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Big Movie Locations Private Tour in New York with Local Guide

New To The Site! New York City, USA

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4 hours (approx.)

Hotel pickup offered

Mobile ticket

Instant confirmation

Overview

Explore the magic of Penny Marshall's iconic movie Big by visiting its filming locations in New York City! Released in 1988, Big stands out as a cinematic gem for its unique take on the "boy in an adult body" theme. The movie focuses on the journey of a 12-year-old boy navigating the challenges of growing up overnight. Filmed in Manhattan and the nearby Cliffside Park, NJ, Big provides captivating views of NYC and its surroundings, capturing the essence of the late eighties. From affluent neighborhoods to gritty streets, the film showcases diverse locations, making it a must-visit for fans and tourists alike.

Visit the locations where Tom Hanks' character navigated the challenges of adulthood in a child's body
Explore Manhattan and nearby Cliffside Park, NJ, as you trace the footsteps of the film's character
Delve into the history of Big and learn behind-the-scenes insights about the moviemaking process
Capture memorable moments and recreate scenes from Big at the actual locations

What's Included

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)

See 6 more See 6 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Pickup details

Lobby of your hotel. Please provide the exact name and address of your hotel.Your guide will meet you at your centrally-located hotel, hostel, or vacation rental If your hotel is located far from the city center, your guide will offer an alternative meeting point in the city center of New York for better logistics. You don't need to call to confirm the tour. The local supplier will contact you via email

What To Expect

Greenmount Avenue

Discover the enchanting neighborhood of Cliffside Park, New Jersey, where the iconic home of Josh from Big is situated. Uncover the exact address of Josh's house on this charming street. While the road exudes a serene and rural atmosphere in the film, it's important to note that it's a bustling neighborhood thoroughfare with heavy traffic, creating a bit of a challenge for capturing photos, especially during rush hour. Embrace the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Josh and his friend as they strolled down this picturesque street.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

666 Anderson Ave

Explore the timeless charm of Anderson Avenue. As a featured spot on numerous movie websites, this neighborhood retains its authenticity, allowing you to effortlessly connect it with the scene captured on screen. The building on Anderson Avenue continues to house a convenience store, offering a glimpse into the enduring nature of this film location. Despite subtle updates to doors and windows, the distinctive brickwork has stood the test of time, preserving the nostalgic ambiance of Big.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

School #6 Cliffside Park

Stroll just a few blocks away from Josh and Billy's homes. The journey to this classic filming location becomes a delightful exploration of the neighborhood's charm. As you navigate the schoolyard where Josh and Billy play ball, you may notice a subtle transformation. The school, in a forward-looking move, added a new wing in 2000, enhancing its facilities. In 2015, the wing was dedicated to the esteemed former superintendent, James P. Colagreco, leaving an indelible mark on the school's history. While the schoolyard may have undergone changes, the essence of the scenes captured in Big remains intact. Identify the boundary where the old school once stood, allowing you to pinpoint the location of memorable moments from the film.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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 the whims of fate. Marvel at the resilience of his character as he pedals through the scenic route, navigating hills and valleys. The realization that the amusement park has departed only adds to the poignancy of the moment.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

109 W 45th St

Escape into the allure of the St. James Hotel, an iconic refuge nestled at 109 W 45th Street near the vibrant heartbeat of Times Square. Join the journey as Billy guides Josh to this historic establishment for a few days of hidden respite. Originally conceived as an "apartment hotel," it offered opulent residences for New York's well-heeled denizens. The name emblazoned in the film aligns seamlessly with reality, as the St. James remains a rare gem, still in operation amid the ever-evolving landscape of Times Square. Let your guide tell you a century's worth of history, crime, and intriguing occurrences.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

600 10th Ave

Step into the quaint video game retailer, where the duo fervently inquires about the coveted Zoltar game. With bated breath, they seek answers from the proprietor, only to find their quest remains unfulfilled. The authenticity of the scene is accentuated by the unmistakable sign proudly proclaiming "Novel Pinball" above the entrance. Venture into the realm of wholesale pinball dealerships, a world shrouded in obscurity. Uncover the traces of Novel Pinball in a 1989 edition of American Photography Showcase, a testament to its presence at 593 Tenth Avenue.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

New York Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza Square

Marvel at the unchanged facade of the city building, its number boldly displayed next to the entrance. The location of this pivotal scene is easily discernible, 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, a site that witnessed a transformative $7 million restoration in 2001. Encounter the challenge of aligning before-and-after photos, capturing the plaza's evolution.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

