Filming Locations for Rent in New York City

So, you've been looking for the perfect filming location in New York City, and have trouble choosing? Or perhaps you don't even know where to start looking? The large area of the city certainly doesn't make it easy, but worry not, for we are here to help you out. Have you been searching for a place to film a music video? Or are you planning to film a podcast? Maybe you're filming the next big Hollywood-scale production. After all, the sky is the limit, and NYC is the place to make your dreams come true. Well, whatever it is that you are planning, perhaps you need a couple of filming location ideas. We prepared a little guide for you, in which you have the types of locations that NYC offers. Read on and look through our top picks of locations, and maybe you’ll find a little inspiration.

Have you been googling, “What type of studios can I rent in New York City?”. We found a few common filming locations indoors, as well as outdoors. Take a look at what we found: 

PHOTO STUDIOS

Photo studios are fantastic indoor options. With a lot of equipment and gear already in place, you won’t have to worry about running around and looking for everything in different locations. In the Boerum Studio, you have an option to rent anything else that the studio doesn’t include in the offer. The studio is a very professional filming location. It includes some extra facilities, like a kitchen and a bathroom for wardrobe changes. Look for it right between East Williamsburg and Broadway Triangle. 

CAFES/ BARS & RESTAURANTS

Dining spaces are very common filming locations, since many movies have at least a couple of indoor dining scenes (think about movies like American Psycho, or series like Lucifer). They’re perfect for filming a romantic date, or a James Bond action scene, with tables and chairs flying around. Book The Irish Bar in the Greenpoint district. The best part? Nobody’s going to give you a hard time if you order a beer on set (if you’re the boss, otherwise you should probably ask)... or just grab a pint after to be on the safe side. 

LOUNGES

Lounges are stunning spaces, ideal for filming. The multimedia facilities are usually available for many media specializations. Whether you want to film a music video clip, a podcast or a film scene - Lounge Studios has you covered. The 4 studios have 4 different themes, so choose what fits your filming plan. The space located in the Garment District also has recording and mix & mastering options. Did you see those amazing lights inside the studio, though? The end result of the production must be stunning!

So we’ve covered some of the indoor options, now let’s see what we have outside.

PATIOS

If you’re setting your scene outdoors, a patio is the perfect option to fulfill your needs and not have to worry about a tonne of gaping onlookers. Despite the fact that outdoor weather may thwart plans, a patio can actually be a pretty comfortable location for fixing up some props in case that happens (in comparison to being fully out in the open). Book the Outdoor Patio at 142 Sullivan Bar in Soho. 

ROOFTOPS

Shooting a music video? Or perhaps a dramatic scene for a movie? A rooftop is a fantastic filming location to spice up your production. The skyline is sure to make your productions stand out from the crowd. And although you may be worried if it’s going to break your budget - we have good news for you. It’s pretty affordable. We found an option of $400 - rent the Rooftop at Hook Studios. Located next to Coffey Park. 

So now with some idea of what location you might want to choose, perhaps you’re wandering which NYC districts offer the best filming locations?

The center of NYC is your best bet, with locations scattered between Brooklyn and Manhattan. Check out the East Williamsburg Neighborhood if you want to film in Brooklyn, or cross the East River and take your search through Lower Manhattan and Murray Hill. If you don’t have heavy equipment, perhaps you could take a stroll through NYC and search for inspiration in the streets as well. 

Scouting for the perfect location is one of the most difficult parts of filmmaking. Sometimes you have a vision, which cannot be fulfilled because you are short of locations. That's why at Tagvenue we try to give you as many options as we can, making your process of location choosing much easier (we hope!). Expect to spend some time looking for filming locations, and don't worry if some changes inside the venue will be required to tailor it to your needs (reasonable ones, of course). Rent the filming location some time in advance in case the venue you want gets booked beforehand.

Filming Locations in New York City FAQ

What are some of the most popular outdoor filming locations in New York City?

New York City is so big and beautiful, you can film almost anywhere. So, if you’re looking for a special place which will be perfectly suited to your filming requirements, then search for the outdoor patios, terraces, rooftops and gardens. Located all over the city, find the areas with the backdrops you need.

How much does it cost to rent a filming location in New York City?

I don’t think we have to tell you that you can find locations which can be as expensive as about $20000. The good news is that you can also find perfect filming locations ranging between $60 to $500. So take a look at our website and book the best venue for filming locations in NYC. (All data from Tagvenue.)

Are permits required for shooting outdoors?

In NYC, if you have larger equipment, you are required to have a permit to shoot outdoors, unless you are shooting handheld videos. The permit grants you access to the city’s resources like parking for production vehicles or location assistance. Make sure to read all about the permit if you are shooting an upscale production.

How to get around New York City?

NYC is famous not only for its film industry, but also for its transportation. The yellow cab will never not be associated with the city. And apart from the cabs, everyone uses public transit on a daily basis. Which means, no matter how you travel, most areas should be pretty much accessible. Use the subway or the bus if you don’t mind sharing. If you need to pop down to the coffee shop, you can go on foot, or bike if it’s a bit further away. Don’t want to take your own car, but don’t fancy other options? Grab an Uber, Lyft or rent a bus or a van if you need more space.