Elf

Discover where Buddy the Elf brought holiday magic to life in the heart of New York City. Most of Elf’s memorable scenes, apart from studio shoots in Canada, were filmed in Midtown Manhattan, and many are walkable for visitors wanting a festive, citywide adventure.

Below are key places featured in the movie which you can easily visit, with notes on their significance and how to see them on your next New York trip.

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Top Elf Movie Locations to Visit:

Rockefeller Center:
This iconic plaza is where Buddy marvels at the Christmas Tree and gets swept up in New York’s holiday crowds. The area buzzes with festive spirit every winter and is an essential photo stop, day or night, for fans of the film.

Empire State Building:
Buddy’s father, Walter Hobbs, works here. You’ll recognize the art deco entrance from the film. Inside, you can visit the observatory for sweeping city views or just recreate Buddy’s arrival scene in the lobby, it’s open daily and offers a classic slice of New York history.

Gimbels Department Store (5th Avenue & East 30th St.):
While the actual Gimbels closed decades ago, you can see the exterior location near 5th Avenue and East 30th Street. Much of Buddy’s department store mischief, including decorating and meeting Santa, was filmed using neighboring Macy’s (notably the historic 34th Street store) with some movie magic and CGI for authenticity.

Central Park – Pine Bank Arch Bridge & Bethesda Terrace:
The famous snowball fight happens at Pine Bank Arch Bridge near West 62nd Street. Bethesda Terrace is the backdrop for Santa’s showdown with the Central Park rangers—both are easily visited walking through the park. Michael’s school, where Buddy picks up his brother before the snowball fight, is on West 68th Street.

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How to See:

‍All these spots are in Midtown Manhattan and are within walking distance (with Central Park slightly further north). Start at Rockefeller Center, walk to the Empire State Building, pass by the site of Gimbels, then end your tour with the scenic bridges of Central Park.

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Tour Experiences:

‍These are public city sites so no tour bookings are required, but guided walking tours of New York often feature film locations if you want context and local stories. For photography, winter visits capture the "Elf" ambience best!

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Local Tips:

‍Visit in December to enjoy holiday decorations, Rockefeller Center is at its brightest, the department stores go all out, and the city’s festive atmosphere mirrors Buddy’s enthusiasm. Early morning walks dodge the crowds for the best photos. Take a break at Bryant Park or grab hot chocolate from nearby cafés for a complete "Elf" experience.

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Location Quick Guide:

Rockefeller Center – Midtown Manhattan

Empire State Building – 20 W 34th St

"Gimbels" location – 5th Ave & East 30th St; Macy’s – 151 W 34th St

Central Park – Pine Bank Arch Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and nearby school spots

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Set your itinerary to match Buddy’s journey and bring some holiday cheer to your New York city break.

If you would like to add personal guided experiences or tailored walking tours for "Elf" locations, local operators frequently run themed city walks—just ask for film-location or Christmas movie routes when booking.

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