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Why do fans still search Sex and the City filming locations years later?
Because the show made New York City feel personal. Its streets, brownstones, parks, and bars became characters, not just backdrops. Visiting these places lets fans step into Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha’s world for a moment. The films and the revival And Just Like That keep the interest fresh, so people still plan NYC trips around these spots. Tours still run, restaurants still welcome fans, and the city still sparkles on screen and in real life [1][4].
Where was Sex and the City mostly filmed, in simple terms?
Most of the show and films were shot right in New York City. Exterior scenes cover Manhattan, especially the West Village, plus parts of Brooklyn. Many interior scenes were built on sets at Silvercup Studios in Long Island City, Queens [1][2]. The two movies and the AJLT revival continued using real NYC locations with some interiors on soundstages [1][2][3].
Which New York City neighborhoods should you focus on first?
Start with the West Village for the show’s heart, then branch out to the Upper East Side for Carrie’s fictional address, SoHo and Nolita for bar and restaurant scenes, the Meatpacking District for nightlife, and Brooklyn for bridge and waterfront moments.
What will you find in the West Village?
The West Village feels like SATC ground zero. Carrie’s brownstone exterior is here, along with Magnolia Bakery and streets that look exactly like the show. Expect tree-lined blocks, cozy cafes, and small boutiques. It’s perfect for a relaxed walk with photo stops.
What about the Upper East Side?
In the show, Carrie says she lives on the Upper East Side, which matches her fictional address but not the real exterior location. You’ll find glamorous avenues, The Plaza Hotel at the south end of Central Park, and easy access to Central Park landmarks used in the series and movies [3].
How about SoHo and Nolita?
Head to SoHo and Nolita for bars and restaurants tied to the show. Onieal’s on Grand Street played Scout, Aidan and Steve’s bar. The cast often filmed in stylish downtown spots where the vibe still feels very SATC [3].
Where in the Meatpacking District should you look?
The Meatpacking District represents the show’s nightlife energy. While club names change, you can still visit places like Buddakan in nearby Chelsea for the first film’s rehearsal dinner scene. Expect trendy restaurants, high design, and easy access to the High Line.
Can you cross the river to Brooklyn?
Yes. The Brooklyn Bridge is central to the first movie’s emotional plot, and DUMBO’s cobblestone streets and river views feel cinematic. Even a short walk onto the bridge provides a classic skyline shot.
What are the most iconic Sex and the City spots you can see today?
These are the places fans ask about first, with simple directions to help you plan.
Where is Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment exterior?
The brownstone exterior is 66 Perry Street, West Village. It’s private, so be respectful. The interior was a set at Silvercup Studios [2][3]. Nearest subway stops include Christopher St–Sheridan Sq (1 train) and W 4 St–Washington Sq (A, C, E, B, D, F, M).
Where is Magnolia Bakery from the cupcake scene?
Magnolia Bakery is at 401 Bleecker Street at W 11th Street. Fans often grab a cupcake and take a quick photo outside. Try to stand aside from the door to keep the line moving [3].
Where is Scout bar in real life?
Scout, Aidan and Steve’s bar in the show, is played by Onieal’s at 174 Grand Street, SoHo. It’s a great place to toast with a drink and imagine the gang planning their nights out [3].
Where did the first movie film the rehearsal dinner?
Buddakan, 75 9th Avenue in Chelsea’s Chelsea Market building, hosted the stunning rehearsal dinner. You can book a table and look up at the dramatic chandeliers that appeared on screen [3].
Where did the almost-wedding take place?
The New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, 476 5th Avenue, is where Carrie and Big planned to wed in the first film. The steps and lion statues are classic New York and a favorite photo spot [3].
Which Central Park spots matter?
The Plaza Hotel at 768 5th Avenue anchors the south end of Central Park and appears in the series, especially in the season 2 finale. Inside the park, the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain area and the Loeb Boathouse feature in memorable moments. The Boathouse has reopened, so you can dine by the water again.
Which bridge and skyline shots stand out?
