• Posted byby Elle-Rose
  • Updated:
  • 10 minute read

Have you been searching for a list of famous streets in NYC, that should be on your Big Apple itinerary?

Visiting NYC’s most recognizable streets and neighborhoods, is one of my favorite things to do when I’m in the city. There’s just something really fun (and comforting?) and about seeing parts of the city you recognize.

There are way more famous streets in NYC than you probably realize, which is why I’ve made this list of them! These are the ones I think are worth visiting, that I think you’ll love too.

So, if you’ve been searching for all the most recognizable streets in NYC with fascinating histories, or links to TV and film, then you’re in the right place!

From Broadway to Wall Street, these famous and iconic streets in NYC are seriously fascinating and instantly recognizable.

Now let’s get walking!

Here are our favorite famous Streets in NYC plotted out on a helpful map!

Bedford Street (number 90!)

friends apartment in NYC
friends apartment in NYC
friends apartment in NYC
friends apartment in NYC

First up on my list of famous streets in NYC, it’s the gorgeous Bedford Street.

Bedford Street (specifically, number 90!) is one of the most iconic streets in NYC, and one of the most recognizable too.

Why is it one of the most well-known streets in NYC? Well, it is famous for being the home to the amazing ‘Friends’ apartment. This apartment building was once the ‘home’ to one of the most iconic sitcoms of the 90s.

Whilst the interior of the apartment wasn’t filmed inside the Bedford Street apartment block (it was filmed on a soundstage in LA), all the exterior shots were filmed here, so you do get a feel for what the ‘Friends’ New York City experience was like when you visit.

So what’s it like? Well, Bedford Street is in the heart of Greenwich Village,  where the apartment buildings are much lower than Midtown, and the vibe is cozy, cute and villagey. 

If you’ve never been to Greenwich Village it’s definitely worth exploring anyway, and seeing the famous Friends apartment is just a bonus to add to the list.

Read more NYC ideas: 60 free and cheap things to do in NYC

Perry Street (number 66!)

Next on my list, it’s the wonderful 66 Perry Street. At number 66 Perry Street in New York City, you’ll find Carrie Bradshaw’s brownstone building. 

Sex in this city is obviously one of the most famous TV shows set in New York, so the street where all of her romantic escapades take place, had to make our list of the most famous streets in NYC. 

This feels like such a typical New York City street and it’s almost like stepping inside your very own movie set, or TV set, when you visit. 

I will say, as a piece of advice, it’s important not to get in the way of locals in this part of town.  

Many of the residences of these buildings have to put up with tourists taking selfies in front of their homes pretty frequently,  so if you are going to visit this famous Street in NYC just be mindful that people actually live in the buildings you’re admiring.

Read more about NYC: The best brunch in NYC – 15 places to try!

Staple Street Skybridge

Next on my list of famous streets in NYC, it’s Staple Street. Staple Street in Tribeca is a tiny hidden gem located in the downtown area of Manhattan. 

This gorgeous street is instantly recognizable because It has a unique and beautiful floating sky bridge connecting the two sides of the street. 

This sky bridge makes Staple Street one of the most lovely and well-known streets in NYC, especially as there isn’t anything like this anywhere else in NYC.

The two buildings which are connected by this famous sky bridge were originally owned by a hospital, which is actually no longer there. But luckily for us, the sky bridge remains and we’re still able to admire it to this day.

Something about the sky bridge on Staple Street reminds me of a fairytale,  it’s whimsical and romantic and echoes that old-style New York City that people love. 

So, whether you’re a fan of architecture or you just want to look at the beautiful bridge and take a selfie, it’s a great spot to check out if you’re in the Tribeca area. 

Read more about NYC: 22 famous NYC filming locations!

Dyker Heights

  • Address: You’ll see light displays from 11th to 13th Avenues (also known as Dyker Heights Blvd) and from 83rd to 86th St in Dyker Heights.
  • Closest subway station: 62 St

Whilst it may be a little bit more difficult to get to than some of the other famous streets in NYC on this list, it’s definitely worth the journey and effort.

So why is Dyker Heights famous? Well, during the month of December, it’s probably the most festive Street in all of New York City. Maybe America!?

Read my complete guide to visiting Dyker Heights by clicking here!

Residents of Dyker Heights go all out at Christmas time and decorate their homes to the most incredible level of detail.  I can guarantee you’ve never seen anything like it, so visiting this incredible street during the festive season is always worth doing. 

