New York is one of the most used cities in cinematography. Its distinctive streets, imposing skyscrapers, green parks and atmospheric pubs make it an ideal backdrop for movies and TV series. In this post you will find out exactly where the places known from your favorite productions are located.
Traveling in the footsteps of films and TV series is a great opportunity to feel like the characters of your favorite productions. Visiting places that have become iconic movie sets provides a whole new perspective on popular stories. Many cities around the world, such as New York and Los Angeles, offer tours that take tourists to locations where famous movies and TV series were filmed. You can visit places that have appeared in cult productions, from “Friends” to “Game of Thrones.” It’s a great way to combine your passion for cinema with tourism, and create unforgettable memories and photos.
New York City is even brimming with movie frames! Walking around you will see places known from the big screens. Many iconic movie buildings are located right in Manhattan, and once you visit this city you will easily recognize it in many productions. Not only have well-known classics and recent productions been made in New York, but the city has also been inspired by the makers of animated films (such as The Secret Life of Pets, Animal Kingdom and Madagascar and Penguins of Madagascar). We tried to find out how many films were shot in New York, but it is quite hard to determine – however, one can bet that it is several thousand.
In this post, we’ve compiled a list of famous movies and TV series set partly in New York, along with information on where the iconic scenes were filmed.
Table of contents
Movies with New York in the background
Join us on a journey through cinematic New York!
“Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” – the famous Plaza Hotel and Central Park
Can anyone else imagine Christmas without Kevin? :) “Kevin Alone in New York” is a cult family comedy, which follows the adventures of Kevin McCallister. This time, in the film, Kevin ends up in New York by chance, where he gains a chance for an unforgettable experience, but also has to face his old enemies – burglars Harry and Marv. The film is beloved for its festive atmosphere, humor and unforgettable scenes showing the magic of New York at Christmas.
The Plaza Hotel: This is where Kevin stayed during his adventures in New York. Here he spent the night, annoyed the facility’s employees and generated a huge bill to pay. Address: 768 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10019
Central Park: in Central Park you can see many scenes from the movie! Kevin meets a woman with pigeons in a picturesque corner of the park. The protagonist walks near the monument to Argentine General José Francisco de San Martín, escapes through Bethesda Terrace, and scenes under the bridge are also known. Central Park appears in many scenes in the film, including the famous final scene with fireworks.
The Rockefeller Center: Here Kevin views the impressive Christmas tree and admires the surroundings, which has become one of the symbols of the film. If it’s Christmas New York, it’s right here. Kevin was also at Radio City Hall. Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
Queensboro Bridge: in the film, Kevin rides a cab on the bridge to Manhattan and leans out the window. It was on this bridge that this scene was filmed.
Battery Park: it was from here that a confused Kevin admired the Statue of Liberty. Address: 1 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10004
“Friends”
“Friends” is one of the most iconic comedy series in television history. Broadcast for 10 seasons, it told the story of the lives of six friends living in New York City. The series has won the hearts of millions of viewers around the world with its humor, charismatic characters and engaging stories. The popularity of the series has made places associated with its plot, such as the building at 90 Bedford Street, a must-see for fans visiting the city.
Friends Apartment: Although the iconic Central Perk coffee shop was created in a Los Angeles studio, the building where the characters lived is in New York, but only the facade of the building was used. The apartment scenes were shot in a studio. Address: 90 Bedford Street, West Village.
“Sex and the City”
“Sex in the City” is an iconic series (but also a movie!) that shows the fate of four friends living in New York: Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha. The series dealt with themes of love, career, friendship and life in the big city, gaining status as a pop culture icon. With witty dialogues, charismatic heroines and a bold approach to taboo subjects, “Sex in the City” has become an inspiration to millions of women around the world. It is still remembered today as the production that redefined the female voice on television, and many scenes from the film and series were shot in New York.
