We Aussies are in the thick of winter right now, making it the perfect time to cosy up at the movies with a bucket of popcorn and a box of Maltesers. But here’s the good news – we’re officially halfway to summer, the unofficial season of outdoor cinemas. Our deliciously balmy summer weather sets the perfect scene for sinking into a bean bag with a prosecco in hand and watching the sun dip below the horizon as a blockbuster lights up the big screen.
But if there’s one thing that takes the movie magic to the next level, it’s watching the plot unfold in a stunning location. From abandoned train tracks and cemeteries to grand castles and amphitheatres, Time Out’s global film editor worked with our travel writers around the world to curate a list of the 30 most beautiful outdoor cinemas on Earth – and four Aussie theatres cracked the list.
Westpac OpenAir, Sydney
Australia is home to loads of breathtaking outdoor theatres, but Sydney’s Westpac OpenAir took the crown as the most gorgeous alfresco cinema in the world. With the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge as its backdrop, this floating cinema at Mrs Macquaries Point in Sydney’s Botanic Gardens is nothing short of spectacular. The massive 350-square-metre, three-storey-high screen projects everything from the latest blockbusters to vintage classics. While relaxing, you can order a bottle of bubbles to wash down a picnic box or enjoy a bougie dining experience on the site’s waterside terrace.
Somerville Auditorium, Perth
Fancy watching a film in a forest? Perth Festival’s Somerville Auditorium has your bark, ranking as the 19th most beautiful outdoor cinema on Earth. From November to April, picnicking crowds sink into deckchairs and beanbags to watch an expertly curated festival programme full of world cinema and arthouse gems. This tradition has been happening since 1953, so it’s got some serious cultural clout.
Cameo Outdoor Cinema, Melbourne
Following just behind in 20th place was Cameo Outdoor Cinema in Belgrave, just a 45-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD. Set against the lush backdrop of the Dandenong Ranges, this leafy spot serves up more than just scenic views – the film lineup is top-tier too. Expect everything from Almost Famous to Z, with Hitchcock marathons and even the occasional silent flick. You can even bring your four-legged friend along for the fun!
Sun Pictures, Broome
It’s pretty cool that Australia lays claim to the world’s oldest outdoor cinema, Sun Pictures, which has been playing films in a gorgeous garden in Broome since 1916. It ranked as the 30th most gorgeous screen in the world and the fourth most beautiful in Australia. Come rain, hail or shine, you’ll find a mix of locals and backpackers gathering under the stars for one of two nightly screenings. We hear the house-made choc bombs here are the bomb (sorry, not sorry!).
Check out our full roundup of the most beautiful outdoor cinemas in the world here.