21 Gossip Girl Locations in NYC Every Fan Must Visit! [Free DIY Gossip Girl Tour!]

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Hello Upper East Siders, Gossip Girl here, your one and only source into the scandalous lives of Manhattan’s elite.

I have the inside scoop on where to find the hottest places in town that were featured in Gossip Girl. This self-guided tour is so easy to do, as I’ve included addresses so you (probably) won’t get lost. 

Or if you’d prefer to take the guesswork out of it, you can always join a 3-hour Gossip Girl Sites Tour by On Location Tours and find like-minded Gossip Girl fans!

Whether you’re an OG Gossip Girl or if you’ve just joined the fandom from the 2021 reboot, these locations will have you channeling your inner Serena and Blair (or Nate and Chuck), whichever way you roll.

Watch all 6 seasons of Gossip Girl on Amazon Prime.

Either way, here are the top Gossip Girl locations in New York City you can visit in real life, and craft that perfect Gossip Girl tour perfect for any kind of Gossip Girl fan!

Gossip Girl Location Tour

1. The Palace Hotel

Walk in the shoes of Serena for a moment and pretend you’re heading home, as Lotte New York Palace was the set of the Van Der Woodsen’s residence. You’ll remember many scenes where both Dan and Nate would wait for little Miss Serena out here!

Want to go a mile further in Serena’s shoes? Really live like her with Lotte New York Palace’s special Gossip Girl package! The package includes a welcome gift pack full of macarons and Prosecco gummy bears. And of course, if you’re living it large, you’ve gotta have that champagne! Plus, you’ll get “Spotted at The Palace” postcards that map out all of the filming locations within the Lotte Palace, which make awesome memorabilia, and 25% off on tickets to the “On Location Gossip Girl Sites Tour“!

Address: 455 Madison Ave. (50th/51st Streets)

Read more: 4 Days in New York: A Non-FOMO Itinerary for First Timers

2. Grand Central Terminal

When you order Serena Van Der Woodsen off Temu.

Of course, no Gossip Girl tour is complete without a visit to the infamous Grand Central Station, as this is where we are first introduced to Miss Serena Van Der Woodsen, looking all forlorn.

This is also where Dan first spots Serena which then sparks Gossip Girl’s blast informing everyone that S is indeed back in town. In hindsight, now we know why… no spoilers here!

Besides being a perfect Gossip Girl pilgrimage, it’s also a great stop to marvel at the stunning architecture. I have a secret about the Grand Central Station you won’t want to miss in my 4 Days in New York: A Non-FOMO Itinerary for First Timers guide!

Address: Grand Central Station, 89 E 42nd St

3. The Campbell Apartment

While you’re at Grand Central Station, pop by Campbell Apartment which is right downstairs. This is where that hot and steamy scene between Nate and Serena in Season was filmed, so perhaps you could get some action of your own here? 😉 Or, maybe not!

4. The Met Steps

Ahh, what’s a Gossip Girl tour without the infamous Met Steps?

Oh, how many secrets have been whispered beneath the shadow of those grandiose steps! From clandestine meetings to scandalous rendezvous, the Met Steps have witnessed it all.

With its majestic backdrop of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this coveted filming location from Gossip Girl serves as the epicenter of drama, romance, and intrigue. So slip on your designer threads, grab a yogurt, and sit on the Met steps with your own little minions.

Address: The MET, 1000 Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street

5. The Humphrey Loft

Now let’s cross over to lonely boy territory.

Take a trip across to Brooklyn to where this Lonely Boy used to live with his sister and dad, Jenny and Rufus. It’s located right under the Manhattan Bridge which also makes for a great photo!

I whipped my phone out for this one to get into character! Could I be sending a tip to Gossip Girl?

Address: 455 Water Street, Apartment #6, Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

6. Nate Archibald’s Townhouse

I used to have a healthy (read: unhealthy) crush on Nate Archibald back when the Gossip Girl series aired, often daydreaming of what it would be like to hold the title of Mrs. Archibald.

So when I first arrived here, I was squealing and giggling like a schoolgirl which I will spare you the photos of.

Address: 4 E 74th Street, New York

7. The Empire State Building

Who can forget that Blair-Chuck drama that happened atop the Empire State Building? Plus, it boasts an excellent view of the city! Alternatively, head up to the Top of the Rock for a different perspective (and a view of the city with the Empire State Building in it!)

Do note you’ll need to purchase tickets to get up to both these buildings! Of course, many people ask the question: Is the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock better? It depends on what you’re after. Obviously, if you’re on Top of the Rock, you get the view of the Empire State Building and vice versa. Well, if you get the CityPASS, you get to see both!

