Best New York attractions for movie buffs

Recreate your favorite NYC movie moments with the ultimate Big Apple attractions for incurable cinephiles.

Published: April 24, 2025
Clapperboard and old-style movie camera on film set

It only takes a single stroll through Manhattan to feel like you’ve become the star of your own Hollywood blockbuster. Remember that pulse-pounding chase in Ghostbusters? The homey brownstone from Breakfast at Tiffany’s? Or perhaps you can picture the streets bustling with superheroes, romantic leads and detectives in just about every neighborhood. For movie buffs, New York City is so much more than a backdrop: it’s an essential character, filled with legendary filming locations, iconic cinemas and experiences that let you walk in the shoes of your favorite stars. Whether you live for Hollywood blockbusters or indie gems, we’ve put together an Oscar-worthy lineup of must-see attractions and cinematic hotspots to help you plan your star-studded NYC adventure.

Central Park movie locations tour

Bethesda Terrace in Central Park

Who hasn’t caught a glimpse of Central Park in a classic film? This lush urban oasis has starred in everything from When Harry Met Sally and Home Alone 2 to The Avengers. A guided walking tour lets you take center-stage in the real-life locations behind those beloved scenes. Guides pepper their stories with trivia, secret filming hacks and movie gossip, and you’ll stop at the iconic Bow Bridge (famous from Spider-Man 3), Bethesda Terrace (The Avengers, Enchanted), and The Mall—a favorite location for directors and many New York romances. As you roam these leafy paths, you’ll feel cinematic déjà vu, like you’re striding right through your favorite rom-com. Group sizes stay intimate, so you can ask all the questions you want about what it’s like when film crews take over Manhattan’s most famous park.

Museum of the Moving Image

 

Step far beyond the theater at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens. This spot bursts with interactive exhibits and rare artifacts, making it a playground for film and television lovers. Discover the evolution of movie technology, from silent films to today’s blockbusters. The Jim Henson Exhibition (yes, real Muppets live here!) brings childhood memories back to life, and rotating exhibitions highlight everything from costume design to groundbreaking special effects. The museum screens classics and contemporary favorites in ultramodern theatres, so you can catch a movie in a space designed just for film fans. Families, cinephiles, and tech geeks all leave with new movie trivia—and maybe an urge to make a film of their own.

NBC studio tour

 

Step onto the hallowed Studio 8H stage—home to Saturday Night Live—and uncover TV magic behind the scenes. On an NBC Studio Tour, you’ll visit real working sets, see props from historic and current shows, and walk through control rooms bustling with high-tech activity. The guides, always brimming with anecdotes, share secrets from NBC’s rich history, including interviews, costumes and memorable SNL sketches. Budding anchors can even try reading the news in front of a green screen. The experience, equal parts nostalgia and showbiz dazzle, is a must for television and comedy lovers alike.

Brooklyn Bridge film walk

Woman on Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge: not just a landmark, but a Hollywood movie star in its own right. Films like Sex and the City and I Am Legend capture sweeping views from this storied structure. Join a guided film walking tour to uncover stories about high-drama movie moments filmed here. Guides point out where Carrie Bradshaw strolled and boast about that zombie-chasing scene with Will Smith. The walk doubles as an architectural deep dive, letting you soak up skyline views and cinematic trivia while crossing between Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Metropolitan Museum of Art movie scavenger hunt

 

The Met’s galleries aren’t just for art lovers—they’ve appeared in films like When Harry Met Sally, Ocean’s 8, and The Thomas Crown Affair. Go on a self-guided movie scavenger hunt to spot the rooms and exhibits that set the stage for unforgettable scenes. From the dramatic Temple of Dendur to the elegant steps featured in Gossip Girl and countless film premieres, the Met makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into cinematic history. Wander through the European Sculpture Court, channel Audrey Hepburn at the museum’s café, and imagine the opening of Ocean’s 8 as you gaze at the Costume Institute. The grandeur of the museum adds that unmistakable movie atmosphere—if you’re a fan of films set in New York’s world of art, culture and intrigue, this experience belongs on your shortlist.

