5 Spots to Watch Summer Flicks Outside in L.A.
Take your films al fresco.
There’s something to be said about watching movies beneath the summer sky’s noir blanket. And, luckily, us Angelenos have it pretty dang good—outdoor movies in L.A. screen from April to October so there’s no devastating moment when you realize the dog days are over. Screenings take place all over the city, too, from decked out rooftops to cemeteries (yup, you heard us), so choose your setting below and start poppin’ some popcorn.
For the ultimate, sky-high experience, look no further than L.A.’s Rooftop Cinema Club. With two locations—one at LEVEL in DTLA and the other at Neuehouse in Hollywood—the Club dishes out wireless headphones, spectacular city views, super comfy deck chairs and, of course, iconic movies. Want to kick back and watch Chinatown this Saturday or Murder on the Orient Express on Sunday? We’ve gotcha covered. Or take a look at their August schedule and pick what works for you.
We’re all thinking the same thing: movie theaters severely lack when it comes to good food. But that’s where Street Food Cinema comes in. Bringing together the best in pop culture films, gourmet street food and progressive new music, Street Food Cinema reinvents the traditional movie-going experience — all within a sweet outdoor setting. Set amidst different parks throughout the city each week, Street Food Cinema screenings range from old-school classics to avant-garde films, all paired with epic eats from your favorite roaming restaurants. Tacos from Los Tamaleros, anyone? We’ll bring the tequila.
Cinespia is one of the most quintessential screening experiences in Los Angeles—set within the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, no less. I mean, really, who doesn’t want to watch a classic film in a bit of a spooky setting? Pack up your blankets, folding chairs, picnic baskets and booze then head to the cemetery for a cinematic night like no other. Whether it’s for a romantic night out or to get the band together again, Cinespia serves up timeless movies like Big (August 25th, mark your calendar) and Saturday Night Fever (September 15th, we’re lookin’ at you). So don’t sleep on the graveyard shift just yet.
One of L.A.’s trendiest screening experiences is right next to E.P. & L.P. in West Hollywood which, much to your advantage, allows for an epic dinner and a movie. So before watching a cult classic or new release high atop the Melrose Rooftop Theatre, grab a bite of globally-acclaimed modern Asian cuisine from E.P. Restaurant. Then, come sunset, head up to the roof, grab a pair of wireless headphones and unwind with a tasty cocktail in hand. To be honest, we wish every movie could go down like this—delicious grub, spiked drinks and all of our film favorites.
Believe it or not, The Hollywood Bowl isn’t just for killer jam bands. On certain nights during the summer, the Bowl comes to life with iconic live scores and screenings perched high above the stage. For real—imagine watching Star Wars in an amphitheater as grandiose as Hollywood’s own. Whether you want to bring your own wine and snacks or ball out with a box to have a meal delivered straight to your seat, you really can’t go wrong. Just prepare to be in complete awe for the duration of your film.
