New York Private The Devil Wears Prada Movie Locations Tour

A Practical Look at the “Devil Wears Prada” Movie Locations Tour in New York

If you’re a fan of The Devil Wears Prada or just curious about film spots in New York, this private tour offers a neat way to see some of the city’s most recognizable settings from the movie. While it’s not a blockbuster-sized adventure, it does give you a personalized, flexible experience that many travelers appreciate.

What really caught our eye are the tailored nature of this tour—with your own guide giving undivided attention—and the chance to visit both famous and lesser-known spots that most visitors miss. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and subway travel, which might be a consideration if mobility is an issue.

This experience is best suited for those who love movies, enjoy exploring on foot, and want a more intimate look at New York’s film locations. If a structured, large-group tour isn’t your thing, and you’re after a personal touch, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: The private nature means your guide can tailor the stops to your interests.
• Film location focus: Perfect for fans of The Devil Wears Prada or fashion-inspired NYC sightseeing.
• Variety of spots: From iconic buildings to hidden local gems, including restaurants and parks.
• In-depth commentary: Your guide will share stories behind each location, making it more than just a photo-op.
• Flexible itinerary: The tour can be adjusted, giving you some control over what you see.
• Includes subway transport: Adds an authentic city experience but requires some walking and mobility.

Exploring the NYC “Devil Wears Prada” Filming Locations

This tour packs a lot into roughly three hours, and we think it’s a good way to combine movie lore with a taste of New York life. It’s designed for those who want to see the city’s famous spots but prefer a slower, more personal pace than a big bus tour.

Starting at the McGraw-Hill Building (1221 Avenue of the Americas)

Your journey begins at the fictitious Elias-Clark offices, the hub of Runway Magazine in the film. This is actually the McGraw-Hill Building, a sleek 1931 architectural landmark. Standing here, you can imagine Andrea Sachs walking into the glamorous world of fashion publishing. The guide will point out the building’s impressive façade and lobby, giving you a sense of the setting’s iconic status.

While some visitors may find the building itself underwhelming, the real value is in the story behind it. You get a sense of the film’s universe right from the start.

The St. Regis New York

Next up is the luxe St. Regis Hotel, where a key scene unfolded in the movie. Your guide will highlight the hotel’s opulence—an ideal backdrop for Miranda’s world—and share the story of the legendary King Cole Bar, famous for inventing the Bloody Mary (originally the Red Snapper). It’s a spot that oozes elegance, and even if you’re not planning to stay or dine there, it’s fun to stand where Miranda Priestley once stood unmasked and makeup-free.

This stop is quite brief—around 15 minutes—but adds a layer of glamour to the tour.

Bubby’s: A Taste of New York Comfort

Here, Andrea celebrated her success, raising a glass with friends. Owned by Robert De Niro, Bubby’s is loved for its comfort food and relaxed vibe. You might not spend long here, but it’s a cozy moment of the tour and a nice break from walking.

Andrea’s Apartment & Erin McKenna’s Bakery

Just next door, you’ll visit the spot that doubles as Andrea’s apartment—though it’s actually outside a bakery. Here, you can peek at the kind of vegan, gluten-free treats Andrea might have grabbed on her way to work. It’s a small but charming detail that adds flavor to your experience, especially if you enjoy foodie insights.

The American Museum of Natural History

This grand museum played host to the Runway gala in the film. Standing outside, you can visualize the scene as Andrea impressively recalls a guest’s name during a hectic event. Besides the movie tie-in, the museum itself holds over 34 million specimens, making it a fascinating spot to explore if you have extra time.

Smith & Wollensky: A Classic NYC Steakhouse

Next, you’ll see the restaurant where Andrea dashes to satisfy Miranda’s craving for a steak. Founded in 1977, its playful name comes from two names randomly picked from a phone book—a fun fact that adds some local charm. While this stop is brief, it gives you a glimpse of New York’s upscale dining scene.

