Ever been walking down the streets of NYC and come across a movie or show being filmed? If not recognizable by the many cameras, staged performances, set trailers, or a glimpse of a famous actor, there is no doubt that the streets of NYC are a mainstay for the film industry.
It’s fun to watch movies like Spider-man, The Godfather, The Warriors, or Coming to America and realize you already know the streets they were filmed on. NYC even beats Los Angeles for the most filmed streets in the U.S, although Los Angeles has had more movies filmed on each street.
Spend a day—or it might take a whole week—adventuring through the city and spotting scenes from your favorite films. Not feeling the self-guided option? There are many companies that offer comprehensive film location tours throughout the city, transportation included. Either way, whichever route you take through the city is sure to be rich with film history. According to a survey by AHS, these are the top 10 most filmed streets in NYC—and we’ve included some famous landmarks nearby that can’t be missed!
Most Filmed Streets in NYC
Park Avenue
Action movies love Park Ave! Visit this infamous boulevard to walk through the filming locations of scenes in The Avengers (2012), Men in Black 3 (2012), and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990). After identifying movie spots, check out Grand Central Station and the Waldorf-Astoria for their impressive architecture.
Broadway
Two infamous New York films, The Godfather (1972) and Ghostbusters (1984), include scenes from Broadway. Not to mention, Broadway is the home of theater! Get tickets to a musical or show, or just walk through the street checking out the famous theaters and people-watching.
Fifth Avenue
Known as one of the most expensive streets in the world, Fifth Avenue boasts many luxury flagship stores, as well as many famous museums. Devil’s Advocate (1997) was filmed around here.
Wall Street
Woody Allen’s Annie Hall (1977) had several Wall Street scenes, as did The Wolf of Wall Street (2013). If you find yourself in the heart of FiDi, check out the famous building that houses the New York Stock Exchange, or take a picture next to the Bull.
Central Park West
Since 1908, over 200 films have been shot inside Central Park. One example is Miracle on 34th Street (1947), which was filmed in and around the park, and even shot during the real 1946 Macy’s Day Parade. While Central Park is huge and filled with many famous landmarks, some great ones to check out in Central Park West are Wagner Cove and Strawberry Fields.
Madison Avenue
Action thriller Ransom (1996) includes scenes from Madison Ave. If you’re in the city for a shopping trip, make sure to tour the stores up and down Madison Avenue—it makes sense that Netflix’s Inventing Anna (2022) also included scenes of the mysterious main character shot on location here.
Third Avenue
Enchanted (2007) was filmed all over the city, including a scene on Third. This street runs the length of Manhattan, but if you find yourself on Third in lower Manhattan, visit Gramercy Park or the Ukrainian Museum.
Columbus Circle
Retrace the scenes from Taxi Driver (1976) around Columbus Circle, which is right across from Central Park. Jog through the park, go shopping, and view art at the Museum of Arts and Design.
West 57 Street
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) was filmed throughout NYC, including scenes on West 57th Street. In a great spot of Midtown, West 57 Street is close to Central Park, Carnegie Hall, and many great restaurants and food vendors.
South Street
A crucial location in I Am Legend (2007) and home to South Street Seaport, a popular pier, this location is filled with delicious food, shopping, and live music. Be sure to check out the South Seaport Museum for some local maritime history.
