The cast of 'Friends' in a frame to mark the places every fan needs to see when they visit NYC.

These Are The 11 Places Every Friends Fan Needs To See When They Visit NYC

Monica and Rachel's apartment building is real.

Could you be anymore excited for the Friends: The Reunion special on HBO Max ? As a Friends fan, you’ve watched the entire series from start to finish too many times to count, and constantly quote your favorite characters. It almost feels like you’re actually friends with Monica, Phoebe, Rachel, Chandler, Joey, and Ross in real life. So it’s about time to live out your very own episode by visiting some of Friends ’ New York City filming locations, along with some of the places that inspired the sitcom.

While most of the series was filmed at the Warner Bros. Studio in Burbank, California, there are some iconic NYC landmarks used as establishing shots, or as references for the group’s places of work. Ross’ job at the Museum of Prehistoric History? Not a real place. The opening credits fountain? That was in California — but there are a couple of NYC fountains that will totally remind you of it, so you can still make it look like you’re living in the beloved world of Friends on your next trip to the Big Apple. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it’s safe for anyone who is fully vaccinated to travel domestically, so you can start planning your Friends -inspired adventure ASAP. Keep in mind you’ll need to wear a mask on all forms of public transportation on your journey through Manhattan, but you’ll barely notice it as you take in the sights from the Upper West Side down to Greenwich Village.

Since the OG cast of Friends reunited for their HBO Max special, it only makes sense you and your besties also get together in an epic way soon. So, pivot any potential plans you and your crew, or maybe your lobster, made for the summer if they didn’t involve a Friends -themed vacation, and be sure to stop at these 11 NYC locations.

friends new york places to visit

Your first stop on a Friends NYC tour should be this apartment building in Greenwich Village. While the interior shots of Monica and Rachel’s apartment (as well as Joey and Chandler’s apartment) were filmed on a soundstage in California, this building was used for all the exterior shots.

As you walk through Greenwich Village, stop by Magnolia Bakery on Bleecker Street for a cupcake Monica would approve of, or grab a bite to eat at the Little Owl restaurant below the apartment. It may not be Central Perk, but the eatery offers plenty of options for food, cocktails, and — of course — coffee.

The CDC recommends traveling only after you’re fully vaccinated and your vaccine has become fully effective . If you’re not fully vaccinated and must travel, check the CDC guidelines before you book. Check your destination’s vaccination and testing requirements before you depart.

This article was originally published on 05.27.21

friends new york places to visit

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Home / Your Guide To The F.r.i.e.n.d.s. Experience In New York

Central Perk interior

Your Guide To The F.r.i.e.n.d.s. Experience In New York

From the twinkling skyline to the bustling Central Park , New York City holds a special place in our hearts, not just because of its grandeur but also because it’s lived in our favorite TV series, F.R.I.E.N.D.S . Unlike this iconic sitcom, few shows encapsulate the spirit, humor, and relatable life chapters.

New York City is not just a backdrop in the series but a character itself. Visit NYC thrives on the magic of such timeless narratives. Our first spotlight is on The Friends Experience , an interactive, immersive tour that takes you right into the beloved series’ world – from Central Perk’s comfy orange couch to Monica’s immaculate apartment. We ensure that we weave the tapestry of your favorite moments and blend them with the quintessential New York spirit . This unique tour lets you live the Friends saga in its truest sense, right where it was filmed – in the heart of New York City.

Booking Your Tickets in Advance

Securing your spot for The Friends Experience requires planning. Tickets often sell out quickly due to the attraction’s popularity. To avoid disappointment, buy your tickets as early as possible. This can also lead to better pricing options and more flexibility in choosing your preferred time to visit. Booking ahead means you can arrange the rest of your trip with peace of mind, knowing your entry is guaranteed.

Demand may increase during certain times of the year, such as holidays or important anniversaries associated with the performance. Keep this in mind when you plan your visit. Furthermore, booking accommodation well in advance is important to ensure the best rates and availability, as major events might result in a spike in people. Planning promotes a more fun and stress-free experience at the show.

Planning Your Visit Around Peak Times

The Friends Experience is busiest during weekends and holidays. Aim for weekdays or early mornings if you prefer a quieter setting to soak in every detail fully. This strategic timing allows for a more personal experience, with fewer crowds and more opportunities to engage with the exhibits without rush.

