Post Overview: A quick roundup of the most iconic movie locations in New York City
It wasn’t until I moved to the Big Apple that I started realizing exactly how many iconic movie locations in New York City are readily accessible to the public. Unlike most movies in L.A. that are shot in a studio, films shot in New York are authentic and filmed smack-dab in the middle of the busiest city in America. (Represent!)
Once my wife and I were strolling in Nolita and stumbled into a little cuban diner. After sitting down I started looking around and got a sense of deja vu. Justin Timberlake sat here before. I whipped out my phone and pulled up “Friends with Benefits” and voila, there was the cafe we were in! (Cafe Habana at 17 Prince St, New York, NY 10012)
My experience isn’t unique, I’m not the first to visit somewhere and realize it’s the location from a famous movie. I know I definitely won’t be the last. In an effort to narrow down which spots are worth your time I created a list of the 25 most famous movie locations in NYC.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
25 Iconic Movie Locations in New York City
#25. Ray’s Pizza
In case you didn’t know, let me give you the scoop on a New York City inside joke. There are (seemingly) hundreds of Ray’s Pizzas all across New York City. Most of them though are independently owned and operated.
This joke has been a constant one played up on film. Multiple TV show episodes and movie scenes make a play on the confusion all the Ray’s Pizzas create. But like Santa Clause said in the movie Elf, “there are, like, 30 Ray’s Pizzas. They all claim to be the original, but the real one’s on 11th.”
It’s also been a recurring snack on episodes of both Seinfeld and Sex and the City.
Movies Filmed (or mention) Ray’s Pizza:
- Elf (2003)
- Iron Man (2008)
#24. Coney Island
From The Warriors to the final battle in Spider Man: Homecoming, Coney Island has seen it all. The instantly recognizable boardwalk and rollercoasters make it one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City.
Whether you choose to spend your day on the beach or hopping on rides, it’s a can’t miss spot that’s played host to more than a few iconic film scenes.
Movies Filmed on Coney Island:
- The Wiz (1978)
- The Warriors (1979)
- Men in Black 3 (2012)
- Brooklyn (2015)
- Wonder Wheel (2017)
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
#23. Puck Building
I had been to the Puck Building a million times before realizing it’s one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City. The bottom 3 floors are the New York City flagship store of REI. I went there to buy socks not knowing it was an iconic New York City movie location! Named after Puck, from Shakespeare’s a Midsummer Night’s Dream it’s not shocking to learn the building has been used for storytelling purposes.
Movies Filmed at the Puck Building:
- When Harry met Sally… (1989)
- The January Man (1989)
- Cupid (2009)
#22. The Unisphere
At the dawn of the Space Age New York City was named host to the 1964 World Fair. Built as an attraction for the fair, the globe was dedicated to “Man’s Achievements on a Shrinking Globe in an Expanding Universe”. Since then it’s gone on to become both a designated landmark and an one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City.
Also worth mentioning for hip-hop fans, the Unisphere is prominently featured in the music videos for two of the greatest rap songs of all time. “Flava in Ya Ear” by Craig Mack and “Mo Money Mo Problems” by the Notorious B.I.G. both feature the Unisphere.
Movies Filmed at the Unisphere:
- Black Rain (1989)
- Men in Black (1997)
- Iron Man 2 (2010)
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
#21. 7B Horseshoe Bar AKA Vazacs
This beloved East Village dive bar has had quite a few appearances on the big screen. Just take a peek at the 100 year old bar’s Facebook page and you’ll notice it’s more like a fanpage than a business! But who can blame them, I sometimes stop by the bar just to get a drink and say “Michael Corleone says Hello!”.
For fans of Sex and the City, 7B Horseshoe Bar is where Carrie gets arrested for smoking pot, and subsequently let go after telling a police officer she was dumped earlier in the day via a post it note. It’s also Luke Cage’s bar in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. There’s too many appearances to list!, you’re bound to know at least one movie shot at this iconic film location in New York City.