Carrie Bradshaw‘sHouse: the apartment of CarrieBradshaw (Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment), the character played by Sarah Jessica Parker. Although it is actually just the exterior facade of the building, it is one of the most recognizable sites associated with the series. Address: 66 Perry Street, West Village.
Magnolia Bakery: The iconic place where Carrie and Miranda often met for gossip and famous cupcakes. This place became so popular after the broadcast of the series that it is now one of the must-see spots on the tourist map. Address: 401 Bleecker Street.
Central Park – Bethesda Terrace: This picturesque corner of Central Park was the setting for the scenes in which Carrie and Mr. Big talked, as well as other important moments in the series. It is one of the most romantic places in New York, also appearing in the series.
The New York Public Library: the New York Public Library is the place in front of which the famous scene with Carrie running to Mr. Biga, as well as other plot-related events. The library became one of the symbols of New York after it appeared in the series. Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
“Gossip Girl”
“Gossip Girl” is an iconic teen series that portrays the lives of Manhattan’s elite – young, wealthy and influential Upper East Side teenagers. The main characters, including Serena van der Woodsen, Blair Waldorf, Chuck Bass and Dan Humphrey, struggle with intrigue, love and betrayal, which are further fueled by a mysterious blogger known as Gossip Girl. The series has gained immense popularity thanks to its dramatic plot, stylish costumes and highlighting the beauty of New York.
Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): The staircase in front of the museum is where Serena and Blair often sat. Address: 1000 5th Ave, Manhattan.
Empire Hotel: This is the place that has become a symbol of the social life of “Gossip Girl” characters. The hotel hosted numerous events and was a favorite spot for Rufus and Lily van der Woodsen. Although the hotel has changed its name, it is still a popular spot on the map of New York. Address: 44 W 63rd St, Manhattan.
Grand Central Terminal: One of the most famous train stations in the world, Grand Central is the backdrop for several memorable scenes in “Gossip Girl,” including moments involving Carrie and Nate Archibald and Blair. Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
The Palace Hotel: Although it was a fictional hotel in the series, its exterior facade is actually part of The Palace Hotel, which appears in several episodes, particularly in scenes related to the characters’ luxurious lives. Address: 455 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022
The New York Public Library: Some of the key scenes related to Blair Waldorf and her dramatic choice were shot here, as well as at several other moments related to the plot. Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Conservatory Garden (Conservatory Garden in Central Park): This place was the backdrop for some of the more romantic and pivotal scenes in the series, especially those involving Blair and Chuck Bass. The garden offers incredible views, perfect for filming such scenes. Address: New York, NY 10025
Serena van der Woodsen’s Family Home (van der Woodsen Family Home): The van der Woodsen family’s fictional home is actually a beautiful mansion located in the Upper East Side, one of the most luxurious locations in New York City, from which the characters originate. Address: 26 E 80th St, New York, NY 10075
Brooklyn Bridge: appears in several scenes as a backdrop for key moments related to character development in the series.
“Spider-Man”
The “Spider-Man” trilogy, directed by Sam Raimi, is one of the most famous superhero film series that has defined modern cinema. The first film from 2002, starring Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker (Spider-Man), tells the story of a young man who gains superhuman powers after being bitten by a radioactive spider. In the sequels, “Spider-Man 2” (2004) and “Spider-Man 3” (2007), Peter struggles with new enemies, personal difficulties and the changing dynamics of his life as a hero.
The film’s setting is New York.
Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge appears in a number of important scenes, including a dramatic moment when Spider-Man (Peter Parker) rescues Mary Jane Watson by holding her over the bridge’s precipice.