The Brooklyn Bridge is the big one, especially for the first film. DUMBO views at Washington Street and Water Street in Brooklyn give you that postcard skyline, while the bridge walkway offers sweeping shots day or night.
What is the exact address and etiquette for Carrie’s stoop?
The exterior of Carrie’s apartment is at 66 Perry Street in the West Village. This is a private home with residents inside. Do not sit on the stoop unless a sign explicitly invites it. Keep voices low, move quickly after photos, and avoid blocking the sidewalk. Many fans tip a local charity box when present as a thank-you for the neighborhood’s patience. The nearest restrooms and extra seating are available around Bleecker Street and Hudson Street cafes, a short walk away.
What quick table of core locations and nearest subways should you save?
Use this small, mobile-friendly table to pin your first stops.
| Place | Address | Nearest Subway |
|---|---|---|
| Carrie’s Apartment Exterior | 66 Perry St, West Village | 1 at Christopher St; A/C/E/B/D/F/M at W 4 St |
| Magnolia Bakery | 401 Bleecker St at W 11th | 1 at Christopher St |
| Onieal’s as “Scout” | 174 Grand St, SoHo | N/Q/R/W/6 at Canal St |
| Buddakan | 75 9th Ave, Chelsea | A/C/E/L at 14 St–8 Av |
| NYPL (Movie Wedding) | 476 5th Ave, Midtown | B/D/F/M at 42 St–Bryant Pk; 7 at 5 Av |
| The Plaza Hotel | 768 5th Ave at Central Park S | N/Q/R/W at 5 Av–59 St |
| Brooklyn Bridge | Manhattan entrance at Centre St | 4/5/6/J/Z at Chambers St |
What is the on-location versus studio breakdown for the show?
Exteriors were filmed across New York City, which is why blocks in the West Village feel instantly familiar. Interiors for apartments, many restaurants, and recurring sets were built on soundstages at Silvercup Studios in Long Island City, Queens [2]. Shooting on a controlled set helps with sound, lighting, and continuity. For example, Carrie’s closet and desk scenes were set builds, while the stoop and sidewalk shots came from real streets [2][3].
Can you plan a self-guided SATC walking tour today?
Yes, it’s easy. Choose the time you have, then follow one of these simple routes with built-in coffee and photo breaks.
How can you do a 2-hour West Village loop?
This quick route is perfect before dinner.
- Start at Magnolia Bakery, 401 Bleecker St. Grab a cupcake.
- Walk to Carrie’s stoop at 66 Perry St. Take quick photos and respect residents.
- Stroll west to Hudson St for boutique windows and coffee.
- Head toward Abingdon Square for a green pause.
- Finish back near Bleecker St for shopping or a glass of wine.
| Stop | Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Magnolia Bakery | 15 min | Stand aside for photos |
| 66 Perry St | 15 min | No sitting on stoop |
| Hudson St | 30 min | Window-shop, coffee |
| Abingdon Square | 10 min | Quick rest |
| Bleecker shops | 40 min | Finish with a treat |
What about a half-day Manhattan highlights route?
See core filming sites without rushing.
- Start at Onieal’s (Scout), 174 Grand St. Coffee nearby if it’s early.
- Subway or walk to Buddakan, 75 9th Ave. Pop inside if open.
- Head up to The Plaza Hotel, 768 5th Ave. Snap an exterior photo.
- Walk into Central Park to Bethesda Terrace and Fountain.
- Finish at the NYPL, 476 5th Ave, for the grand steps.
| Segment | Transit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Onieal’s to Buddakan | Walk or A/C/E | Browse Chelsea Market |
| Buddakan to Plaza | E to 5 Av/53 St, short walk | Fifth Ave window-shopping |
| Plaza to Bethesda | Walk inside park | Best photos at golden hour |
| Bethesda to NYPL | Walk down 5th Ave | Watch for traffic in shots |
How do you make a full-day SATC adventure including Brooklyn?
Pair Brooklyn Bridge views with West Village charm and Midtown icons.
