Review: Is the NYC “Friends” Filming Locations Tour Worth Your Time?

So, you’re thinking about checking out that “Friends” filming locations tour in NYC, huh? Well, I get it. Like your regular sitcom fan, the show is comforting, it is familiar, almost feels like a warm hug on a bad day. Seeing those spots in real life is that draws a pretty large audience. I took the tour not too long ago, and I’m here to give you the lowdown—warts and all— so that you can decide if it’s a “must-do” or a “maybe next time” kind of adventure.

What Exactly Is the “Friends” Filming Locations Tour About, Anyway?

First thing you need to know, the tour, that thing aims to show you a bunch of spots in New York that are tied, one way or another, to the iconic TV show. Not that the series was filmed *in* New York. As a matter of fact, almost all interior scenes were shot in a studio in Los Angeles. But hey, that is the beauty of TV magic! Still, a number of exterior shots were indeed filmed around the city, and others inspired the show’s creation. You will, I imagine, hit places that represent spots mentioned in the show. You may swing past buildings that the show runners used as visual inspiration. This type of tour usually takes a few hours, and that thing’s led by a guide who knows more or less all there is to know about “Friends”. They, like your die-hard “Friends” fan, might pepper the whole trip with trivia and behind-the-scenes stories. It’s quite appealing if you, like your peers, adore the show.

The High Points: Moments I Enjoyed, Basically

That brownstone exterior they used for Monica and Rachel’s apartment? Seriously, very cool to stand there and soak that location in. Like everyone else, snapping a photo is pretty much mandatory! So, imagine thousands of people just the same as yourself, taking pictures. So, you’ll pass by other spots with various degrees of “Friends” connection. The guides, pretty much, really give it their all to bring stories and anecdotes to life, even if those stories, to be honest, have nothing to do with the show, basically! These people are, for the most part, entertaining, very enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

Where It Comes Up Short, Arguably

Look, if you’re expecting to waltz right into Central Perk? That may not be happenining. To be honest, Central Perk doesn’t actually exist. Like I previously mentioned, interiors were created on a set, out west. And that is the issue. This type of tour focuses mainly on exterior locations. In the end, you will stand outside a building that “looks” like it could have been in “Friends.” A “bit” of a letdown. It is like you are “almost” in the show, but not “really.” Plus, keep in mind that New York is very busy. In that case, wrestling your way through crowds to get a good look can be challenging. Then you need to try and imagine the series going on. The same as back then. Very different, so!

The Guide Can Make or Break the Whole Thing, As A Matter Of Fact

Like with any tour, a very passionate guide can do pretty neat things. Like that time your highschool teacher kept you intested in a class subject? However, a monotone or uninterested guide can make a tour feel longer. You may want to read recent reviews and, in this instance, try and get a feeling about a tour’s usual guides.

The “Friends” Filming Locations Tour: Final Verdict?

Here’s the thing: If you are a true “Friends” fan and enjoy geeking out over little details, the tour is quite special. Seriously, very unique. On the other hand, if you only casually watched the show sometimes or expect an interactive experience *inside* the “Friends” universe, you will feel a bit of disappointment. A bit down is the least, perhaps! Like going to Disney. Only the exterior is visible!

A few things to keep in mind?

Manage your expectations: So, realize you are viewing exterior locations and places with indirect connections to the show.
Consider the time of year: So, New York in summer, it is seriously, very different than New York in winter. The crowds are much larger in summer and it affects the experience.
Do your research on the tour operator: Read a lot of recent reviews and find a tour known for very good guides.
Factor in Travel Time: The distance between one location and another can really burn you out and use up time in other ventures.
Wear comfortable shoes: Like walking for a long period of time and not being comfy, at all?

I was kind of in between, so to speak. If you were wondering whether this type of attraction is a valuable resource, it very much depends on your affinity for the television show, and what your desired experience would entail.

Hopefully this helps you decide. Whatever your choice, enjoy your time in New York!

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