The Daily Bugle (Daily Bugle Headquarters): The building that in the film serves as the editorial headquarters of the Daily Bugle newspaper, where Peter Parker works as a photojournalist. Although it’s actually a different building, the scene was shot at Central Park, near the park’s eastern edge, giving it a New York feel. Address: 2 N. Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
Tudor City: Here, in one of the film’s most iconic scenes, Spider-Man battles the Green Goblin (Norman Osborn) over Manhattan, and other dynamic stunts occur. Viewers can spot this distinctive site built in the Gothic style, often used for film shoots. Address: Tudor City Pl, New York, NY 10017
Queens – Peter Parker’s Home: Peter Parker’s apartment, where the hero lives with his Aunt May and Uncle Ben, is located in Queens, one of New York‘s boroughs. Although the exterior facade is fictional, the neighborhood is well recognized by fans of the series. Address: 20 Ingram St, Forest Hills, NY 11375
The Roosevelt Hotel: The Roosevelt Hotel appears in one of the key scenes in the third part of the trilogy, when Spider-Man fights Venom. In fact, the hotel has a long history and is a frequent film location. Address: 45 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017
Woolworth Building: The Woolworth Building, one of the oldest skyscrapers in New York City, can be seen in the background of many scenes and is also part of the cityscape as Spider-Man moves through the city. Its architecture is often used in films as part of the New York landscape. Address: 233 Broadway, New York, NY 10279
Washington Square Park: It also appears in several scenes in the film, though mostly in the background. It is one of the most popular places in New York, known for its distinctive arch. Address: New York, NY 10012
Times Square: Times Square is where Peter Parker becomes Spider-Man, and is one of the symbols of New York City that regularly appears in Spider-Man movies. This location is also where the action in the third part of the trilogy takes place, such as the scene with the large billboards.
“Avengers”
“Avengers” (2012) is a film that brought together on one screen heroes known from previous Marvel productions. Directed by Joss Whedon, the film tells the story of a group of superheroes – Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye – who must join forces to stop Loky and his Chitauri army from destroying Earth. The final battle in the heart of New York City has become one of the most iconic moments in Marvel’s cinematic universe (MCU). Walking around you will see places known just from this film.
Grand Central Terminal station: this is one of the key locations in the final battle of the film. We see it during the Avengers’ epic battle against the Chitauri, when the city is attacked. Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
The MetLife Building (formerly the Pan Am Building): the skyscraper located just behind Grand Central Terminal can be seen in the background of the final battles. Some of the most intense scenes take place on top of it. Address: 200 Park Ave, New York, NY 10166
Central Park: In one of the film’s final scenes, we see the Avengers leaving New York, and Loki is handed over to Thor. The scene is set near Bethesda Terrace in New York’s most famous park.
Park Avenue Viaduct: Some of the chase and fight sequences in the film’s finale were filmed at this location. It is here that Hulk and Thor fight together against the Chitauri forces. Address: Park Ave, between East 40th St. and East 46th St., New York, NY
Columbus Circle and surrounding areas: Intense battles between the Avengers and the Chitauri are taking place in the Columbus Circle area, spreading throughout Manhattan. Address: Intersection of Broadway, Central Park West, 59th St., New York, NY 10019
The Chrysler Building, the Flatiron Building, Times Square: these places are visible in the background of many scenes and shots depicting the city skyline during the Battle of New York and beyond.
“When Harry Met Sally”
“When Harry Met Sally” is a classic 1989 romantic comedy directed by Rob Reiner and starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. The film tells the story of two friends who spend years trying to answer the question of whether a man and a woman can be just friends. With a brilliant script by Nora Ephron and iconic scenes in New York, the film has become one of the most important works in the history of romantic cinema.
Katz’s Delicatessen: The iconic scene from “Pretend” (“I’ll have what she’s having”) was shot here. Today, Katz’s Delicatessen is one of the most popular spots on the film fan’s itinerary. Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
Washington Square Park: another location, this park appears in scenes where Harry and Sally walk and talk about their relationship. Address: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012
The Loeb Boathouse in Central Park: Harry and Sally ride water bikes here, which shows their friendship developing against the backdrop of scenic Central Park.
Sheep Meadow in Central Park: Harry and Sally relax on the grass here, which emphasizes the charm and casualness of their relationship.
Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): The scene in which Harry and Sally visit the museum is one of the film’s more romantic moments. Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Puck Building: This building is the venue for the wedding of Marie and Jess, friends of the main characters. Address: 295 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012
“Ghostbusters” – the famous Hook and Ladder 8 fire station building
“Ghostbusters” is a cult sci-fi comedy directed by Ivan Reitman that combines horror elements with humorous adventures. The main characters – Dr. Peter Venkman, Ph. Raymond Stantz and Dr. Egon Spengler – are scientists who set up a ghost-catching company in New York. After the city is overrun by supernatural forces, the Ghostbusters team faces the task of saving the world from annihilation.
Hook & Ladder Company 8 (Ghostbusters Fire Department): The fire station building (still in operation), which serves as the Ghostbusters headquarters in the movie Ghostbusters, is one of the most recognizable locations associated with the film. Address: 14 N Moore St, New York, NY 10013
New York Public Library: The opening scene of the film, in which Ghostbusters encounters a ghost in the library’s basement. Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Columbia University: the university where the main characters work before starting their company. Scenes were shot in various buildings on campus. Address: 116th St & Broadway, New York, NY 10027
Tavern on the Green: A restaurant in Central Park, where Louis Tully (Rick Moranis) encounters terror before becoming a “Keymaster.” Address: W 67th St, New York, NY 10023
55 Central Park West (Dana Barrett Building): The building where Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver) lives, and which becomes the center of supernatural events in the film’s finale. Address: 55 Central Park West, New York, NY 10023
Manhattan City Hall: Here, the mayor of New York City meets with Ghostbusters to discuss the fight against the supernatural threat. Address: City Hall Park, New York, NY 10007
Statue of Liberty (finale of the second part of the film): Although more associated with “Ghostbusters II” (1989), the scene in which the Statue of Liberty comes to life is one of the most memorable moments in the series. Address: Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
“The Devil Wears Prada”
“The Devil Wears Prada” is a 2006 film directed by David Frankel and based on the best-selling novel by Lauren Weisberger. The film tells the story of Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), a young journalist who becomes an assistant to Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), the demanding editor-in-chief of the prestigious fashion magazine Runway. The picture is full of humor, fashion and emotion, showing the behind-the-scenes of the fashion industry and the transformation of the main character, with many scenes shot in New York.
McGraw-Hill Building: This is the office building that serves as the headquarters of Runway magazine in the film. Address: 1221 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020
Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse: the restaurant where Andy delivers steak to Miranda Priestly. Address: 797 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10022
Bryant Park: One of Andy and Nigel’s key conversations takes place in the park. Address: Between 40th and 42nd Streets & 5th and 6th Avenues, New York, NY 10018
St. Regis Hotel: The hotel appears in scenes related to prestigious fashion industry events. Address: 2 E 55th St, New York, NY 10022
Grand Central Terminal Station: Andy walks through the station during his busy workday. Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Central Park: In the background of one of Anda’s talks, you can see beautiful views of Central Park. Address: Manhattan, NY 10024
James Hotel Rooftop (formerly Thom Bar): This place appears in the scene where Andy meets Christian Thompson (Simon Baker). Address: 27 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
“The Wolf of Wall Street”
“The Wolf of Wall Street” is a 2013 biographical crime comedy directed by Martin Scorsese. The film tells the story of Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio), a stockbroker who, through fraud and manipulation, climbs to the top of the financial world, leading a hedonistic and extravagant life. The picture is based on true events and a book written by Belfort himself.
Federal Hall National Memorial: The building appears in scenes depicting Wall Street, where Jordan Belfort begins his career. Address: 26 Wall St, New York, NY 10005
Plaza Hotel: the hotel serves as a venue for some of Belfort’s meetings and events. Address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Chelsea Piers: The harbor from where Belfort’s luxury yacht sails. Address: Hudson River Park, New York, NY 10011
Trump Tower: a building visible in the background of one of the key scenes, symbolizing wealth and prestige. Address: 725 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse: the restaurant where Jordan and his associates celebrate success. Address: 797 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10022
“Joker”
“The Joker” is a 2019 psychological thriller directed by Todd Phillips that tells the origin story of one of the most famous villains in comic book history. The film tells the story of Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix), a lonely comedian who struggles with poverty, social rejection and mental problems, which leads to his transformation into the criminally insane Joker. The picture touches on social inequality, alienation and madness, creating a dark version of Gotham City that has become a symbol of the hero’s downfall.
