Melbourne is full of incredible cinemas for you to enjoy at any time of year. But, the summer months are extra special for film buffs. As the days warm up, a series of open-air cinemas open their doors for magical movie nights under the stars. Some of these enchanting venues are open all summer long, and some are only showing films for a limited time. From rooftop cinemas to leafy backdrops, there’s plenty of charming outdoor cinemas for you to check out in Melbourne. Don’t forget to layer up or bring a blanket, in case the weather changes, and wear insect repellent just in case. Then, grab your popcorn, find a cosy spot, and let these outdoor cinemas around Melbourne take you on an unforgettable adventure.
1. Moonlight Cinema
Relax at this iconic outdoor cinema in the heart of Melbourne. Bring your own picnic blanket or recline on a bean bag, and settle in for a summer of blockbuster hits and family favourites. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drink, but if you forget, there’s also a selection of hot food, movie snacks and drinks for you to purchase on-site. Dogs are welcome to come along too! Moonlight Cinema is on from December 1 to March 30.
📍Central Lawn, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, VIC 3004
2. Lido on the Roof
Head up to the rooftop at Lido Cinemas and enjoy sunset views with a drink from the bar. Then, take your seat and watch new releases and older gems under the stars. See what’s coming up at Lido on the Roof here.
📍675 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122
3. Palace Penny Lane Cinema
A new cinema is coming to Moonee Ponds. At Palace Penny Lane Cinema, you’ll find plenty of traditional screens indoors, as well as a charming rooftop cinema. This venue will open on Thursday December 21.
📍17 Puckle St, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039, Australia
4. Classic Rooftop
Grab a drink from the bar and take in the view at Classic Rooftop. There’s plenty of cocktails, wine and beer try, as well as snacks like a cheese platter, nachos and a classic Choc-Top. You’ll find plenty of fresh Hollywood blockbusters and cult-classics at this open-air cinema. Learn more here.
📍9 Gordon St, Elsternwick VIC 3185
5. Village Cinemas Coburg Drive-In
Take a step back in time, fill your car with friends and drive over to the Coburg Drive-In. Watch the newest releases projected onto 33-metre-wide screens, and enjoy the film from the comfort of your car. Order food from the retro, American-style diner, including burgers, fried chicken and donuts. Otherwise, there’s classic movie snacks like popcorn and ice cream. Dogs are welcome to come along. Find out more here.
📍155 Newlands Rd, Coburg North VIC 3058
6. Cameo Outdoor Cinema
You’ll find Cameo Outdoor Cinema nestled within the Dandenongs. Take your seat on the rolling green lawn, and watch a movie surrounded by lush greenery. There is a licensed bar serving up food and drink, and well-behaved dogs are welcome to come along. See what’s playing here.
📍1628 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave VIC 3160
7. Cinema in the Vines
Drive out of Melbourne this December and catch blockbusters and comforting favourites at this outdoor cinema in the Yarra Valley. Tokar Estate has teamed up with Offshore Cinema to present Cinema in the Vines every Friday and Saturday this December. Watch a movie while enjoying delicious food and estate grown wine. More details here.
📍6 Maddens Ln, Coldstream VIC 3770
8. The Sunset Cinema
The Sunset Cinema, previously known as Barefoot Cinema, is taking over Mount Martha and St Kilda this summer. Hire some seating, or bring along your own pillows and rugs to the experience. You can bring your own food, but snacks, hot meals and drinks are also available for purchase. You’ll find The Sunset Cinema at The Briars in Mount Martha from December 20 to January 20, and in St Kilda Botanical Gardens from February 1 to March 9. Learn more here.
📍The Briars, 450 Nepean Hwy, Mount Martha, VIC, 3934 and St Kilda Botanical Gardens, 54 Blessington St, St Kilda VIC 3182
9. Dromana 3 Drive-In
Spending your summer along the Mornington Peninsula? Drive over to Dromana 3 Drive-In, and watch plenty of blockbusters from the comfort of your car. Arrive early and grab a bite to eat from the 50s-style Shel’s Diner, or order food straight to your car. For more information, click here.
📍133 Nepean Hwy, Dromana VIC 3936