Get a break from the heat and head to your local movie theater for a fun, air-conditioned outing with the kids. Or enjoy an outdoor screening under the stars. Several local places are offering free and inexpensive films for families, and here’s a round-up of where to go in Austin for children’s summer movies.
Free & Cheap Summer Movies
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema’s Kids Camp is back for summer 2026 with affordable family movies playing throughout the season. This year’s lineup includes favorites like Matilda, Flow, K-Pop Demon Hunters, and more, with screenings ranging from newer animated hits to nostalgic classics.
Tickets are discounted for everyone, making this one of our favorite budget friendly ways to escape the summer heat with kids. Most screenings are for ages 3 and up, though some locations offer all ages showings, so check individual listings before booking.
— Austin Parks Foundation’s Movies in the Park
Austin Parks Foundation’s Movies in the Park series is one of our favorite easy summer traditions. Pack a picnic, relax on a blanket, and enjoy a fun night out with the family at neighborhood parks across Austin. These free movie nights usually include pre show activities, food vendors at select locations, and plenty of space for kids to spread out and play before the movie starts. Click here for this season’s schedule, or check their Facebook page here.
— Community Cinema at Community First!
Community Cinema at Community First! Village is one of the more unique outdoor movie nights around Austin, with screenings set under the stars at Community First! Village. Families can bring blankets and chairs, grab popcorn and concessions on site, and settle in for a fun mix of movies throughout the season, including upcoming screenings of GOAT, Project Hail Mary, and Superman.
Movies are free to attend, and concessions purchased onsite help support Community First! neighbors earning a dignified income through the program. It’s a really lovely way to spend a summer evening while also supporting the mission of Mobile Loaves & Fishes.
EVO Entertainment’s KidFlix summer movie series is back with 10 weeks of $1 family movies at all EVO locations. A different kid-friendly film plays each week, with morning showtimes at 10 am every day throughout the summer, especially if the kids are up early! Check the lineup.
Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas is another good option for an affordable summer movie outing thanks to discounted tixkets every Tuesday. The theaters are especially nice for families who want to make it feel a little more like a treat, with comfy recliner seating, a solid kids’ menu, and full food service during the movie. Check showtimes and locations here.
Regal Cinemas’s Summer Movie Express is back with $1 family movies running June 1 through August 13 at participating locations, including three Austin area theaters. Kid friendly films play at 11 am Monday through Thursday, making this one of the cheapest ways to escape the heat with kids this summer. Discounted snack packs and Dippin’ Dots deals are available during screenings too. Check your local theater for movie lineups and details.
— Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse
Cinemark Theatres’s Summer Movie Clubhouse returns this summer with $1.75 family movies playing Wednesdays at 9:30 am from June 1 through August 6. This year’s lineup includes favorites like Paddington, How to Train Your Dragon, A Minecraft Movie, and more. Some theaters offer additional showtimes throughout the week, so check your local location for details.
Galaxy Theater also has reduced price screenings.
Southwest Theaters has a great deal with popcorn box and a ticket.
FYI I just purchased two tickets at Alamo for their kids camp and it still came to 21.00 total because of the fees and the tickets were actually 7.00. Other theaters don’t seem to be adding on those high fees.