- Start at the Brooklyn Bridge Manhattan entrance. Walk partway for skyline photos.
- Take the subway to SoHo for Onieal’s (Scout).
- Head to the West Village for Magnolia Bakery and 66 Perry St.
- Subway to The Plaza, then walk into Central Park.
- End at the NYPL for a grand finale photo.
| Stop | Approx. Time | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn Bridge | 60–90 min | Arrive early to avoid crowds |
| Onieal’s (Scout) | 30 min | Grab a drink or quick photo |
| West Village | 90–120 min | Snack at Magnolia; respect stoops |
| The Plaza | 30 min | Photo on 5th Ave side |
| Central Park + NYPL | 60–90 min | Time it for sunset light |
How can you use our simple locations map right now?
Create a quick custom Google Map by pasting these core pins:
- 66 Perry St, New York, NY 10014
- Magnolia Bakery, 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
- Onieal’s, 174 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
- Buddakan, 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
- The Plaza Hotel, 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
- New York Public Library, 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
- Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Entrance, Centre St at Park Row
Group them by category like Apartments, Cafes, Bars, Landmarks. If you plan to add more, create color tags per neighborhood. This simple system helps you match scenes to areas fast [3].
What subway and timing tips make your visit easier?
- Go early morning for empty sidewalks at 66 Perry St.
- Avoid peak commuter hours on subways. Mid-morning or mid-afternoon is calmer.
- For the Brooklyn Bridge, arrive shortly after sunrise or near sunset on weekdays.
- Book Buddakan and popular restaurants ahead to avoid long waits.
- Always step aside for building entrances and stoops.
Can you visit interiors like apartments, bars, and restaurants?
Apartment interiors were sets and are not open to the public [2]. Brownstones are private homes, so exterior photos only. Many bars and restaurants are open and welcome visitors. Onieal’s and Buddakan are great for fans. The Plaza has public spaces and dining, but stay respectful of hotel guests. The NYPL’s main hall and reading rooms have visitor rules posted, so check hours before you go [3].
Did And Just Like That add new locations worth visiting?
Yes. The revival returned to beloved places while adding fresh backdrops around the city. You’ll notice more modern restaurants, updated fashion streetscapes, and classic sites filmed in new ways. It keeps the NYC spirit alive and encourages a return trip for repeat fans [1][3].
What quick episode references help you match scenes to places?
Use this compact table as a guide for rewatching and walking.
| Location | Appearance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 66 Perry St | Series, multiple seasons | Exterior only; interiors were sets [2][3] |
| Magnolia Bakery | Season 3 era | Cupcake moment became iconic [3] |
| Onieal’s (Scout) | Series, later seasons | Aidan and Steve’s bar location [3] |
| The Plaza Hotel | Season 2 finale | Carrie and Big moment outside [3] |
| NY Public Library | First film | Planned wedding set-piece [3] |
| Buddakan | First film | Rehearsal dinner scene [3] |
| Brooklyn Bridge | First film | Emotional meeting point |
What photo spots give you the best angles without blocking locals?
- For 66 Perry St, shoot from across the street at a slight angle. Avoid clustering at the stoop.
- At Magnolia, stand near the corner of W 11th Street to frame the storefront and sidewalk.
- At The Plaza, stand across 5th Avenue by the Pulitzer Fountain for full facade shots.
- On the Brooklyn Bridge, start near the Manhattan side and shoot north toward the arches for depth.
- At Bethesda Terrace, use the upper level to frame the fountain and arcade.
Where can you book a guided SATC tour if you prefer?
On Location Tours operates the popular Sex and the City Hotspots Tour and covers 40 or more filming sites. It’s a good choice if you want a guide, a comfy seat, and trivia while you ride between stops [4].
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Guided | Flexible time; cheaper; linger for photos | More planning; subway navigation needed |
| Guided Bus Tour | 40+ locations; trivia; no subway stress [4] | Fixed schedule; short stops at some sites |
Can you summarize the show’s filming facts in one glance?