Movies Filmed at 7B Horshoe Bar AKA Vazacs:
- Godfather II (1974)
- Serpico (1973
- Crocodile Dundee (1978)
- Rent (2005)
- What Happens in Vegas (2008)
- Begin Again (2013)
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (2016)
7B: A History in Motion Pictures from Flight Crash Companion on Vimeo.
#20. Columbia University
Columbia University has had quite a fair share of world-altering alumni walk its campus. Langston Hughes, Amelia Earhart and Barack Obama to name a few. It’s also been one of the most iconic movie locations in NYC thanks in large part to the Low Memorial Library.
Movies Filmed at Columbia University:
- The Detective (1968)
- Altered State (1980)
- Ghostbusters (1984)
- Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
- Malcolm X (1992)
- Spider-Man (2002)
- Hitch (2005)
#19. The Copacabana
Famous for being owned and operated by members of the American Mafia, the Copacabana’s infamy is unrivaled in New York City. Perhaps best known for Martin Scorcese’s masterful one shot take of Henry Hill entering the Copacabana in Goodfellas, readers will be disappointed to know it’s since moved from the original location.
Located in Times Square in present day, movie buffs can still show up for a good time at this Latin-centric club. However if you plan on attempting to enter through the back door like Henry make sure you bring a stack of 20’s. 😉
Movies Filmed at the Copacabana:
- The French Connection (1971)
- Raging Bull (1980)
- Goodfellas (1990)
- Carlito’s Way (1993)
- Green Book (2018)
#18. Katz Delicatessen
Katz Delicatessen is renowned the world over as the best deli in the United States. This New York City restaurant isn’t famous because of the movies that were shot there, the movies are shot there because Katz Deli is iconic!
Not even the stars can help but devour the mountainous pastrami on rye (and I can’t blame them). Since opening in 1888 they’ve been a staple of the Lower East Side and have come to be one of the most famous movie locations in New York City.
Movies Filmed at Katz Delicatessen:
- When Harry Met Sally… (1989)
- Donnie Brasco (1997)
- Looking for Kitty (2004)
- We Own the Night (2007)
- Enchanted (2007)
Bonus Reading: Katz Delicatessen is also listed on our post of the 10 ICONIC New York City Restaurants Every New Yorker Needs to Try! Be sure to find out what the others are.
#17. Guggenheim Museum
Thanks to its unique architecture and the fact it’s on one of the most well known streets in the city, the Guggenheim Museum is among the most famous movie locations in NYC. The art museum boasts nearly one million visitors a year and since it’s directly across the street from Central Park countless other visitors get to see it from the outside.
The spiraling, all white interior has seen its fair share of chase scenes but be sure to keep your pace to a walk during your visit.
Movies Filmed at the Guggenheim Museum:
- Cactus Flower (1969)
- Someone Watch Over Me (1987)
- She-Devil (1989)
- Men in Black (1997)
- When in Rome (2010)
- Annie (2014)
#16. The Loeb Boathouse
If you ever find yourself in Central Park with a spare $20 in your pocket I suggest spending an hour on the water in one of the Loeb Boathouse’s 100 rental rowboats. The attraction brings both tourists and locals alike to this charming pastime.
The Loeb Boathouse also attracts big Hollywood directors looking for a romantic and upscale setting. As one of the premier movie locations in New York City the Boathouse has become instantly recognizable to those who love romantic comedies.
Movies Filmed at the Loeb Boathouse:
- The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
- When Harry met Sally… (1989)
- 3 Men and a Little Lady (1990)
- 27 Dresses (2008)
#15. Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8
Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8 hasn’t had a ton of big screen appearances, but it has one that really counts. Ghostbusters HQ can be found in Tribeca and it’s waiting for you to come and take a picture in front of it. Just get the hell out of the way if you hear sirens!
This iconic NYC film location was threatened with closure in 2011, but a public campaign to save it worked and it’s still is home to a team of first responders today.