Address: 20 W 34th St

8. Central Park

There were so many scenes shot at Central Park, that you’ll be spending a considerable amount of time in the park itself.

But perhaps the most iconic is by the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park. This is where Blair and Serena finally agree to a truce, and where Chuck and Blair say their “I Do’s”.

9. Dylan’s Candy Bar

This may be a lesser-known scene, but it’s where Dan and Vanessa shopped for Nate’s anniversary present. It’s also the biggest candy store in the world housing over 5,000 different types of candy so it doubles as a perfect stop for you sweet tooths!

Address: 1011 3rd Ave, New York, NY

10. Pulitzer Fountain @ The Plaza

This was one of my favorite scenes between Serena and Blair, where they stole some outfits from Blair’s mother’s photoshoot and had their own fun little photoshoot outside Central Park. This fountain can be found right outside the Plaza Hotel close to Central Park.

Address: Between 5th Ave and 59th Street, New York, NY

11. Museum of the City of New York

While it may look like just another stuffy museum from the outside, insiders know that it’s the entrance to Constance Billard School for girls and St. Jude School for boys.

But don’t let the school facade fool you – inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of history and artwork that probably had Blair Waldorf brushing up on her Brooklyn knowledge.

Address: 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd St.

12. The Empire Hotel

You would’ve heard a lot about the Empire Hotel in the series, and it’s cool to know it actually exists! There are a few scenes that Chuck and Blair filmed here, including the memorable scene where Chuck surprises Blair with her favorite things from Paris! 

The coolest thing is the hotel actually serves a lineup of Gossip Girl–themed cocktails at the bar, including the “Lonely Boy” and “Jenny’s Tartlet! I think I would really love to stay here and pretend that Chuck Bass actually owned the hotel and maybe sneak a chance to bump into him 😉

Address: 44 West 63rd Street

13. Veselka

It’s no secret that Veselka is one of Dan Humphrey’s go-to haunts for a taste of comfort food and those famous pierogis. But did you know it’s also where Blair Waldorf and Prince Louis once had a date? Talk about mixing the worlds of high society and down-to-earth eats.

It’s a real restaurant you can dine in, with over 60 years of history, Veselka’s old-school charm and delicious Ukrainian cuisine are sure to make you feel like you’re part of the gossip girl gang – even if Dan isn’t showing up to sweep you off your feet.

Address: 144 2nd Ave

14. The Russian Tea Room

This glamorous spot has made a cameo or two in the world of Gossip Girl, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the already lavish scenes. Remember when Georgina Sparks was up to her old tricks with Poppy? That’s right, the Russian Tea Room was the backdrop for that unforgettable encounter.

But beyond its on-screen allure, this enchanting establishment is a must-visit for any discerning New Yorker. Whether you’re there for tea or a decadent meal, just be sure to plan ahead – with a 94-year reputation for excellence, securing a reservation at this magical spot can be as challenging as navigating the social hierarchy of the Upper East Side.

Address: 150 W 57th St

15. Barrio Chino

Barrio Chino is an authentic Mexican haunt nestled on Broome Street, where Serena van der Woodsen sought solace amid her family dramas one fateful Thanksgiving afternoon in 2006.

It’s where she drowned her sorrows, perhaps a little too deeply, before fate intervened in the form of a taxi hurtling towards her. Luckily, our dear Dan Humphrey was there to play the gallant hero, sacrificing his family’s pie in a bid to save her.

Though Serena may not have remembered the incident, it certainly left an indelible mark on Dan’s heart, a memory he couldn’t help but allude to during their inaugural Thanksgiving together. Oh, the drama of it all!

Address: 253 Broome St

16. Synod Of Bishops Russian Orthodox Church

While the Museum of the City of New York served as the exterior of St Jude’s, the Synod of Bishops Russian Orthodox Church just a few blocks south served as the interior.

Address: 75 E 93rd St #1331

17. St. James Church

It was here, amidst the grandeur of its historic halls, that Blair Waldorf exchanged vows with Prince Louis, igniting a firestorm of gossip and intrigue among the Upper East Side elite.

While Blair’s union may have been short-lived, her wedding venue endures as a timeless symbol of love and tradition. Steeped in history since its founding in 1810, St. James Church welcomes visitors to admire its stunning architecture and timeless beauty.

And fun fact: it’s also the final resting place requested by none other than literary luminary John Steinbeck himself. Oh, the tales these hallowed halls could tell!

