Summer Nights, Movie Nights
Movies Under The New York Stars
New York City has always been a Mecca for outdoor movies aficionado. Usually every major Park, from Central Park in Manhattan to Prospect Park in Brooklyn and the Unisphere Flushing Corona Park in Queens, will run a Summer Movie Festival during these warm months.
Although, in recent years, Outdoor Movie Nights have become so increasingly popular even with the young crowds that also the venues have become somewhat more "upbeat" and "peculiar".
This Summer, like last, we are having a great selection to choose from. From the more traditional locations that will never grow too old to unexpected ones. Whether you are visiting the city for just a few days, or are a born & bred New Yorker, a Movie under the New York Stars is something you shouldn't skip in the Summer.
Here below are some of my favorite locations - You will have a link to each website so you can check the Calendar and their Run. Usually, they are weather permitting unless noted otherwise, and always double check because some might have an unexpected age requirement (21+)
World Trade Center (Manhattan)
Movie Night at the Oculus
This is one of the newer location, just in their 2nd year! Check-out their web-site for current listings. What I love about this one, other then the incredible location of course, is that they have lounges and chairs for you, and you can choose from an array of Snacks and Drinks from all local vendors (including Eataly!) to accompany you throughout the night! Calling it just a Movie Night doesn't give it the justice it deserve. Let's put it this way, It's the closest thing to a Drive-In Experience you can find in the Middle of Manhattan.
My Important Notes: Make sure to check their web-site because you need to register in advance for these Movies! Also, see about age restrictions, on the FAQ, it appears to be 21+ even though some of the movies are more in the Teenager section if you ask me, i.e. "Mean Girls", which I can't wait to see. I'm already signed up for the August 9th Performance.
For More Official Details & Programs: https://www.tribecafilm.com/drive-in
Pier 17 South Street Seaport (Manhattan)
Movie Nights at Pier 17
What more to ask? A brand-new location, the newly opened Pier 17, and an incredible view (right under the Brooklyn Bridge) to accompany you throughout the night with movie-themed Snacks and Drinks. I signed up for the Opening Night (July 18th) 2 weeks in advance. Not only because I was dying to see the new Rooftop finally open, but they are also starting with my all-time favorite Movie -- You've Got Mail! The Movie that named my dog, an Upper West Sider Golden Retriever -- Brinkley, the Movie that made me an Upper West Sider for life, even though now I live on the East Side, the West Side will forever be my home.
My Important Notes: Doors will open at 6:30pm and the Movie starts at 8PM - You need to register on Eventbrite for the Tickets (It gets Sold-out!) Also, they invite you to bring a blanket BUT no outside chairs nor drinks of any kind including alcohol (ant not) are permitted.
For More Official Details & Programs: https://bit.ly/2Lq4wEE
Upper West Side (Manhattan)
Summer on the Hudson: Pier I Picture Show
This has always been my "go to" Summer Movie Spot since they remodeled Pier I and the Hudson River Waterfront. It was right in my backyard - I would catch a Burger from the Pier I Cafe and enjoy the Movie right by the Hudson River.
For More Official Details & Programs: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/free_summer_movies
Intrepid Museum (Manhattan)
Intrepid Movie Series
Perhaps you love Naval Ships, perhaps you are into Airplanes and Space Shuttles, or perhaps you are with your young ones (yeah, great excuse), anyhow, you shouldn't miss a movie from the upper flight deck of the Intrepid! No excuses needed here.
For More Official Details & Programs: Admission Tickets are free distributed on a first-come, first-served basis right before the show. Door opens at 7:00pm & Movie starts at sunset (weather permitting.) https://www.intrepidmuseum.org/movie-series
Bryant Park (Manhattan)
The HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
Yeah, it's crowded and yeah, it might be touristy, but it's a Classic that will never ceased to amaze you. At least once, you need to be there. It's truly quintessential New York.
For More Official Details & Programs: http://bryantpark.org/programs/movie-nights?
Prospect Park Long Meadow (Brooklyn)
A Summer Movie Under the Stars
Another traditional Summer Movie Series beloved by Brooklynites and New Yorkers alike.
For More Official Details & Programs: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/free_summer_movies
Coney Island (Brooklyn)
Coney Island Flicks on the Beach
What else can scream "Summer" more than a Movie right on the Beach? Ride the Subway to Stillwell Avenue and enjoy a day full of Fun and Entertainment on New York's Historic Beach!
For More Official Details & Programs: https://www.coneyflicks.com/
Brooklyn Bridge Park (Brooklyn)
Movies With A View!
The Name of the location says it all, can't beat the view my friend! Also, Food and Drinks will be available along the Pier 1 Promenade provided by the super tasty Smorgasburg Food Festival.
For More Official Details & Programs: https://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/event-series/movies-with-a-view
Governors Island
Escape in New York: Outdoor Films on Governors Island
Governors Island, AKA the New York Summer Island (as I call it) is a perfect location to catch a Movie right in the middle of the New York Bay! Can you imagine the view?!
For More Official Details & Programs: https://bit.ly/2NXWTa1