Where did the summer go? There’s still time for great weather and outdoor activities. The best outdoor theaters in Detroit provide us with amusement and community gathering as we face the end of another summer in Detroit. We all got cozy and comfortable with our movies at home last summer, but the uniqueness of outdoor theatres on a big screen convince the locals to enjoy the simplicity of the city more often.
Detroitisit rounded up a list of 6 of the best outdoor theaters in Detroit to save you the search. Grab your tickets and enjoy the show!
NEW CENTER PARK
The live performances may be over for this summer, but there are still movies showing this August! There’s always next summer to get in on the fun from the start. New Center Park provides the perfect mix of old and new films in the open air. We know everyone has enjoyed this summer for the sole reason that masks weren’t a necessity. All films are free of cost. Doors open at 8:00 p.m. and movies begin at dusk. Any film cancellations due to inclement weather are announced via social media. Next dates: Aug.5, 12, 19, 26. What better way to end the summer than soaking in the rest of the warm, summer air and the latest Batman movie, The Batman? View their site HERE.
Located at: 2998 West Grand Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48202. 313-420-6002
FORD DRIVE-IN
FORD DRIVE-IN THEATRE, PHOTO J MICALLEF / PINTEREST
This list of outdoor theaters in Detroit is highlighting a favorite for many west-side Detroiters, this Dearborn drive-in has five screens, most of which show double features. A few current films showing include Jurassic World Dominion, Top Gun: Maverick, and Friday The 13th (1980). Tickets for the Ford theater are charged by the head, and concessions are offered in the middle of the park. Make sure to check out their schedule to stay up with their stellar double features!
Located at: 10400 Ford Rd, Dearborn, MI. 48126. 313- 846-6910
MACOMB COUNTY DRIVE-IN
Make your next date night a dark night out, enjoying a classic movie at the Macomb County Drive-in. This drive-in shows its films on a large, LED screen, ensuring quality viewing for all individuals. Cost is established per car, and food trucks serving family-friendly cuisine are on-site for anyone that flies through their popcorn bag. Macomb County Drive-In took a break in July, but check their website HERE for when they share their late summer/fall schedule.
Located at: Freedom Hill County Park 14900 Metro Parkway, Sterling Heights, MI
PHOTO DIGGING DETROIT CINEMA DETROIT / PINTEREST
CINEMA DETROIT
Visit metro Detroit’s only independent cinema for a well-curated list of independent films, new releases, noir films, women-directed, and more, or opt for an at-home experience! Kino Marquee was launched by Kino Lorber in March 2020 as a new initiative to create “virtual cinemas” for independent theaters temporarily closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. It doesn’t get much easier to support your community than by watching award-winning international films, acclaimed documentaries, and restored classics on Kino Marquee. You will be directly supporting the local art house as all revenue from virtual cinemas is split 50/50 with them. Check out their full list of available films on their site HERE.
Located at: 4126 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
ARETHA FRANKLIN AMPHITHEATER
Vibe to your favorite tunes at “The Aretha.” We had to include an Outdoor theater in Detroit named after the Queen of Soul. The Aretha Franklin Amphitheater thrives on community engagement. After all, this concert space is in the heart of downtown Detroit. This modern waterfront venue is the epicenter of live entertainment in the summer for metropolitan Detroit. Breathe out on the sprawling lawn spaces atop the hill. Loyal, local, and diverse are the crowds that have helped the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre become one of the top 100 concert venues in the world. Click HERE for the event calendar and feed your (Detroit) soul!
Located at: 2600 Atwater Street, Detroit, MI 48207. 313-393-0292
PHOTO FILM LAB HAMTRAMCK-DETROIT / PINTEREST
THE FILM LAB
The Film Lab isn’t a fully outdoor theater, but it offers the option in a futuristic and neighborhood-friendly manner. This micro-theater shows an eclectic array of unique films as well as locally curated media and short films. The Film Lab is located in Hamtramck, and its outdoor patio space, complete with a big screen and personal headphones for each viewer to minimize neighborhood disruption can be found just off of Holbrook Ave. Craft Cocktails as well as a few light snacks along with popcorn are available to order both indoors and out during film showings. Private screening rooms are also available. Find Film Lab’s upcoming schedule HERE!
Located at: 3105 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212
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