Friends Filming Locations in New York City with Private Guide

Step into the world of Friends by visiting the real-life New York locations that served as the backdrop for the iconic apartments. While the interior scenes were shot in a Los Angeles studio, the exterior shots feature a building in the West Village at 90 Bedford Street. Situated on the southeast corner of Grove Street and Bedford Street, this building is home to both Monica's apartment and Joey and Chandler's iconic living space. Explore the West Village and discover the familiar facade that holds a special place in the hearts of Friends fans.

While the iconic fountain from Friends' opening credits isn't in New York, you can still enjoy the ambiance of similar locations. Despite misconceptions about the Cherry Hill fountain in Central Park or the Pulitzer Fountain in Grand Army Plaza being the inspiration, the actual fountain used in the show is situated on the Warner Bros ranch in Burbank, California. Although the ranch is seldom open to the public, you can visit Cherry Hill in Central Park for a reminiscent experience of the show's opening sequence.

While the New York Museum of Prehistoric History, where Ross works in Friends, is a fictional creation, you can visit the real-life American Museum of Natural History. This renowned museum, located on Central Park West, is a treasure trove of scientific wonders and cultural exhibits. In Friends, it serves as a memorable backdrop for pivotal moments, such as Ross and Rachel's intimate encounter and the infamous "sandwich-gate." Explore the American Museum of Natural History to immerse yourself in fascinating exhibits and relive some iconic TV moments.

As the Friends storyline progresses, Ross Geller transitions from his role as a museum palaeontologist to a professor at New York University in season six. Here, he navigates the challenges of teaching classes and, at times, finds himself entangled in complex relationships with his students – a plotline that adds humor and drama to the Friends narrative. Explore the vibrant and academic atmosphere of New York University, a real-life institution established in 1831 that plays a role in Ross's evolving career.

Chandler Bing's enigmatic profession as an IT procurements manager, specializing in statistical analysis and data reconfiguration, remains a source of confusion for many Friends fans. Regardless of the uncertainty surrounding his job, Chandler works in the Solow Building, an impressive structure located just west of Fifth Avenue between 57th and 58th Street. Situated near iconic landmarks such as Bergdorf Goodman and the Plaza Hotel, the Solow Building, constructed in 1974, boasts a striking presence with its 49 floors above ground. The building houses various entities, including law firms and hedge funds, adding an element of mystery to Chandler's professional life.

The Plaza Hotel, one of New York City's most luxurious establishments, plays a notable role in Friends. Monica and Chandler choose this illustrious venue to celebrate their engagement during the opening episode of season seven, adding a touch of glamour to their relationship milestones. Renowned for its grandeur and timeless elegance, The Plaza has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication since its opening in 1907. Over the years, it has hosted numerous celebrities, dignitaries, and even fictional characters like Monica and Chandler from Friends.

The Lucille Lortel Theatre, situated in the West Village at 121 Christopher Street, played a notable role in the 3rd season of Friends. This off-Broadway playhouse became a recurring setting as Joey Tribbiani, portrayed by Matt LeBlanc, embarked on various performances, contributing to memorable episodes like 'The One with the Dollhouse,' 'The One with the Screamer,' and 'The One with the Tiny T-shirt." Known for its intimate atmosphere and commitment to showcasing innovative theatrical productions, the Lucille Lortel Theatre has been a hub for off-Broadway performances since its establishment.

The Moondance Diner, featuring a 1950s-themed ambiance where Monica Geller worked as a waitress in Friends, was originally a real diner in Manhattan. This iconic eatery also made appearances in movies like Spider-Man (2002) and the popular TV series Sex and the City. In a twist of fate, the diner relocated to Wyoming in 2007, but unfortunately, due to financial constraints, it closed its doors for good in 2012. While the physical diner is no longer in SoHo, you can still visit the historic location where it once stood, situated on 6th Avenue between Canal Street and Grand Street. This spot holds a nostalgic connection to the beloved diner, offering fans a glimpse into its memorable presence in the heart of New York City.