Weather can also influence your visit. New York’s winters can be cold, and summers hot. The Friends Experience is mostly indoors, making it a great year-round attraction. Yet, the comfort of your travels to and from the location can vary with seasons. Dressing appropriately during your visit will ensure the weather doesn’t dampen your spirit.

Consider the time you need to explore. Don’t rush your visit. Allocating enough time means you can relish each moment, whether sitting on the iconic Central Perk couch or peering into Monica and Chandler’s apartment. Allow yourself to be fully present, making your visit to The Friends Experience one for the books.

Exploring Nearby Attractions

Your trip doesn’t end with The Friends Experience. New York City is home to numerous attractions that can complement your visit. For instance, a short walk can bring you to places featured in Friends or other iconic sites within the city. This adds an extra layer of excitement to your trip, combining the fictional world of Friends with the tangible streets of New York.

Consider visiting Central Park, a frequent backdrop in the show. It’s a place to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventure. Similarly, the allure of the West Village, with its quaint streets and unique shops, mirrors the show’s charm. These areas offer a deeper dive into the New York lifestyle celebrated in Friends.

For fans wanting to extend their experience, themed cafes and trivia nights centered around Friends are common in the city. Participating in these events offers a fun way to test your knowledge of the show and meet other fans. It’s a way to keep the spirit of Friends alive, even after leaving The Friends Experience.

Shopping for Exclusive Merchandise

Your journey through The Friends Experience doesn’t end when you walk out the door. The attraction extends into a gift shop selling exclusive merchandise you won’t find elsewhere. Unique memorabilia is a great way to make your visit timeless. Every time you look at your T-shirt bearing Phoebe’s “Smelly Cat” emblem or sip coffee from a Central Perk mug, you will be reminded of the unforgettable time you spent on the tour.

While shopping might be a common tourist activity, buying exclusive merchandise can extend your journey and make your experience a part of your everyday life. It is not about purchasing items but about taking home tangible memories that will extend the joy of your visit long after you’ve left the city.

Selecting items that resonate with you or reflect your favorite moments from the show will make your buying experience more personal and memorable. And if you’re purchasing gifts, remember that sharing the joy of Friends is as pleasurable as experiencing it yourself!

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friends new york places to visit

10 Spots In NYC That Are Perfect For Your Next Friend Date

To commemorate International Friendship Day (July 30), we’ve put together a list of the best places to go around the city with your bestie.

Liz Ramanand

There’s nothing like linking up with friends — after all, they’re the family members you chose !

In honor of International Friendship Day this weekend, we’ve got you and your BFF covered for your next outing — from struggling to move a couch together at the FRIENDS™ Experience and fancy lunches to volunteer experiences and working out together. No matter what borough you’re in, there’s always an adventure to have.

Check out our list of some of the places you can make memories with old (and new) friends! Here are our best things to do with friends in NYC:

1. The FRIENDS™ Experience

friends new york places to visit

What better way to celebrate with your pals than pay homage to a show all about the bonds of friendship? The interactive FRIENDS™ Experience is presented by Warner Bros., Superfly X, and Themed Entertainment. You and your buds can play games, shop for merch, and explore a variety realistic rooms replicated from the iconic sets from the series. Whether you want to relax in Central Perk or on Joey and Chandler’s old recliners, p ivot all of your plans! Grab some of your closest friends for a photo-op and celebrate one of the most popular TV shows.

Where: 130 E. 23 rd St. Manhattan

Get your tickets here, and bring your friends or your ‘lobster’!

2. Grab a bite at Ladurée’s gorgeous garden patio 

friends new york places to visit

You and your chums can feel fancy while having a beautiful lunch in the outdoor garden at Ladurée SoHo. Known for the macaroons, this Parisian-branded establishment transports you with its special menu and drink pairings. The tea time menu starts at 3 p.m and offers a variety of pastries, finger sandwiches and other treats along with a cocktail or mocktail. The gorgeous back patio will whisk you away to France with its delicate and elegant ambiance.

See other French cafes and bars with Parisian vibes here !

