10 Places In NYC You Will ALWAYS See On TV And In Movies

Who knows why so many directors and show runners have had a love affair with NYC. Are locations in the city filmed because of their iconic status, or maybe they have an iconic status because of the media attention, it’s up for debate. One thing is for sure, we’ll continue to see our beloved city on the big and small screen for years to come.

1. The Waldorf Astoria

One of the first on-location movies, Week-End at the Waldorf (1945), was filmed in this exemplary art deco hotel, so it’s fitting it’s No.1 on our list. Not only has this jewel been the host of numerous movies, it has housed many stars including Marilyn Monroe and the musician Cole Porter.

2. Empire State Building

As seen on Instagram. It’s cool, we get it, you live in the city, it’s almost a legal obligation to have a few shots of the Empire State Building. This instantly recognizable skyscraper has been the scene of many real life romances, so it makes sense that nearly every romantic comedy set in NYC has filmed a scene here.

3. Joe’s Pizza

This staple New York City pizza place was the setting for Ben Stiller’s Along Came Polly, as well as Peter Parker’s place of work in Spiderman 2 movies.

4. Gray’s Papaya

This place has been onscreen more than Steve Buscemi! Why stop at a street vendor when you can head to Gray’s Papaya? This famous fast food restaurant has appeared in many of your favorite NYC based shows, and always leaves you with a craving for a 1st class hot-dog.

5. Russian Tea Rooms

This restaurant and lounge has been the setting of movies like Tootsie and TV shows like Gossip Girl… not to mention Madonna worked there as a coat-check-clerk in the early eighties!

6. Katz’s Deli

This list wouldn’t be complete without Kat’z Deli. Remember the line “I’ll have what she’s having?” Then you know Katz. Aside from When Harry Met Sally, many NY-centric movies and TV shows have used this infamous deli as the backdrop for some of their most iconic scenes.

7. West Village

So maybe adding a whole neighborhood is cheating, but you can’t deny the wealth of onscreen time the West Village has had. Probably the most iconic appearance is in the TV show, Sex in the City. Magnolia Bakery, the Pleasure Chest, and Perry Street (where two of the townhouses that depicted Carrie’s apartment are). The West Village belongs in this list.

8. Times Square

An argument can be made for Time Square being the most recognizable part of the city. That’s because from childhood, we are used to seeing it on TV and the silver screen. This list wouldn’t be legit without this entry.

9. Central Park

Again, Central Park is instantly recognizable. Whether it be a snow covered winter scene, or the actors are basking in the sun, it’s hard to miss this, the most famous park in the world.

10. Greenpoint, Brooklyn

We did it again… we added another neighborhood. But come on, look at the list of shows that have been filmed here! We even had to leave some shows/movies off.

The most surprising addition is Boardwalk Empire. Even though the show is about Atlantic City, New Jersey, the set was built on the Greenpoint waterfront, until it was exploded season three of the series.

Featured image source: [zimbio]