Recently updated on July 28th, 2023 at 10:31 am
A trip to the USA means seeing places that have inspired some of the world’s most beloved TV and films. And what better way to memorialise your visit to these iconic spots than with a photo or two? Here’s 9 places to recreate a little bit of movie magic.
New York
The Plaza Hotel
As seen in: Home Alone 2
64-66 Perry Street, Greenwich Village
As seen in: Sex and The City
We couldn’t help but wonder… Outside every doorstep in the West Village, was there a photo op just waiting to happen?
Lovers of ‘Sex and The City’ can’t fail to recognise the wide steps outside 64-66 Perry Street in Greenwich Village. Here we saw Carrie ponder the various ups and downs in her life – from her tumultuous love affair with Mr Big, to her relationship with her own identity. It’s safe to say that fans of the TV show have shared many poignant moments each time these steps have made an appearance. Looking to recreate some of the show’s greatest moments here? Don’t forget to don your best outfit before visiting – in true Bradshaw style.
Al’s Soup Kitchen
As seen in: Seinfield
Tucked away on 55th Street is the beloved restaurant in ‘Seinfeld’ and birthplace of the quote “no soup for you”. No need to worry about that though – there’s plenty of soup to go round at this home-style joint. Made in small batches, these flavour-packed soups are the perfect cheap lunch after a long day of exploring the city.
Bloomingdales
As seen in: Friends
The one where we shop till we drop. Fans of the hit TV show ‘Friends’ should pay a visit to the original Bloomies on Third Avenue. Employers to Rachel from season 3 onwards, you’ll soon see why a job at this renowned department store was so coveted. From the top floor to the basement, everything you could possibly want from a shopping trip in the Big Apple is here. That’s endless designer bags and shoes, as well as affordable designer clothing for everyone. Perfect for picking up a souvenir or two in those iconic Little (or Large) Brown Bags.
Katz’s Deli
As seen in: When Harry Met Sally
You’ve probably seen the famous pastrami-packed sandwiches from Katz’s Deli before. Almost the size of our heads, these scrumptious sandwiches have dozens of people queuing all the way down Houston Street. And not just because they’re the backdrop to that restaurant scene in the film ‘When Harry Met Sally’. Any New Yorker or NY-lover will tell you that these sandwiches are well worth the wait. Just make sure you get there bright and early to avoid the lines!
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Washington
The White House
As seen in: Almost every disaster movie ever
The president’s home isn’t actually used in the numerous action movies and sci-fi flicks set here. I mean – could you imagine the damage costs if the third Mission Impossible movie was filmed on location? But that isn’t to say that we can’t still geek out over blockbuster hits that are based around this American landmark. ‘Independence Day’, ‘Deep Impact’, ‘Air Force One’, and ‘Jason Bourne’ to name just a few.
Lincoln Memorial
As seen in: Captain America
Time to soak up some American history. This neoclassical-style memorial houses a towering 12-foot statue of Abraham Lincoln, wowing thousands of visitors each day. For a deep-dive into his presidential impact, make sure to head downstairs where his legacy is documented in fantastic detail.
Asorbed enough US history for the day? Take a leaf out of Captain America’s book and walk around the Reflecting Pool, as seen in ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’. As you stroll around, you might also find yourself recognising the area from the film ‘Forrest Gump’, in the scene where he shares his candid thoughts on the Vietnam War.
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Las Vegas
Las Vegas Strip
As seen in: The Hangover
“Sin City, “America’s Playground”… you’ll soon find out how these names came into existence after your own trip to the infamous city. Backdrop to ‘The Hangover’ film, Las Vegas offers a world of fun for anyone who visits. Why not challenge Lady Luck at a game or two at one of the casinos? Or, take a trip 550 feet above the city on the High Roller – the world’s tallest observation wheel – for a breathtaking view of the city lights.
Death Valley National Park
As seen in: Star Wars franchise
Death Valley is a place of extremes, as it is both the driest place in North America and the place of lowest elevation on the continent. The unforgiving landscape of this national park is definitely not to be underestimated (so make sure to go with a guide), but it does make a fantastic destination for Star Wars fanatics. After all this is Tatooine, where the young Luke Skywalker grew up before being whisked away to begin his Jedi training.
Not a fan of the film franchise? The achingly beautiful landscape of desert flats and rugged cliffs will have you pulling out your camera every 5 seconds. Just remember to bring your sunhat and sunscreen!
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