Yes. Here is a quick, mobile-friendly snapshot you can save.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Main Filming Base | New York City exteriors across Manhattan and Brooklyn [1][3] |
| Interiors | Mostly sets at Silvercup Studios, Queens [2] |
| Run | 6 seasons, 94 episodes, 1998–2004 [1] |
| Films | Two theatrical films in 2008 and 2010 [1] |
| Tours | Hotspots Tour visits 40+ locations [4] |
How should you behave at private residences and small shops?
- Keep voices down in residential streets.
- Do not sit on private stoops unless a sign says it’s allowed.
- Stand aside for doorways and sidewalks.
- Buy something if you take photos at busy shops like Magnolia.
- Tip service staff and be courteous to other visitors.
Where else in NYC can SATC fans wander between stops?
If you’re nearby, walk through Washington Square Park, browse Chelsea Market, and stroll the High Line. For a quieter pause on the west side, consider a detour to Battery Park City. You can even learn about local public art like the Frederick Heschel Bialik Stone and build a full day around culture, food, and SATC filming spots.
Want more New York and trending stories to explore?
Curious about other topics making headlines? Readers also clicked this story: Missouri Teacher Carissa Smith Gets 10 Years for Paying Middle School Boys with Cash, Weed and Booze for Sex Acts. It’s not related to SATC, but it’s trending on our site.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Was Sex and the City really filmed in New York City?
Yes. The show was primarily filmed in New York City, with exterior scenes across Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn. Many interior scenes were built on sets at Silvercup Studios in Queens [1][2][3].
Is Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment real and can I go inside?
The famous exterior is real at 66 Perry Street, but it’s a private residence. You can take photos from the sidewalk. The apartment interior was a set, so there’s nothing to tour inside [2][3].
Where did the first movie’s almost-wedding happen?
At the New York Public Library’s main building, 476 5th Avenue. You can visit the steps and public areas during regular hours [3].
Which bakery from the show can I still visit?
Magnolia Bakery at 401 Bleecker Street is open and popular with fans. Be respectful of lines and keep photos quick [3].
Where did they film Aidan and Steve’s bar, Scout?
Onieal’s at 174 Grand Street played Scout. It’s in SoHo and welcomes fans. You can grab a drink and sit at the bar where many scenes were set [3].
What guided tour covers the most locations in one go?
The Sex and the City Hotspots Tour covers 40 or more locations and is a simple way to see many sites without planning your own subway routes [4].
Did the revival And Just Like That use real New York places too?
Yes. The revival returned to fan-favorite streets, restaurants, and landmarks while adding modern venues across the city, keeping the show’s NYC spirit alive [1][3].
What is the best time to visit Carrie’s stoop for photos?
Early weekday mornings are best. You’ll find fewer crowds and softer light for photos. Always avoid blocking entrances and stay off the stoop.
Can I recreate the bridge scene from the first film?
You can walk the Brooklyn Bridge and take photos near the arches. Arrive early or on weekdays to avoid the heaviest foot traffic.
Are there any other must-see landmarks tied to the show?
The Plaza Hotel, Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, Buddakan, and the NYPL steps are all strong picks for fans who want classic SATC backdrops [3].
References
- [1] Wikipedia (URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sex_and_the_City) – “6 seasons (1998–2004); primarily filmed in New York City; two theatrical films.”
- [2] Wikipedia – Silvercup Studios (URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silvercup_Studios) – “Sex and the City interiors shot at Silvercup Studios, Queens.”
- [3] Time Out New York (URL: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/movies/sex-and-the-city-filming-locations-in-nyc) – “66 Perry St exterior; Magnolia Bakery; The Plaza; Onieal’s as ‘Scout’; additional NYC sites.”
- [4] On Location Tours (URL: https://onlocationtours.com/tour/sex-and-the-city-hotspots/) – “Tour features/visits 40+ Sex and the City locations.”
- [5] IMDb – Sex and the City Quotes (URL: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0159206/quotes) – “Quote: ‘New York … may just be mine.’”
