Nights under the big screen: 5 Chicago outdoor movie venues to visit through September

Nothing says summer like seeing a movie under the stars, and Chicago has drive-in, rooftop, and park screenings across the city. Check out these five venues for outdoor movies in Chicago to plan your next night out.  

Millennium Park Summer Film Series

Although it’s more commonly known for The Bean, Lurie Garden, and the Crown Fountain, Millennium Park hosts weekly movies every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. From kids' movies to action-packed hits, there’s something for everyone at Millennium Park. 

Upcoming showings:

• My Best Friend's Wedding (PG-13) - Tuesday, August 5 at 6:30 p.m.
• Wicked (PG) - Tuesday, August 12 at 6:30 p.m.
• Pride & Prejudice (PG) - Tuesday, August 19 at 6:30 p.m.

Movies at Gallagher Way

On select Wednesdays throughout August and September, you can catch a variety of free family-friendly flicks at Gallagher Way. This venue has created a nostalgic movie list and offers food from their restaurant that you can order, including wine, charcuterie, Garrett's popcorn and more.

Upcoming showings:

• Moana 2 - Wednesday, August 13 at 7:30 p.m.
• Crazy Rich Asians - Wednesday, August 27 at 7:30 p.m.
• Space Jam - Wednesday, September 10 at 7:30 p.m.
• Remember the Titans - Wednesday, September 17 at 7:30 p.m.

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Rooftop Cinema Club Chicago

Until Monday, September 1, the Rooftop Cinema Club offers up to three different movies during the day and night at varying times. From old classics and modern films, Rooftop Cinema Club Chicago provides the perfect experience for outdoor movies in Chicago. 

Upcoming showings:

• Legally Blonde - Friday, August 1 at 4:45 p.m.
• How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days - Saturday, August 2 at 7:30 p.m.
• Inception - Thursday, August 7 at 10:15 p.m.
• The Parent Trap - Sunday, August 10 at 7:30 p.m.
• Mean Girls - Friday, August 15 at 4:45 p.m.

ChiTown Movies

Located in Chicago’s Pilsen Neighborhood is one of three drive-in movie theaters left in Illinois, ChiTown Movies. Offering food and a pet-friendly environment, viewing movies under the stars is a must-have experience this summer. Movie showings start at 8:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. on various days. 

Upcoming showings:

• Sinners - Friday, August 1 at 8:30 p.m.
• Grease - Saturday, August 2 at 8:30 p.m.
• The Notebook - Sunday, August 3 at 8:30 p.m.

Movies in the Parks

Head to the parks for outdoor movies in Chicago that run every day across the city. With movies spanning across all different genres, the Chicago Park District provides an excellent outdoor flick experience for all ages. 

Upcoming showings: 

• Captain America Brave New World - Friday, August 1, 8 p.m. at Cooper (Jack) Park
• Mary Poppins - Saturday, August 2, 8 p.m. at Belmont Harbor
• Despicable Me 4 - Thursday, August 7, 8 p.m. at Wildwood Park