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The Best Drive-In and Outdoor Cinemas in Perth That Made Us Ditch Classic Theaters
Whether you’re a hardcore cinephile who quotes Tarantino and Scorsese in your sleep or just a lover boy looking for a romantic night under the stars, Perth’s drive-in and outdoor cinemas are where it’s at.
After all, no IMAX screen can rival the vibe of watching a cult classic or a trending blockbuster under the great blue sky, especially if you’re watching at spots like Galaxy Drive-In Theater or Northbridge Piazza.
Want the inside scoop on these silver screen gems? We’ll share their locations and some tips here!
Drive-In Cinema
Galaxy Drive-In Theater
Address: 159 Goollelal Dr, Kingsley
Contact Details: (08) 9409 9664
Operating Hours:
- Tue – 6 pm to 10:30 pm
- Fri to Sun – 6 pm to 10:30 pm
Don’t even think about calling yourself a movie buff if you’ve never hit up Galaxy Drive-In Theater.
This Perth staple is where we watched the latest Ryan Reynolds flick, “IF,” and the feeling of watching on a giant outdoor screen with nature as the backdrop was like being in your private cinema—with the added thrill of stargazing between scenes.
In terms of prices, the drive-in theater rolls out the red carpet Friday through Sunday, with adults shelling out $11, kids 4 to 12 for $5.50, and tiny tots under 4 for absolutely free.
The best part is if the hunger blues strike mid-movie, there’s a cafe dishing out hotdogs, burgers, and milkshakes!
Tips: Complete the Galaxy Drive-In Theater experience by snagging a few of their merch. You can also stay in the loop about new movies, specials, and more by providing your email address on the theater’s website.
Outdoor Cinemas
Northbridge Piazza
From visitperth
Address: 142 Lake St, Northbridge
Contact Details: (08) 9461 3351
Operating Hours: Daily -24 hours
Kicking back on lush and soft grass while watching a movie that won’t cause you anything? That’s Northbridge Piazza in a nutshell.
This bustling public square features a permanent LED screen that lights up the night, showcasing everything from sports and music to all kinds of movies under the sun—or moon, in this case.
They show the latest smash hits, fam-faves, and cult classics all year round. Just remember to bring your picnic gear, like cushions, foldable chairs, or rugs, as there are no seating options in the area.
Tip: Visitors will find several parking stations within walking distance of the piazza, along with street-side parking options. The nearest one is located at 68 Roe Street, Northbridge.
Kookaburra Cinema
Address: Allen Rd, Sawyers Valley
Contact Details: (08) 9397 7945
Watching at Kookaburra Cinema is a team tradition at this point, and who can blame us? The movies under the stars, with the Perth Hills’ state forest surrounding the outdoor theater, create an unbeatable atmosphere.
The only downside is they only show blockbusters from November to April, with gates swinging open at 6:30 pm (6:15 pm from March) and films rolling at 7:45 pm (7:30 pm from March). As for the prices, tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for kids.
There’s also a nearby kiosk famous for its legendary Choc Tops. But if you’re feeling fancy or looking to impress someone, reserve a picnic bench or a cozy glass table for two by calling 9397 7945.
Tip: Camping overnight is an option at the Perth Hills Discovery Center Campground, just across from the cinema. To secure your campsite, bookings must be made in advance, either online or by calling 9295 2244.
Telethon Community Cinemas
Address: Burswood Parklands, Resort Dr, Burswood
Contact Details: 0403 560 684
Operating Hours:
- Mon – 6:30 pm to 11 pm
- Tue – 10 am to 6 pm, 6:30 pm to 11 pm
- Wed – 6:30 pm to 11 pm
- Thu – 10 am to 6 pm, 6:30 pm to 11 pm
- Fri to Sat – 6:30 pm to 11 pm
Telethon Community Cinemas isn’t just an outdoor movie spot running the recent chart-toppers; it’s an all-weather film hotspot in a picturesque and calming parkland locale.
Tickets are a steal: adults at $14, seniors and students at $10, and kids aged 5 to 15 at $7. Those rolling with their loved ones can even stretch their dollar by paying just $35 for two adults and two kids.
Hunger pangs won’t interrupt your enjoyment too, as patrons can pre-order Domino’s pizzas, including gluten-free and vegan options, by 5:45 PM.
There’s also a bar dishing out wines, beers, and barista-prepped brews that would cost a fortune in regular theaters.
Tip: Group discounts are available for parties of 20 or more, with the discount amount depending on the group size, the specific screening, and any applicable concessions.