If you grew up watching movies like Home Alone,  and you always wanted to see a traditional neighborhood with humongous houses,  decorated for the festive season,  then this is the place to go.

If you visit this famous Street in NYC you’ll find twinkling Christmas lights, amazing decorations,  festive statues, giant Christmas trees, and so much more. It’s one of my favorite streets in NYC, but it’s only worth visiting at a specific time of the year,  for obvious reasons.

Read more about visiting NYC: The ultimate guide to spending Christmas in NYC

Fifth Avenue

When it comes to famous streets in NYC, Fifth Avenue has to come right at the top of the list! This iconic street is known to locals and tourists as the city’s luxury shopping street, but it’s also home to museums!

Oh, and don’t forget other significant architectural gems like the Empire State Building and the Rockefeller Center. Yup – this is one of the most iconic streets in NYC that covers a lot of ground.

But this is also one of those streets in NYC that’s changed a lot over the years (including its name!).

It originally started as Middle Road in 1824 before gradually transitioning into Fifth Avenue.

If you’re interested in the city’s culture, we recommend checking out the famous “Museum Mile” section of the street.

This spot houses the Jewish Museum, The Guggenheim, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (among others!). Whatever you choose to do here, this is one of the most famous streets in NYC you need to see.

Read more about visiting NYC: Where to find the Friends apartment, plus other Friends filming locations!

Crosby Street

Next on my list – it’s Crosby Street! It’s a cobblestoned wonder that doesn’t really fit in with the city’s metropolitan vibes. And that’s what makes it so special!

This street is packed with unique local boutiques that span around 6 blocks.

So, you can find everything from indie threads to antique furniture before stopping for a cup of coffee.

To make things even sweeter, this is one of the famous streets in NYC with tons of restaurant options. Plus, you’re right in the heart of SoHo which is always worth exploring!

Read more about exploring Soho: 32 fun things to do in Soho, NYC

Doyers Street

Doyers Street nyc
Doyers Street in NYC

Doyers Street has a particularly interesting history and wasn’t always a quaint part of Chinatown.

Nope, this is one of the famous streets in NYC that actually has a pretty grisly past and was once called “The Bloody Angle”

And that’s because it used to be teeming with violent gangs (particularly the Chinatown Tong Gangs).

It’s said that at some point in the 20th century, more people died on this street than on any other US street.

Now that’s an interesting figure that makes this one of the most well-known streets in the city.

These days, you’ll find a handful of Chinese restaurants (including Nom Wah Tea Parlor) that aren’t remotely dangerous.

Phew!

Bleecker Street

If you’re looking for famous streets in NYC, then you’ll probably have heard of Bleecker Street!It’s famous these days because it’s packed with nightclubs and bars.

Oh, and it was a film set for Sex and the City (the Magnolia Bakery, to be exact!).

But it’s also one of the most famous streets in the city as it was once home to well-known artists, poets, and musicians. And a handful of slightly dodgy gangsters.

Among these famous faces were the musical duo Simon and Garfunkel and artist Edward Hopper!

If you keep an eye out, you’ll also spot the Sanctum Sanctorum which is located on 177A Bleecker Street.

And are you a Marvel fan? This is said to be the home of Dr. Strange too! Another reason it made my list!

Read more NYC inspiration: Where to find the best afternoon tea in NYC!

Madison Avenue

Madison Avenue is up next! This is another popular street that you’ve probably heard of as it’s home to Madison Square Park and Madison Avenue Bridge.

But if you’re wondering why it’s one of the most famous streets in NYC, it’s down to its reputation!

Not only is it home to the incredible Frick Museum but this artsy street is loaded with unique shops.

So, whether you’d like to grab a new outfit or are a wandering artist looking for inspiration, this spot has you covered.

If you keep walking down the street, you’ll also find popular hotels like The Ludlow, The Pierre, and The Lowell.

N Moore St

  • Address: 14 N Moore St, New York, NY 10013, United States
  • Closest Subway Station: Franklin St

If you’re a fan of Ghost Busters, then you’re absolutely going to recognize my next suggestion for famous streets in NYC.

N Moore St is the home to the Ghost Busters Headquarters, and it’s such a classic NYC tourist spot to seek out.

Make sure to take a selfie! You never know what ghosts or ghouls might be in the background!

Read more about visiting NYC: 25 fun museums in NYC!