Address: 865 Madison Ave

18. Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum

In Season 1, this is where Lily and Bart exchanged vows, sealing their union with all the pomp and grandeur befitting their status.

Despite the fleeting nature of their happiness, the memory of their wedding lingers on, a testament to the complexities of love and the fragility of human relationships.

Address: 2 E 91st St

19. Butter

Butter, the hallowed ground of the NYC prep school elite—or so they say. In Season 1, a cunning ruse led Blair to a solo venture at Butter, much to her chagrin.

Nevertheless, this softly lit establishment nestled in Midtown remains a beacon of culinary excellence and social allure.

For any dedicated superfan seeking to savor a slice of the sweet life, a visit to Butter promises an unforgettable dining experience worthy of the Upper East Side’s finest.

Address: 70 W 45th St

20. Henri Bendel

As you cue up the soothing strains of “Moon River” and step out of a classic yellow cab, you can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia wash over you.

Here, on Fifth Avenue, stands what was once the illustrious flagship of Henri Bendel—a place that held countless memories for our beloved Blair Waldorf.

Though the brick-and-mortar shops of Bendel’s may have met their end in 2019, the spirit of glamour and sophistication they embodied lives on in the heart of New York City.

So, take a moment to pay homage to this iconic institution, and perhaps even channel your inner Blair as you stroll past its now-shuttered doors, reminiscing on the days of yore.

Address: 712 5th Ave

21. “Ehrlich Residence Hall”

No Gossip Girl NYC tour would be complete without a stopover at NYU’s campus, right? But let’s keep things above board—sneaking into college dorms is a big no-no, folks. So, unless you’ve got a key card, leave the rooftop adventures to the students.

Rumor has it that “Ehrlich Residence Hall” might just be Rubin Hall on Fifth Ave, but let’s not push our luck. Instead, why not soak up the collegiate atmosphere by lounging around Washington Square Park? It’s basically the university’s quad, and hey, you might just catch a glimpse of some Dan and Blair vibes while you’re there.

Gossip Girl Hotels

And if taking a walk in the shoes of the elite isn’t enough, why not live like them for a night or two? You actually can stay in two of the locations listed above if you’re willing to shell out a little extra!

The Lotte New York Palace is the setting of The Palace, where Serena took residence for a period of time on the show. Live in a little slice of history in NYC’s first-ever five-star hotel offering ultra-luxurious amenities, distinctive event spaces, and opulent suites. Prices start from $650 per night.

The Empire Hotel is indeed a very real hotel in New York going by the very same name. Although less luxurious than The Lotte, The Empire Hotel is conveniently located right smack in the middle of Manhattan, and just 250 feet away from the Lincoln Center. Prices start from $152.

If you're planning a trip to New York City, check out my Non-FOMO New York City Itinerary for First Timers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was Gossip Girl filmed?

With Gossip Girl being set in New York, it’s no surprise that the entire series was primarily filmed in New York City itself, with many iconic locations throughout the city serving as backdrops for the show’s scenes.

Some of the most recognizable filming locations include the Upper East Side, where many of the characters reside, as well as various landmarks and hotspots around Manhattan.

Additionally, the show occasionally filmed in other parts of New York State and even ventured to other cities for certain episodes or scenes.

In this guide, I will be taking you on the top Gossip Girl locations in the city, so you can go on your own Gossip Girl tour, for free!

Where is Blair Waldorf’s house in Gossip Girl?

The Waldorf penthouse, located atop 1136 Fifth Avenue, is the residence of the Waldorf family. However, this is a private residence so you won’t be able to visit this one!

Where is the original Gossip Girl school?

The Museum of the City of New York acts as the exterior of the Constance Billard School for Girls and St. Jude’s School for Boys.

What NYC school was Gossip Girl based on?

In the Gossip Girl book series by NBS alumna Cecily von Ziegesar ’88, the character’s elite all-girls school, Constance Billard School for Girls, is based on Nightingale-Bamford and the lives of the girls who attend the school.

Can you visit the Gossip Girl set?

Technically, yes, as a lot of the Gossip Girl series was filmed in various locations in New York City!

What building did Serena live in?

The van der Woodsens resided at 994 Fifth Avenue, a ritzy, white-gloved doorman building directly across the street from The Met and Central Park. Serena and her family own half the top floor in a 14-room penthouse. This is a private residence so it’s off limits!

Writing up this guide has really made me want to get a little nostalgic and start a Gossip Girl Marathon! Who’s with me? Let me know in the comments if there are any more secret Gossip Girl locations that I should add to this list! Until next time, you know you love me, xoxo!

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