Landmark · Greenwich Village
Friends Apartment Building
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The Friends Apartment Building at 90 Bedford Street in Greenwich Village is a beloved landmark for fans of the iconic TV show. This building served as the exterior of Monica, Rachel, and the gang's apartment throughout the series' 10-season run. Located at the corner of Grove Street, the building is a classic New York walk-up with a distinctive red brick facade and a small stoop. While the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage in Los Angeles, the exterior has become a pilgrimage site for fans from around the world. Visitors often gather on the sidewalk to take photos, recreating the famous opening credits shot. The surrounding neighborhood is charming, with tree-lined streets, cafes, and boutiques, making it a pleasant stop on a walking tour of the West Village. Despite its fame, the building remains a private residence, so visitors are asked to be respectful of the tenants.
Don't miss
- The iconic red brick facade and stoop from the show's opening
- Photo opportunity at the corner of Bedford and Grove Streets
- Nearby Central Perk-inspired cafes for a themed coffee
- Walking distance to other 'Friends' filming locations like the fountain in SoHo
- Charming Greenwich Village streets perfect for a stroll
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Friends Apartment Building
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Friends Apartment Building with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inBar, Lounge and Rooftop Tour NYC4.5★ · 92 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$36 per personSee dates →
Most bookedPrivate Central Park Pedicab Tour5★ · 7,357 travelers1–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$42 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Greenwich Village Tour5★ · 24 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$80 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Be prepared for other fans; it can get crowded, especially on weekends.
- Respect the residents, keep noise down and don't block the entrance.
- Combine your visit with a stop at a nearby cafe for a 'Central Perk' vibe.
- Check out other 'Friends' spots like the fountain at Washington Square Park (used in the opening).
A bit of history
The building was constructed in the late 19th century as a typical New York tenement. It gained fame in 1994 when it was chosen as the exterior for the 'Friends' apartment, appearing in the show's title sequence and occasional exterior shots.
Common questions
Can I go inside the building?
No, it's a private residence and not open to the public.
Is this the actual apartment used in the show?
Only the exterior; interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage in Los Angeles.
Are there guided tours that include this stop?
Yes, several 'Friends' walking tours in NYC include this building.
Is there a plaque or marker?
No official plaque, but the building is easily recognizable.
What else is nearby?
The West Village has great restaurants, bars, and shops. The High Line and Chelsea Market are a short walk away.
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