UWA Somerville
From universitywa
Address: 35, The University of Western Australia, Stirling Hwy, Crawley
Contact Details: (08) 6488 7092
If the sight and smell of Norfolk pines don’t lure you to watch a movie at UWA Somerville, nothing will.
This spot is legendary for hosting the Perth Festival’s annual Lotterywest Film Season from November to April, featuring critically acclaimed global flicks, with “Anatomy of a Fall” and “The Zone of Interest” as some of the latest and most notable titles.
When it comes to food, you can wolf down slices whipped by Charlie’s Pizza or go DIY with your own picnic baskets and booze.
Tips: For those driving to the venue, the closest parking site is Car Park 1, located on the north side of the university’s recreation center, with entry via Stirling Highway.
If you’re riding a bike, there are bicycle racks available at the entrance to Somerville, next to the said center.
Moonlight Cinema – Kings Park
Address: May Drive Parkland Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Whether it’s your mom’s go-to films from the yesteryears or the newest releases, Moonlight Cinema has you covered.
This outdoor venue offers picnic-style seating and top-notch grub, making it an amazing destination for movie buffs and picnic enjoyers.
However, it’s only open from November to March, so you have to mark your calendars or risk missing the stellar and incredibly diverse shows—the likes of “Oppenheimer,” “Mama Mia,” “Mean Girls,” and more.
Tips: Be sure to check the weather forecast before your visit. Screenings are canceled if the temperature reaches 37°C or above.
And don’t forget that the Aussie summer means lots of mosquitoes, so bring bug spray!
Camelot Outdoor Cinema – Mosman Hall
From rosiewillomusic
Address: 16 Lochee St, Mosman Park
With a history as rich as popcorn butter, Camelot Outdoor Cinema has been delivering cinematic delights for over 22 years.
Sure, ticket prices might raise an eyebrow or two—$25 for adults, $20 for concessions (including students and card holders), and $16 for kids under 15—but trust us, it’s worth every penny, given this spot’s iconic status and impeccable movie lineup.
The drawback, however, is that you have to don noise-canceling, silent disco-style headphones with individual adjustable volumes. This might be bad news to those who prefer the classic cinematic experience with booming speakers all around.
Tip: As the temperature drops after sunset, it might become slightly chilly. We suggest wearing thick clothing or bringing blankets.
Rooftop Movies – Perth City
Address: 68 Roe St
Contact Details: (08) 9227 6288
If you’re tired of the same old ground-floor cinemas, Rooftop Movies Perth’s first rooftop cinema can spice things up.
Running from October to March, this breezy and sky-high location offers a fresh take on movie nights under the stars. They show a smorgasbord of genres, from heart-pounding thrillers to tear-jerking dramas.
Regarding prices, they range from $16 to $35, with options like beanbag seating for $16 to $22, group deals for 5 or more at $19 per head, and deckchair seating for $16 to $22. For bigshots who want to get fancy, there are premium spots for $32 to $35.
Tips: Gather your group of 6 or more to enjoy a discount! For groups requiring more than 20 tickets, contact them at (08) 9227 6288 or email [email protected].
Moreover, remember that seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure prime spots.
Luna Outdoor Cinema
From starbearer4
Address: 163 Oxford St, Leederville
Contact Details: (08) 9444 4056
Operating Hours: TBA
Summer nights are always lit at the Luna Outdoor Cinema, where the latest festival heat-turners, cult classics, and arthouse gems are shown in an intimate, laid-back, courtyard setting.
Beyond the $16 to $22 movies, premium wines, beers, and numerous mouth-watering cocktails, like Sparkling Pina Coladas and Watermelon Collins, will make this spot hotter than Perth’s sun.
Tips: Patrons can enjoy films for just $16 each with a friend by paying a $25 annual joining fee. Additionally, you can receive a complimentary double pass on your birthday, so don’t forget your valid ID!
Aussie Outdoor Cinemas
Serviced Areas: Shire of Murray, Shire of Toodyay, City of Swan
Contact Details: 0411 079 422
Operating Hours: Daily – 8 am to 11 pm
Why trek for hours when you can bring the outdoor cinema experience right to your doorstep with Aussie Outdoor Cinemas? Whether you’re looking to host a backyard movie night or throw a big bash for up to 500 people, they have your back.
For a chill night with the crew, the Home Handi Theater package at $330 includes everything you need—a screen, projector, and speaker system.
There’s also the 4M Park View Hire package at $795, boasting the same perks as the first one but can handle guests of about 300 people.
However, if you truly want to go big, there’s no pick like the 6M Park View Hire at $1095, perfect for larger shindigs with up to 500 party-goers.
Tips: Add more magic to the movies by taking advantage of their game and party packages!
