11 Iconic Film Locations in NYC

Looking for film locations in NYC that are nearly as famous as the city itself? Then you’ve come to the right place! New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the world. Known all over the globe as “The City That Never Sleeps,” it lives up to its reputation and attracts the best of the best from everywhere. There is no shortage of stories to be told in the city so we’ve seen it as the setting for countless famous motion pictures. Everywhere you turn, you’ll see a location or building from your favorite TV show or movie.

Ahead, we share a list today of 11 iconic film locations in NYC. All this movie magic is brought to you by Peerspace, the number one online platform for renting filming locations by the hour in New York City and beyond. They also have the variety and the locations, all brought to you by New Yorkers who are proud to be Peerspace hosts. 

So let’s take a trip through the lights and sounds of the Big Apple while exploring some of the best-known movie locations in the city.

1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the most beautiful places you can find in NYC is the Metropolitan Museum of Art on the Upper East Side, otherwise known as the Met. This museum has been used in many productions over the years, ranging from the Will Smith movies “I am Legend” and “Hitch,” to the more recent “A Rainy Day in New York”. It’s no wonder the museum has been used so frequently and you’re likely to catch a shot of it in many NYC-based films.

Looking to book a nearby living space as a filming location? Then you may love this Upper East Side creative space in East Harlem!

2. The New York Public Library

Another famous public institution that has become one of the more iconic film locations in NYC is the New York Public Library. Fans of the film “Ghostbusters” will no doubt remember the opening scene with the ghostly librarian. Fans of the TV show “Gossip Girl” have also surely seen the library numerous times since it was a regular filming location for the show. 

Want to capture some of that old-school library grandeur? Then you must check out this East Village bright collegiate library in Alphabet City.

3. Katz’s Delicatessen

Even if you haven’t seen the movie, you’re no doubt familiar with the diner scene in “When Harry Met Sally” when a customer says the famous line, “I’ll have what she’s having!” They filmed this scene at a real place restaurant that’s still open today. Katz’s Delicatessen is located at 205 East Houston Street – go on down and have yourself a delicious sandwich.

Hoping to film a scene at an authentic dive bar near Katz’s? Then you will love this classic sports bar in the East Village!

4. The Unisphere

If you find yourself in NYC’s Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, be sure to check out the massive metal sculpture known as “The Unisphere”. It’s shaped like the earth, making it the world’s second-largest globe. However, you may remember it was destroyed by a crashing UFO at the end of the first “Men in Black” movie.

Looking for an eclectic space in Flushing, Queens for one of your characters to call home? Then how about this two-floor vintage-style daylight studio with plenty of distinction and charm.

5. The Guggenheim Museum

While we’re on the subject of the first “Men in Black” movie, you may remember the opening chase scene. When Will Smith chases a runaway space alien along the exterior of the uniquely shaped Guggenheim Museum. This is one of those iconic film locations in NYC that you won’t easily forget!

In need of a spacious event venue in the Upper East Side, close to the Guggenheim? Then Peerspace has you covered with this glamorous Upper Eastside ballroom space.

6. Tiffany’s

Being one of the names synonymous with high-end jewelry, Tiffany’s is also a famous filming location featured in the Audrey Hepburn film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. Side note: the turquoise blue that they’re known for is best seen in person! In fact, you’ll get your fill of it if you look into the windows like Hepburn’s character in the movie.

Does your film include a salon scene that you’d like to film near Tiffany’s? Then look no further than this creative NYC midtown loft that is part salon, part art gallery, and all beautiful.

7. FDNY Ladder 8

New York City firehouse FDNY Ladder 8 served as the Ghostbusters’ headquarters in both the original movie from the 80s and the more recent remake in 2016. This one is hard to miss since the logo for the Ghostbusters is painted on the sidewalk right in front of it!

Looking for a nearby filming location where your characters can meet up for drinks? Then check out this upscale Tribeca event space and cocktail bar in lower Manhattan.

8. The Plaza Hotel

Anybody who has seen the movie “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” will remember when Kevin McAllister stays at the beautiful Plaza Hotel when he’s in the city. It was in the Hitchcock movie “North by Northwest” many years earlier. Who knows what will be the next memorable movie shot at the hotel?

Want to meet up with your creative collaborators and investors before you kick off your shoot? Then how about booking this stunning meeting space for up to 50 people in the Plaza Distict.

9. Times Square

Probably one of the most iconic film locations in NYC is Times Square, with its many shops and bright neon billboards. It hasn’t always been the way we’ve seen it in the 2002 “Spiderman” or “Captain America: The First Avenger”. It was seen in a very different light in movies like “Midnight Cowboy” and “Taxi Driver” in the 1960s and 70s.

Hoping to record a theatrical production in this theatrical area of town? Then this spacious and bright Times Square theater may be just the ticket.

10. Joker Stairs

New locations in New York City become famous almost every year, like very recently with a set of stairs that Joaquin Phoenix dances down as the twisted titular character in “Joker”. If you want to give it a try yourself, you’ll find this spot in the Bronx.

Planning on filming a podcast near these iconic stairs? Then be sure to do so that this high-tech production studio on City Island.

11. The Empire State Building

One building you’re going to see in just about every film set in the city is of course the towering Empire State Building. And who could forget King Kong climbing the building in the original film? This is a must-see location for anyone visiting the city.

Looking for a nearby location to film an office scene? Then check out this incredible Midtown office suite with Empire State Building views.

Find your own film locations NYC with Peerspace

So there you have it! In fact, we’re only scratching the surface with such a famous and iconic city that has hundreds of amazing and unique filming locations. If you’re looking to find filming locations for yourself, then your first stop has to be Peerspace. They have so many spaces to choose from that you’ll find whatever you need. 

Find unique filming locations in New York City on Peerspace