The best outdoor cinemas in Sydney this summer

Sydney’s most stunning outdoor cinema will take over Mrs Macquaries Point again this summer, with the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge as its staggering backdrop. Running for more than 40 nights, there’s more than iconic views in store. You can expect pre-show DJs, and more dining experiences to choose from than ever before. With big-name chefs like Mike McEnearney (of Kitchen By Mike) taking charge of the nosh in previous years, you can expect that this year’s refreshments will be nothing to sneeze at.

This popular outdoor cinema experience is back in action within the beautiful surrounds of Centennial Park, screening a bunch of newly released blockbusters and beloved classics. As ever, Moonlight Cinema is a BYO-friendly event, so pack a picnic and some bubbles on ice. If you’re famously under-prepared, have no fear – there will be a phalanx of food trucks and a licensed bar for libations too. And if you’re the extra AF-type, you can bling it up with Moonlight’s Gold Grass and Platinum options.

North Sydney Oval, with its historic grandstand and views of the city lights, is a classy venue for outdoor cinema screenings. Pack your blankets and lawn chairs, hire a bean bag, or level up with a Tim Tam Lounge ticket – you will receive a reserved bean lounger, seating in a prime viewing area, and bottomless popcorn. Gates open at 6.30pm, with films commencing at sundown, and a range of food and beverages (from a full bar) are available (note: you can BYO food but not alcohol).

Nothing will come between us and a free flick – which is why we're pleased to hear that the Rocks has brought back Laneway Cinema. Every Wednesday night they're busting out the big screen and the bean bags on Atherden Street among golden sandstone buildings, cobbled lanes and food offerings aplenty. Movies include double screenings of festive favourites like Elf and Love Actually, alongside eternal classics like Forrest Gump and The Devil Wears Prada.

The last remaining drive-in movie theatre in the city is so popular that, on busy nights, it backs up traffic all the way along Reservoir Road and out onto the Great Western Motorway. So if you’re planning a commute past Prospect, you might want to check session times. We love the joint's en pointe 1950's theme, with diner food served by staff in era-appropriate costume. There are new blockbusters and classic flicks to see, and you can even catch the odd late-night horror session, if you dare. Check the program here.