Central Park & the Upper East Side

Strolling through Central Park, you get a breather amid the city’s hustle. The tour highlights the neighborhood’s luxury vibe, perfectly matching Miranda’s residence. If you’re a park lover or interested in high-end NYC real estate, this segment offers both scenic views and a little cultural context.

The Cary Building & Gapstow Bridge

You’ll visit the Cary Building, a historic cast-iron landmark that served as the fictional newspaper office. It’s a reminder of NYC’s architectural legacy. Not far off, the picturesque Gapstow Bridge over the Pond in Central Park provides a scenic backdrop for film scenes, plus great photo opportunities.

Times Square / Theater District

Finally, the tour wraps up amidst the vibrant lights and energy of Times Square. The chaotic scene of Andrea rushing to find a flight reflects the city’s nonstop pace. It’s a classic NYC moment, capturing the city’s essence perfectly.

What the Tour Means for You as a Traveler

This experience isn’t just about ticking off movie locations. It’s about feeling more connected with the city’s story—both real and cinematic. The private guide means you get tailored commentary, which can make the experience more engaging, especially if you have specific questions about the film or the city.

The inclusion of subway rides adds an authentic New York feel, and the flexible itinerary allows for some customization—perhaps you want to linger longer at Central Park or skip a stop if your feet are tired.

In terms of value, $155 per person for a three-hour private tour feels reasonable, especially considering the personalized attention and the access to sites that are not always included in larger, bus-based tours. You’re also paying for the convenience—hotel pickup in the city is included, which helps streamline the experience.

A Word of Caution

While the tour covers a lot of ground, it does involve a fair amount of walking and subway travel, so be prepared for some physical activity. Those with mobility issues might find some stops challenging, especially as the tour involves crossing busy streets and navigating city streets. The tour is also not particularly long, so if you’re craving in-depth museum exploration or a leisurely day, this might feel a bit rushed.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

What sets this tour apart is its focus on off-the-beaten-path spots and authentic NYC experiences. Whether it’s the historic architecture or the local eateries, it offers a more genuine feel than just a generic film tour. The guide’s insights make the locations come alive, turning a simple sightseeing walk into a story-rich adventure.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for film fans who want a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at NYC. It’s a good choice if you appreciate a mix of culture, history, and pop culture, and prefer a private guide to a large, noisy group. It’s also suitable for those who like a flexible schedule, want to see a variety of locations, and enjoy a bit of walking and subway travel.

If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even on your own and want a curated NYC experience that’s both fun and informative, this tour hits the right notes. But if you’re looking for a more leisurely or museum-heavy day, you might want to supplement this with additional activities.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private “Devil Wears Prada” film location tour offers a nice blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and city exploring. It’s especially appealing if you love movies, appreciate a tailored experience, and want to see iconic New York spots without the crowds. The guide’s insights and the variety of locations visited make it more than just a list of film sites—they help paint a picture of the city that inspired the movie.

While it’s not a deep dive into NYC’s cultural scene or history, it succeeds in providing a curated, personable look at some of Manhattan’s most photogenic and story-rich locations. For those who enjoy exploring at a comfortable pace and value local knowledge, this tour might just be the perfect way to spend a few hours in the Big Apple.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is primarily a walking experience through city streets, it doesn’t specify restrictions for children. If your family enjoys movies and sightseeing, it can be fun, but keep in mind the walking and subway travel involved.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including walking and subway rides. It’s designed to be a manageable length, but be prepared for some physical activity.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to adjust the stops based on your interests. Your guide will aim to tailor the experience to suit your preferences.

What is included in the price?
The $155 fee covers all taxes, a friendly local guide, private walking, and subway transportation. Meeting in your hotel lobby is also part of the package.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour price does not include food or drinks, but stops like Bubby’s and Erin McKenna’s Bakery offer great options if you want to grab a bite.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book this tour about 35 days ahead, so early planning is recommended to secure your preferred time.

If you’re a movie buff with a taste for New York’s authentic vibe, this tour could be a charming addition to your trip. Just be ready for some walking, and you’ll come away with fun stories and plenty of great photos.