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts & Film Society
 

New York’s Lincoln Center isn’t just for opera and ballet—it’s also the city’s leading light in film appreciation. The Film Society’s annual festivals and curated screenings let you catch new releases, classics, and international favorites here, plus rare Q&As with directors and actors. The vibe is comfortable but creative, with elegant surroundings that bring moviegoing to a whole new level. Seats here have hosted indie icons and Oscar winners alike. Catch a film at the Walter Reade Theater or Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center, and soak up the camaraderie with fellow movie lovers before grabbing a cocktail at one of the nearby lounges.

Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall

From Annie to The Godfather, Radio City’s art deco grandeur has wowed filmmakers and audiences alike. Step inside for a tour, or time your visit to see the famous Rockettes in action. Striking chandeliers, bold murals and plush seats create an atmosphere that immediately feels like a film set. Tour guides share behind-the-scenes stories, details about the stage’s innovative design, and a peek into dressing rooms for a real taste of showbiz legend. It’s a heavenly spot for fans of musical theatre, classic cinema and dazzling historic venues.

The Ghostbusters Firehouse (Hook & Ladder 8)

 

Who ya gonna call? The actual Ghostbusters Firehouse (Hook & Ladder 8) stands at North Moore and Varick Streets in Tribeca. While it’s still an active firehouse, fans can’t resist gathering for photo opps beside the famous red doors, Ghostbusters sign and sidewalk logo. Snap your own squad photo, check out the painted murals and watch the firefighters channel their inner Bill Murray when the crowds appear. While you can’t tour the inside without a special invite, the atmosphere outside buzzes with nostalgia and excitement—ideal for super fans or anyone hungry for a New York movie moment.

Movie night at the AMC Lincoln Square IMAX

 

If watching the latest blockbuster on opening night is your ultimate thrill, AMC Lincoln Square does it with grandeur. Home to one of the largest IMAX screens in North America, this theatre’s high-tech projection and thunderous sound provide a viewing experience worthy of the movies themselves. The plush seats and enthusiastic crowds add to the electric atmosphere, whether you’re here for a superhero premiere or an art-house debut. Grab classic movie snacks and let yourself be swept up—it’s movie escapism at its best, all in the middle of lively Lincoln Square.

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building at sunset

No movie tour of New York would be complete without the Empire State Building—where romance, adventure and dramatic climaxes play out in everything from King Kong to Sleepless in Seattle. As you ride the art deco elevators to the top, you’ll see exhibits chronicling the building’s star turns on the silver screen. Step onto the observation deck and take in panoramic views—the same ones captured in dozens of legendary films. In the evenings, the city glows below, setting a scene that feels magical and cinematic. Staff share fun facts about movie shoots, and there’s enough nostalgia in the air to make even casual fans feel the New York movie magic.

FAO Schwarz

 

Step into toy-land wonder at the legendary FAO Schwarz, a place where Tom Hanks (and all of us) danced across the giant piano in Big. This Fifth Avenue flagship overflows with hands-on experiences, costumed staff and enormous cuddly toys and candies, so that every corner feels like it’s ready for its movie close-up. Young visitors can try out the piano themselves, while grown-up kids can explore shelves stacked with classic games and collectibles. The atmosphere is playful and lively and, if you’re a movie buff with a soft spot for childhood favorites, this is the stop that will put a light-hearted spin on your New York trip.

Tom’s Restaurant

 

Step into Tom’s Restaurant in Morningside Heights, and Seinfeld fans will instantly recognize the neon sign from those classic opening shots. This friendly neighborhood diner is all about comforting fare—try the juicy Reuben sandwich or their fluffy pancakes, legendary among regulars. The décor is all charm and nostalgia, with cozy booths and walls that hum with decades of New York stories. While it famously inspired Monk’s Café in the sitcom, Tom’s has its own real-life film legacy and a welcoming vibe that invites you to linger, people-watch and soak up that sitcom-in-the-wild sensation.