Movies Filmed at Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8:
- Ghostbusters (1984)
- Ghostbusters II (1989)
- Hitch (2005)
- Ghostbusters (2019)
#14. Washington Square Park
As the heart of NYC’s most beloved neighborhood, Greenwich Village, you know Washington Square Park is among the most famous movie locations in New York City. How can you make a movie based in the Big Apple without including the iconic fountain and Washington Square Arch?
Allow me to add one thing – I have never seen the park as empty as it was when Iron Man was fighting an alien in Avengers: Infinity War. That was unrealistic. I have a hard time believing New Yorkers wouldn’t stick around and film it on their phones (or jump in to help kick some butt). We’re a different breed, you know?
Movies Filmed at Washington Square Park:
- Ghostbusters II (1989)
- Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993)
- I Am Legend (2007)
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
- To All the Boys: Always and Forever (2021)
#13. The American Museum of Natural History
Okay, the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) needs no introduction. If you decide to visit just remember, Ben Stiller doesn’t actually work there (but Neil deGrasse Tyson does!).
Although the movie wasn’t filmed inside the museum, the exhibits and context all reflect the real AMNH. They even offer a self guided Night at the Museum tour for those interested.
Movies Filmed at the American Museum of Natural History:
- Malcolm X (1992)
- Men in Black II (2002)
- The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
- Night at the Museum (2006)
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2016)
#12. New York Public Library
When it opened to the public in 1911, the New York Public Library was officially the largest marble building ever built in the country. No small task, considering it took 16 years to construct this monolithic structure, but the wait was worth it — more than 50,000 people showed up on opening day.
Since opening it’s gone on to become one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Like most other staple buildings its become one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City
Movies Filmed at the New York Public Library:
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
- Spiderman (2002)
- The Day after Tomorrow (2004)
- The Pink Panther (2006)
- Sex and the City: The Movie (2008)
#11. Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge adorns New York City’s epic skyline and stands as an iconic symbol for the Big Apple. But how many interesting movies can you name that have been filmed on it? Being one of the harder structures to recreate, you’d be shocked to learn how many films have used the real bridge as one of their movie locations in New York City.
Movies Filmed on the Brooklyn Bridge:
- Kate & Leopold (2001)
- I Am Legend (2007)
- Sex and the City: The Movie (2008)
- Cloverfield (2008)
- John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017)
#10. Empire State Building
I feel like the entrance to the Empire State Building should have a sign that says, “no giant gorillas allowed” but surprisingly it doesn’t. As one of the premier movie locations in New York City the Empire State draws its fair share of tourists climbing to the top of their observatory for a photo with King Kong.
Thanks to its longevity as a staple in the New York City Skyline a lot of classic films have chosen to include the Empire State Building in their story telling.
Movies Filmed at the Empire State Building:
- King Kong (1933)
- Superman II (1980)
- Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
- Independence Day (1994)
- Elf (2003)
- King Kong (2005)
#9. Radio City Music Hall
The neon lights outside of Radio City Music Hall are as memorable as anything you’ll see in New York City, making it one of the premier movie locations in NYC. Even if it’s only in a movie for a second it’s a valuable location to include.
The ability to set context in a scene is important and Radio City Music Hall does that for viewers in an instant. Seeing the sign and immediately, boom. You’re in the middle of bustling Manhattan.
Movies Filmed at Radio City Music Hall:
- The Godfather (1972)
- Annie (1982)
- Home Alone 2 (1992)
- New York Minute (2004)
#8. The Statue of Liberty
I think the Captain America shield might have been removed from the Statue of Liberty after the 3 Spider-Men destroyed it fighting off villains from the multiverse. But fret not, Lady Liberty herself is still in tact and ready for the paparazzi.
Although movies are rarely filmed in the Statue of Liberty, its become a pivotal tool for directors to establish their stories on the big screen. As both one of the most recognizable movie locations in New York City and a historical American landmark the fascination with the Statue of Liberty can be seen in the amount of people that visit every year.
