New York Film Locations
New York City has been the backdrop for many iconic films over the years, so there are plenty of New York film locations to visit if you're a film buff or just looking to explore the city.
Here are some of the most famous movie locations to visit in New York City:
Central Park
Central Park has been featured in countless movies, including "When Harry Met Sally," "Enchanted," and "Elf." The most recognizable area are The Mall walkway which leads to the Bethesda Terrace and the Bow Bridge. Also popular is Strawberry Fields, which is dedicated to the memory of former Beatles member John Lennon.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Along Fifth Avenue is the Met which has been a featured film location in many movies, including "When Harry Met Sally," "The Thomas Crown Affair," and "The Devil Wears Prada." The museum offers guided tours that focus on the art and architecture seen in these films.
The Plaza Hotel
Also in the Upper East Side is The Plaza has been featured in many films, including "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York," "Bride Wars," and "The Great Gatsby." Visitors can visit the hotel to learn about its history, have afternoon tea, sip a cocktail, and see some of the locations used in these movies.
Columbia University
The Ivy League school on the Upper West Side is a popular New York filming location which has hosted “Ghostbusters”, “Spider-Man”, “Enchanted”, and “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”.
Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Station has been a filming location in movies such as "North by Northwest," "The Fisher King," and "Men in Black." Take a tour of the Grand Central to learn about its history and architecture.
Nearby in Midtown Manhattan is the New York Public Library where you can see the Rose Main Reading Room and the stone lions that flank the front door.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic New York filming lcoation, including "King Kong," "Sleepless in Seattle," with Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks, and "An Affair to Remember." Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck for stunning views of the city.
Pro-tip: If you want a view of the Empire State Building, consider going to Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center to snap that iconic picture. Down the street is Radio City Music Hall, home of the world-famous Rockettes.
Times Square
Times Square is a popular location for movies and TV shows, including "Spider-Man," "Vanilla Sky," and "Birdman." Take a stroll through the square to experience the hustle and bustle of the city.
Washington Square Park
In the heart of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park and its arch has been a favorite filming location of many films like, “Barefoot in the Park”, “I am Legend”, “When Harry Met Sally”, and “August Rush”.
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge has been featured in films such as Woody Allen's "Annie Hall," "I Am Legend," and "Once Upon a Time in America."
I always suggest walking across the bridge from the Brooklyn side for great views of the New York skyline.
Coney Island
Coney Island has been featured in many movies, including "The Warriors," "Annie Hall," and "Requiem for a Dream." Visit the boardwalk and amusement park for a taste of classic New York City.
These are just a few of the many movie locations to visit in New York City. You can easily visit these on your own and throughout a trip to the City. Or you can join location tours to hear movie trivia while seeing the sights. With so many iconic films set in the city, there's always something new to discover.