13 movie landmarks to see in New York City

New York City. The Big Apple. The city that never sleeps. 

Whatever you call it, there’s no denying this electric metropolis has earned its spot as the ultimate scene-stealer on the silver screen.

From the dreamy doorsteps of Breakfast at Tiffany’s to the spooky steps of Ghostbusters, New York isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a bonafide star. It’s been immortalised in chart-topping songs, sketched into comic books, and turned into the stage for some of film and television’s most iconic moments. Strolling through the city can feel like stepping into your own movie montage.

Whether you're chasing those “I’ve-seen-this-somewhere!” moments or just want to soak up the buzz of your favourite flicks, we've rounded up 13 must-see movie landmarks that’ll have you seeing stars — literally.

From Central Park’s endless cameos to a certain brownstone that turned four women and a city into global icons, these spots are pure movie magic.

1. The Seven Year Itch (1954) 

Starring Marilyn Monroe

You might not have seen the film, but you definitely know the scene. Marilyn Monroe, white dress billowing above a subway grate — it’s one of cinema’s most iconic images. This legendary moment drew such a crowd during filming that they had to re-shoot parts on a soundstage.

Where to find it: Lexington Avenue and East 52nd Street (near the 6 train at E 51st St). Keep an eye out for the street plaque commemorating the spot!

2. Breakfast At Tiffanys (1961)

Starring Audrey Hepburn

Cue the black dress, pearls and pastries. In Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), Audrey Hepburn gave the world one of cinema’s most glamorous moments — standing outside Tiffany & Co, coffee and croissant in hand, quietly window shopping in the early morning light.

Where to find it: Tiffany & Co's flagship store at 727 Fifth Avenue, Midtown Manhattan. The exact location is near the corner of 57th Street and Fifth Avenue.

Pinch-me moment: You can still stand where Holly Golightly did, take a photo, and (if you're keen) pop inside for your own little sparkle.

3. Superman: The Movie (1978)

Starring Christopher Reeve

Before CGI skyscrapers and green screens, Superman: The Movie (1978) gave us a real-life newsroom for Clark Kent’s alter ego. The towering Art Deco building that doubled as the Daily Planet was actually the New York Daily News headquarters. Fitting, right? With its gleaming glass façade and globe-filled lobby, it still feels like somewhere Superman might swoop in.

Where to find it: The Daily News Building, 220 East 42nd Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues.

Fun fact: It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1989 — truth, justice and timeless design all in one.

4. Ghostbusters (1984) & Ghostbusters (2016)

1984 version starring Bill Murray
2019 version starring Melissa McCarthy & Chris Hemsworth

Who you gonna call? You don’t need a ghost to check out this legendary spot — the Ghostbusters’ HQ is real, and still fighting fires (not phantoms) in Tribeca. Hook & Ladder Company 8 featured in both the original Ghostbusters with Bill Murray and the 2016 reboot starring Melissa McCarthy and Chris Hemsworth.

Where to find it: 14 North Moore Street, Tribeca.

Movie magic: Keep an eye out for the Ghostbusters logo still painted on the pavement outside. And bonus: this firehouse also popped up in Hitch and How I Met Your Mother.

5. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Starring Meg Ryan & Billy Crystal

This is the deli scene. Meg Ryan. Billy Crystal. A conversation that goes from casual to iconic in 30 seconds flat. You know the one. When Harry Met Sally made Katz’s Delicatessen a pop culture pilgrimage site — and let’s be honest, the pastrami alone is worth the visit.

Where to find it: Katz’s Delicatessen, 205 East Houston Street, Lower East Side.

Must-do: Grab a table (yes, that table is marked), order a towering sandwich, and channel your inner Meg. This NYC staple has been serving up mile-high deli goodness since 1888.

6. Men In Black (1997)

Starring Will Smith & Tommy Lee Jones

Slick suits, secret aliens and memory-wiping gadgets — Men In Black turned New York into a cosmic playground. And while the agents’ headquarters might look like just another government building, it’s actually one of the ventilation shafts for the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel. Not your average tourist attraction… unless you're on a mission to spot aliens in disguise.

Where to find it: Corner of Battery Place and State Street, right near the entrance to what’s now the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel.

Fun fact: This was the longest underground road tunnel in the world until 2016 — and who knows, it still might be Earth’s best-kept extra-terrestrial secret.

Other notable locations in the film:

• Guggenheim Museum, 1071 5th Avenue and East 89th Street, Manhattan.
• Battery Park, Manhattan.
• Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens.
• Shea Stadium, 12301 Roosevelt Avenue, Flushing Meadows Park, Queens. (This is also where the Beatles had their concert in America)

Location: 504 Battery Pl, New York

7. Serendipity (2001)

Starring Kate Beckinsale & John Cusack

Few films bottle up the magic of a New York winter quite like Serendipity. Jonathan and Sara's love story is stitched together with chance encounters, but their most swoon-worthy moment? Gliding across the ice at Wollman Rink under the glow of Manhattan’s skyline. A place for second chances — and maybe your own movie-worthy moment.

Where to find it: Wollman Rink, Central Park (830 Fifth Avenue, near 59th Street).

Spine-tingle tip: Visit in winter when the rink is open to the public. Whether you're a pro skater or a happy clinger to the railings, it's romance at every glide.

8. Maid In Manhattan (2002)

Starring Jennifer Lopez & Ralph Fiennes

A fairytale with a New York twist. In Maid in Manhattan, Jennifer Lopez plays a hotel housekeeper swept into high society — and romance — when a guest mistakes her for a wealthy socialite. The grand exterior of the Hotel Beresford? That’s the iconic Waldorf-Astoria, a real-life haven of glamour and old-school New York elegance.

Where to find it: Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, 301 Park Avenue, Midtown Manhattan.

Star-studded history: This luxe landmark has popped up in The Great Gatsby, Godfather Part III, Serendipity, Two Weeks Notice, and more. You’re walking in serious celebrity footsteps.

9. Spider-man (2002)

Starring Tobey Maguire & Kirsten Dunst

“With great power comes great responsibility.” Uncle Ben’s words echo through modern movie history — and they were spoken right outside the stunning New York Public Library in Spider-Man (2002). It's a powerful place to pause, especially knowing what that moment meant for Peter Parker’s journey.

Where to find it: New York Public Library, 476 Fifth Avenue.

Bonus stop: While The Daily Bugle lives only in the Spiderverse, the Flatiron Building stood in as its headquarters. With its iconic wedge-shaped architecture, it’s one of NYC’s most recognisable skyscrapers.

Where to find it: Flatiron Building, 175 Fifth Avenue.

Local tip: Snap your photo on the corner of 23rd Street and Fifth Avenue — it’s the hero shot angle Spidey would approve of.

10. 13 Doing On 30 (1997)

Starring Jennifer Garner & Mark Ruffalo

From awkward teen to magazine editor overnight, Jenna Rink’s magical time-jump gave us one of the sweetest NYC rom-coms ever. The fictional Poise magazine was set inside the sleek, art deco tower at 444 Madison Avenue — a fitting home for power heels and pastel suits.

Where to find it: 444 Madison Avenue, Midtown Manhattan.

Film fan detour: Recreate your own movie montage at:

• Times Square – where adult Jenna soaks in the city buzz

• Henri Bendel (now closed) – formerly at 712 Fifth Avenue

• Conservatory Water, Central Park – perfect for a dreamy stroll

• New York Public Library – a favourite for film crews and fairytales alike

Spine-tingle moment: The Thriller dance scene? Still iconic.

11. Night At The Museum (2006)

Starring Ben Stiller

What if the museum really came to life after dark? In Night at the Museum (2006), Ben Stiller’s character gets more than he bargained for on the night shift — from a mischievous monkey to a talking Teddy Roosevelt. While the exhibits don’t actually roam the halls (we think!), the real-life American Museum of Natural History is every bit as fascinating.

Where to find it: Central Park West at 79th Street, Upper West Side.

Magical moment: Don’t miss the towering dinosaur skeletons and the legendary dioramas — the perfect mix of fun, facts and wow factor for kids and grown-ups alike.

12. Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Starring Leonardo di Caprio, Margot Robbie

Chest-thumping. Humming. Questionable morals. That lunch scene between Leonardo DiCaprio and Matthew McConaughey became instantly iconic — equal parts bizarre and brilliant. Filmed at what was once Top of the Sixes, a sky-high spot once known for its “power lunches” and sweeping Empire State views, it was a fitting backdrop for Jordan Belfort’s rise (and spectacular fall).

Where to find it: 666 Fifth Avenue, Midtown Manhattan. While Top of the Sixes is long gone, the Grand Havana Room — a private cigar lounge — now occupies the space.

Pinch-me moment: You might not get the same table, but standing outside this address still brings you face-to-face with one of Wall Street’s most storied buildings.

13. Joker (2019)

Starring Joaquin Phoenix

Dark, haunting and somehow… danceable? Joker gave us one of the most chilling origin stories of modern cinema — and one very viral staircase. As Arthur Fleck descends into madness (and full clown makeup), he dances down these steep Bronx steps to the beat of his own chaos. Fans now flock to recreate the moment — and yes, #JokerStairs has its own fame on Instagram.

Where to find it: West 167th Street, between Anderson and Shakespeare Avenues, Bronx.

Film fan extras:

• Arkham State Hospital was actually the Brooklyn Army Terminal Annex

• The Donut Shop? Twin Donut at 3396 Jerome Avenue — still standing and still serving

Pro tip: If you're heading to the stairs, go during daylight and be mindful — it’s a real residential neighbourhood, not just a movie set.

Inspired to walk in the footsteps of your favourite movie stars? Connect with one of our USA specialists today to start planning your cinematic adventure!