout the summer. The catch? You have to rsvp for these events on the website.
It's an awesome spot to watch a movie under the stars, with iconic views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge. Not bad for a cheap date night.
Doors open at 6:30 pm, and movies start at 7:30 pm.
2023 Schedule for Seaport Cinema
- June 20-Air Bud
- July 25-Jaws
- August 16-Step Up
- September 21-Pitch Perfect
Location: The Rooftop at Pier 17, 89 South Street
Riverside Park Pier 1
Riverside Park hosts movies every Wednesday night all summer long on Pier 1. It's a great spot to get together with friends or for date night. Seating opens at 6:30 pm, and movies start around 8:30 pm.
2023 Schedule for Riverside Park Pier 1 Picture Show
- July 5: Enchanted
- July 12: Back to the Future
- July 19: Luca
- July 26: My Cousin Vinny
- August 2: Pleasantville
- August 9: Roman Holiday
- August 16: The Terminal
Location: Riverside Park, Pier I @ 70th St.
Coney Island Flicks on the Beach
On select Monday Nights throughout the summer, Coney Island turns into an outdoor movie theater where you can watch a movie on the sand with the sound of the waves crashing nearby.
Arrive early to get a spot. Movies start at sundown.
2023 Schedule for Coney Island Flicks on the Beach
- June 26 – The Warriors (R)
- July 10 – Top Gun: Maverick (PG-13)
- July 24 – The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG)
- August 7- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (PG-13)
Lincoln Center
Lincoln Center will be hosting free films at Damrosch Park. Just be sure to show up early, as admission is first come, first served. Movies start at 9:00 pm.
2023 Schedule for Lincoln Center's Outdoor Cinema
- June 16: Love & Basketball
- June 21: Da 5 Bloods
- June 22: Style Wars
- June 23: Scratch
- June 29: Juice
- June 30: Friday
- July 12: Wild Style
- July 21: The Host
Location: Damrosch Park: Off 62nd Street, along the east side of Damrosch Park. Entry gates are between the Metropolitan Opera House and the David H. Koch Theater.
Governor's Island
We love heading to Governor's Island for the day during the summer. There is so much to do, from biking to lounging on a hammock, glamping, and even a spa.
But if you want something budget-friendly, check out the many movie nights they host this summer.
Governor's Island is only accessible by ferry, so plan ahead. You can also pick up bites right on Governor's Island, so there is no need to pack too much.
2023 Schedule for Governor's Island Free Outdoor Films
- July 7: Out of Sight
- August 11: Bend It Like Beckham
- September 1: Set It Off
Location: Governor's Island, Parade Ground
Where to watch movies under the stars in Manhattan
In addition to the above location, several NYC parks in Manhattan host movies in the park almost daily. Here is a list of the movies coming up.
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Space Jam: A New Legacy at Play Area (in Samuel N. Bennerson 2nd Playground), Manhattan
9:00 pm–12:00 am.
Thursday, June 15, 2023
The Sun Is Also A Star at James Baldwin Lawn (in St. Nicholas Park), Manhattan
9:00 pm–12:00 am.
Friday, June 16, 2023
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish at White Playground, Manhattan
9:00 pm–11:30 pm.
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Encanto at Raoul Wallenberg Playground (in Highbridge Park), Manhattan
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Tuesday, June 20, 2023
Turning Red at Cherry Tree Park Playground (in Cherry Tree Park), Manhattan
9:00 pm–11:00 pm.
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Spider-Man: No Way Home at Athletic Field (in Eugene McCabe Field), Manhattan
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Thursday, June 22, 2023
Creed II at The Jackie Robinson Park Bandshell (in Jackie Robinson Park), Manhattan
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Friday, June 23, 2023
The Woman King at Tecumseh Playground, Manhattan
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at Softball Field 1 (in Morningside Park), Manhattan
9:00 pm–11:55 pm.
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at Wagner Playground, Manhattan
8:45 pm–11:45 pm.