New York Public Library – Schwarzman Building

Ghostly figure

Lion statues stand guard at this flagship library, an institution that played roles in Ghostbusters (cue Slimer), Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Spider-Man. Step inside to explore the spectacular Rose Main Reading Room, featured in countless films. The soaring ceilings, long wooden tables, and quiet hush are a perfect respite from the city, and frequently draw location scouts. Several free exhibitions highlight rare manuscripts and historical photos, so don’t just snap a selfie out front—venture inside and imagine yourself in the opening credits of your next favorite movie.

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Strand Bookstore

 

Bookshelves stacked to the rafters, handwritten staff recommendations, and a rolling staircase that would make even Belle from Beauty and the Beast swoon—Strand Bookstore, just south of Union Square, has graced films like Julie & Julia and Remember Me. Bibliophiles and film buffs alike will love browsing the ‘Books in the Movies’ displays or picking up a rare film script. It’s a peaceful break from big-screen action, but with so many movie references hidden among the shelves, it still ties you right back to film culture. The Strand’s bustling energy and indie vibe make it a must-visit for anyone tracing New York’s creative spirit, onscreen and off.

The Tenement Museum

 

Explore working-class stories that fueled many a New York-based film at the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side. Docents craft vivid journeys through preserved apartments, telling tales of real-life immigrants who shaped the city’s story, making it easy to draw connections to films like In the Heights or Gangs of New York. The museum is intimate, and each section brings history to life through the eyes (and kitchens) of generations past. After a walk through the heart of American film inspiration, hit up the nearby Russ & Daughters Café for classic bagels and smoked salmon amid old-school décor.

Film Forum

Moviegoers in the cinema

If indie cinema sets your heart racing, Film Forum in Greenwich Village is the spot. This beloved arthouse cinema stands out for its retro neon marquee, eclectic lineup and passionate audiences. The calendar is filled with classics, rare gems, foreign films and documentaries, making every screening feel like a special occasion. Film Forum’s lovingly restored auditoriums keep the focus on the movie—no distractions, just you and the story on the screen. Staff curate monthly retrospectives (think Hitchcock or Kubrick), and post-film conversations at the charming concession stand, are never less than lively. It’s an intimate moviegoing experience, perfect for discovering your new favorite director or soaking up the energy of fellow film fans.

Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the best NYC attractions for movie lovers, and find things to do in the Meatpacking district.

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Edge vs Empire State Building
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Edge vs Empire State Building - Compare Observation Decks

Batman Vs. Superman. Freddie Vs. Jason. Kramer Vs. Kramer. It seems that, as a species, we have a fascination with face-offs. We even have a classic 1997 action thriller named after them! So, clearly, humans love a good head-to-head. In the spirit of healthy competition, let's pit two of New York's best attractions against one another and see which comes out top. The Edge Vs. the Empire State Building. Young blood versus the old guard. Youth Vs. Experience. Who will win? Does visiting both make you the real winner? Let's explore. Round 1. Fight! Edge Vs. Empire State Building: Backstories The Empire State Building likely needs no introduction. Once the proud owner of 'the world's tallest building' moniker, it has since been beaten by some ungodly tall creations in the past 50 years. Still, it's arguably one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. At nearly 1,500ft tall, it towers over the rest of Manhattan like a beacon of capitalist excess. Around 4 million people ascend its many floors to look out over the city every year. So it's probably going to win the popularity contest. Image courtesy of Mike Van Moonlight/Shutterstock The Edge, on the other hand, is the guitarist of U2. Wait, that's not right. Just going to check our notes. No, this Edge is, in fact, a massive observation platform found in the gentrified redevelopment of Hudson Yards. Surrounded by new builds and moderno architecture, its tower of sights is unmissable. As it's so new, there isn't much backstory to mention here. But, given the comparisons between its name and a certain stadium-rock guitarist, one could only imagine there is some crossover there. Just to be clear, there isn't. We had to say that for legal reasons. But one can imagine. Edge Vs. Empire State Building: Cinema stylings Image courtesy of Drop of Light/Shutterstock The Empire State Building has a rather storied history on celluloid. Who could forget King Kong climbing the tower's summit with damsel in hand while planes pepper them with gunfire? But that's just one of many. In fact, it's likely one of the most photographed landmarks in cinematic history. How does Edge measure up? Well, given its relative infancy, not so well. In fact, no matter how hard we looked, we couldn't find a single film that featured it. However, while it may not be in any movies, you can actually watch movies up there. Yes, the Edge has its own outdoor cinema thanks to a partnership with NY's Museum of Modern Art. Beat that, Empire State Building! What can you do at Edge When you arrive, you'll likely want to see the view from the top and discover what all the fuss is about. So, head inside and ride the elevator a might 100 stories up. Then, step out onto the open-air viewing platform and see for yourself. Oh, did we mention that platform has a glass floor? No? Well, if you're already up there, you'll learn the hard way. Once you're braving it, dare to sip some champagne and look out on the city's skyline in wonder. Take some snaps too, because a chance like this should not go begging. Then, when you're done soaking up the views, head down into Hudson Yards. You'll find plenty of places to eat, drink, and even shop in this new development, so go ham. What can you do at the Empire State Building While it may be tempting to head straight to the top of the Empire State Building, settle down. Take it slow and soak it all in. Start at the bottom, where you'll be greeted by the recently-restored Art Deco lobby, which boasts 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf ceiling murals. Enough opulence! Time to move on. Next, immerse yourself in the Empire State's interactive museum, which features a dozen galleries that explore the history of the building, from its conception and creation through to today. Selfies ahoy with the large King Kong statue on display. Then, head up to the 80th floor and wander the art exhibits that are all dedicated the icon of the NY skyline. Now, yes, it's finally time to make your way to the summit and experience the best views in the city. You'll get a 360-degree view of the city that is as Grammable as any other skyline. Come rain, shine, or freezing temperatures, your time in the summit will be aided by state-of-the-art heaters that will keep you warm and toasty during New York's most arctic months. How to get to Edge For starters, head towards Hudson Yards. You can get there on the subway by taking the Number 7 through Times Square to Penn Station. Bus-wise, the M34-SBS, M12, and M11 bus lines stop within a few minutes walk of the tower. You could even hop on two wheels and bike there. Cycle to the Hudson River Park along the West Side Highway and follow the trail down the Hudson Yards. Easy, peasy, and good for the ol' heart! How to get to Empire State Building If you're in New York City, you're halfway there. However, there's no need to live on a prayer, because it's pretty easy to see it with the eye test. Just look up from most places in the city, because you'll be able to orient yourself with no problem! If you're heading in from further outside the city center, the nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station. Or, if you're getting the train, disembark at Grand Central, and it's a short 10-minute walk from the station. We've even got a blog dedicated to the best times to visit the Empire State Building. So, if you're not sure when to head there, have a look and see what we suggest! Save on New York Activities and Attractions The battle is over. But who won? That's up to you to decide. No matter who reigns victorious in the Edge Vs. Empire State Building face-off, you should definitely check out both when you visit New York. And, when you're in the city that never sleeps, make sure your itinerary is loaded up for a full 24 hours with Go City. Thanks to our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see Edge, the Empire State Building, and New York's best of the rest at one low price!
Dom Bewley
Historical places in New York City that you have to visit
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Historical places in New York City that you have to visit

