NBC
Law & Order SVU ‘New York’ Filming Locations
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is an unparalleled television series that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of entertainment. With its impressive 19-year run, this iconic show has not only captivated audiences worldwide but has also taken viewers on an unforgettable journey through the bustling metropolis of New York City.
Throughout its extensive tenure, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has explored the vast expanse of the city, leaving no borough uncharted. From the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to the charming neighborhoods of Brooklyn, the gritty streets of the Bronx to the culturally rich landscapes of Queens and Staten Island, this exceptional series has transformed into a virtual tour of the Big Apple itself.
As viewers follow the gripping narratives of Detective Olivia Benson and her dedicated team, they are treated to an immersive experience that showcases the diverse tapestry of New York City. From iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty to lesser-known gems hidden within the city’s fabric, each episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit paints a vivid picture of the urban landscape.
The show’s dedication to authenticity is evident in its commitment to filming on location throughout the city. Countless hours have been spent in bustling streets, iconic courthouses, and atmospheric crime scenes, allowing viewers to feel a genuine connection to the city and its inhabitants. By seamlessly blending captivating storytelling with the vibrant backdrop of New York City, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has truly become a cultural touchstone and an emblematic representation of the city’s spirit.
Moreover, the show’s impact extends beyond its captivating narratives and on-location filming. It has served as a platform for raising awareness about real-life social issues, tackling sensitive subjects with grace and empathy. Through its compelling storytelling, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has shed light on the complexities of crime, justice, and the human condition, sparking important conversations and fostering understanding.
As Law & Order: Special Victims Unit continues to captivate audiences around the globe, its legacy as a quintessential New York City series remains unparalleled. It not only showcases the city’s physical landscapes but also delves deep into the heart and soul of its diverse population. Through its remarkable storytelling and dedication to authenticity, this iconic show has etched its name into the cultural fabric of both New York City and television history, solidifying its status as a true gem in the entertainment industry.
Filming Location Tour
One Police Plaza, the headquarters of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), holds a special place in the heart of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. This iconic location has served as a pivotal setting for numerous scenes throughout the show’s remarkable run. Situated in Lower Manhattan, it stands as a symbol of law enforcement and justice in the bustling city.
As the show’s central hub for police operations and investigations, One Police Plaza has been meticulously recreated on the small screen. Its distinctive architecture, including the notable glass façade and commanding presence, has become instantly recognizable to avid viewers and eagle-eyed New Yorkers alike.
To truly appreciate the significance of One Police Plaza, let’s explore its precise location on the map. Situated at the southern end of Manhattan, it can be found at the coordinates 40.7127° N latitude and 74.0060° W longitude. Surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, City Hall, and the Financial District, One Police Plaza is at the heart of New York City’s historic and cultural fabric.
As you follow the bustling streets and vibrant neighborhoods, your journey takes you to the intersection of Park Row and Pearl Street. Here, One Police Plaza proudly stands, a testament to the dedication and commitment of the NYPD. Its proximity to the city’s legal institutions and government offices further emphasizes its significance as a central hub for law enforcement operations.
Whether it’s the intense interrogations in the iconic squad room, the gripping briefings in the captain’s office, or the solemn moments in the memorial room, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has masterfully utilized One Police Plaza as the backdrop for countless memorable scenes. Its inclusion in the show not only adds an unparalleled level of authenticity but also pays homage to the real-life men and women who protect and serve the city every day.
So, the next time you find yourself in Lower Manhattan, take a moment to visit One Police Plaza and experience the tangible connection to Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. While the show may bring the location to life on our screens, being there in person allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and appreciate the significance of this iconic setting. map it!!
The Highline Hotel
In the expansive tapestry of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’s filming locations, the Highline Hotel in Chelsea holds a notable place. This distinctive building, with its rich history and captivating architecture, has made appearances in episodes of the show, leaving a lasting impression on devoted viewers.
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Chelsea, the Highline Hotel occupies a unique position at 180 Tenth Avenue, New York City. This prime location places it in close proximity to the iconic High Line Park, an elevated linear park built on a historic freight rail line, adding to the charm and allure of the area.
Before its transformation into a hotel, the building housed the General Theological Seminary, a renowned educational institution associated with the Episcopal Church. This rich heritage adds an additional layer of intrigue to the Highline Hotel, as its storied past is interwoven with the development of the neighborhood and the city itself.
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has artfully incorporated the Highline Hotel into its captivating narratives, utilizing its exterior as a backdrop for pivotal scenes. As avid viewers of the show would attest, the distinct features of the building make it easily recognizable on screen. From its stately facade and elegant architectural elements to its imposing presence, the Highline Hotel adds an air of intrigue and sophistication to the show’s visual storytelling. map it!
French Embassy
French Embassy
In 2013 Law & Order: SVU was given the green light to film scenes for an episode at the French Embassy. Located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, the French Embassy has been seen in other iconic TV shows and even movies such as Gone With The Wind. map it!
Yonkers
On the cusp of upstate New York lies Yonkers, where scenes for SVU were reportedly filmed around the Riverdale Avenue/Hudson Street area. Other parts of upstate New York that have been featured on the show include White Plains, Mount Vernon and Rye.
New York County Courthouse
New York County Courthouse Much of the action on SVU is filmed at the New York County Courthouse found at 60 Centre Street, close to Foley Square.
Arden Heights
Staten Island The show’s cast and crew members have also traveled to Staten Island’s Arden Heights in order to film scenes for an episode in 2012.
NYC Universities
Though fans of SVU are most likely familiar with the episodes that featured the fictional Hudson University, many area colleges have been used as filming locations in the absence of a real Hudson University. Scenes for the show have been filmed on the campuses of Pace, Fordham, Lehman, Hunter, Bernard and many more. Viewers that play close attention to the show may have noticed that Hudson University shares the same location on a map of New York City as the real-life Yeshiva University does.
A Shocking Move
Even longtime viewers of SVU may not realize that the show was originally filmed in and around New Jersey. Filming was switched permanently to New York City after New Jersey’s TV production tax credit became a glaring issue. Since then, the sets for Law & Order SVU have been housed at Chelsea Piers, where the original Law & Order was filmed as well.
SVU will continue to film in various locations throughout New York City, with much of the action being set in Manhattan. Viewers will continue to seek out their filming locations in the hopes of getting a close-up glimpse of filming in progress. As such an iconic, long-running TV show, Law & Order SVU continues to embrace New York City.
Live Set
Updated 8/21/2021 Filming today at Bank St, Bethune St. and Washington St.
Thank you, M.J. for the tip!
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‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit – SVU’
Filming Dates: 1999 – 2018
When: 08/11/2017, NBC
Starring: Mariska Hargitay, Christopher Meloni, Ice-T
First Published: May 14, 2018, 11:44