Where to watch outdoor movies in Brooklyn
Thursday, June 22, 2023
The Last Dragon at Brownsville Recreation Center (in Brownsville Playground), Brooklyn
8:30 pm–10:15 pm.
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Minions: The Rise of Gru at Multipurpose Area (in Tilden Playground), Brooklyn
8:30 pm–10:00 pm.
Sunday, June 25, 2023
DC League of Super-Pets at Main Garden Area (in Amersfoort Park), Brooklyn
8:30 pm–10:15 pm.
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Minions: The Rise of Gru at Lawn Area (in Bensonhurst Park), Brooklyn
8:30 pm–10:00 pm.
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Minions: The Rise Of Gru at Betsy Head Memorial Playground (in Betsy Head Park), Brooklyn
8:30 pm–10:00 pm.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at Entrance – East 88th Street and Seaview Avenue (in Canarsie Park), Brooklyn
8:30 pm–11:40 pm.
Friday, June 30, 2023
DC League of Super-Pets at Lawn Area – Richards St. and Verona St. (in Coffey Park), Brooklyn
8:30 pm–10:15 pm.
Where to Watch Free Summer Movies Night in the Bronx
Friday, June 16, 2023
Thor: Love and Thunder at Basketball Courts (in Harding Park), Bronx
9:00 pm–11:30 pm.
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at Play Area (in Nelson Playground), Bronx
9:00 pm–11:59 pm.
Sunday, June 18, 2023
DC League of Super-Pets at Entrance – West 231st Street and Riverdale Avenue (in Ewen Park), Bronx
9:00 pm–11:30 pm.
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Minions: Rise of Gru at North Picnic Area (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Thursday, June 22, 2023
Lightyear at Basketball Court (in Playground 52 LII), Bronx
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish at Play Area (in Pontiac Playground), Bronx
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at Entrance – University Ave and Wagner Avenue (in Devoe Park), Bronx
8:30 pm–11:00 pm.
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Sing 2 at Entrance – University Ave and Wagner Avenue (in Devoe Park), Bronx
9:00 pm–11:45 pm.
Friday, June 30, 2023
Turning Red at Parque De Los Ninos (in Bronx River Parkway), Bronx
12:00 am–12:00 am.
Saturday, July 8, 2023
Sing 2 at Main Entrance (in Seton Park), Bronx
8:30 pm–11:30 pm.
Saturday, July 22, 2023
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at Entrance – University Ave and Wagner Avenue (in Devoe Park), Bronx
8:30 pm–11:00 pm.
Free Summer Movie Nights in Queens
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Coco at Plaza (in Travers Park), Queens
9:00 pm–10:45 pm.
Sunday, June 18, 2023
The Princess and The Frog at Multi-Purpose Play Area (in Russell Sage Playground), Queens
9:00 pm–10:40 pm.
Friday, June 23, 2023
Tom and Jerry at Ballfield (in Reiff Playground), Queens
8:15 pm–9:55 pm.
Finding Nemo at Entrance – 43rd Street and Skillman Ave (in Torsney Playground), Queens
8:30 pm–10:10 pm.
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings at Play Area (in Bowne Playground), Queens
8:30 pm–10:45 pm.
Sunday, June 25, 2023
Turning Red at Plaza (in Travers Park), Queens
8:30 pm–10:10 pm.
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Encanto at Vernon Boulevard and Main Avenue (in Hallets Cove Playground), Queens
8:30 pm–10:10 pm.
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Top Gun: Maverick | PG-13 at Elmhurst Park, Queens
8:30 pm–10:45 pm.
Friday, June 30, 2023
DC League of Super-Pets at Highland Park
8:30 pm–10:00 pm.
Sunday, July 2, 2023
Lightyear at Multipurpose Hard Top Area (in Astoria Heights Playground), Queens
9:05 pm–10:45 pm.
Wednesday, July 5, 2023
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish at Katzman Playground (in Yellowstone Park), Queens.
9:10 pm–10:50 pm.
Where to find a free movie night in Staten Island
Friday, June 16, 2023
Finding Nemo at Play Area (in Arrochar Playground), Staten Island
9:00 pm–11:00 pm.
