There are plenty of summer activities in New York City, but few are as simple—or as magical—as watching a movie outdoors with the Manhattan skyline glowing behind you.
At a Glance:
What: Free outdoor movie series at Brooklyn Bridge Park
When: Select evenings July through September
Where: Pier 1 Harbor View Lawn, Brooklyn Bridge Park
Cost: Free admission
Why Go: Watch favorite films under the stars with waterfront views of Lower Manhattan.
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Free Film Series Is Back
As most New Yorkers know (especially the natives), the best summer plans are usually the free ones. One of the best is Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Movies With A View presented by Persol, back for its 26th season. If you haven’t checked it out with the kids yet, this is a great year to go.
Photo Courtesy of Brooklyn Bridge Park/Alexa Hoyer
The Line-Up
The series runs from July 2 through August, with a family night tacked on in September. This year’s lineup opens July 2 with Hamilton, perfect for Fourth of July weekend. If you have a theater-obsessed tween, no more needs to be said.
July 16 is Bend It Like Beckham, which couldn’t be better timed with the World Cup Final happening that same weekend. August 6 brings Jurassic Park, great for family night.
The rest of the summer covers When Harry Met Sally, Clueless, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Do the Right Thing, and Bridesmaids.
A public vote in early August will determine what shows on August 27. The options are Challengers, The Great Gatsby, or Ocean’s Eleven. You can vote for your favorite at brooklynbridgepark.org
The season wraps up on September 18 with a family film night featuring How to Train Your Dragon, good for families with younger kids.
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Photo Courtesy of Brooklyn Bridge Park/John Eng
Know Before You Go
The lawn opens at 6 pm, and movies start at sunset, so get there early if you want a decent spot. Seating is first-come, first-served, and it fills up. You can bring blankets and food, but no lawn chairs, glass bottles, or outside alcohol are allowed in the park.
If you forget the snacks or would rather not pack, Fornino will be selling popcorn, water, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages for guests 21 and older.
Even if you’ve been to Movies With a View before, there’s something unique and exciting about watching a movie outdoors, stretched out on a blanket as the sun sets and the city lights come on. It’s a classic New York summer experience that feels like a movie itself, and perfect if you have out-of-town visitors or friends who are new to the city.
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