Gay Street, Greenwich Village

Gay Street in Greenwich Village is my next idea for where to visit!

Whilst this street was named during a time when the word ‘gay’ didn’t actually relate to a person’s sexuality,  Gay Street is now an icon amongst the LGPTQ+ community. 

Alongside its meaningful ties to the LGPTQ+ community,  it’s also a really scenic street,  and it’s a beautiful one just to take a lovely stroll down and enjoy the historic architecture.

Broadway

No list of famous streets in NYC would be complete without the glittering lights of Broadway!

Broadway is HUGE, and spans almost the entire length of Manhattan – so any description of this famous street in NYC will be vague, because it changes to much as you walk along it.

Broadway was originally called Brede Wegh by the Dutch (which literally means Broadway) until it was Anglicized in the late 18th century.

Not only is this street home to Times Square’s amazing billboards, but it’s also home to most of the city’s finest shows. We’re talking big Broadway musicals, plays, and everything in between.

Believe it or not, this is one that runs for miles (13, to be exact!).

Along the street, you’ll find The Met Cloisters, the Flatiron Building, Columbus Circle, and Columbia University! Another reason it’s a great pick for famous streets in NYC.

Read more about NYC: 22 Romantic anniversary ideas in NYC

Park Avenue

We couldn’t write a list of famous streets in NYC without mentioning Park Avenue!

This is home to several of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the Chrysler Building and Grand Central Terminal.

And trust us, the Beaux-Arts architecture of the station is worth the walk alone!

If you continue along Park Avenue, you’ll also spot the gorgeous Waldorf Astoria and the MetLife Building!

Back in the day, this was one of those iconic streets in NYC that carried tracks for the New York and Harlem Railroad (in the 1830s!).

But now, it’s home to small apartment buildings and classic city structures.

Washington Street

Next up on my list of amazing streets in NYC, it’s Washington Street in DUMBO, Brooklyn.

Washington Street is mainly famous for its proximity to the Manhattan Bridge, and the amazing bridge views you’ll get from there.

You’ll have seen this street on tons of TV shows and movies, but you might not have known what the street was called!

If you look closely, you’ll even spot the towering Empire State in the distance.

Aside from the awesome snaps you’ll get from the street, DUMBO is pretty closeby, and there are tons of great cafes, restaurants and bars to enjoy there on the waterfront.

In our books, it’s one of those wonderful streets in NYC that deserves a spot on anyone’s Instagram feed.

Read more about DUMBO and Brooklyn by clicking here!

E Houston St and Ludlow

  • Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, United States
  • Closest subway station: 2 Av

E Houston St and Ludlow, or the home of Katz Deli, is next up! This very specific street location in NYC, is famous for one thing. Katz Deli. 

Now, if you don’t know what Katz Deli is,  then let me explain. Katz Deli is one of the most famous diners and delis in New York City. 

It has featured in multiple movies and TV shows,  which is not surprising because it’s packed with character, it’s fun, it’s unique, and (importantly) it’s instantly recognizable from the outside. 

Because of how recognizable it is,  I think it deserves a spot on the list of famous streets in NYC. 

Sure,  the street itself might not be that famous,  but the very presence of Katz Deli on it, makes it recognizable to almost everyone who has been there before, or seen it on screen.

Wall Street

If you’re on the hunt for famous streets in NYC, you need to pop Wall Street on your list.

As you might know from The Wolf of Wall Street (and most history books!) this is the city’s economic hub.

So, it’s where the New York Stock Exchange is based and all those fancy brokerage firms are!

If you’re wondering how the street was named, it was coined after a 1653 wooden wall.

And the name just stuck!

Along with the financial buildings, this street is home to the Charging Bull and the Federal Hall (with its Greek columns!).

St Marks Place

Next on my list of famous streets in NYC,  it’s St Mark’s Place. You probably don’t know Saint Mark’s place by its official name, you probably know it as Little Tokyo. 

Just like Koreatown and Chinatown, Little Tokyo is a cultural hub in this city dedicated to all things Japanese. 

And whilst little Tokyo isn’t as big as Chinatown and Koreatown,  it is full of lots of wonderful cafes, interesting shops, fun bars, and so much more!

Read our ultimate guide to Little Tokyo, by clicking here!

I hope this list of famous streets in NYC has given you plenty of ideas and inspiration for where to explore next time you’re in NYC!

Which of these streets in NYC are you most excited to check out?