Saturday, June 17, 2023
A Man Called Otto at Great Lawn (in Conference House Park), Staten Island. This is an Accessible location
9:00 pm–11:30 pm.
Friday, June 23, 2023
Hook at Cedar Grove Beach (in Great Kills Park), Staten Island
9:00 pm–11:30 pm.
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Lady and the Tramp (1955) at Forest Avenue and Silver Lake Park Road (in Silver Lake Park), Staten Island
9:00 pm–11:30 pm.
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Lightyear at Play Area (in Lieutenant John H. Martinson Playground), Staten Island
9:00 pm–11:00 pm.
Friday, June 30, 2023
Lilo & Stitch at Lower Parking Lot (in Greenbelt Recreation Center), Staten Island
9:00 pm–11:00 pm.
Tips for Watching an outdoor movie in NYC
- Double Check the schedules before heading out, as the schedules posted below are subject to change or cancellation. I have done my best to include links where available.
- Get there early. Locations like Bryant Park and the Intrepid Fill up Quickly, so if you want a spot, get there early.
- Bring a Blanket and/or something comfy to sit on.
- Movies usually start at sundown, so pack a picnic, a good book, or a deck of playing cards.
- No Glass. Some of you may want wine. Technically Alcohol is not permitted. However, if you must decant it into a nonglass container. I like to use my S'well bottle.
- Clean Up After Yourself. This is one of my favorite things to do in NYC. Don't ruin it for your neighbors.
- Unplug. Instagram and Facebook will be there when the movie is over. This is a great time to just live in the moment.
Looking for more ideas of things to do this summer in NYC. Check out our NYC Summer Bucket List with ideas that will keep you busy all summer (and on a budget)
Map of where to watch free outdoor movies in New York City
Free Summer Movies in NYC: FAQs
What are movies under the stars?
Movies Under the Stars is a free outdoor movie series in parks throughout New York City. The movies are shown on large inflatable screens or projectors and feature classic and new films.
Where can I watch a free summer movie in NYC?
You can catch free outdoor movies in parks across New York City, including Bryant Park, Central Park, Prospect Park, and more.
When do movies start?
Most outdoor movies begin shortly after sundown (usually around 8:30 pm). Be sure to check the specific showing time for each movie, as they can vary by location.
What should I bring with me?
Bring a blanket or something comfortable to sit on and maybe a picnic dinner or snacks. Some parks also allow you to bring your own beverages (non-alcoholic only!), but check with the park beforehand. Please note that some locations do not permit chairs or inflatables, so plan accordingly.
Are the movies suitable for children?
Most of the films shown are family-friendly, so feel free to bring along the kids! However, it's always a good idea to double-check the ratings of films before attending.
Are there restrooms available?
Yes, most parks have public restrooms available. However, depending on the park, they may be open for the movie's duration. Be sure to check with the park beforehand in case you need to plan alternative restroom arrangements.
Where can I watch old movies in New York?
You can watch classic films and new releases at various outdoor movie screenings in New York City.
What is the best time to arrive at Bryant Park Movie Nights in 2023?
It's best to arrive at Bryant Park Movie Nights when the lawn opens at 6 pm to get the best spot.
Free movie screenings in NYC (conclusion)
One of my favorite things to do in the summer months in NYC is watching a movie at a local park under the stars. Take in the views of the NYC skyline while watching your favorite film in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Or head to midtown Manhattan, where you will find several options for family-friendly flicks.
The great news is that you can find an outdoor movie for free almost every night of the week. It makes for a cheap date night or a night out with friends.
So will I see you at one of these outdoor movies?
Kevin Newcombe says
Solid
Cate says
Omg I wish we had outdoor movies here! But it’s too cold in Edmonton haha
Taima says
Ahhh..Not even in the summer.. Booo.
Eunice Tan says
Such a diverse list! Hope to get the chance to experience this in the future 🙂
Taima says
Oh. They have an amazing line up every year. Definitely the highlight of the summer.