For a few months each year, Boston cinephiles eschew climate-controlled living rooms and indoor theaters to take in their favorite films under the warm summer sky. Now, here’s your chance to make the most of these summer evenings and catch a film al fresco.
Thrillist published this comprehensive calendar of free outdoor movies in the Boston area this summer, but here are our top 10 picks for the Northeastern community based on movie selection and proximity to campus.
All movies will start at dusk, but be sure to get there early to snag a spot with a great view.
Friday, July 24 – Young Frankenstein
Boston Harbor Hotel
The Boston Harbor Hotel will host Classic Movie Fridays all summer in its outdoor courtyard. To catch this 1974 film, take the Orange Line from Ruggles to State Street and walk 10 minutes to Rowes Wharf.
Friday, July 24 – E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade
Take a stroll along the Charles before setting up to watch this family favorite at the DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. The walk from campus is less than two miles. (Check out a full list of events happening at the Hatch Shell).
Friday, July 31 – Field of Dreams
Boston Harbor Hotel
Head back to the Boston Harbor Hotel to catch this iconic baseball movie and great views of the harbor.
Sunday, Aug. 2 – Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
Christopher Columbus Park, North End
Take the Orange Line to Haymarket and make the 10-minute walk straight to Christopher Columbus Park. You could even head over to the nearby North End for dinner before the movie.
Friday, Aug. 7 – The Big Sleep
Boston Harbor Hotel
This 1946 classic packs murder, blackmail, and a love story into one complex plotline.
Sunday, Aug. 9 – Moneyball
Christopher Columbus Park, North End
Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill star in this 2011 film about Oakland Athletics general manager Billy Beane and the tactics he used to assemble a winning baseball team.
Friday, Aug. 14 – Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
Boston Harbor Hotel
If you missed the Temple of Doom screening at Christopher Columbus Park, go to the Boston Harbor Hotel to get your Indiana Jones fix with this showing.
Thursday, Aug. 20 – Cool Runnings
Seven Hills Park, Somerville
Although this park is the farthest from campus, the movie is worth the hike and the commute is easy. Take the Red Line to the Davis Square stop and walk two minutes to Seven Hills Park.
Friday, Aug. 21 – Guardians of the Galaxy
DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade
Watch a star-studded blockbuster from 2014 under the stars.
Friday, Aug. 28 – Maleficent
DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade
Despite its fairytale roots, Maleficent isn’t just for kids. Watch Angelia Jolie’s performance in the untold story of a Disney villain.