New York City is one of the most iconic cities around the world. It has a vibrant culture, popular attractions, and landmarks that have been immortalized in the movies and on-screen. From iconic settings like Central Park and the Empire State Building, to the one-of-a-kind architecture across the Island’s skyscrapers, moviegoers and TV viewers can’t help but admire the city’s charm and beauty. If you’re planning an upcoming trip to New York, consider seeing these exciting locations brought to life on the silver screen.
Friends
Few sitcoms are as iconic as the hit show Friends. The series filmed in and around several of New York’s famous locations, though most of the exterior shots were filmed in Burbank, California. While the famous daisies scene from season two took place in Central Park, the infamous ‘Central Perk Café’ still stands at 90 Bedford Street, in what is now a souvenir shop.
Seinfeld
If you’re a fan of Jerry Seinfeld, you’ll recognize a variety of locations around the Big Apple. The infamous Monk’s Café, where all of the main characters gathered together to exchange gossip, is actually the Tom’s Restaurant at 2880 Broadway. Some outdoor scenes featured in the show, such as the frozen yogurt stand, feature the Upper West Side. The show was filmed at CBS studios in Los Angeles, but fans get a taste of what the Big Apple has to offer in a variety of episodes.
Sex and the City
The legendary HBO show Sex and the City is a must-see if you’re an avid fan of the city. Carrie Bradshaw’s famous address is at 64 Perry Street in the West Village, which still stands today. You can also visit the iconic Magnolia Bakery nearby, as well as a plethora of sushi bars, boutiques, and trendy bars. The boutique where Carrie works is located at 11 E. 54th Street, and the show’s cocktail bar, Scout, can be found at 689 8th Avenue at the corner of 42nd Street.
Ghostbusters
Ghostbusters was filmed in various locations around New York City, from the Upper East Side to Tribeca. Stop by 55 Central Park West, which was used as the exterior of the Gates of Gozer building, and visit Hook and Ladder 8 firehouse, known as the Ghostbusters headquarters. You can also tour around Times Square and 5th Avenue, which featured prominently in the 1984 classic.
You’ve Got Mail
Written and directed by Nora Ephron, You’ve Got Mail was filmed in some of the apple’s most renowned locations, telling the story of two rivals in the book business. Meg Ryan’s bookstore, Shop Around the Corner, is actually located at 15 West 56th Street, and you can find the exterior of Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan’s apartments at 12 West 69th Street and 202 W. 79th Street.
When Harry Met Sally
The 1989 classic that famously ignited the debate over whether men and women can truly become friends was filmed in various locations in and around the city. You can visit Katz’s Delicatessen, located at 205 East Houston Street, where Sally famously faked her famed ‘orgasm’ among a long list of other locations, including the Upper West Side and Lincoln Center Plaza.
Spiderman Movies
You can’t talk about New York City without mentioning Spiderman. The 2002, 2004, 2007, and 2014 versions of the classic all shot some of their scenes in the city, featuring several of the iconic sights. Visit Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, where Mary Jane Watson unexpectedly encounters Peter in the first movie, and stop by 32 Prince Street to visit Aunt May’s Apartment. The Brooklyn Bridge, where Peter swings from in the film, is also a must-see.
New York City has been captured in the silver screen for decades and it’s easy to see why. From classics like When Harry Met Sally, to huge franchises like Spiderman, the city holds a certain charm, beauty, and familiar sights that appeal to moviegoers and TV viewers alike. If you’re planning a trip down to the Big Apple, make sure to visit all of these iconic locations, brought to life on the silver screen.