Where:  398 W Broadway

3. Take the sun at a rooftop bar like Elsewhere

Elsewhere rooftop

This is a two-for-one: a fun rooftop bar and a music venue. What could be better? From DJ sets to dance parties, this art space is a spot where you and you mates can party the night away, with a frozen drink in hand. The venue has five rooms, three performance stages and 24,000 square feet of both indoor and outdoor space combined. As of March 2022, Elsewhere requires proof of full vaccination for entry, for more information on their policies, go here .

Where: 599 Johnson Ave, Bushwick

4. Head to an underground museum, like the NY Transit Museum 

friends new york places to visit

We know mass transit isn’t usually the greatest experience for New Yorkers, but it’s a service we greatly depend on. You and some comrades can descend underground for one of the coolest museums in the city. You can hop on vintage trains and buses to learn more about the system New Yorkers have been using for over 110 years. The museum is located in Downtown Brooklyn in a subway station that has been been around since 1936.

Where: 99 Schermerhorn St. Brooklyn

5. Catch a free concert in the Park

friends new york places to visit

Maybe the place you and your friends want to see a show at is a park instead of a rooftop. From free performances at Bryant Park to the Bandshell at Forest Park in Queens, there are free music events and festivals across the five boroughs all summer long. You can experience jazz, celebrate hip-hop, dance to salsa music  or crowdsurf at a rock show. There’s something for every music fan. Be sure to take a look at all of the free concerts in parks, by borough, here.

Where: Various Parks across NYC

6. Or, do a free workout class  in the Park 

free outdoor fitness classes nyc

Maybe we had too many macaroons this summer (see #2…totally worth it). Time for you and your buds to work it off. Luckily, there are many ways to get fit for free with outdoor classes . From Yoga in Bryant Park to dance and cardio kickboxing in the Meatpacking District, there are numerous workout options. If you’re in Brooklyn you can enjoy Waterfront Workouts . There are a variety of workouts throughout the boroughs, go here to find more in Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island . So soak up sunshine and start sweating (more than you already are this summer).

7. Cozy up with coffee and a new read at Housing Works Bookstore Café

friends new york places to visit

If you and your friends are coffee snobs and bookworms then Housing Works Bookstore Café could be your new spot. This establishment is a nonprofit where 100% of their earnings go to life-saving services for low income New Yorkers. There are also all kinds of events throughout the summer to go to. Or grab some friends and volunteer here as well! For over a decade, Housing Works has been an advocate for change and it’s the perfect place for you to share gratitude with and for your friends.

Where: 126 Crosby St.

8. Enjoy a glass of wine or bottomless brunch at Amelie Wine Bar

friends new york places to visit

Whether you have volunteered for the day or it’s a catch up after work, wine always pairs well with friends. Amelie Wine Bar (with two locations in the city) has an intimate atmosphere to hang with a couple of your closest pals. There are blocks of time for Happy Hours happening every day of the week, which include a variety of wines but also small plates, cocktails and beers. There is also bottomless brunch option where you can have unlimited mimosas for an hour for $22.

Where: 22 W 8th St.(West Village) & 566 Amsterdam Ave (Upper West Side)

9. S plurge on a spa day at QC NY Spa

friends new york places to visit

A spa day is always a good day. Chill with your friends at QC NY Spa which features saunas, infinity spa pools, steam rooms and more. While relaxing outside you can take in breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. You can also choose massages from 25, 50 or 75 minute sessions. There are small bites and drinks available from refreshing mimosas and salads. End on a sweet note with Venchi chocolates. Find out more here.

Where: Governors Island, 112 Andes Rd

10. Get your game (and drink) on at Barcade

friends new york places to visit

How could this spot not be on the list? Booze, arcade games and friends are all a part of what makes the Barcade experience about nostalgia and having fun. After you clobber your friends at Streetfighter and pinball, enjoy some drinks and food. You can also take advantage of Happy Hour which goes until 6 p.m from Monday to Friday. Their menu also gives you a taste of childhood, from tater tots and chicken tenders to the more adult dishes such as an elevated pork roll banh mi sandwich and tasty salads. 

Where: Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Chelsea, St. Marks Place + More. See locations here.

friends new york places to visit

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