78 8th Ave

Join Josh and Billy on their journey through the vibrant streets of New York as they peruse job listings in a diner nestled at 78 8th Avenue. In a quest to unveil the hidden gems of this iconic scene, the challenge of identifying the location presented itself, a challenge that ignited curiosity and determination. Although it's not there now, you can have an opportunity to compare the before and after strolling around the New York streets.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

40 W 23rd St

Uncover the intriguing history of this iconic location, a tale that predates the digital era and weaves through the vibrant streets of Manhattan. Transport yourself to the early 1990s, a time before the internet revolutionized information sharing, where the narrator's connection to this enchanting spot was forged while working at a nearby copy shop. Discover that the renowned Hasbro toy company had set up its headquarters in this very building, strategically positioned around the corner from the illustrious International Toy Center on 5th Avenue, the hallowed grounds of the American International Toy Fair.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

3 W 57th St

Experience a moment frozen in time at the former site of Crossland Savings Bank, a fleeting institution that once graced the illustrious 3 W 57th Street. Join Josh and Billy on their joyous escapade as they emerge from the bank, newfound wealth in hand, painting the streets with the exuberance of a memorable cinematic moment. Delve into the complexities of the banking industry, where mergers and takeovers unfold with rapid fervor, leaving behind a trail of institutions consumed by the inexorable march of time.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

767 5th Ave

Join Josh as he observes a heartwarming moment outside the store, where a father tenderly guides his son, also named Josh, into the fantastical world that awaits within. Uncover the fascinating history of FAO Schwarz, an institution that underwent a significant transition in 1986. Sold to investors, the store relocated to its new home at 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.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

83 Grand St

Transport yourself to the iconic scene where a delivery man becomes the unwitting target of a water balloon cascade from the top-floor fire escape. Delight in the timeless allure of SoHo, a neighborhood steeped in artistic expression and architectural splendor. Navigate the streets and discover the historic charm that envelops this landmarked district. As Josh and Billy frolic on the back of the delivery truck, you'll find yourself immersed in the vibrant energy of SoHo, where every corner whispers tales of creativity and urban charm

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

915 Broadway

Let the tour take you to the office party scene at Cafe Society, a captivating establishment nestled at 915 Broadway that unfolds the uniqueness of New York's nightlife. As Josh steps into the enchanting realm of this iconic venue, adorned with neon signs and Art Deco charm, the ambiance becomes a testament to the city's vibrant spirit.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Spring + Thompson Condominium

Visit the park on the enchanting northwest corner of Spring and Thompson Streets. This picturesque location witnessed the unfolding of a lively paddleball game between Josh and Paul Davenport, played by the talented John Heard. While this site has been rightfully acknowledged on various movie websites, the intrigue lay in uncovering the nuanced details—identifying the precise entrance and the very court where Tom Hanks and John Heard showcased their paddleball prowess. With your local guide, you won't miss that.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

ASTI

Transport yourself back to the enchanting scenes from Big as you stand on the very spot where the movie was made. Asti Restaurant, a cherished Greenwich Village venue for over 75 years, closed its doors on a memorable New Year's Eve in 1999. The restaurant was a unique gem, mirroring its portrayal in the film, with waitstaff spontaneously breaking into operatic performances, creating an unforgettable dining experience. The walls of Asti were adorned with autographed photos of luminaries like Babe Ruth and Noel Coward, alongside accomplished opera singers who had graced its tables. The birthday scene in Big immortalized Asti's vibrant spirit, capturing the essence of its atmosphere. As Josh celebrates amidst the lively ambiance, the singing chef's aria, dough-tossing, and the operatic rendition of "Happy Birthday" unfold in a symphony of joy.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

1 Playland Pkwy

Take a trip to Playland Amusement Park at 1 Playland Pkwy in Rye, NY, the iconic setting where Josh discovers the transformative Zoltar machine. Surprisingly devoid of a Zoltar replica, the absence leaves room for the imagination to wander. Picture a Zoltar machine, and you might envision the magical aura it could bring to this already enchanting setting. Learn where the Zoltar machine went and where you can find it nowadays.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Show 14 more stops

Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Big Movie Locations Private Tour in New York with Local Guide?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-11498P385

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The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Big Movie Locations Private Tour in New York with Local Guide?

A:

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).

Apr 2025

Q: What's included in the price?

A:

The following is included:

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.

The following is NOT included:

Food and drinks.
Gratuities (optional).

Apr 2025

Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?

A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025

Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?

A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025

Q: Is this an accessible tour?

A:

Accessibility information for the Big Movie Locations Private Tour in New York with Local Guide is as follows:

Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Apr 2025

Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?

A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Big Movie Locations Private Tour in New York with Local Guide will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

Mar 2024