The best outdoor cinemas in Melbourne
Catch cult classics and new releases under the stars this summer
Outdoor cinema season is back – and there are more options to choose from than ever. Are you keen for a classic garden cinema experience? Or what about an inner-city rooftop? You could even catch a film by the beach. These are our top choices of al fresco cinema in Melbourne. While you're planning your summer adventures, check out our favourite places to swim, and our tips on the best road trips from Melbourne.
RECOMMENDED: What to do if it rains at an outdoor cinema.
Melbourne's open-air cinemas
Moonlight Cinema
Runs from November to March.
There's nothing quite like a film under the stars in the evening cool of the Botanic Gardens. Settle back with friends and family for a movie and BYO picnic on a balmy summer night, or let one of the food trucks take care of the edibles for you.
American Express Openair Cinemas
Runs for 21 nights in November-December.
Make the most of the long summer evenings at this cinema by the sea in St Kilda. Dogs are not just tolerated at every screening, they're positively welcomed, with free canine couches and doggy treats.
Lido on the Roof
Runs from November to April.
Catch a flick with a side of rooftop views at Lido Cinema's rooftop cinema which hosts costume parties, summer releases and classic flicks.
Rooftop Cinema
Runs from December to March.
Grab a deckchair and make yourself comfortable – Melbourne's OG Rooftop Cinema hits the Curtin House to present an impressive roster of cult classics and new releases, right in the heart of the CBD.
Barefoot Cinema
Runs from December to February.
This chilled out outdoor cinema will set up in the picturesque grounds of Portsea at Point Nepean National Park, then move to the Briars Homestead in Mount Martha and end its season at Elsternwick's Rippon Lea Estate. You can watch films against the backdrop of Port Philip Bay and get stuck into food and drink from the on-site bar, various food trucks and the candy bar, where you can pick up all of your favourite movie-going snacks.
Coburg Drive-In
Runs all year round.
Make like a teenager of the 1950s and lie back on your car windscreen at Melbourne’s favourite drive-in cinema. You can roll on in, order your food from the retro diner via text message and enjoy brand new flicks.
Rooftop Cinema
Runs from December to March.
Grab a deckchair and make yourself comfortable – Melbourne's OG Rooftop Cinema hits the Curtin House to present an impressive roster of cult classics and new releases, right in the heart of the CBD.
Cameo Outdoor Cinema
Runs from November to April.
Belgrave's Cameo Cinemas operate an outdoor cinema every summer, showcasing a mix of epic summer blockbusters and quality art-house films in amongst the green forests of the Dandenong Ranges.
Gourmet Cinema
Runs for 11 nights in March.
Set on the lawns on Caufield Racecourse, Gourmet Cinema brings together food and film, showcasing the who's who of Melbourne's eateries paired with a cult film on the big screen.
Or visit a rooftop bar instead
The best rooftop bars in Melbourne
Whether you're after beers and sun or moonlight and cocktails, these high altitude drinking spots are well worth the climb.