Outdoor movies feel just a little more special than the traditional theater. They are also a great way to soak up the mild Colorado summer nights, while watching a favorite flick with your family under the stars. Thanks to several destinations around Denver, it’s easy to find a fun production to entertain both parents and kids alike!
Outdoor Movie Venues Around Denver
88 Drive-In Theatre
8780 Rosemary Street
Commerce City, CO 80022
The last remaining original drive-in theater in the area, 88 Drive-In Theatre, will provide wholesome family fun. Admission is $10 per person whether you stay for one or both features, and children under 12 always get in free! Tickets are only sold at the box office for that evening’s program, which opens at 7pm. Vehicles are parked according to height so everyone can see the screen. They ask for no outside snacks, and instead to purchase some of their great tasting concessions on-site. Snacks are very reasonably priced compared to traditional movie theaters! This is a must visit at least once this summer.
Avanti F&B
3200 Pecos Street
Denver, CO 80211
Avanti F&B is a popular eatery for good reason. Their wide range of choices and expansive patio make it a destination worth visiting over and over. During the summer months, they offer weekly movies under the stars (on Thursdays) where patrons can relax while enjoying appetizers, specialty drinks, dinner specials or all of the above. It begins rolling at 8:30. Make sure to check the lineup to ensure the movie is child friendly before arriving, as not every week is geared toward family flicks.
Film on the Rocks at Red Rocks Amphiteatre
18300 W Alameda Parkway
Morrison, CO 80465
Rocks Park & Amphiteatre is a sought out venue for entertainment, and their popular Film on the Rocks events are no exception. Now in its 25th year, families have learned to purchase tickets early as they go fast! Five blockbuster movies are shown on the big screen, at dusk, throughout June, July and August. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., live entertainment starts at 7 p.m. and films begin after. Tickets start at $20 for general admission, and go up to $35 if you prefer VIP or reserved seating. Families will want to bring blankets, clothes to layer, snacks and money for on-site concessions.
Dive-in Movies at Elitch Gardens
2000 Elitch Circle
Denver, CO 80204
“DIVE”-in movies take relaxation to another level at Elitch Gardens! Head to the wave pool at Island Kingdom after a tiring day of fun to float around and enjoy a family-friendly film. Movies begin around 7:30 p.m. and are free with a daily admission or season ticket pass. This is a must for those families with older children where water safety is not an issue.
Movies at McGregor
1901 Wazee Street
Denver City, CO 80202
A 66 foot LED screen is the draw at McGregor Square, meaning it doesn’t have to be dark to be able to see the movie! This makes this specific location a great option for those with young kids who can’t hang for an entire movie after dusk. Bring a blanket and find a spot on the lawn or choose a table in the plaza — both are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Outside food and beverages are not allowed, instead plan on visiting the food hall. General admission ticket holders do not need to check-in, and can simply find a seat on the lawn. Premiere seating ticket holders will be allowed to sit under the covered terrace with eye-level views of the screen, free popcorn and table service, while also ordering food and beverages from your phone. Pricing for these amenities starts at $25.
Movies on the Green
2937 Syracuse Street
Denver, CO 80230
On the South Green in Central Park, films are shown four times throughout the summer. Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and coolers for the ultimate outdoor experience (as long as it doesn’t obstruct the view of others). It is free to attend, but they offer concessions where proceeds benefit a local nonprofit organization. Food trucks are present often as well.
Movies at the Park
4599 East Tennessee Avenue
Glendale, CO 80246
The city of Thornton hosts free weekend flicks all summer long in various parks across town, including Trail Winds Park, Community Park and Carpenter Park. Gates open at six. Movie-goers are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets and coolers but asked to please refrain from using grills and glass containers for safety. Food trucks are also on-site for those who are wanting an easy dinner and outing.
Sunset Cinema
2510 E Colfax Ave.
Denver, CO 80206
Sunset Cinema takes place in Sculpture Park at Denver Center for the Performing Arts, just outside of the Galleria next to Boettcher Concert Hall. Every summer, the event plays films that celebrate a particular genre, director, art form or theme. Along with the movie are vendors and food trucks who help to curate the experience with performances, costume contests and games that play to the yearly theme. All events are free, but they ask you to register on Eventbrite in advance. Doors open at 6:30 p.m, pre-show entertainment starts at 7 p.m. and the film begins at dusk. Limited seating is available on a first come, first serve basis, so make sure to bring chairs, blankets and other comfortable seating to make the most of the night.
Enjoy your moments under the stars, making memories this summer!
