When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown
Why Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown offers a unique and memorable way for friends to gather and enjoy films under the open sky amidst the iconic Manhattan skyline. Situated on the Skylawn rooftop of the Embassy Suites Hotel on West 37th Street, this outdoor venue provides not just a movie experience but a social event elevated by breathtaking views above Midtown’s bustling streets. Guests can choose from high-back lounge chairs or premium seats with extra cushions, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience. Each guest receives personalized over-ear headphones that block out city noise and enable private volume control, enhancing immersion without distraction. Beyond films, the venue features a full bar and curated movie snacks, elevating the communal vibe. Seasonal programming includes special themed events such as the Gilmore Girls marathon, drag nights, singles mixers, and festive Halloween screenings, making it ideal for groups seeking entertainment plus atmosphere. The setting also lends itself to photo opportunities against the impressive cityscape. With ticket prices reflecting seat choice and showtime, Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown balances affordability and exclusivity. While the screenings take place outdoors and are weather-dependent, proper preparation with sunscreen or jackets allows for enjoyable day or evening visits. This combination of quality cinema, excellent amenities, and social ambiance makes it an exceptional place to meet friends and create lasting memories in New York City.
Here's what people think of Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown
As of recent, Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown holds a 4.8-star rating based on 710 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown for its innovative blend of cinema and skyline ambiance. Many highlight the unique experience of watching movies on a rooftop with personal headphones, which effectively minimizes urban noise. Patrons appreciate the comfortable lounge seating and the ability to order snacks and drinks during the show, delivered unobtrusively without interrupting the film. The food quality receives positive remarks for an outdoor venue, with attentive and friendly service, especially noting staff members like Destiny who enhance the experience with thoughtful gestures. Guests also value the ease of access, noting its convenient location near Penn Station and available parking options, making meetups hassle-free. The variety in programming, from marathons to themed parties, adds to the appeal by catering to diverse audiences and interests. On the downside, some reviewers mention that the venue is technically on a third-floor deck rather than a true rooftop, which could be misleading. The outdoor setting means weather can affect comfort, requiring guests to dress appropriately. Another minor critique concerns the sparse initial menu, though extended options are available on request. A few noted that the age policy is mildly inconsistent in enforcement, but this does not significantly impact overall enjoyment. In conclusion, reviews reflect a highly favorable view of Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown as a stylish, fun, and socially engaging venue, with very few drawbacks compared to the memorable experience it offers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
heavenly flores
Went with my girl on a Friday evening and the vibes were great! Our showtime was at 7:30pm and honestly it was the perfect time to enjoy the sunset all while being all cozied up during the movie. It was my first time watching Love & basketball and I loved it! Staff is friendly & welcoming. I also loved their activity area to engage in before or after the movie.
Ashley Yoo
Wanting a nice ambience for a small-scale movie night, I booked this on the day of and was pleasantly surprised by how nice the atmosphere was. The seats are very comfortable and drinks and snacks available. Note - for newcomers, individual headphones are given for sound - so you can adjust the volume for your own personalized immersive experience.
Amy Kendall
5 stars for the view and comfort of premium seating. Arrival time versus time you are let in expect to wait at least 30 minutes. One bar for the entire event so get there early and grab a drink first or you’ll be waiting in line for most the night. Upgrade to premium seating for best experience! Oh, and event is on 22nd floor so when the event is over, there’s a line to take the elevator to exit the event with a massive line. *You can take stairs.
Bridget Harvey Team
Had a great experience here! They provide headphones so that you can hear the movie / the adjacent buildings can’t. Buildings on all sides so not too hot or too windy. Snacks, cocktails, nonalcoholic bevvies all available for purchase. A great night out!
beatriz amadiz
Amazing experience! It’s so cute. A great thing to do as a couple or with friends! Great movie selections as well. The weather was perfect!
How to reach Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown
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Why Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown with your friends?
Gathering at Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown offers an exceptional and memorable experience for you and your friends because it perfectly combines the joy of watching great films with the vibrant, social atmosphere of an outdoor cinema. The venue stands out with its carefully curated program featuring cult classics, beloved blockbusters, and new releases, creating a shared entertainment experience that appeals to diverse tastes. Moreover, the comfortable seating and high-quality audiovisual setup elevate every screening, allowing groups to relax and fully immerse themselves in the movie without distractions. This cinema is especially designed for social enjoyment—its unique rooftop setting in the heart of Midtown Manhattan fosters a festive vibe that encourages lively conversation and bonding both before and after the films. The affordable tickets and reasonably priced food and drinks make it easy to organize a whole evening out without breaking the bank. Whether your group is looking to celebrate a special occasion or just spend quality time together, Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown provides a stylish, fun, and inclusive environment that naturally draws friends and family to rally and make lasting memories.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown?
Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown offers much more than just straightforward movie screenings. Visitors can indulge in an engaging cinematic experience accompanied by a rich social atmosphere, ideal for groups. Aside from watching films on a large outdoor screen, attendees enjoy comfortable, well-spaced deck chairs equipped with wireless headphones that allow for clear audio without background noise interruption. This setup ensures everyone gets the best sound experience, whether they’re close to the screen or farther back, enhancing group interaction since conversations can occur quietly without missing crucial movie details. Food and beverage options are available on-site, with a menu featuring a variety of snacks, cocktails, and beverages specifically curated to complement the outdoor movie vibe. The venue also encourages sharing, making it perfect for groups to order platters or casual bites and connect through communal dining experiences. Many visitors highlight the enjoyable pre-film atmosphere, where friends can mingle, take pictures with the well-designed decor, and soak in the unique surroundings before the movie begins. These features make Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown a dynamic venue that combines entertainment, dining, and socializing in one package.
Why is Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown the perfect place for a group meetup?
For group meetups, Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown excels due to its thoughtful design and friendly service tailored to collective enjoyment. Firstly, the spacious outdoor seating arrangement is ideal for groups wanting to sit together while maintaining good sightlines and comfort for everyone. Group members can pick their seats in advance to ensure they’re seated side-by-side, which is crucial for a cohesive social experience. In addition, the venue’s location in Midtown Manhattan makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city, simplifying planning and coordination for friends or family who live in different neighborhoods. Another key consideration is the warm and attentive staff who contribute to a hassle-free experience by assisting with seating, providing information, and maintaining a welcoming environment. Many patrons praise the team’s accessibility and friendliness, which significantly enhances group visits. Lastly, the combination of a lively ambiance, enjoyable movie selections, and the availability of food and drinks creates a perfect setting for groups to celebrate, catch up, or unwind together in a relaxed yet engaging environment. All these elements make Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown a top choice to host gatherings where everyone feels involved and entertained.
What makes the movie-watching experience unique at this location?
The movie-watching experience at Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown is unique due to its open-air rooftop setting paired with high-quality audiovisual technology that creates an immersive cinema environment unlike typical theaters. Unlike indoor movie venues, guests sit under the sky, which adds an atmospheric charm that enhances the emotional impact of the films being shown. The wireless headphones provided ensure crystal clear sound without competing with city noise, allowing each viewer to tune into the movie perfectly regardless of any outside disturbances. This headphone feature also fosters a communal yet personal listening experience where viewers can hear the movie loudly and clearly while still sharing reactions and conversation with friends. The venue’s dedication to comfortable seating with spacious deck chairs and blankets available on cooler nights adds a touch of luxury and comfort rare in many city cinemas. Additionally, the venue often includes pre-movie entertainment or thematic decor linked to the film, making every screening feel like a special event rather than just a routine outing. This blend of setting, technology, comfort, and atmosphere makes Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown an elevated movie-watching experience well suited for groups seeking something different and memorable.
How accessible and convenient is Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown for visitors?
Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown is highly accessible and convenient for visitors, which adds to its appeal as a group meetup location. Situated centrally at 60 W 37th Street on the third floor, it is located within easy reach of major public transportation hubs, including subway lines and bus routes, allowing guests from all over New York City and beyond to arrive with minimal hassle. The venue’s proximity to Times Square and other Midtown landmarks means it can be part of a broader itinerary or evening plans, making it ideal for day visitors or tourists who want to combine iconic city experiences with entertainment. Ticket purchasing is straightforward, with options available online in advance, which is particularly useful for groups to secure seats together ahead of time. This online system ensures convenience and reduces waiting times on arrival. The staff at the venue are known for their helpfulness and welcoming attitude, assisting guests with any accessibility needs or seating arrangements. For groups, this means less logistical stress and more time focused on enjoying the experience. Overall, these factors make Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown a practical, easy-to-access venue that supports smooth and enjoyable group outings.
What kind of crowd and social atmosphere can you expect here?
At Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown, the crowd typically reflects a diverse mix of movie lovers, tourists, locals, and groups of friends or families, contributing to a lively yet relaxed social atmosphere. Many attendees describe the vibe as fun, vibrant, and inclusive, where people come to enjoy entertainment but also to socialize and connect with others in a unique setting. The outdoor space allows for more free movement before and after the showing, encouraging mingling and group interactions that differentiate it from more isolating traditional cinemas. The venue often attracts people who appreciate a curated film experience combined with the added value of a stylish, social outing. The audience tends to be upbeat and respectful, enhancing everyone’s comfort and overall enjoyment of the event. Whether visiting with a small circle of close friends or a larger group, the atmosphere is conducive to both lively conversations and focused movie watching. The combination of well-chosen movies, a thoughtfully designed space, and the sense of community gathered under the open sky makes this an especially appealing venue for social meetups.
What are some tips for making the most of your visit to Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown?
To maximize your enjoyment of a visit to Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown, planning ahead is key. First, booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended—especially for groups—to ensure you can reserve seats together and avoid last-minute disappointments. Arriving a bit early allows your group to settle comfortably, explore the venue, and enjoy the pre-show ambiance without rushing. Since the cinema is outdoors, it’s also smart to dress appropriately for the weather; bringing layers or a light jacket can help keep you cozy during cooler evenings. Taking advantage of the food and drink menu is another way to enhance the experience—sharing snacks and cocktails fosters a convivial spirit and extends the social time before and after the movie. Lastly, bring your camera or smartphone to capture memories; the stylish decor and unique rooftop environment provide excellent backdrops for group photos. Following these tips helps ensure your time at Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown is smooth, comfortable, and filled with fun moments shared with friends and family.