New York has been the setting for some of the world’s most iconic movies, among which Breakfast at Tiffany’s remains one of the most cherished. The film’s main character, Holly Golightly, lived in a small rented apartment on the Upper East Side and a number of exterior shots of the home can be seen throughout the movie. Today, the apartment where these shots were filmed (the interior was shot in a Hollywood studio) can still be found on East 71st Street, where it attracts a regular trickle of fans who come to see a significant part of New York’s rich celluloid history. The only visual difference from the film are the missing external blinds. And in case your interest extends any further, the property is worth around four million dollars.
2. Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden
In a city awash with world famous museums, the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden remains a hidden gem. Nestled amid bucolic surroundings near the East River, the museum is housed within an eye-catching 18th-century building and offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era of New York hospitality. Originally built as a carriage house, in the 19th century it was converted into a fashionable day hotel that became a firm favourite with New Yorkers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. After going through various other incarnations, including serving as the home of three generations of a local family, it fell into the hands of a woman’s patriotic society who dedicated their efforts to opening the building up to the public, which remains its purpose today
LOCATION 421 East 61st Street HOURS Tues-Sun 11am-4pm
3. Gossip Girl Sites Tour
Gossip Girl is one of the most popular American television shows in recent history and fans of the teen drama, which is based on the book series of the same name, can follow in the footsteps of its cast of young Manhattan socialites on this guided whistle-stop bus tour. Taking in many of the locations where the characters while away their privileged, care-free days, tour guests will get a taste of being young, rich and unburdened by responsibility in the Big Apple. Starting at 51st St and Madison Avenue, you’ll pass through some of New York’s most upscale neighbourhoods, stopping off for photo opportunities at sites including the Met Steps, The Empire Hotel and Grand Central Terminal, all of which have provided the setting for some of the show’s most memorable scenes and story lines. Tours last approximately three hours and are priced at $49 per person.
LOCATION Various sites across Upper East Side HOURS Fri-Sun 10am-1pm (approx)