There’s only one thing better than watching a good movie: Watching a good movie outside. Something about the summer breeze and the stars twinkling overhead just makes the moment that much more memorable. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best places in Denver to sit back and relax for outdoor movie night.
🌙 Film on the Rocks (Morrison, CO)
2026 marks the 27th anniversary of Film on the Rocks, one of the largest annual outdoor movie events in Colorado. This year’s line-up from Denver Film includes classic love story “Princess Bride,” the multiple Oscar winner, “Sinners,” and indie hit “Little Miss Sunshine,” among others. Each event opens with performances from local musicians, comedians, and more — catch the August 10th screening of “Jurassic Park” featuring a pre-show talk about dinosaurs presented by official National Geographic explorer and paleontologist Tyler Lyson.
Know before you go: Film on the Rocks nights can definitely sell out, so grab your tickets asap!
🚘 88 Drive-In Theater (Commerce City)
Corvettes. Al Pacino. Green Apple and Root Beer Jelly Belly jelly beans. These are a few things that might have defined a great movie night in 1976, the year 88 Drive-In Theater opened for business. Fifty years later, the old school drive-in is still inviting people to enjoy films in its classic parking lot space, with snacks like popcorn, pizza, funnel cake, and fountain soda. Starting this weekend, on May 22, the theater will be open seven nights a week for two screenings each evening through the summer season.
Know before you go: Tickets cost just $10 per person, which includes access to both showings. Kids under 12 are always free.
🎬 Movies at McGregor (Union Station)
McGregor Square has a free outdoor movie experience right in the middle of downtown’s sky scrapers. Movies at McGregor displays high-definition films on a massive LED screen, and offers closed captioning in English. This year’s lineup starts on July 4th with a screening of “Project Hail Mary” and the season includes a mix of PG and PG-13 movies, making it a perfect event for kids or teens. Food, beverages, and alcohol are available for purchase.
Know before you go: Spots on the lawn are first-come, first-served, so arrive early and lay out a blanket to claim your space!
🍿 Outdoor Movie Series (Central Park)
The Central Park neighborhood launches their Outdoor Movie Series on June 26th with “The Princess Bride.” This family-friendly film event is held on multiple Fridays until early September. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and whatever else your group needs to feel comfortable watching movies outside — or stop by the concession stand for popcorn and other goodies.
Know before you go: This movie series has food trucks parked on site, should you want to plan on having dinner there.