Movies Filmed at the Statue of Liberty:
- Saboteur (1942)
- Planet of the Apes (1968)
- Splash (1984)
- Ghostbusters II (1989)
- Wolverine (2000)
- The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
- Spider Man: No Way Home (2021)
#7. The Plaza Hotel
A premier New York City institution and world famous hotel, The Plaza has been featured in countless classic films on the big screen. As a 5-Star hotel, the Plaza has come to be recognized as a status symbol and one of the best movie locations in New York City.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Beatles, Tommy Hilfiger, and Simon Fuller have all stayed at the Plaza adding to its lore as a celebrity playground. The daughter of a U.S. President even got married there.
Movies Filmed at The Plaza Hotel:
- North by Northwest (1959)
- The Way We Were (1973)
- Home Alone 2 (1992)
- Bride Wars (2009)
- The Great Gatsby (2013)
#6. The Rockefeller Center
My first deep dive into the history of the Rockefeller Center was in 2016 when I got to be a part of the live audience for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. That’s right, I got to go behind the scenes of one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City *insert cool sunglasses emoji*.
This was also where Johnny Carson, the greatest late night host of all time, filmed his 30 year run of Tonight Show. Although late night talk shows aren’t exactly on the big screen, the Rockefeller center has also been a part of some iconic movie scenes filmed in NYC.
Movies Filmed at the Rockefeller Center:
- Home Alone 2 (1992)
- Mr. Deeds (2002)
- Elf (2003)
- Respect (2021)
#5. Grand Central Station
No, New Yorkers will not sporadically burst into a random dance routine at Grand Central Station, we got places to be people! But as an iconic (and free) landmark you can’t afford to miss Grand Central Station on your tour of the most iconic movie locations in New York City.
Stepping into Grand Central Terminal feels like stepping into a European train station. The Beaux Arts design transports visitors into an intricately detailed main hall that boasts a celestial ceiling and a famous four-faced clock.
Movies Filmed at Grand Central Station:
- Carlito’s Way (1993)
- Men in Black II (2002)
- Friends With Benefits (2011)
- The Avengers (2012)
- John Wick 3 (2019)
#4. The MET
With more than 2 million pieces of art spanning 5,000+ years, the Met is the largest museum in the country and the fifth largest museum in the world. Averaging 6 million visitors per year, it’s considered the most visited museum in New York City.
It’s also had it’s fair share of screen time, the beautiful exterior has been one of the staple movie locations in New York City. The interior is not without its merits either. It’s filmed every year for the MET Gala, but we’re here to talk about blockbusters, aren’t we?
Movies Filmed at the MET:
- When Harry Met Sally… (1989)
- Looking for Richard (1996)
- Maid in Manhattan (2002)
- Hitch (2005)
- The Nanny Diaries (2007)
#3. The Mall
My wife and I like to play a game. Whenever out of town guests visit us we take them on a walk down the Mall in Central Park.
Without disclosing that this is one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City we bet the over/under on how long it’ll take our friends to say something along the lines of, “isn’t this wear (X) movie was filmed?”.
Movies Filmed at the Mall:
- Big Daddy (1999)
- Serendipity (2001)
- Stuart Little 2 (2002)
- When in Rome (2010)
- Get Him to the Greek (2010)
- Friends with Benefits (2011)
#2. Times Square
I want to be honest with you: Times Square is overwhelming and very touristy. Most of the folks I take here end up telling me they expected something different (ha!). I think the majority of people visiting New York City for the first time have a vague idea of Times Square based on what they’ve seen in movies but the reality is often less …. romantic.
I still think you have to visit at least once. Its one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City! If you do choose to visit – you have to go after the sun goes down. Then you get the lights full effect (and you don’t realize how dirty it can be!)
Movies Filmed in Times Square:
- Crocodile Dundee (1986)
- Big (1988)
- Spider Man 3 (2007)
- I Am Legend (2007)
- Date Night (2010)
- Friends with Benefits (2011)
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
#1. Bethesda Terrace & Fountain
Bethesda Terrace is remarkable. Lined with 16,000 ceiling tiles, the terrace’s arcade creates the ideal acoustic environment and draws in some of the city’s most talented street musicians.
