For a generation, Friends isn’t just a TV show; it’s a cultural phenomenon. This sitcom, chronicling the lives of six twenty to thirty-something friends in New York City, aired for ten seasons, garnered 62 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, and achieved global recognition, being translated into 104 languages. Even decades after its finale, the show’s charm and relatability endure.
While the interior scenes of Friends were famously shot on a Warner Bros. studio lot in Los Angeles, the exterior shots that established the New York City setting are very much real. For fans visiting the Big Apple, these locations offer a tangible connection to the show, allowing you to step into the world of Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Chandler, Ross, and Joey. If you’re planning a trip to NYC and are a Friends enthusiast, here are some key filming locations you can explore to relive your favorite moments.
90 Bedford Street: Monica & Rachel’s Apartment Building
Perhaps the most recognizable exterior from Friends is the building purported to house Monica and Rachel’s iconic apartment. Located at 90 Bedford Street in the charming West Village, at the corner of Bedford and Grove Streets, this residential building served as the exterior shot for their apartment building throughout the series. Interestingly, the building was chosen due to a personal connection: John Shaffner, the show’s artistic director, lived there. A visit to 90 Bedford Street is a must for any Friends fan. You’ll likely find yourself amongst other fans, all eager to capture a photo of this famous façade and imagine themselves sipping coffee at Central Perk just around the corner (though Central Perk’s interior is fictional).
Bloomingdale’s: Rachel’s Fashion Career Takes Off
Bloomingdale’s holds a special place in Rachel Green’s storyline. It’s where she transitions from a coffee shop waitress at Central Perk to a budding fashion executive. Rachel’s big career move saw her working at Bloomingdale’s flagship store, located on 3rd Avenue in New York City. While you can’t visit Rachel’s fictional office within the store, you can certainly explore the real Bloomingdale’s. Wander through the aisles, experience the bustling atmosphere, and imagine Rachel navigating the world of high fashion. Whether you’re a shopper or simply a curious fan, a visit to Bloomingdale’s connects you to a pivotal moment in Rachel’s journey.
The Plaza Hotel: Monica and Chandler’s Dream Wedding Venue
The Plaza Hotel is synonymous with luxury and elegance in New York City, and in Friends, it became the backdrop for Monica and Chandler’s unforgettable wedding in season seven. This grand hotel provided the perfect setting for their lavish celebration. You can experience the Plaza’s opulence firsthand. Indulge in a meal at one of its restaurants, enjoy a classic afternoon tea, or browse the upscale shops within the hotel. For a stunning view of the exterior, head to Central Park, near the Wollman Rink, where you can admire the hotel’s façade and imagine Monica and Chandler celebrating their special day. The Plaza Hotel offers a taste of the high-end New York lifestyle often glimpsed in Friends.
American Museum of Natural History: Ross Geller’s Prehistoric World
For fans of Ross Geller, the paleontologist of the group, the “New York Museum of Prehistoric History” is a key location. Many memorable scenes featuring Ross at work, including his and Rachel’s first date, were set in this fictional museum. In reality, the museum is the renowned American Museum of Natural History, located on Central Park West. Whether you’re a Friends devotee or simply a lover of museums, the American Museum of Natural History is a must-visit. It’s one of New York City’s premier attractions, offering hours of exploration through fascinating exhibits. Allow ample time – at least four hours – to fully appreciate the museum’s vast collections and imagine Ross Geller wandering through its halls.
Madison Square Garden: A Boys’ Night Out for Chandler, Joey, and Ross
Madison Square Garden, a world-famous arena, makes a cameo in the Friends episode “The One Where Chandler Can’t Remember Which Sister.” Chandler, Joey, and Ross head to Madison Square Garden to catch a New York Rangers hockey game. If you’re keen to experience this iconic venue, you can attend a game, concert, or event. Alternatively, for a behind-the-scenes look, consider booking a tour of Madison Square Garden. While the interior shots of the game weren’t actually filmed there, visiting MSG allows you to stand in the same location where the Friends characters were theoretically enjoying a night out.
Exploring these Friends filming locations throughout New York City offers a unique and engaging way to connect with the show. From the charming streets of the West Village to grand landmarks like the Plaza Hotel and Madison Square Garden, these spots bring the world of Friends to life for fans visiting the city. So, next time you’re in New York, embark on a Friends-themed tour and discover these iconic locations for yourself!
