Friends Apartment: Real NYC Building & Filming Location

The TV show Friends captivated audiences for ten seasons, and one of its most iconic elements was the apartment building where Monica, Rachel, Chandler, and Joey lived. If you're a fan visiting New York City, you might wonder, "Where is the Friends apartment building in real life?"

This article will guide you to the actual building used for the exterior shots in the show and provide interesting details about its location and significance.

Where is the Friends Apartment Building?

The building featured in the exterior shots of Friends is located at the corner of Grove Street and Bedford Street in New York City's West Village. The exact address is 90 Bedford Street, New York, NY 10014. — Target Black Friday 2025: Early Deals & Predictions

Getting There

The easiest way to reach the Friends building is by subway. Take the A, C, E, B, D, F, or M train to the West 4th Street – Washington Square station. From there, it's a short walk west to Bedford Street and Grove Street.

What to Expect

When you arrive, you'll recognize the building immediately from the show's exterior shots. It's a charming, six-story residential building typical of the West Village neighborhood. However, remember that this is a real apartment building, so be respectful of the residents and avoid loitering or making excessive noise.

Key Features of the Building

Exterior Facade

The most recognizable feature is the building's facade, which served as the backdrop for many scenes in Friends. The reddish-brick exterior and the fire escape are iconic elements that fans will instantly recognize.

Little Owl Restaurant

Located on the ground floor of the building is the Little Owl restaurant. While not directly featured in Friends episodes, it's often associated with the show due to its location. The restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

History and Significance

The West Village Charm

The building’s location in the West Village adds to its charm. This historic neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, quaint shops, and vibrant arts scene. The West Village provides the perfect backdrop for the cozy and intimate feel of the Friends series.

Why This Building?

The creators of Friends chose this building for its quintessential New York City look. The exterior shots help establish the setting and add to the show's relatability, making the characters feel like they live in a real place.

Inside the Friends Apartment

Interior Shots

While the exterior shots were of 90 Bedford Street, the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage in Los Angeles. This is a common practice in television production, as it allows for more control over the filming environment.

Recreating the Magic

Visiting 90 Bedford Street gives fans a tangible connection to the show, even though the interior shots were filmed elsewhere. It's a chance to see a piece of television history in a real-world setting.

Tourist Tips and Etiquette

Best Times to Visit

The building is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are during the off-peak seasons (spring and fall) to avoid large crowds. Weekday mornings are generally less busy than weekends.

Respect the Residents

Remember that 90 Bedford Street is a residential building, so be mindful of the people who live there. Avoid blocking the entrance, taking photos inside the lobby, or making excessive noise.

Photo Opportunities

Taking a photo in front of the building is a must for Friends fans. Try to capture the building's facade and the street sign to create a memorable shot. You can also visit the nearby Little Owl restaurant for a meal or a drink. — Brock Purdy Stats: 49ers QB Career, Records & More

Other Friends Filming Locations in NYC

Greenwich Village

While 90 Bedford Street is the most iconic location, the Friends characters were said to live in Greenwich Village. The neighborhood itself is worth exploring for its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere.

The Lucille Lortel Theatre

Located nearby, the Lucille Lortel Theatre is another point of interest. Though not directly featured in Friends, it represents the theatrical environment that Joey Tribbiani aspired to be part of. — Yards In A Foot: Simple Conversion Guide

FAQs About the Friends Apartment Building

Can you go inside the Friends apartment building?

No, the interior of the building is not accessible to the public. It is a residential building, and the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage in Los Angeles.

Is the Friends apartment building the same as in the show?

The exterior of 90 Bedford Street is the same building used in the exterior shots of Friends. However, the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage.

How far is the Friends apartment from Central Perk?

Central Perk, the coffee shop in Friends, is fictional. However, there have been pop-up recreations of Central Perk, but they are not permanent fixtures. The Friends building at 90 Bedford Street is in the West Village, which is a different neighborhood than where a real Central Perk might be located.

What else is there to do near the Friends building?

In the West Village, you can explore other landmarks, enjoy the neighborhood's restaurants and shops, and experience its unique atmosphere. Nearby attractions include Washington Square Park, the Stonewall Inn, and various art galleries.

Is the Little Owl restaurant related to Friends?

While the Little Owl restaurant is not directly related to Friends in terms of the show's storyline, its location on the ground floor of the Friends building makes it a popular spot for fans to visit.

What is the significance of the Friends apartment building?

The Friends apartment building is significant because it provides a real-world connection to the beloved TV show. It allows fans to see a tangible piece of the show's history and imagine the characters living in that setting.

Conclusion

Visiting the Friends apartment building at 90 Bedford Street is a must for any fan of the show. While you can’t go inside, seeing the exterior in person provides a memorable experience. The building's location in the charming West Village adds to the appeal, making it a worthwhile stop on any New York City itinerary.

If you are a Friends fan, plan your visit to this iconic building and relive the magic of the show in person. Remember to be respectful of the residents and enjoy the neighborhood's unique atmosphere.

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