Normally, we wouldn’t recommend seeing a movie while on vacation. But, when the theater is in the great outdoors — and the surrounding sights rival the big screen — we say go for it. These outdoor movie venues are so fantastic, you’ll want to keep one evening free for a “movie night” while on vacation.
Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado
Just west of Denver in the foothills, is Red Rocks Amphitheater — a legendary concert venue that’s surrounded by beautiful crimson-colored rocks that happen to be great for acoustics. The Morrison, Colorado amphitheater also shows off stunning views of the nearby Mile High City. But not only do locals come here to rock out; they also relax with movie nights in the summer. Film on the Rocks sells out fast because not only will you be treated to a movie once the sun sets, but there’s live bands and local comedians that warm up the crowd. Tickets start at $16.
Andaz Scottsdale Resort and Bungalows in Arizona
Summer classics like “Jaws,” “The Sandlot” and “The Hangover” are all on the line-up of movies playing poolside at the Andaz Scottsdale Resort and Bungalows this summer. A hip resort, with mid-century modern inspiration, the Andaz hosts its movie nights at the Turquoise Pool. Of course the sunset over the Camelback mountain makes for a dramatic preview to a movie night in the Sonoran Desert. Movie nights are complimentary for guests and $15 for non-guests.
The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, Nevada
After a couple of rowdy weekend nights in Las Vegas, wind down with a movie night in the middle of The Strip at The Cosmopolitan. Every Monday night from now until Labor Day, the Marquee at Boulevard Pool transforms into a giant movie screen for the dive-in movie series. There’s a good mix of modern movies (“A Star is Born” on July 8) and classic films (“Grease” on July 29). The pool remains open if you want to skip the lounge chair and watch while floating in the water. Also, you’ll find cinematic-themed cocktails on the bar menu (think: Nobody Puts Baby in a Corner, a vodka-grapefruit cocktail). The dive-in movies are free for hotel guests; $7 for non-hotel guests.
Aboard Princess Cruises
Admittedly, it’s tough to peel your eyes from the star-studded night skies while aboard an open deck on Princess Cruises. But, for your entertainment, the cruise ship line has an impressive open-air poolside amphitheater that shows films and sporting events (like live NFL games during football season). The ship has cozy fleece blankets available so you can cuddle up on a lounger while eating fresh-popped popcorn and watching stars of the Hollywood variety. You could also watch the big screen from the pool or hot tub.
Fontainebleau Miami Beach in Florida
The best way to watch movies at Fontainebleau Miami Beach? Grab a float and relax in the pool. Every Monday and Wednesday evening throughout the summer, family-friendly movies, like “Incredibles 2,” “Aquaman” and “Mary Poppins Returns” will be playing on a big screen by the pool. The movie nights are complimentary for guests. The dive-in movie nights are part of the Miami Beach hotel’s summer programming, which also includes pastry classes, sushi-making classes and chocolate and wine pairing events.
