Where to watch free outdoor movies in Philly this summer
From lush parks to scenic rooftops, explore the best spots to watch movies under the stars.
Philadelphiaβs summer evenings are perfect for enjoying outdoor movie nights under the stars. Whether youβre lounging on a rooftop, nestled in a historic garden, or relaxing in one of the cityβs many beautiful parks, thereβs a screening for everyone. From timeless classics to recent blockbusters, these movie nights provide a delightful mix of entertainment for all ages.
Bring your own blankets and chairs, pack a picnic, or enjoy the snacks and drinks available at various locations. Get ready to experience the magic of cinema in unique settings across the city.
Fresh air, green landscapes, and the sun setting behind the Philly skyline β thatβs what you get at movie nights at the Schuylkill Banks. Screenings take place every Thursday around sunset and run through August. Catch the next Schuylkill Banks film either at the Grays Ferry Crescent Esplanade or by the grassy area north of the Walnut Street Bridge. Donβt forget to bring your own blanket or chair, and arrive early to find a good spot. You are welcome to bring food, but free soft pretzels, popcorn, water, sodas, and seltzers are available on-site.
- Little Miss Sunshine: π July 11, β8:30 p.m., πWalnut Street location.
- Mulan: π July 18, β8:30 p.m., πGrays Ferry Crescent Esplanade.
- 50 First Dates: π July 25, β8:20 p.m., πWalnut Street location.
- Akeelah and the Bee: π Aug. 1, β8:20 p.m., πGrays Ferry Crescent Esplanade.
- Dave: π Aug. 8, β8:15 p.m., πGrays Ferry Crescent Esplanade.
- Wonka: π Aug. 15, β8:15 p.m., πGrays Ferry Crescent Esplanade.
- Barbie: π Aug. 22, β8:00 p.m., πWalnut Street location.
Donβt let August slip away without heading to Clark Park for a free movie on the first three Fridays of the month. Screening times vary. There wonβt be snacks on-site, but you can pack a picnic or check out the local restaurant scene before or after the film. Donβt forget to RSVP!
Fridays β Times varyπ 4300-4398 Baltimore Ave.
- Men in Black: π Aug. 2
- Barbie: π Aug. 9
- Wonka: π Aug. 16
Not feeling like sitting on grass to watch an outdoor movie? Check out Sunset Social just west of the Schuylkill in University City. Located 12 stories above ground level, this rooftop bar has a 60-foot screen with the Philly skyline as a backdrop. Movies screen at 7 p.m. every Wednesday through Sept. 21. If you get hot, check out the $15 frozen cocktails.
Wednesdays β 7 p.m. π129 S. 30th St.
- Top Gun Maverick: π July 3
- Barbie: π July 10
- Dune 2: π July 17
- Spiderman: ATSV: π July 24
- Mean Girls (2024): π July 31
- Star Wars the Force Awakens: π Aug. 7
- Wonka: π Aug. 14
- Back to the Future: π Aug. 21
- Harry Potter and the Gobler of Fire: π Aug. 28
- Transformers Rise of the Beast: π Sept. 4
- Invincible: π Sept. 11
- Ghostbusters Frozen Empire: π Sept. 18
- Haunted Mansion: π Sept. 21
Let movies be an excuse to get to know other neighborhoods. Throughout summer, the Philadelphia Film Society screens a different movie in different neighborhoods. Screenings include additional fun like lawn games or bounce houses, local art performances, and snacks. Activities begin at 6 p.m.
- Creed: π July 19, β 6:00 p.m., πAwbury Rec Center at 6101 Ardleigh St.
- Men in Black: π July 26, β 6:00 p.m., πSmith Playground at 2100 S 24th St.
- 42: π Aug. 17, β 6:00 p.m., πFDR Park at 1900 Pattison Ave.
- Sing: π Aug. 30, β 6:00 p.m., πStenton Rec Center at 4600 N 16th St.