The city that never sleeps, New York, is all about cultural diversity and freedom, and it's a dream destination for many young people looking for fun. Over 8 million people call it home, making it a veritable melting pot of unique cultures living side-by-side. It's also one of the oldest cities in America, primarily due to its location on the east coast. But which are the most historical places in New York City? Here are our picks of all the ones you have to visit! Including: Statue of Liberty Central Park Ellis Island 9/11 Memorial & Museum Empire State Building and more! Statue of Liberty One of the most recognizable landmarks on Earth, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see attraction. Visitors can always take a ferry to Liberty Island to explore the statue and enjoy stunning city views. The statue was designed by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, and gifted to the United States by France over 130 years ago. The statue's tablet reads "July IV MDCCLXXVI", representing the date of America's independence. It's visited by millions of people annually and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the United States. Central Park Spanning 840 acres, Central Park is a beautiful urban oasis in the heart of New York City. Visitors can explore the park's many paths, trails, lakes, gardens, and famous landmarks, including the Central Park Zoo and the Belvedere Castle. Ellis Island Ellis Island is the site of the former immigration station that served as the gateway to America for millions of immigrants between 1892 and 1954. Today, visitors can explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and learn about the experiences of these immigrants. 9/11 Memorial and Museum The 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors the victims of the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001. Visitors can pay their respects at the memorial pools and explore the museum's exhibits, which detail the tragic day's events. Brooklyn Bridge The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic photogenic symbol of New York City and a must-visit attraction. You can walk or bike across the bridge and enjoy stunning city skyline views if you visit. It is one of the most visited tourists very often and is considered the most photographed location in history. Empire State Building Another iconic landmark of New York City, the Empire State Building, is a must-visit attraction. The elevator can take you to the observation deck on the 86th floor to enjoy breathtaking city views. The building is 1,454 feet (443.2 meters) tall, including its antenna. The impressive fact about the empire state building is that It took only 410 days of construction to complete the installation. The building features in many films, including King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle. It remained the tallest building until 1971 when the World Trade Center was built. The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the world's most extensive art museums. Visitors can explore its extensive collection of art and artifacts worldwide, including works by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Salvador Dali, and Pablo Picasso. New York is a great hangout destination for school and college students, and they can explore the parts of NYC while staying at affordable student housing in NYC. The Met Cloisters The Met Cloisters is a museum of art and architecture located in Upper Manhattan. It houses an extensive medieval art and architecture collection, including illuminated manuscripts, tapestries, and religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum's gardens and enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River. Art students staying in student accommodations in New York can always take advantage of learning the beauty of this city. The Flatiron Building The Flatiron Building in New York City is the most famous landmark. Built in 1902, the Flatiron building is known for its distinctive triangular shape and is a favorite spot for photographers. The Flatiron District's landmark is precisely known because of The Flatiron Building. It is a great place to learn about New York in depth; there is so much history and many different stories to fill your travel bucket list. The New York Public Library The New York Public Library is one of the city's most iconic buildings. Visitors can explore its extensive collections of books and artifacts and enjoy the beautiful architecture and design of the building. It is the second-largest public library in the United States, and with an astounding architectural design, it is worth the time you invest in discovering past beauty. A valuable life lesson that young adults can learn is the fast-paced lifestyle in New York City, where its magnificence lies in how it operates. Living in New York City teaches the essential qualities of acceptance and embracing new beginnings, allowing individuals to strive towards becoming their best selves without being held back by their past. If you want to get into many of the above locations, and many many more, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass For one low price, you'll get into tons of New York's best bits!
Dom Bewley
Manhattan skyline with the One World Trade Center in the foreground
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The Best Time to Visit The One World Observatory (Trade Center)

