ONE DAY IN NYC: Gossip Girl Edition
A Day in the Upper East Side: Exploring Gossip Girl Filming Locations in New York
Welcome to the glamorous lives of Manhattan’s elite! Gosh, I have always wanted to say that! New York City has long been an iconic backdrop for movies and TV shows, but few have captured the essence of the city's elite quite like Gossip Girl. If you're a mega fan of the beloved series like me or simply want to explore the posh Upper East Side, this one-day itinerary is perfect for you. From the moment you step off the train at Grand Central Station, like Serena in her iconic opening scene, you’ll be immediately immersed in the world of Gossip Girl.
Morning - Arrival at Grand Central:
My husband has some family in Connecticut, and during a visit a few years ago, I convinced him to indulge me in one of my ultimate bucket list items. I may not have been as forthcoming about the Gossip Girl angle, but what he didn't know wouldn't hurt him. I begged him to take me to Manhattan, just for the day. So, he obliged and we took his uncle's truck and headed for the closest Metro-North station. We boarded the train in Connecticut and set off for the Big Apple. Our commute only took around an hour and we loved seeing all the beautiful scenery on the ride. New England is stunning any time of year, but I had never seen it in the winter. Our trip was in December, so we got to see all the snow and festive Christmas decor. 10/10 recommend going at least once!
Author’s note: As stated above, this trip was several years ago, so please excuse my poor photography skills!
Grand Central Terminal
Our Gossip Girl-inspired adventure begins as we step into Grand Central Terminal, a legendary transportation hub that has graced many scenes in the series.
Stop and take a moment to marvel at the stunning celestial mural on the ceiling and take the iconic photo where we first meet Serena before setting off for your first destination. Grand Central is a marvel, and I could easily spend the whole day wandering around here!
First Stop: Palace Hotel - The Lotte New York Palace
The Palace Hotel
Our next stop is the luxurious Palace Hotel, the stunning backdrop for several pivotal scenes in Gossip Girl. Step inside this opulent hotel, situated at The Lotte New York Palace, and bask in the splendor of its exquisite interior.
Remember the tense moments between Chuck and Blair Waldorf in the hotel's courtyard? This iconic hotel was even the home of Serena at the beginning of the series. We visited at Christmas, and the decor was breathtaking!
Second Stop: Gapstow bridge-central park
Gapstow bridge
This landmark may be a lesser-known Gossip Girl spot, but if you’re a big Dorota fan like me, you’ll understand why this stop made the list. This charming little bridge nested into the southeastern entrance to Central Park looks like something out of a fairytale.
This famous landmark is known for the iconic scenes of Blair and Dorota feeding the ducks, and it gains bonus points for being featured in the beautiful final scene of Home Alone 2. That connection in itself makes this spot a must-see.
Third Stop: Bethesda Terrace and Fountain - Central Park
Take a leisurely stroll further into Central Park, and you'll find yourself at the iconic Bethesda Terrace and Fountain. One of my favorite scenes of the whole series was filmed here, the beautiful wedding of Blair Waldorf and Chuck Bass. This picturesque location that hosted their unforgettable nuptials is a must-visit for any Gossip Girl fan.
Fun fact: I fell down flat on my back in front of no less than 100 people on my first visit here. At the time, I was mortified, but now its a funny joke between me and my husband.
Fourth Stop: Nate Archibald’s House: 4 E 74th St
Nate’s Townhouse
To make your way to Nate’s iconic Townhouse, you'll head down 5th Avenue, and don't forget to take in all the luxurious stores on the way. Located just off this iconic street, you'll find this stately home, perfect for a photo op!
This house is privately owned, so you aren't allowed to go inside (unless you have connections, in which case hit your girl up), but it's still fun to see! Unfortunately, there was construction going on during my visit, so I can’t wait to go back and see it again!
FIFth stop: the Met steps-The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The met steps
Channel your inner Blair Waldorf as you make your way to The Met Steps, located at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This iconic spot was a favorite hangout for the characters, where they gathered to discuss their latest dramas and schemes.
Strike a pose on the steps with your bestie, just like Serena and Blair. Being in the same spot where so many scenes were filmed felt surreal. Take advantage of the stairs and take a moment to sit, rest your feet, and take in the best people-watching New York City has to offer.
Sixth Stop: Blair Waldorf’s Penthouse-1136 Fifth Avenue
This stop is more to say you saw it than anything. Since the building is home to private residences, you aren’t allowed to go in and wander around. Despite this, I loved walking down this street, as Blair did, and taking in the sights and sounds of the Upper East Side.
seventh Stop: Constance Billard and St. Jude's School for Boys - Museum of the City of New York
Constance Billard
End your day at the Museum of the City of New York, where the exteriors of Constance Billard School for Girls and St. Jude's School for Boys were filmed. As you explore the museum, reminisce about the various scenes set within these prestigious educational institutions.
Apart from its role in Gossip Girl, the museum is constantly opening up new exhibitions featuring the history and culture of NYC. Check their site to see what's being featured before you go!
Last Stop: The Empire Hotel
As the afternoon progresses, head to The Empire Hotel, where Chuck Bass owned his upscale establishment. While you're there, don't miss the chance to enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Editor’s Note: I can’t seem to locate a single photo from this stop, but trust me, the views are worth it!
This trip can be walked, which is what my husband and I did, but my feet were screaming at me at the end of the day. I recommend taking a cab back to Grand Central at the end, save yourself some agony!
This day in New York exploring the most popular Gossip Girl filming locations is such a memorable experience that truly immerses you in the dazzling world of Manhattan's elite. From the steps of The Met to the luxurious Empire Hotel, you'll have a chance to relive some of the most memorable moments from the series. So, grab your camera and your best Upper East Side attire, and indulge in the magic and drama that made Gossip Girl a cultural phenomenon. XOXO!
Bonus stops
I recommend exploring the city and seeing where the streets lead you! These are a few of my favorite sights we saw along the way.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: You have to see this iconic tree at least once in your life. The size of it is staggering, and the energy around it is electric. Every time I have gone, it has been extremely crowded. I recommend going during a non-prime time in order to have the best experience.
The Loeb Boathouse: This place is truly spectacular. I want to go when they offer boat rentals and spend the afternoon rowing around the pond.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir: This is one of the main attractions of Central Park. Looking across the pond to the West Side offers breathtaking views of the famous skyline.
The Plaza Hotel: If there was ever an iconic building in NYC, it’s the Plaza Hotel. Home to scenes from Home Alone 2 and Eloise at The Plaza, this landmark attracts movie fans, young and old.
