Famous TV and Movie Locations Guided Tour New York City

If you’re a fan of TV shows and movies set in NYC, chances are you’ve wondered where those iconic scenes were filmed. That’s why a guided tour of movie and TV filming locations can be such a treat. We’ve looked into one of the most popular options — the Famous TV and Movie Locations Guided Tour in New York City — and it’s worth sharing what you can expect from this experience.

What we love about this tour is how it combines entertainment with insight. Having a guide who’s also an actor adds a layer of authenticity and behind-the-scenes tidbits that you probably wouldn’t get just wandering around on your own. Plus, the fact that it’s done on a comfortable coach bus makes it easy to relax and take in the sights without the hassle of navigating traffic or public transport.

Of course, no experience is perfect. A minor consideration is that most of your time is spent riding between locations, which some travelers might find less engaging. If you’re hoping for frequent stops and more hands-on exploring, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re a film and TV enthusiast wanting a relaxed overview, this tour hits the right notes.

This tour is especially suited for TV and movie fans who love seeing the places they’ve only watched on screen, but it’s also great for anyone curious about NYC’s cinematic history. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a local looking to see familiar haunts, it offers a window into the city’s storytelling past.

Key Points

• Learn from a local actor guide who shares behind-the-scenes stories and fun NYC trivia.
• See iconic spots like the Friends apartment building, Ghostbusters Firehouse, and Seinfeld restaurant.
• Relax on a comfortable bus, avoiding the stress of city traffic and transport.
• Enjoy a 3-hour tour that covers many filming locations with quick stops for photos.
• Option to upgrade to a private tour with exclusive transportation.
• Most reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and engaging personality, making the experience more memorable.

What to Expect from the Tour

The adventure kicks off in Midtown Manhattan, where you meet your guide — a local actor with a passion for NYC’s cinematic history. The group boards an air-conditioned coach (or heated in winter), ready to cruise around Manhattan’s most recognizable filming spots.

Throughout the tour, you’ll see dozens of locations, with the guide pointing out what makes each one special. For example, you’ll get a glimpse of the Friends apartment building, which is often a photo favorite, and the Ghostbusters Firehouse, iconic for its role in the 1984 hit. The guide shares behind-the-scenes stories and trivia—something many reviews highlight as a highlight.

During the ride, you’ll also see spots from popular shows like Seinfeld, Glee, The Mindy Project, and How I Met Your Mother. The tour often includes video clips to match scenes with locations, which helps bring the sights to life.

The stops are usually around 15 minutes each, giving you a chance to snap photos, peek around, or just enjoy the moment. Locations like Wollman Rink, Lincoln Center, and Macy’s Herald Square are part of the route — more than just film sites, they’re also iconic NYC landmarks.

The tour wraps up back in Midtown, leaving you with a new appreciation for NYC’s role in Hollywood and TV. Reviewers mention that most locations are outside the bus, so you get some brief experiences outside and photo ops, but many also note the bus ride itself can be long.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: On Location Tours – The starting point where the fun begins. It’s a casual meet-up spot in Midtown.

Stop 2: Central Park – A must-see for any visitor. Not only famous from movies like When Harry Met Sally, but also a perfect spot for a quick photo or just soaking in the scenery.

Stop 3: Wollman Rink – This ice skating rink is featured in a number of films, and it’s a real highlight for many fans of winter scenes or romantic comedies.

Stop 4: Lincoln Center – Known from various film and TV moments, it’s an elegant backdrop for your photos and sightseeing.

Stop 5: Fifth Avenue – Famous for its high-end shops, but also a location in countless TV shows and movies.

Stop 6: Ghostbusters Firehouse – One of the most praised sights. The iconic firehouse is a must-see and often the tour’s highlight, according to many reviews.

Stop 7: Macy’s Herald Square – Not just a shopping icon, but also a film location, especially during holiday filming.

Stop 8: Friends Apartment Building – The tour’s pièce de résistance for Friends fans. It’s a quick stop, but well worth it for photos and reminiscing.

Note: Locations are subject to change, depending on city events or other logistical factors.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $70 per person, many consider this tour good value, especially given that it’s led by a guide with entertainment industry experience. While it’s not a deep-dive into each filming location, the insider stories and curated route add a lot to the experience. It’s a 3-hour ride, so it’s suitable for those who want an overview without a full-day commitment.

Reviewers mention that the tour is fast-paced, but the quick stops mean you get a good sampling of NYC’s Hollywood moments without feeling exhausted. Plus, the option for a private tour makes it appealing for couples or small groups wanting a more personalized experience.

Group Size and Comfort

The tour is limited to 40 travelers, which keeps it intimate enough to hear your guide clearly. The buses are equipped with bathrooms, and most are air-conditioned or heated, making it comfortable year-round.

Travelers have praised the guides for their friendly, engaging personalities. Many mention the guide’s knowledge about the film and TV industry and their ability to keep everyone entertained.

Reviews and Real Opinions

Looking at the reviews, the general consensus is quite positive. People love seeing the Ghostbusters Firehouse and the Friends building, often citing these as their favorite stops. Multiple reviews highlight how the guide’s personality makes the experience special — with mentions of humor, helpfulness, and insider knowledge.

Some travelers noted that most of the tour is spent riding between locations, which can feel a bit long if you’re eager to get out and explore more. However, many still found the video clips, storytelling, and photo stops to be worth the ride.

There are occasional remarks about traffic delays or late pickups, but the company’s policy clarifies that delays can happen due to factors beyond their control. Still, most reviewers leave feeling they’ve gotten a fun, informative view of NYC’s pop culture landscape.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love TV shows and movies featuring New York City, this tour offers a fun, relaxed way to see some of the most recognizable filming locations. The knowledgeable actor guides make it more than just a sightseeing ride — they add layers of fun and insider insight that enrich the experience.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, the curated stops highlight iconic spots, making it perfect for fans wanting a quick dose of Hollywood in the Big Apple. The comfort of the coach bus and the camaraderie of the group make it suitable for most travelers, especially those who prefer a sit-back-and-listen approach.

That said, if you’re after more hands-on exploring or want to get off the bus often, this may feel a bit limited. But if you’re content with a 3-hour cinematic overview, it’s a memorable, well-reviewed option that’s likely to leave you smiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, primarily on a comfortable coach bus with several short stops for photos and quick sightseeing.

What locations will I see?
You’ll visit iconic spots like the Friends apartment building, Ghostbusters Firehouse, Wollman Rink, Lincoln Center, and more. Specific locations are subject to change.

Is it suitable for families?
The tour is generally family-friendly, but it’s best for those interested in movies and TV shows. Make sure your kids are comfortable with bus rides and quick stops.

Can I upgrade to a private tour?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private tour with private transportation, which is ideal for small groups or special occasions.

What’s included in the tour price?
You get a 3-hour bus tour, led by a guide who’s also an actor, with options for quick photo stops. Food and drinks are not included.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Most travelers can participate, and the buses are equipped with bathrooms. Service animals are allowed.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 49 days ahead, indicating it’s a popular experience, especially during peak seasons.

What if I’m late or want to cancel?
Late arrivals aren’t accommodated, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start time. After that, no refund is available.

In the end, this tour offers a friendly, insider look into NYC’s film and TV history, perfect for fans wanting a relaxed, engaging experience. It’s a solid choice if you value storytelling, comfortable travel, and iconic sights that stir up nostalgia or curiosity.