Discover ‘Big’ movie locations in NYC with a local guide. Relive Tom Hanks’ iconic scenes and explore Manhattan’s cinematic history.
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Greenmount Avenue - Explore the charming neighborhood of Cliffside Park, New Jersey, where Josh’s iconic home from the movie Big is located. Find the exact address of Josh’s house on this picturesque street. While the film portrays the road as serene and rural, it’s actually a busy neighborhood thoroughfare with heavy traffic, making it challenging to take photos, especially during rush hour. Walk in the footsteps of Josh and his friend as they strolled down this lovely street.
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666 Anderson Ave - Discover the timeless charm of Anderson Avenue, a featured spot on many movie websites. This neighborhood retains its authenticity, allowing you to easily connect it with the scene from the film. The building on Anderson Avenue still houses a convenience store, offering a glimpse into the enduring nature of this film location. Despite some updates to doors and windows, the distinctive brickwork has remained, preserving the nostalgic ambiance of Big.
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School #6 Cliffside Park - Just a few blocks away from Josh and Billy’s homes, this classic filming location offers a delightful exploration of the neighborhood’s charm. As you walk through the schoolyard where Josh and Billy play ball, you may notice some changes. The school added a new wing in 2000, dedicated to former superintendent James P. Colagreco in 2015. While the schoolyard has evolved, the essence of the scenes from Big remains. Identify the boundary of the old school to pinpoint memorable moments from the film.
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Ross Dock Picnic Area - Witness the pivotal moment when Josh, played by Tom Hanks, races through the streets, experiencing the magic of overnight transformation. As Josh dashes to the amusement park near the Ross Dock Picnic Area in Fort Lee, NJ, the anticipation builds. Imagine the thrill as he discovers the Zoltar machine has vanished, leaving him at a crossroads. Notice the subtle details of the landscape as Josh grapples with fate. Marvel at his resilience as he pedals through the scenic route, navigating hills and valleys. The realization that the amusement park has departed adds to the poignancy of the moment.
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109 W 45th St - Escape into the allure of the St. James Hotel, an iconic refuge at 109 W 45th Street near Times Square. Join Billy as he guides Josh to this historic establishment for a few days of hidden respite. Originally an “apartment hotel,” it offered opulent residences for New York’s elite. The name in the film matches reality, as the St. James remains a rare gem, still operating amid the ever-changing Times Square. Let your guide share a century’s worth of history, crime, and intriguing stories.
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600 10th Ave - Step into the quaint video game retailer where Josh and Billy inquire about the Zoltar game. With bated breath, they seek answers from the proprietor, only to find their quest remains unfulfilled. The scene’s authenticity is highlighted by the “Novel Pinball” sign above the entrance. Venture into the world of wholesale pinball dealerships, a realm shrouded in obscurity. Discover traces of Novel Pinball in a 1989 edition of American Photography Showcase, proving its presence at 593 Tenth Avenue.
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New York Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza Square - Marvel at the unchanged facade of the city building, its number boldly displayed next to the entrance. This pivotal scene’s location is easily recognizable, offering a glimpse into the enduring architecture of 141 Worth Street. Delve into the past, noting the removal of the once-ubiquitous bank of pay phones on the sidewalk. Navigate the historical landscape of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza, which underwent a $7 million restoration in 2001. Capture the plaza’s evolution in before-and-after photos.
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78 8th Ave - Join Josh and Billy as they peruse job listings in a diner at 78 8th Avenue. The challenge of identifying the location ignited curiosity and determination. Although the diner is no longer there, you can compare the before and after while strolling around New York streets.
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40 W 23rd St - Uncover the intriguing history of this iconic location, a tale that predates the digital era and weaves through Manhattan’s vibrant streets. Transport yourself to the early 1990s, before the internet revolutionized information sharing. Discover that Hasbro toy company had its headquarters in this building, strategically positioned near the International Toy Center on 5th Avenue, the site of the American International Toy Fair.