The Joker Steps (W 167th St): this is the setting for the famous scene on the Bronx steps, which in the film becomes a symbol of Arthur Fleck’s transformation into the Joker, serving as the backdrop for his dance. Address: 167th St & Shakespeare Ave, The Bronx, NY 10452
New York City subway (59th Street-Columbus Circle Station): A scene in which Arthur Fleck is attacked by a group of young people on the subway. Address: 59th St & Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019
CitiGroup Center: a building that features in the film as one of the more prominent locations in Gotham City, including a scene in which Arthur ascends to the roof. Address: 601 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022
The Bronx: The street where Arthur escapes his problems. This location was used as a backdrop for dark scenes from his life. Address: Bronx, New York, NY
The Murray Franklin Show Studio: a TV studio where the Joker appears on a live talk-show, becoming a star of the criminal world. Address: 221 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019
Cat’s Deli: This is where Arthur has one of his more reflective encounters with his mother during the film. Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
“Night at the museum”
Night at the Museum is a family comedy set in New York’s Museum of Natural History. The film is about the nocturnal adventures of a guard who discovers that exhibits come to life after dark. New York City provides the backdrop for the amazing events that take place at one of the world’s most famous museums. However, it is important to know that although the film “Night at the Museum” is set in the Museum of Natural History in New York, in reality many scenes were shot in other locations, including the Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC (Smithsonian Institution).
Museum of Natural History (American Museum of Natural History): Although the New York museum is the focal point of the action in the film, in reality only a few exterior shots were shot on the grounds of the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Outdoor scenes, such as those at the museum’s staircase, were shot here. Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
Central Park: The film also features the famous Central Park, which is an important part of the New York City landscape. Although most of the action takes place in the museum, in some scenes we can see the park in the background, especially when the characters move between the museum and the surrounding streets.
“Elf”
“Elf” is a Christmas comedy telling the story of Buddy, a man raised by elves at the North Pole. When he discovers that he is human, he decides to go to New York to find his real father. The film combines humor with the magic of Christmas, with New York City providing the perfect backdrop for Buddy’s hilarious and touching adventures.
Rockefeller Center: is the site of the famous scene where Buddy enters New York City and marvels at the huge Christmas tree. The scene associated with this place has become one of the most memorable moments of the film. It is here that Buddy causes a commotion in an attempt to perform his elven tasks. Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
Macy’s Herald Square: One of the film’s most iconic scenes takes place in a Macy’s store. Buddy enters the store to find a gift for his father. It’s also where the famous scene with the suitcase filled with gifts and unexpected encounters takes place. Address: 151 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
Central Park: Buddy visits Central Park, where he meets his father. An important scene involving Buddy’s family also takes place in the park. Central Park in a winter setting, with Christmas decorations, provides a beautiful backdrop for the magical moments in the film. Address: Central Park, New York, NY
The Empire State Building: The famous Empire State Building is also featured in the film. Although not a major plot point, this iconic New York City landmark in the background adds to the charm of the film’s festive atmosphere. Address: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118
F.A.O. Schwarz: F.A.O. Toy Shop. Schwarz, which is featured prominently in the video, is one of the places Buddy visits to discover what toys are like in the real world. His fascination with the toys in the store is one of the film’s most charming moments. 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
Bryant Park: In one of the film’s scenes, Buddy goes ice skating at Bryant Park, which is beautifully decorated during the holiday season. This is another place in New York that fits in with the festive atmosphere of the film. Address: New York, NY 10018
“Sleepless in Seattle”
“Insomnia in Seattle” is a romantic comedy telling the story of Sam, who after the death of his wife can not cope with loneliness. His life changes when his son hosts a radio show in which his father talks about his longing. Sam gets a call from Annie, who decides to meet him in Seattle. In New York, you’ll see places familiar from the production.
