Big Movie Locations Private Tour in New York with Local Guide

A Fun and Authentic Tour for Movie Buffs and Curious Travelers Alike

Imagine walking through the streets of New York, retracing scenes from the beloved film Big, featuring Tom Hanks. That’s exactly what this Big Movie Locations Private Tour offers — a personalized journey through key filming spots that capture the magic of the movie and the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. With a friendly local guide leading the way, you’ll get insider tips, historical tidbits, and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

One of the biggest perks? The tour is private, which means it’s flexible and tailored to your pace and interests. Plus, multiple start times mean you can choose a schedule that fits your day. However, keep in mind that the tour is quite walking-intensive, and coordinating with public transit is part of the experience. Overall, it’s ideal for Tom Hanks fans, film enthusiasts, or anyone who wants a deeper, more personal look at NYC’s filming history.

What We Love About This Experience:
– The expert local guide who knows all the behind-the-scenes stories and hidden details.
– The customizable itinerary allowing you to focus on the sites that interest you most.
– The balance of iconic landmarks and lesser-known locations, providing a comprehensive film tour.
– The opportunity to explore NYC neighborhoods that are often overlooked by typical sightseeing tours.

Potential Consideration:
– Since the tour involves walking and navigating city streets, it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness.
– Some filming locations are in active neighborhoods with traffic, so photos might require patience.

This tour suits travelers who love movies, enjoy exploring city streets on foot, and value a personalized experience. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a passion for film history, all with the comfort of a private guide.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private tour with flexible start times and tailored itinerary options.
Expert Guide: Knowledgeable local guides provide detailed background stories and insider tips.
Comprehensive Filming Locations: Covers both famous and lesser-known spots from Big.
Walking & Transit: Includes walking through neighborhoods and using subway transit for authentic city exploration.
Authentic Local Vibe: Visits real NYC neighborhoods, not just touristy landmarks.
Great Value: At $195 per person, offers a deep dive into NYC’s movie history with a knowledgeable guide.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Cliffside Park, New Jersey (Greenmount Avenue)

The tour kicks off across the river in Cliffside Park, where the famous house of Josh from Big is located. This spot is one of the most recognizable in the movie, capturing the suburban charm that contrasts with the vibrant city scenes. Our guide explained that while the street looks idyllic on camera, it’s a busy thoroughfare, which can make capturing perfect photos a bit tricky, especially during rush hours. Still, walking this street offers a wonderful chance to feel like you’re in the film’s universe.

You’ll spend about 15 minutes here, and the guide will point out the exact house, giving you the opportunity to take photos or just soak in the neighborhood ambiance. It’s a peaceful start, but be prepared for some traffic—worth it for the nostalgia.

Anderson Avenue and the Nostalgia

Next, we head to 666 Anderson Ave, where the convenience store featured in the film still stands. This location is especially popular among film fans, with many referencing it on movie websites. The building’s brickwork, despite subtle updates, remains a near-perfect match to the film. The shop’s continued operation adds authenticity, and it’s a quick stop that doesn’t require much time but offers a tangible link to the movie.

School #6 in Cliffside Park

Just a few blocks away, you’ll visit the schoolyard where Josh and Billy kick a ball around — a scene that captures youthful innocence. Though the school has expanded and added a new wing, the original site remains recognizable, and the guide pointed out the boundary where the old school once stood.

The schoolyard scene is deceptively simple but iconic; it’s where the characters’ friendship is vividly portrayed. The recent additions to the school, like the dedicated wing, hint at how communities grow and change, even while maintaining the charm that made the scene memorable.

Ross Dock Picnic Area and the Amusement Park Chase

One of the tour’s emotional highlights is standing at Ross Dock Picnic Area in Fort Lee, NJ. This is the spot where Josh, after his overnight transformation, races through the streets and encounters the vanished amusement park. Our guide pointed out the landscape’s subtle features and explained how the scene’s dramatic moment plays out in this scenic setting.

