New York City is famous not only for its culture, landmarks, and diverse communities but also for being featured in countless blockbuster movies. From iconic scenes in romantic comedies to action-packed thrillers, NYC is the perfect backdrop for stories that have captivated audiences for decades.
If you're a movie fan and planning a trip to the Big Apple, why not check out the places that made it to the silver screen? Here's a list of the best places to visit in New York City that you've probably seen in your favorite films!
What You'll Expect
1. American Museum of Natural History - Night at the Museum
2. Central Park’s Bethesda Terrace - Enchanted
3. Empire State Building - King Kong
4. Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8 - Ghostbusters
5. Grand Central Terminal - The Avengers
6. Katz’s Delicatessen - When Harry Met Sally
7. Madison Square Garden - How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
🏛️ American Museum of Natural History - Night at the Museum
Dinosaur exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History
If you’re a fan of Night at the Museum, you’ll love the American Museum of Natural History. Located on the Upper West Side, this museum is home to over 30 million specimens. One of the most famous exhibits is the T. Rex skeleton, or "Rexy," as it's called in the movie.
In Night at the Museum, Rexy comes to life at night, but don't worry, the skeleton stays perfectly still during the day. The museum is filled with amazing exhibits, from dinosaurs to space, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
📍 Where it is: Upper West Side, Manhattan
🕑 Best time to go: Morning hours for fewer crowds
⛲ Central Park’s Bethesda Terrace - Enchanted
Bethesda Fountain in Central Park | Photo Credits: Another Believer on Wikimedia
Bethesda Fountain in Central Park is a must-see, especially if you loved Enchanted. In the movie, Amy Adams’ character Giselle sings "That’s How You Know" right here. The terrace overlooks the Mall and the beautiful lake where you can row a boat.
At the center of the terrace is the “Angel of the Waters” fountain, one of the park’s most photogenic spots. Whether you’re taking in the views or relaxing, this place is as magical as it looks on screen.
If you want to explore more iconic areas from movies, the best way to do it is by going on a Central Park pedicab tour. From the “Friends” fountain to the spots in Home Alone 2, a pedicab ride is a great way to experience the park’s movie magic without missing a thing.
📍 Where it is: Central Park, Manhattan
🕑 Best time to go: Late afternoon for peaceful views and fewer tourists
🏙 Empire State Building - King Kong
King Kong exhibit at Empire State Building
You can’t visit New York City without seeing the Empire State Building. This world-famous skyscraper has appeared in tons of movies, but the most iconic moment comes from King Kong (1933). In the movie, the giant ape climbs to the top of the building to escape from the planes.
Today, you can visit the Empire State Building and enjoy stunning views of the city from the observation decks. Plus, there’s a King Kong exhibit inside, where you can see memorabilia and relive the thrilling moments from the classic film!
📍 Where it is: Midtown Manhattan
🕑 Best time to go: Evening for a breathtaking view of the city lights
🚒 Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8 - Ghostbusters
Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8 in NYC | Photo Credits: Chris6d on Pexels
If you’re a Ghostbusters fan, the real-life firehouse that served as the Ghostbusters’ headquarters is located in Tribeca. This firehouse, known as Hook & Ladder Company 8, has been featured in all the Ghostbusters movies.
While the scenes with the Ghostbusters fighting ghosts were filmed inside, the exterior of the firehouse was filmed here on location. Stop by to snap a photo at this iconic spot!
📍 Where it is: 14 N Moore St, Tribeca, Manhattan
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning to avoid crowds
🚇 Grand Central Terminal - The Avengers
Grand Central Terminal in NYC
Grand Central Terminal is another iconic NYC landmark that you’ve probably seen in a movie. It appeared in The Avengers when Captain America and Loki had their epic chase scene. The terminal is famous for its stunning architecture, with a beautiful marble floor and the celestial dome overhead.
If you're a movie buff or just love beautiful buildings, this place is a must-see in NYC. For an even deeper experience, you can go on a Grand Central Terminal walking tour to learn about the terminal's rich history and hidden details. It’s the perfect way to fully appreciate this iconic spot!
📍 Where it is: 89 E 42nd St, Midtown Manhattan
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning for a quieter experience
🥪 Katz’s Delicatessen - When Harry Met Sally
The iconic Katz’s Delicatessen
Anyone who’s seen When Harry Met Sally knows Katz’s Delicatessen. This Lower East Side deli became famous for the unforgettable "I’ll have what she’s having" scene. Today, it’s still a hot spot for delicious pastrami sandwiches and other classic deli dishes.
While you’re here, take a moment to enjoy the historic photos on the walls and imagine the movie scene unfolding around you.
📍 Where it is: 205 E Houston St, Lower East Side, Manhattan
🕑 Best time to go: Weekdays during lunch for fewer crowds
🌻Madison Square Garden - How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
Knicks Basketball Game
Madison Square Garden, also known as "The World’s Most Famous Arena," is featured in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. The film has scenes from a New York Knicks game filmed right here. If you visit during game time, you might spot a celebrity fan or two, like Spike Lee or Ben Stiller.
To experience it just like in the movie, grab tickets and watch a Knicks basketball game. Madison Square Garden hosts a variety of events, from basketball to concerts, so check the schedule for a chance to catch a live event during your visit.
📍 Where it is: 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown Manhattan
🕑 Best time to go: During a live event for the full experience
FAQs about best places to visit in NYC
What is the prettiest place in New York City?
Central Park is often called the prettiest place in New York City. With its green spaces, peaceful lakes, and beautiful walking paths, it’s a great place to relax or take in the sights.
What should you not miss when visiting New York?
You shouldn’t miss visiting places like the Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. These are some of the most iconic spots in NYC!
What is the most visited place in New York City?
Times Square is the most visited place in New York City. Its bright lights and buzzing atmosphere make it a must-see for any traveler.
What are the top 5 most visited places in New York City?
The top five most visited places in New York City include Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the American Museum of Natural History.
What are the top five things to do in New York City?
Some of the best things to do in New York City include visiting the Empire State Building, exploring Central Park, taking a ferry to the Statue of Liberty, going to a Broadway show, and eating at Katz’s Delicatessen.
Your NYC movie adventure starts here
And there you have it, the best places to visit in New York City that you’ve seen in movies! If you want to relive iconic movie scenes or just enjoy these amazing spots in person, NYC is the perfect place to do it all.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today, and make sure to check out Klook for the best tours and tickets to make your NYC adventure even better!
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
