Movie & TV Filming Locations in Manhattan, United States
1. Central Park
Widely used as a filming location for movies and TV shows like 'Ghostbusters' and 'You've Got Mail'. Its diverse landscapes make it an ideal backdrop.
- Variety of Scenery: Central Park offers a variety of locations such as lush forests, scenic bridges, and serene lakes.
- Iconic Landmarks: Famous landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and the Central Park Zoo add to its appeal for filmmakers.
- Size and Accessibility: Central Park's vast size and convenient location make it a practical choice for filming productions.
2. Grand Central Terminal
Recognizable from films like 'North by Northwest' and 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty'. Its unique architecture is a timeless backdrop for various scenes.
- Iconic Architecture: Grand Central Terminal's distinctive Beaux-Arts style and famous celestial ceiling attract filmmakers.
- Hustle and Bustle: The terminal's busy atmosphere adds authenticity to the scenes filmed here.
- Accessibility: Grand Central Terminal is easily accessible by multiple subway lines, making it a practical choice for filming productions.
3. The Plaza Hotel
Starred in 'The Great Gatsby' and 'Home Alone 3'. Its luxurious interiors and impressive facade are perfect for high-end productions.
- Luxury Aesthetics: The Plaza Hotel's opulent interiors and elegant architecture provide a lavish setting for filming.
- Central Location: The hotel's prime location on Fifth Avenue adds to its appeal for filmmakers.
- Historical Significance: As a historic landmark, The Plaza Hotel offers an authentic backdrop for period pieces and dramas.
4. The Flatiron Building
Featured in 'Men in Black' and 'Friends'. Its distinctive triangular shape makes it an instantly recognizable landmark.
- Unique Architecture: The Flatiron Building's unique geometry stands out from other Manhattan buildings.
- Urban Setting: The building's location in the heart of Madison Square Park adds to its urban charm.
- Iconic Status: As a national historic landmark, The Flatiron Building offers an iconic backdrop for filming.
5. The High Line
Appeared in 'The Odd Life of Timothy Green' and 'Nocturnal Animals'. Its elevated location provides stunning city views.
- Urban Greenery: The High Line offers a unique blend of urban landscapes and lush greenery.
- Elevated Perspective: The elevated platform provides filmmakers with unique angles and vistas of the city.
- Artistic Expression: The High Line's contemporary art installations add artistic flair to film scenes.
6. Statue of Liberty
A symbol of New York City seen in countless movies and TV shows like 'Planet of the Apes' and 'Blue Bloods'. Its iconic status makes it a powerful cinematic element.
- Iconic Symbol: The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognized symbols of the United States and serves as a powerful backdrop.
- Historical Significance: As a national monument, the statue holds historical significance and adds authenticity to film scenes.
- Stunning Views: The Statue of Liberty offers breathtaking views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline.
7. Times Square
Famous from 'Spiderman' and 'New Year's Eve'. Its vibrant lights and bustling crowds create a lively atmosphere.
- Bustling Atmosphere: Times Square's energetic crowd and iconic billboards provide an authentic urban setting.
- Recognizable Landmarks: The Times Square Ball, Broadway theaters, and towering billboards make it instantly recognizable.
- Day or Night Filming: Times Square's bright lights and lively atmosphere make it an ideal location for both daytime and nighttime filming.
8. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Appeared in 'Ghostbusters' and 'Ocean's Eight'. Its grand architecture and extensive art collection make it a unique filming location.
- Grand Architecture: The museum's Beaux-Arts style facade and impressive interior provide an elegant backdrop.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vast collection of artworks offers a wealth of inspiration for filmmakers.
- Historical Significance: As one of the world's largest and oldest museums, The Met provides an authentic historical backdrop for film scenes.
9. Brooklyn Bridge
Featured in 'Godzilla' and 'West Side Story'. Its iconic suspension bridge design offers a striking backdrop.
- Iconic Design: The Brooklyn Bridge's distinctive suspension bridge design stands out from other Manhattan landmarks.
- Scenic Views: The bridge offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
- Accessibility: Its pedestrian walkway makes it easily accessible for film crews and photographers.
10. Washington Square Park
Starred in 'The Stepford Wives' and 'When Harry Met Sally'. Its historic archway and vibrant atmosphere create a charming setting.
- Historic Architecture: Washington Square Arch is a National Historic Landmark that adds historical charm to film scenes.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The park's lively atmosphere, featuring street performers and students from nearby NYU, adds authenticity to the scene.
- Central Location: Washington Square Park is located in Greenwich Village, a popular Manhattan neighborhood for filming productions.
11. Rockefeller Center
Recognized from 'working Girl' and '30 Rock'. Its iconic Art Deco design and famous ice rink provide a unique backdrop.
- Iconic Architecture: Rockefeller Center's distinctive Art Deco style stands out among Manhattan skyscrapers.
- Ice Rink and Observation Deck: The Rockefeller Center ice rink and observation deck offer unique filming opportunities.
- Central Location: Rockefeller Center is located in Midtown Manhattan, a popular filming location for many productions.
12. One World Trade Center
Featured in 'Iron Man 3' and 'Die Hard'. Its modern design and iconic status make it a powerful cinematic element.
- Iconic Modern Architecture: One World Trade Center's sleek design is a symbol of resilience and progress.
- Unobstructed Views: The observation deck offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the city skyline.
- Historical Significance: As a symbol of renewal after the September 11 attacks, One World Trade Center carries profound emotional weight in film scenes.
13. The Dakota
Famous from 'Rosemary's Baby' and 'The Addams Family'. Its historic architecture and eerie atmosphere create a haunting backdrop.
- Historic Architecture: The Dakota's historic Romanesque Revival style adds an air of elegance and mystery.
- Haunting Atmosphere: The building's dark, imposing facade and its history of paranormal activity contribute to a haunting atmosphere.
- Central Location: The Dakota is located in the Upper West Side, a popular Manhattan neighborhood for filming productions.
14. Broadway Theaters
Recognized from 'Chicago' and 'Rent'. Their grand interiors and historic significance make them ideal filming locations.
- Grand Interiors: Broadway theaters feature ornate architecture, luxurious seating, and opulent decor.
- Historical Significance: Many Broadway theaters are historic landmarks, adding an air of authenticity to film scenes.
- Iconic Stage: Broadway is the epicenter of American theater, making it a powerful cinematic symbol.
15. Staten Island Ferry
Appeared in 'The Sopranos' and 'Godzilla'. Its iconic views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline create a dramatic backdrop.
- Iconic Views: The ferry offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
- Accessibility: The Staten Island Ferry is free to ride, making it an affordable choice for film crews.
- Drama and Tension: The ferry's open-air deck adds a sense of drama and tension to scenes filmed on board.