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3 W 57th St - Experience a moment frozen in time at the former site of Crossland Savings Bank, which once graced 3 W 57th Street. Join Josh and Billy as they emerge from the bank, newfound wealth in hand, painting the streets with cinematic joy. Delve into the complexities of the banking industry, where mergers and takeovers unfold rapidly, leaving behind a trail of consumed institutions.
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767 5th Ave - Join Josh as he observes a heartwarming moment outside the store, where a father guides his son, also named Josh, into a fantastical world. Discover the history of FAO Schwarz, which underwent a significant transition in 1986. Sold to investors, the store relocated to 767 Fifth Avenue, marking a pivotal chapter in its 55-year legacy. Once struggling, the store experienced a revival, drawing patrons with its oversized “Walking Piano” featured in the film.
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83 Grand St - Transport yourself to the iconic scene where a delivery man becomes the target of a water balloon cascade from the top-floor fire escape. Delight in SoHo’s timeless allure, a neighborhood steeped in artistic expression and architectural splendor. Navigate the streets and discover the historic charm of this landmarked district. As Josh and Billy frolic on the back of the delivery truck, immerse yourself in SoHo’s vibrant energy, where every corner whispers tales of creativity and urban charm.
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915 Broadway - Visit the office party scene at Cafe Society, a captivating venue at 915 Broadway that showcases New York’s nightlife. As Josh steps into this iconic venue, adorned with neon signs and Art Deco charm, the ambiance reflects the city’s vibrant spirit.
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Spring + Thompson Condominium - Visit the park on the northwest corner of Spring and Thompson Streets, where a lively paddleball game between Josh and Paul Davenport, played by John Heard, unfolds. While this site is acknowledged on various movie websites, the intrigue lies in uncovering the nuanced details—identifying the precise entrance and court where Tom Hanks and John Heard showcased their paddleball skills. With your local guide, you won’t miss it.
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ASTI - Stand on the spot where Big was filmed at Asti Restaurant, a cherished Greenwich Village venue for over 75 years, which closed on New Year’s Eve in 1999. The restaurant mirrored its portrayal in the film, with waitstaff breaking into operatic performances, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Asti’s walls were adorned with autographed photos of luminaries like Babe Ruth and Noel Coward, alongside accomplished opera singers. The birthday scene in Big captured Asti’s vibrant spirit, with the singing chef’s aria, dough-tossing, and operatic “Happy Birthday” rendition.
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1 Playland Pkwy - Visit Playland Amusement Park at 1 Playland Pkwy in Rye, NY, where Josh discovers the transformative Zoltar machine. Surprisingly devoid of a Zoltar replica, the absence leaves room for imagination. Picture a Zoltar machine and imagine the magical aura it could bring to this enchanting setting. Learn where the Zoltar machine went and where you can find it now.
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- Must see and off the beaten path of NYC
- Multiple start times available
- Authentic local New York experience with iconic movie locations
- Customizable itinerary
- Meeting in the hotel lobby
- Private walking tour with the use of subway
- Expert advice where to go and what to do after the tour
- All taxes
- Friendly local guide
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities (optional)
Discover the enchantment of Penny Marshall’s classic film, Big, by exploring its New York City filming sites! Released in 1988, Big is a standout film for its imaginative portrayal of a “boy in an adult body” scenario. The story follows a 12-year-old boy who suddenly finds himself dealing with the complexities of adulthood. Shot in Manhattan and nearby Cliffside Park, NJ, Big offers stunning views of NYC and its surroundings, encapsulating the spirit of the late eighties. From upscale areas to gritty streets, the movie highlights a variety of locations, making it a must-see for fans and visitors.
- Visit the spots where Tom Hanks’ character faced the trials of adulthood in a child’s body
- Explore Manhattan and Cliffside Park, NJ, retracing the character’s steps
- Dive into the history of Big and uncover behind-the-scenes details about the filmmaking process
- Snap unforgettable photos and reenact scenes from Big at the original locations
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.