While the amusement park itself isn’t there anymore, it’s a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of movie magic and the passage of time. You can imagine the thrill — and disappointment — Josh felt upon discovering the Zoltar machine was gone.

NYC Landmarks & Film Scenes

From here, the tour shifts into Manhattan, visiting iconic and lesser-known locations. The St. James Hotel at 109 W 45th St is where Billy and Josh find some respite, adding historical flavor with tales of the hotel’s role in NYC’s hospitality scene.

Next, the video game retailer at 600 10th Ave is a fun throwback. It’s where Josh and Billy inquire about the Zoltar machine, and the shop’s sign, “Novel Pinball,” remains a visual clue for film fans. Though the original shop is defunct, the scene’s authenticity is maintained by the recognizable storefront.

Architectural & Cultural Landmarks

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza Square at 141 Worth Street offers a glimpse into NYC’s resilient architecture, with details like the building’s facade and the removal of payphones adding historical context.

Moving on, the famous FAO Schwarz scene is a highlight. The store, once a city fixture, moved in 1986 but remains a symbol of childhood wonder. The guide shared stories about its revival, including the iconic “Walking Piano,” which features in the film.

Neighborhood Charm & Iconic Scenes

The tour continues through SoHo at 83 Grand St, where a memorable water balloon scene unfolds. Walking these cobblestone streets, you get a real sense of the neighborhood’s artistic spirit and historic architecture.

At 915 Broadway, the Cafe Society scene offers a chance to appreciate NYC’s nightlife ambiance, with neon signs and Art Deco details that elevate the film’s city scenes.

The Paddleball Scene & Greenwich Village

The Spring + Thompson park spot is where the lively paddleball game takes place. According to the guide, the exact entrance and court are identifiable, adding a layer of authenticity and fun for fans eager to find the precise filming spots.

Asti Restaurant & Playland Amusement Park

Finally, the Asti Restaurant in Greenwich Village represents the restaurant scene, famous for its operatic performances and historic charm. Although it closed in 1999, standing outside still evokes the lively atmosphere from the film.

The tour wraps up at Playland Park in Rye, NY, where Josh first encounters the Zoltar machine. While the original machine isn’t there now, the location’s nostalgic vibe remains, and the guide explained where to find Zoltar today.

Practical Considerations & Value

At $195 per person, this private tour offers a comprehensive, in-depth exploration of Big‘s filming locations paired with engaging stories from a knowledgeable guide. The price reflects the personalized attention, expert insights, and the flexibility of a private experience. Including all taxes, the cost is reasonable for film fans who want to go beyond a standard city tour and dive into NYC’s cinematic history.

The tour lasts around four hours, involving a lot of walking and transit use, so wearing comfortable shoes and being prepared for city streets is advisable. The private aspect means you can customize the experience slightly, focusing on your favorite scenes or neighborhoods, making it an excellent choice for dedicated fans or curious explorers.

The Sum Up

This private Big movie locations tour in New York is a fantastic way for film enthusiasts to connect with the city’s cinematic past while exploring vibrant neighborhoods. The knowledgeable guide not only points out filming sites but shares stories that bring scenes to life, adding depth to your experience.

It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate, flexible experience that combines iconic landmarks and hidden gems. While it’s a walking-heavy tour, the personalized approach and expert commentary make it well worth the effort.

If you’re a fan of Tom Hanks, Big, or NYC’s film history, this tour offers a memorable, authentic look at how the Big city has played a starring role in one of Hollywood’s most charming movies.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, covering multiple locations around NYC and nearby New Jersey.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It involves walking and some transit, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. The tour focuses on filming locations and neighborhoods.

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, multiple start times are available to fit your schedule.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering more flexibility and personal attention.

Where does the tour meet?
The guide can arrange to meet you at your hotel lobby, making it convenient for travelers staying in NYC.

In summary, this Big Movie Locations Private Tour is a well-crafted, engaging experience that balances iconic sights with lesser-known details, all delivered by a friendly local guide. It’s a rewarding outing for movie fans, history buffs, and anyone looking for a more personal way to see New York City through the lens of a beloved film.