New York City: The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

Discovering Sopranoland: A Deep Dive into the New York City: The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

If you’re a fan of HBO’s The Sopranos, this tour offers a rare chance to step behind the scenes and see the actual locations that made the series so compelling. Starting from Midtown Manhattan for a roughly four-hour journey into New Jersey, the tour visits over 40 iconic sites, including the Bada Bing, Holstens, and the final scene location. The cost is $92 per person, which for many dedicated fans, offers a surprisingly good value considering the depth of detail and access you get.

What we particularly love about this tour is the expert guides—many of them have appeared as extras or stand-ins on the show, meaning their insights are not just from a script but from real behind-the-scenes experience. Also, the chance to sit in Tony’s restaurant booth where the series wrapped up is a moment many fans dream of. That said, it’s worth noting that adult-themed locations mean this tour isn’t suitable for very young children or those uncomfortable with mature content.

A potential consideration is the group size—if you’re part of a large group, seating is first-come, first-served unless you opt for priority seating. It’s also a four-hour bus ride, so if long tours aren’t your thing, or if you prefer a more DIY approach, this might not be your best fit. However, for anyone who loves the series and enjoys storytelling with a side of New Jersey scenery, this tour hits the right note.

This tour is perfect for die-hard Sopranos fans, pop culture explorers, and anyone wanting a fun, informative experience blending TV history with a scenic trip through New Jersey’s streets.

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Key Points

Authentic filming locations from The Sopranos, including Bada Bing, Holstens, and Satriale’s.
Expert guides with real on-set experience making stories and trivia authentic.
Transport in a comfortable bus with options for priority seating, making the experience more enjoyable.
A mix of famous and lesser-known sites, providing a rich sense of the show’s universe.
A visit to Tony’s restaurant booth and the inside of Bada Bing, creating memorable photo opportunities.
Ideal for dedicated fans, with adult-themed locations, and best experienced by those familiar with or eager to learn about the series.

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An In-Depth Look at the Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

The Starting Point and Practical Details

Your adventure begins in Midtown Manhattan, right in front of the Button Statue on 7th Avenue & 39th Street. Arriving 15 minutes early is wise—especially if you want to secure priority seating in the first rows near your guide. The meeting point is easy to find, marked by a blue umbrella and a large “Button” sign.

The tour kicks off with a quick boarding process, where if you’ve purchased priority seating, you’ll get pre-boarding privileges, ensuring you sit in the best spots. The buses vary depending on group size—ranging from luxury coaches to smaller vans—so your comfort depends on your group size, but all are well-maintained.

The Journey Into Sopranoland

Once on board, the real fun begins. Your guide, often someone with on-set experience like Jacopo or Deano, will share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and trivia. From the Lincoln Tunnel opening shot to the final scene at Holstens, each stop is designed to give you a deeper appreciation of the show’s filming process.

The 4-hour tour includes numerous stops, some iconic, like the Bada Bing—yes, the very strip club from the series, which is still operational. You’ll get inside, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Others, like the location where Big Pussy spoke with the FBI, aren’t necessarily open for inside visits but are recognizable from the show.

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Stop Highlights and Their Significance

Tony’s Restaurant Booth: Sitting in the actual booth where Tony sat during the final episode is a highlight. Many reviewers mention how surreal it feels to be in that space, capturing the essence of the series finale.
Holstens: The legendary pizza spot where AJ dumps pizza boxes into the pool is a definite photo op. Plus, Holstens is known for great onion rings, which many travelers say is a must-try afterward.
Bada Bing: Inside access to this iconic strip club allows you to see where many scenes took place. Despite being a working business, the tour offers a fun peek.
Satriale’s Pork Store: This location is part of the series’ mob hangout scenes. While it’s not open for eating or shopping, the guide’s stories add depth.
Big Pussy’s FBI Spot: The exact location where the FBI approached Big Pussy is a poignant site, giving fans a sense of the show’s tense moments.

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The Guide’s Role and Experience

Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and their ability to weave engaging stories. John, for instance, is lauded for his friendliness and depth of understanding, making the experience feel intimate rather than just a bus ride. Several mention how guides share little-known trivia and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that make the locations even more meaningful.

This personal touch is what elevates the tour beyond a simple sightseeing trip. It’s like having a TV series historian riding along, filling in the gaps and making famous scenes come alive.

The Value and Limitations

For $92, the tour packs significant value, offering insider access, convenient transportation, and a memorable experience. Many reviewers find it well worth the price, especially considering the insider stories and the opportunity to see and sit in the actual filming spots.

However, it’s important to remember that adult-oriented locations are part of the tour, so families with very young children might want to consider the content. Also, traffic and group size can impact the experience—arriving early and opting for priority seating can make a difference.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for fans of The Sopranos—whether you’ve watched every episode or just enjoy mob-related TV shows. The tour’s adult themes and locations might be less appealing to very young travelers or those seeking a family-friendly outing. If you love stories with a mix of TV nostalgia and scenic New Jersey views, this tour offers a charming combination.

The Sum Up

The New York City: The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to explore the world of one of TV’s most beloved series. With knowledgeable guides, authentic filming locations, and a comfortable ride, it provides real value for fans eager to relive some of the show’s most memorable moments.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking a quiet, kid-friendly experience, it’s a treasure trove for Sopranos enthusiasts and pop culture fans. The inside access, combined with the stories and scenery, makes it a highlight for your New York or New Jersey trip.

If you want to see the real locations, hear insider stories, and walk in Tony’s footsteps (or sit in his booth), this tour will serve you well. Just remember to plan ahead for seating, and bring your favorite Sopranos soundtrack for the bus ride!

FAQs

How long is the Sopranos filming locations tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, giving ample time to visit key sites and enjoy the commentary.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in Midtown Manhattan in front of the Button Statue on 7th Avenue & 39th Street.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Because the tour visits adult-oriented locations that may refuse entry to very young children, it’s best suited for older teens and adults.

Can I buy priority seating?
Yes, you can purchase priority seating, which allows pre-boarding and seating in the first five rows for a more comfortable experience.

Are refreshments available on the bus?
The description doesn’t specify, but typically, the focus is on the sites and stories, so bring your own snacks or drinks if desired.

What locations are included?
Major stops include Tony’s restaurant booth, Holstens, Bada Bing, the FBI Big Pussy spot, and Satriale’s.

Is the tour accessible?
Details on accessibility aren’t specified, but since it’s a bus tour, most locations are accessible, though some stops may vary.

Can I do this tour if I haven’t seen all episodes?
While not necessary, fans will get more out of the experience. Guides often share spoilers and insider details that enhance your appreciation.

This tour is a must for dedicated Sopranos fans wanting to connect with the series on a deeper level, blending TV nostalgia with a scenic journey through New Jersey’s familiar streets. Whether you’re reliving episodes or discovering new details, it’s a fun, memorable ride worth considering during your New York trip.