New York Private The Devil Wears Prada Movie Locations Tour

Starting off, this private tour takes you around the most recognizable movie locations from “The Devil Wears Prada” in New York City. For $155 per person, you’ll spend about three hours walking and taking the subway, following in the footsteps of Andrea Sachs and Miranda Priestly. Your guide, who offers undivided attention and the flexibility to customize the route, reveals behind-the-scenes stories and local secrets that most travelers miss. It’s an ideal way to combine film fandom with a genuine exploration of NYC’s stylish neighborhoods.

What we love most are the small, personalized group setting (your private guide means you get tailored stories and attention) and the chance to visit hidden gems like the McGraw-Hill Building or Erin McKenna’s bakery. Plus, walking between locations gives a real sense of NYC’s vibrancy and diversity. A possible downside? If you’re not a big fan of walking or public transit, the pace might feel a bit brisk. This tour suits fans of fashion, film buffs, and travelers seeking unique local insights, especially those who appreciate a balance of iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path stops.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with an engaging local guide
• Visits both well-known and lesser-known NYC spots from the film
• Includes walking and subway travel, offering authentic city immersion
• Focus on storytelling behind each location enriches the visit
• Suitable for fans of “The Devil Wears Prada” and those interested in NYC’s architecture and neighborhoods
• Free cancellation offers peace of mind for last-minute changes

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed to help you see New York through the lens of a beloved fashion and movie story. It combines practical walking and subway travel with personal storytelling, making it ideal whether you’re a film enthusiast or someone who just loves the city’s style and history.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: 1221 Avenue of the Americas
Your adventure begins at the fictitious Elias-Clark offices, the hub of Runway magazine, located in the distinctive McGraw-Hill Building. Built in 1931, this skyscraper’s Art Deco façade is instantly recognizable. As you stand outside, your guide might point out how the building’s classic design helps set the tone for the glamorous world of fashion portrayed in the movie. Inside, the lobby’s chic yet historic atmosphere amplifies your immersion into the film’s universe. We loved the way this stop immediately transports you to the powerful fashion industry backdrop of the film.

Stop 2: The St. Regis New York
Next, you’ll step into luxury at The St. Regis, a symbol of old-world opulence. Here, you’ll see the presidential suite used as Miranda Priestly’s glamorous hideaway, with a quick peek into the King Cole Bar, famous for its Red Snapper cocktail (the original Bloody Mary). Your guide might share tidbits about Fernand Petiot’s creation and the bar’s history, adding flavor to your visit. This stop deepens your appreciation for the luxurious lifestyle that the film showcases.

Stop 3: Bubby’s
A lively, well-loved restaurant owned by Robert De Niro, Bubby’s is where Andrea celebrates her small personal victories with friends. It’s a perfect spot for a quick break, and the ambiance gives a taste of New York’s casual yet vibrant dining scene. You might find the fun fact about De Niro’s ownership amusing, adding a touch of New York’s Hollywood lore to your experience.

Stop 4: Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
Here, you’ll get a glimpse of Andrea’s apartment building and the bakery just next door. It’s a cozy spot to indulge in vegan and gluten-free pastries, with the aroma of fresh baked goods filling the air. The moment when Andrea grabs her muffin en route to work is a relatable and charming scene, and this stop makes that small act feel more tangible. It’s a delightful way to connect the movie’s fictional life with authentic New York life.

Stop 5: American Museum of Natural History
This stop is a favorite for those who love combining film locations with cultural institutions. The museum was the backdrop for the Runway gala, and your guide will point out how its grand façade and interior set the scene for high society. Beyond the film, the museum’s vast collections and historic architecture make it a worthwhile visit. We loved the detail about Andrea’s quick thinking in recalling a guest’s name—showcasing her resourcefulness amid glitz and glamour.

Stop 6: Smith & Wollensky
A classic New York steakhouse, Smith & Wollensky is where Andrea makes a swift dash to satisfy Miranda’s craving. The story behind the name, chosen at random from the Manhattan phone book, adds a bit of humor to this upscale spot. Expect a meaty, satisfying meal or a quick look inside. It’s a fun reminder of how the movie balances sophistication with humor.

Stop 7: Central Park and the Upper East Side
Walking through Central Park, you’ll see where Miranda’s opulent Upper East Side residence overlooks the greenery. The neighborhood itself is a showcase of luxury real estate and classic brownstones, making it a fitting setting for the film’s high-society characters. We appreciated how the tour combines film scenery with real city architecture, giving you a sense of NYC’s wealthy side.

Stop 8: Cary Building
This historic cast-iron building is where Andrea finally gets her break, with the fictional newspaper’s office serving as the film’s closing scene. Your guide will share its architectural significance and discuss how it’s become a symbol of New York’s industrial past. A little piece of history with a Hollywood twist.

Stop 9: Gapstow Bridge
Famous for its appearance in the film’s urban jungle photo shoot scene, the bridge offers beautiful views of the pond and skyline. It’s a perfect spot for photos and reflection. We loved the fact that the bridge has been around since 1896, giving you a sense of NYC’s timeless charm.

Stop 10: Times Square / Theater District
Finally, you’ll weave through the bright lights and bustling crowds of Times Square, reliving the frantic scene where Andrea rushes to arrange Miranda’s flight. It’s a vivid reminder of NYC’s never-sleeping energy, and walking through this area caps off your tour with a sense of vibrant city life.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

This experience balances entertaining storytelling with sightseeing, providing a rich, layered perspective of both the movie and the city. The inclusion of public transit gives an authentic feel of NYC’s pace, and the private guide ensures you get personalized insights and can ask questions freely. For the $155 fee, you’re not just seeing film locations—you’re experiencing a curated slice of New York’s architecture, food, and neighborhoods, all woven into the Hollywood story you love.

A Few Considerations

While the tour is rich in detail, it involves about three hours of walking and subway travel, so it suits travelers with moderate physical fitness. If you’re someone who prefers staying seated or confined to fewer stops, this might feel a bit busy. Also, since the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, you’ll want to budget separately if you plan to dine at stops like Bubby’s or Erin McKenna’s bakery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a fan of “The Devil Wears Prada,” this tour offers a delightful way to see familiar sights from a fresh perspective. It’s also perfect for architecture and neighborhood lovers wanting to explore New York’s iconic landmarks with a movie twist. Those interested in luxurious NYC neighborhoods will appreciate the stops in the Upper East Side and around Central Park. Travelers who enjoy personalized, flexible tours will find this a rewarding way to spend a few hours. It’s ideal if you’re eager to combine film history with real city life, all in a comfortable private setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking and subway travel, it’s best suited for people with moderate physical fitness. Travelers should be comfortable walking for a few hours.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, stops like Bubby’s and Erin McKenna’s bakery offer options to purchase snacks or meals.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. This provides flexibility and peace of mind.

Does the tour include transportation between locations?
Yes, the guide uses the subway for some parts of the tour, making travel authentic and efficient.

Is the tour customizable?
Yes, the guide offers a customizable itinerary, allowing you to focus more on certain locations or interests if you wish.

What is the group size?
Since it’s a private tour, only your group will participate, providing personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

To sum it up, this private “Devil Wears Prada” tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore NYC’s film locations with plenty of authentic city experiences. It’s particularly well-suited for fans of the movie, architecture enthusiasts, and those wanting a personalized, flexible NYC adventure. Expect a mix of glamour, history, and local flavor—all wrapped into three memorable hours that bring the cinematic magic to life amid the real New York City streets.