Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment. Photo Credit: Ritika Basu
Put on your favorite Manolo Blahniks and explore these spots to immerse yourself in the magic of the hit HBO TV series that celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Twenty-five years ago, HBO introduced viewers to the lives of four amazing friends navigating the world of dating in New York. Sex and the City captivated audiences for six seasons from 1998 to 2004, making Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker), Samantha Jones (Kim Cattrall), Miranda Hobbes (Cynthia Nixon), and Charlotte York (Kristin Davis) beloved figures and fashion icons.
The show’s success gave rise to a sequel series, And Just Like That…, which is set to premiere its second season on June 22nd on HBO Max. However, on the 25th anniversary of the original show’s premiere, let’s explore the iconic spots are still accessible today, allowing you to step into the world of Carrie Bradshaw and her fabulous friends.
Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment
Carrie’s frequent sprint up the steps of her magnificent, rent-controlled apartment became a recurring sight throughout the series, often transpiring when she escaped from a taxi in tears after clashing with her love interest. Initially filmed at 64 Perry Street for the initial three seasons, the exterior scenes later shifted next door to number 66. If you’re interested, you can personally visit the West Village and admire those iconic steps. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of this vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood, and you’ll instantly recognize the iconic backdrop of Sex and the City.
Magnolia Bakery
One of the most memorable scenes in the series takes place at Magnolia Bakery, located in the West Village. In season three, Carrie and Miranda indulge in the bakery’s renowned cupcakes while sitting on a bench outside. Magnolia Bakery still thrives today, serving its delectable treats, allowing visitors to relish in the sweet memories of the show. Another location of Magnolia Bakery featured in the show is situated at Rockefeller Center. In the series, Carrie and Miranda enjoy more delicious treats while perched on a bench overlooking the iconic ice rink. Pay a visit to this bakery and indulge in their mouthwatering desserts specially their iconic Banana Pudding.
Soho House
It’s hard to overlook the unforgettable moment when Samantha stumbled upon a coveted Soho House membership card and claimed it as her own. In the midst of their playful banter and delightful drinks beside the sweltering rooftop pool during a scorching summer, Samantha’s secret was eventually exposed. As a result, the fabulous quartet found themselves promptly ousted from the luxurious club without any ceremony.
The Russian Tea Room
The Russian Tea Room, an upscale restaurant known for its opulent decor, made an appearance in the series when Carrie met her Russian lover, Aleksandr Petrovsky, for lunch. Situated near Carnegie Hall, this iconic establishment continues to welcome guests with its elegant ambiance and exquisite cuisine.
Bryant Park
A picturesque location often featured in the series, Bryant Park is where Carrie and Mr. Big have a memorable encounter during Fashion Week. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this public park offers serene surroundings, stunning views, and hosts various events throughout the year.
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The Plaza Hotel
The luxurious Plaza Hotel was a prominent setting in Sex and the City. From the iconic scene where Mr. Big proposes to Carrie to the opulent fashion show in the final episode, The Plaza Hotel holds a special place in the hearts of fans. You can still visit this landmark and indulge in its grandeur.
Brooklyn Bridge
In the film, Miranda and Steve’s relationship takes a devastating turn when Steve betrays her with infidelity. In an attempt to salvage their love, they reluctantly attend couples’ therapy and make a pivotal decision. They agree that if, after two weeks, they both still harbor the desire to rekindle their romance, they will meet on the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. The bridge’s allure as a setting makes it a must-see location for any curious observer.
Buddakan
Buddakan, a renowned Asian fusion restaurant in the Meatpacking District, is where Carrie and Big’s rehearsal dinner takes place in the first Sex and the City movie. The restaurant’s stunning decor and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit for fans and food enthusiasts alike.
The New York Public Library
In the first Sex and the City movie, Carrie’s wedding to Mr. Big almost takes place at The New York Public Library, creating a memorable moment in the series. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this historic library allows visitors to explore its grand halls and beautiful architecture.
Paris Theatre
The Paris Theatre in New York City is a historic cinema located on 58th Street, near Central Park. This spot is where Carrie spent a night indulging in film instead of friendships. She put her cosmos and chaotic relationships aside for a different story, and you could do the same. Located in Midtown, you’ll want to catch a viewing of an independent or foreign movie before doing anything else.
How To Do The Sex and The City Tour?
The Sex and the City Hotspots Tour by On Location Tours is a popular guided tour in New York City that takes participants to various locations featured in the hit TV series “Sex and the City.”
During the tour, you can expect to visit locations such as Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment building, Magnolia Bakery (famous for its cupcakes), the bar where the girls often gathered, and other significant sites from the series including new locations from And Just Like That (Chalait, Bergdorf Goodman, Chelsea Market, La Grande Boucherie and more)!
Along the way, a knowledgeable tour guide provide interesting facts and behind-the-scenes stories about the show and its cast. The tour typically lasts for around three and a half hours and provides a unique opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the world of “Sex and the City” while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of New York City. It’s a fun and entertaining excursion for fans of the show or anyone looking to explore the city’s iconic landmarks.
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A New Yorker at heart, an unapologetic anglophile, national parks explorer and former head of National Geographic publishing in India, Ritika is the Global Editor for Travel and Food Network and leads all journalism across platforms, including news, digital, videos, and social media. She writes features focused on narrative storytelling, industry trends, destinations, culinary travel, and how-to advice and is an advocate for sustainable travel. You can follow her on Instagram @newyorkeratheart
