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When summer comes a knockin’ you’ll want to take full advantage of the warm outdoors, and that includes a trip to the movies. Not the summer blockbusters we’ve all been dying to see, but outdoor theaters that create fun atmospheres with great food, games and classics that have stolen our hearts. There’s no need to feel like a turtle in a shell when you can enjoy the open spaces of the following five movie spots that are great alfresco summer adventures.

San Diego, CA: Cinema Under the Stars

Are you a lover of the classics?  Are you tired of watching movies while feeling squished next to a stranger?

The Cinema Under the Stars has the perfect solution to your problems, so why not chill out and watch a great classic beneath the diamond-filled sky?  As soon as the warmth of summer hits the atmosphere, residents of San Diego flock to this premier outdoor movie spot for a night to be romanced or frightened (depending on the movie) by Hollywood’s most legendary actors. 

Even if it rains, its moviegoers are well protected under the retractable dome, and they are still given the naturalistic treatment with infrared heating which mimics San Diego’s cool climate.  Just imagine enjoying the night with your eyes fixated on the big screen as classics like “Jaws”, “When Harry Met Sally” and “Sleepless in Seattle” remind you of the good old days.

Washington, D.C. NoMa Summer Screen

A vast lawn in the neighborhood of NoMa, Washington D.C. becomes the hottest local hangout when the NoMa Summer Screen officially kicks off.  Every Wednesday until Aug. 20, film buffs migrate here to enjoy a unique experience that includes picnics, delicious foods and giveaways.

What’s most important is that watching a movie here is completely free, which also makes it the perfect family outing. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or an action flick buff, basking in the cool air of D.C. while watching films like “Pitch Perfect” and “Top Gun” makes the NoMa Summer Screen experience a great way to spend a Wednesday night.  Plus, the rates at which movie tickets are skyrocketing, you'll be happy to go to the theater for free.

Colorado: Boulder Outdoor Theater

Pull up a chair at Boulder Outdoor Cinema for a blockbuster adventure that has been around since 1995. To this day the outdoor cinema continues to be a crowd-pleaser by showing a variety of oldies and goodies to attract all ages. But don’t expect typical previews to kick off this movie experience because guests are treated to so much more. 

From live music to friendly trivia competitions and short films, the Boulder Outdoor Theater is place to be every Saturday night until its last viewing on Aug. 30. So bring your chair and find the best spot behind the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art for a fun movie night surrounded by nature.

Texas: The Corral Theatre

Not even the car can come between the raw emotion of the actors and the moviegoers here, which is the experience The Corral Theatre was going for when it was built decades ago in Wimberley, Texas.  Just like a true southerner, this alfresco spot cordially takes visitors to the past with epic flicks that get better the more you watch them.  So why not change the scenery up a bit and enjoy them in the Texan flair as well? 

California: Street Food Cinema

If its name doesn’t entice you, then you’re in for one great surprise because the Street Food Cinema is a trip to the movies you will never forget.  Especially since you’ll be nestled on the grass while rubbing shoulders with Los Angeles’ finest as live music, games and sinking your teeth in cuisine served by food trucks create a vibrant atmosphere — all way before the movie starts.   

As night falls and music and lively chatter begins to calm down, it’s time for the motion picture to premiere.  When you can enjoy great music, well-cooked food and plenty of laughter with friends and family, why settle for the confined, hushed ambiance that gets upset if you barely peek at your cell phone?