New York City: TV and Movie Filming Locations Running Tour

Planning to see New York City through the lens of your favorite movies and TV shows? This TV and Movie Filming Locations Running Tour offers a fun, energetic way to do just that. Instead of the usual sit-and-listen sightseeing, you get to run through the city streets, stopping at iconic spots from films like Big Daddy, Donnie Brasco, Hackers, and Law & Order.

What’s great about this tour? First, it’s an affordable way to blend fitness with culture—at just $40 per person for around four miles, you’ll get a lot of value. Second, the guided commentary from knowledgeable guides makes each location come alive, giving you behind-the-scenes insights you won’t find in guidebooks. The downside? Since it’s a jog rather than a walk, it might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or low fitness levels.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who love movies or TV and want to combine their interests with some exercise. If you’re a solo traveler eager for a unique way to see the city, or part of a small group looking for a memorable experience, you’ll find this an engaging, offbeat option.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations from popular movies and TV shows
• Moderate pace of 11-12 minutes per mile, suitable for most fitness levels
• Guided experience with a knowledgeable, friendly guide
• Opportunity for photos at each iconic stop
• Small group setting limited to 10 participants for a more personal experience
• Affordable price point that offers good value for active sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Offers

The New York City TV and Movie Filming Locations Running Tour is an event that blends the thrill of seeing famous filming spots with the health benefits of a brisk jog. Over approximately one hour, you’ll cover around 4 miles, which might sound like a lot, but the steady pace and frequent stops make it manageable for most.

You begin at a recognizable meeting point: the piece of the Berlin Wall on the side of a building, which adds a small historical twist in an otherwise Hollywood-focused journey. From there, your guide will lead you through some of the city’s most memorable movie locations, highlighting how NYC has become a star itself, often playing a starring role in the stories we love.

The Route and Highlights

While the tour’s exact route isn’t detailed minute-by-minute, the focus is on places tied to well-known productions. Expect to see spots connected to films like Big Daddy and Donnie Brasco, as well as iconic crime dramas like Law & Order. The variety of locations offers a snapshot of NYC’s diverse filming landscape—be it gritty back alleys, bustling streets, or quiet neighborhoods that have been transformed into cinematic settings.

Each stop is designed for photo opportunities, so bring your camera. The guide will share interesting tidbits about each location, explaining how these places appeared on screen.

For example, you might find yourself running past a building used in Hackers, or pausing at a site that’s been featured in multiple police procedurals. The stops go beyond just filming spots—they also give you a taste of authentic NYC neighborhoods, often slightly off the tourist trail, which adds to the experience.

The Guide and Experience

Reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make or break a tour, and this one gets high marks. Travelers appreciate guides who are friendly, informative, and able to weave stories that bring the locations to life. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide was full of insider stories, making each stop more meaningful.” Since the group is limited to 10 people, the experience feels personalized and engaging.

The pacing is intentional—around 11-12 minutes per mile—which balances activity with enjoyment. No one gets left behind, and there’s plenty of time to catch your breath or snap pictures.

Practical Details

The tour costs $40 per person, which we find reasonable considering the location-based storytelling and the guided aspect. Since transportation to the starting point isn’t included, plan to arrive a few minutes early—preferably 15 minutes—at the meeting point. The starting location, marked by the piece of the Berlin Wall, is easy to find and offers a bit of historical context before you begin.

Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and water—this isn’t the time for flip-flops and dehydration. The tour typically runs in the morning, making it a good way to kickstart your day. It’s not suitable for children under 16, or those with mobility issues or low fitness levels.

Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours beforehand. This flexibility is helpful if your plans are still in flux.

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What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers commonly praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make each stop more engaging. One described the tour as “a perfect mix of exercise, culture, and fun,” while another appreciated how it exposed them to parts of NYC they hadn’t seen before. The moderate pace and plenty of stops seem to meet the expectations of active travelers seeking a different way to explore.

Some noted that the tour is an excellent option for those who enjoy combining fitness with sightseeing. It’s a refreshing departure from crowded buses or long walks, appealing to those who want to stay active while soaking up NYC’s cinematic charm.

The Sum Up

The TV and Movie Filming Locations Running Tour offers a spirited way to see New York City through the lens of your favorite films and TV shows while getting a bit of exercise. It’s best suited for active, film-loving travelers who appreciate engaging guides and authentic neighborhood experiences. If you’re looking for a unique, affordable, and lively sightseeing option, this tour delivers.

It’s particularly perfect for those who value storytelling and insider insights, as the guides’ knowledge helps bring each location vividly to life. The small group size ensures a personal touch, making the experience feel more intimate and fun.

While not ideal for those with mobility challenges or very low fitness levels, most fit travelers will find it a rewarding way to combine sightseeing, exercise, and pop culture. For anyone wanting to see NYC’s most cinematic corners in an active way, this tour is a smart pick.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s recommended for travelers 16 and older due to the jogging pace and physical activity involved.

Do I need to bring my own transportation to the start?
Yes, transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan to arrive by public transit or on foot.

How long does the tour last?
The run itself is about 1 hour long, covering roughly 4 miles, with plenty of stops for photos and commentary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Wear athletic or casual clothing suitable for jogging in city conditions.

Can I join if I’m not a runner?
The pace is moderate—about 11-12 minutes per mile—so most people with a decent fitness level can manage it. No one is left behind.

Is water provided?
No, you should bring your own water to stay hydrated.

Will I get to see famous landmarks?
You’ll see filming locations that are connected to iconic movies and TV shows, some of which are tucked away in neighborhoods.

Can I take pictures during the tour?
Absolutely. Plenty of stops are designated for photo opportunities.

How many people will be in the group?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This running tour uniquely blends New York’s cinematic history with active sightseeing—best for those ready to explore the city in a lively, memorable way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby