The best outdoor cinemas in Sydney
Feel like enjoying a film in a park, or by the water? Do alfresco movies like an expert with Time Out’s guide to the new summer season, from blockbusters to tearjerkers to real horror shows. Bring a rug, bring your family – some even let you bring your dog. While you're planning your summer adventures, check out these harbour islands or these tourist attractions that don't suck.
American Express Openair Cinemas Bondi
Screening fresh new releases, a couple of 2018's best plus a retro classic, American Express Openair Cinemas offers movie fanatics much more than the average cinematic experience. From January 24 to March 3, the amphitheatre and lawn of Bondi Pavilion will be taken over by a packed program of movies, live entertainment, dining and music. The Bondi season will feature exciting 2019 films including Green Book, The Hate U Give, The Front Runner, Mary Queen of Scots, Storm Boy and Glass.
Moonlight Cinema
There's nothing quite like a film under the stars in the beautiful surrounds at Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park.
Mov'in Bed Open Air Cinema
Crawl under the blankets with a glass of wine and settle in for another beautifuly curated season of movies at the Entertainment Quarter in the Showring.
Sunset Cinema
North Sydney Oval, with its historic grandstand and views of the lights of North Sydney, is a classy venue for outdoor cinema screenings, and Sunset Cinema will kick off another 10-week season on January 17. Gates open 90 minutes prior to each film commencing and a range of food and beverages is available. Join the Sunset Cinema Movie Club to get early bird ticket discounts, news, promotions and other prizes. The season's films will be announced on November 21, when ticket will go on sale.
Skyline Drive-In Blacktown
Enjoy all the holiday movies like it’s 60 years ago at Sydney’s only drive-in cinema. It’s been renovated to follow a 1950s theme, with diner food like hamburgers, hot dogs, shakes and banana splits served by staff in era-appropriate costume.
More outdoor action...
The best picnic spots in Sydney
What could be more romantic than a picnic packed for two and sweeping harbour views? Where else could you organise a long, lazy lunch for a big group of friends? Or, an impromptu dinner date alfresco? Cancel your restaurant booking and head to one of these top places to enjoy a picnic. We’ve called ahead to find out if there’s parking, toilets and barbecues too. You can thank us later.