Empire State Building: One of the most important scenes in the film takes place at the Empire State Building, where Sam and Annie meet in person for the first time. It is in this iconic building that the turning point of their love story occurs. Address: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118
The Plaza Hotel: In the scene when Annie goes to New York, the Plaza Hotel provides the backdrop for her arrival in the city. It is a luxury hotel that appears in the film as a symbol of the elegance and romance of New York. Address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Central Park: In the film, Central Park appears in scenes where Annie talks to her friends and has moments of reflection on her future. Address: New York, NY
“The Godfather”
“The Godfather” is a classic of gangster cinema that tells the story of the Corleone Mafia family, led by the indomitable Vito Corleone. The film focuses on the transition of power from Vito to his son Michael, who initially tries to stay out of the family business, but is eventually drawn into the brutal world of the Mafia. Full of intrigue, betrayal, revenge and love, “The Godfather” has become one of the most important films in the history of cinema, winning numerous awards and accolades.
The Cathedral of St. St. Patrick’s Cathedral: One of the film’s most iconic scenes took place in St. Peter’s Cathedral. The event takes place on St. Patrick’s Day, where Michael Corleone attends a baptism, and at the same time brutal murders take place as part of Mafia hijinks. Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
East Harlem (in the 110th Street area): Scenes depicting the life of the Italian community in New York were filmed in this neighborhood. East Harlem was home to the Corleone family, and some Mafia-related events took place. Address: East Harlem, New York, NY
The Godfather House (Corleone Family House): The Corleone family house in the film is located at 110 Longfellow Avenue, but in reality it was a house in the Triton Avenue neighborhood of the Bronx, New York. Address: 110 Longfellow Avenue, Bronx, NY (in the film).
Little Italy – Mulberry Street: New York’s Little Italy neighborhood was an important backdrop for the events in “The Godfather.” In particular, Mulberry Street was a central place where mob-related figures met. Address: Mulberry St, New York, NY
“King Kong” and the iconic scene from the Empire State Building
“King Kong” from 1993 is a classic adventure film about a giant ape that is kidnapped from an island and transported to New York, where it is put on display. After escaping, Kong terrorizes the city, and the story culminates with him climbing the Empire State Building, where he fights fighter planes. The film has become one of the most important works in cinema history, and the scene on the Empire State Building is one of the most iconic moments in film history.
Empire State Building: The film’s climactic scene where the giant ape King Kong climbs to the top of the Empire State Building, defending himself from fighters. This scene has become one of the most recognizable moments in the history of cinema. Address: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118
42nd Street and Broadway: In the film, King Kong appears in downtown New York, where many of the scenes related to his escape and attacks on the city take place. The streets of 42nd Street and Broadway provide the backdrop for the chaos that takes place when Kong is released and begins to roam the city. Address: 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
Lower Manhattan (Financial District): In some of the scenes in which King Kong terrorizes New York City, the buildings and streets of Lower Manhattan are visible. The city is shown as a vast landscape in which a powerful monkey sows destruction.
Central Park: In one scene, King Kong is heading through Central Park, and the video shows his colossal silhouette against the park’s greenery.
Places from movies and TV series – map
See a map with all of the above locations featured in the videos:
Our opinion on movies with New York in the background.
New York is a true paradise for movie and TV series fans. From classic productions to contemporary hits, the city offers countless places to visit and capture in photos. Even if you don’t want to 100% walk around just film locations, checking if any productions have been filmed in the area always makes the trip a little more interesting. For example, walking through New York’s most famous park you are sure to immediately think of the movie Kevin alone in New York, and walking through the streets of this city you will feel like the characters in the movies.
Of course, there are many more places in New York known from movies and TV series. Consider this post as an inspiration for your idea of exploring New York.