Measuring twenty-six feet high and ninety-six feet wide, Bethesda Fountain is one of the largest fountains in New York City, not to mention the park’s most iconic fountain.
The most beloved section in Central Park has also been one of Hollywoods favorite movie locations in New York City. Regardless whether it’s a romantic love scene or a dramatic edge-of-my-seat chase, Bethesda Terrace and Fountain is an epic backdrop.
Movies Filmed at Bethesda Terrace & Fountain:
- Hair (1979)
- Staying Alive (1983)
- Home Alone 2 (1992)
- Uptown Girl (2003)
- 27 Dresses (2008)
- Friends with Benefits (2011)
- When in Rome (2010)
- The Avengers (2012)
- The Letter (2012)
- John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017)
5 Additional Iconic Film Locations in New York City (From Television)
#5. Lotte New York Palace (Gossip Girl)
First shown in the pilot episode and then sporadically throughout the seasons, Lotte New York Palace is frequented by fans of the show Gossip Girl. Owned by Chuck Bass (in the series), the enterprising hotel even offered a Gossip Girl package in 2018 so guests could live like Serena van der Woodsen.
#4. McGee’s Pub (How I Met Your Mother)
The famed McLaren’s Pub from How I Met Your Mother is based off this bar in midtown Manhattan. Quite a bit larger than the bar from the set, McGee’s is where the creators of the show stopped by for drinks while working for the Late Show with David Letterman.
#3. Tom’s Restaurant (Seinfeld)
Tom’s Restaurant has long been a favorite of the Columbia University students that frequent it. President Barack Obama ate there as a student, and John McCain dined there as well when visiting his daughter. It was a popular neighborhood restaurant before it became one of the most iconic film locations in New York City.
When creating the show Seinfeld, Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David stopped by often and used it as the muse for Monk Cafe in the beloved sitcom. Fans of the show stop by for a photo but find themselves sticking around for the all day breakfast & good cup of coffee.
#2. Carrie Bradshaws Apartment (Sex and the City)
If you’re a fan of Sex and the City, or merely know about the show because you don’t live under a rock, you should swing by the home of the fictional main character, Carrie Bradshaw. Not only was it featured in the show, it’s also in the movies so it’s one of the most iconic movie locations in New York City.
The exterior of her home is located at 64 Perry Street and the street is worth a wander. It’s located in one of the prettiest streets in the West Village and the stunning brownstones in this area will have you day dreaming of owning a home in NYC in no time.
“In New York, you’re always looking for a job, apartment or a boyfriend.”
Carrie Bradshaw
#1. Friends Building (Friends)
The show was set in New York City, even though it was actually filmed in California. Regardless, you can see a handful of the iconic film sets in NYC. Most notable is the apartment where Rachel, Monica, Chandler and Joey lived.
Located at the corner of Bedford and Grove Streets, check out the exterior of the apartment used in the opening credits. It’s easy to spot because there’s typically a crowd of folks eagerly taking photos of the corner.
You won’t be able to enter the building, but the photo opportunities are endless thanks to the charming cafe below — which is not Central Perk in reality, rather it’s called The Little Owl.
The Best Movie Locations in New York City (Post Summary)
- Bethesda Terrace & Fountain
- Times Square
- The Mall
- The MET
- Grand Central Station
- The Rockefeller Center
- The Plaza Hotel
- The Statue of Liberty
- Radio City Music Hall
- Empire State Building
- Brooklyn Bridge
- New York Public Library
- The American Museum of Natural History
- Washington Square Park
- Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8
- The Loeb Boathouse
- Guggenheim Museum
- Katz Deli
- The Copacabana
- Columbia University
- 7B Horseshoe Bar AKA Vazacs
- The Unisphere
- Puck Building
- Coney Island
- Ray’s Pizza
- Friends Building
- Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment
- Tom’s Restaurant
- McGee’s Pub
- Lotte New York Palace
Map to the best movie locations in New York City
And there it is my friends, a list of my favorite movie locations in New York City. Let me know if I missed any of your favorite movies or places.
Cheers!
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