Standing at a whopping 1,776 feet, the gleaming One World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, and the seventh tallest on the planet. Thrillseekers with a serious head for heights can soar up 102 stories to the One World Observatory on the top three floors for far-reaching views that stretch for up to 45 miles in every direction and take in many of the Big Apple’s most iconic attractions. This high-tech engineering marvel also contains digital marvels such as hi-res digital video screens inside the Skypod elevators that tell the story of New York through the ages and a glass Sky Portal beneath your feet that displays live images of the streets far below. Read on for our guide to the best times to visit the One World Observatory. Opening hours The One World Observatory is open daily with regular hours that run from 9AM–9PM. There are some seasonal variations on opening and closing times as well as special extended hours on some holidays, so do check direct with the One World Observatory website for the most up-to-date information. Once inside, you're welcome to stay for as long as you like, but note that last available entry is one hour from closing time. A Go City attraction pass includes entry to the One World Observatory’s three top floors via a thrilling 47-second ride in the Skypod elevators. Alongside a number of fascinating digital exhibits charting the history of the city and One World Trade Center, the 360-degree views from up top are some of the best in the city, taking in Downtown Manhattan, the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler and the Statue of Liberty. Best time to visit the One World Observatory Beat the rush by planning your visit first thing in the morning or last thing in the evening. This is hands-down the best way to experience the One World Observatory as it means you’ll dodge the worst of the lines, of which there are several: going up, coming back down, and for a number of the digital exhibits in between. Arriving after around 11AM pretty much guarantees longer waiting times, whereas early birds can simply sail in and should expect to be up to in mere minutes. Similarly, you’ll get spectacular views of the city lights after dark once the crowds who piled in for sunset have dissipated. Sunsets from up here are (as you might well imagine) pretty spectacular affairs, so if longer lines bother you not a jot you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to fill your Insta feed with enviable snaps as the Manhattan skyline turns several shades of burnt orange and bruised purple at dusk. The busiest time of day at the One World Observatory is between midday and 5PM. Avoid these times if you can but, if not, do make sure you’ve purchased tickets in advance so you can at least omit the wait in the box office line. Getting to the One World Observatory The One World Observatory is located at the One World Trade Center on the corner of West and Vesey Streets in Downtown Manhattan. The entrance is on West Street and there are plenty of easy ways to get there. Hop on the subway and disembark at Fulton St, Rector St, Chamber St, Cortlandt St or World Trade Center stations, depending on where you’ve come from. All are just a short walk from the entrance. Tickets We recommend pre-booking tickets if you want to avoid waiting in line at the box office, then having to queue up again for the attraction itself. You can do this via the One World Observatory website, where the range of ticket options available includes everything from general admission to a bells-and-whistles VIP experience that includes a 60-minute guided tour, plus priority skip-the-line entry and a credit for spending in the cafe, bar, restaurant or gift shop. A Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive pass for New York attractions saves you money by including entry to the One World Observatory as well as many more Big Apple icons. These include the Statue of Liberty, MoMA, the Empire State Building and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, as well as a number of walking and cycling tours, and much more. Where to eat The ONE Dine restaurant and ONE Mix bar are located high above the city, way up on the One World Trade Center’s 101st floor. Tuck into New York classics including caesar salad, swordfish steaks and filet mignon then wash down with a Midtown Margarita cocktail in the bar. The cafe and gelateria will keep young kids happy with plenty of sodas and sweet treats. Head over to the nearby Oculus to admire its unique architecture and discover more eating and drinking options in its bars and restaurants, where options range from pretzels to sushi. In brief... If you want to beat the lines, the best times to visit the One World Observatory are early morning and late evening. Do it one of these ways and not only will you be able to get in (and out) faster, you’ll also benefit from New York’s beautiful morning light and the opportunity to see Manhattan lit up at night. Sunset is perhaps the most beautiful time to visit but you should expect crowds at this time so plan accordingly and get there early to avoid disappointment. Get the Go City attraction pass to make great savings when visiting this and other popular New York City attractions! Useful links Buy tickets online Get the Go City attraction pass for New York Visit the One World Observatory with Go City Official One World Observatory website
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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