Kaufman Astoria Studios Backlot
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Kaufman Astoria Studios Backlot

4.6
·149 reviews·, United States

NYC's only studio backlot, a historic hub for iconic film & TV productions since 1920.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Special Event Days

Access to tours & pop-ups

CrowdMedium
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Kaufman Astoria Studios Backlot

Kaufman Astoria Studios Backlot

Best Time

Special Event Days

Access to tours & pop-ups

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

NYC's only studio backlot, a historic hub for iconic film & TV productions since 1920. Instagram

4.6
(149 reviews)

"It is always a pleasure to visit Kaufman Astoria Studios. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check for Events

Look for pop-ups or special tours for a chance to see the backlot.

🚗 Parking Challenges

Public transport is recommended; parking can be difficult.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.6 · 149 reviews

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Backlot

Historic Backlot

Kaufman Astoria Studios Campus

New York City's only studio backlot, a legendary site for countless film and TV productions.

Instagram
Iconic Film & TV History

Iconic Film & TV History

Kaufman Astoria Studios

Walk where legends like Michael Jackson and Bon Jovi filmed, and see where Sesame Street is made.

Instagram+2
Behind-the-Scenes Trailers

Behind-the-Scenes Trailers

Studio Tours (when available)

Explore wardrobe, makeup, and director's trailers, offering a peek into the magic of filmmaking.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the Backlot

While Kaufman Astoria Studios is a working production facility, special events and tours sometimes offer glimpses of the backlot. Keep an eye on their official announcements for opportunities to explore this historic filming location. Instagram+1

Parking and Transportation

Parking near Kaufman Astoria Studios can be challenging. Consider using public transportation or checking for designated event parking if visiting for a specific tour or pop-up. Reddit

Best Times

When
Special Event Days
Why
Access to tours & pop-ups
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (for potential sightings)
Why
See active film crews
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Want to be a Part of Filming History? Kaufman Astoria Studios is Now Available at Special Rates. Located in Queens, Kaufman’s studio campus offers 11 sound stages, production offices, and support space and features New York City’s only studio backlot. Contact Us: Peter Romano (917) 656-6493 pete@kaufmanastoria.com #studios #stages #filmindustry #thembsgroup #filmmaking #moviestudio #entertainm...
thembsgroupofficial
14 likes • 602 views

🎯 Check for Events

Look for pop-ups or special tours for a chance to see the backlot. Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Challenges

Public transport is recommended; parking can be difficult. Reddit

Michael Jackson As The Scarecrow In The Wiz Singing “You Can’t Win”. Filming For The Scarecrow’s Field Scene Took Place @ Kaufman Astoria Studios In Queens, New York 1977🌾🐦‍⬛ —> Michael Jackson Appreciation FanPage♥️ All Moonwalkers Welcomed! —> If You Enjoy MJ Content, Follow @liveoffthewallco For More! The Best/Most Rare Videos Coming Your Way✨ —> Feel Free To Reach Out To Me With Any Partne...
liveoffthewallco
0 likes • 142.7K views
Just a little preview of some of the items I'll be selling at the pop ups this weekend! + buy one 8x10 art print and get the second one 50% off! Day 1: 📍 Kaufman Astoria Studios Backlot | 36th st between 34th & 35th Ave - Astoria, NY 🗓 Saturday, June 25th Queens Rises Higher Pop Up ⏰️ 12-5pm Day 2: 📍 3706 77th st (indoors) 🗓 Sunday, June 26th Queens Pop Up ⏰️ 2-7pm Come say hi and support ...
almontestudio
76 likes • 3.1K views

🎬 Film History Buff

Discover where iconic scenes from movies and TV were shot. Instagram+1

📸 Photography Opportunities

Capture the unique atmosphere of a working studio lot. Reddit

Three days away! 📣 We invite you to join us on June 25th for Queens Rises Higher @ Kaufman Arts District. Free RSVP at queensriseshigher.eventbrite.com. Come support Queens makers and small business owners! Location: Kaufman Astoria Studios, 36 Street between34 and 35 avenues, Astoria
queens_edc
173 likes • 4.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check for Events

Look for pop-ups or special tours for a chance to see the backlot. Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Challenges

Public transport is recommended; parking can be difficult. Reddit

🎬 Film History Buff

Discover where iconic scenes from movies and TV were shot. Instagram+1

📸 Photography Opportunities

Capture the unique atmosphere of a working studio lot. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(149 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kaufman Astoria Studios for its rich history and the unique opportunity to glimpse behind the scenes of film and TV production. While parking can be a challenge, the friendly staff and the chance to explore production trailers during special events are highly appreciated. The studio's atmosphere is often described as joyful and inspiring, making it a special place for many. Reddit

"They let us tour the various types of movie set trailors and filming vehicles today. Thanks for giving to the community! Maybe they do this once a year.
It was great. We were able to go inside the different trailors. Wardrobe, make up, changing rooms, props, special effects, and the movie star luxury trailers. I overheard someone saying it was bigger than their apt. One trailer had a washer and dryer. Bae got to use the bullhorn while sitting in the directors chair.

We grabbed two sicilians from SACs afterwards. Didnt have to walk far, same block."

Mike Reviewed It!

"It is always a pleasure to visit Kaufman Astoria Studios. Although the parking can be a bit of an issue, I was lucky enough to be allowed to park in the P.C. Richard & Son lot (I asked for permission and they granted it.) The security guard (at Kaufman) was friendly, helpful, and a pleasure to speak with. As a fellow licensed New York State security guard, I like to see how others in the same field work and handle their clients. This gentleman did an excellent job. The acting world can sure be tough but when you meet kind people, it confirms that you are on the right path. I had my fitting at Kaufman and the wardrobe folks were so very sweet. Walking into a place like Kaufman always puts a smile on my face. Seeing all of the stages, the great architecture, and the fun atmosphere brings me so much joy. Although I do not live close to the studio and the traffic can be tough, arriving at Kaufman helps me to see things in a positive light. Now, if only Hollywood would call......."

Beth Spierer

"Fun and eventful experience. Appreciated the time spent on the set, the kindness shown to our photography staff, the opportunity to interview many of the leading role characters, and how accommodating staff was to the Press Guests. Gorgeous studio with a beautiful history. Can't wait to come back this summer! 🥰"

Beautiful Stranger

What People Like

Historic studio atmosphere
Behind-the-scenes access
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Limited parking availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kaufman Astoria Studios is accessible via public transportation. The N and W subway lines stop at 31st Street-Ditmars Boulevard, a short walk from the studios. Buses like the Q101 and Q102 also serve the area. Reddit

Parking directly at the studios can be limited. Visitors often find street parking or utilize nearby commercial lots. Some reviews mention asking permission for private lots. Reddit

The backlot is a working production facility and generally not open for public access unless for a specific event or tour. Instagram

Keep an eye out for special events, pop-up markets, or organized tours that may offer access to parts of the studio or backlot. Instagram+1

Yes, it's located in Astoria, Queens, and is close to the Museum of the Moving Image, which features exhibits related to film and television. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General access to the studio lot is restricted. Tickets are typically required for specific events, tours, or pop-up markets held on the premises. Instagram+1

As a working studio, there are no set public operating hours. Access is usually granted during scheduled events or for authorized personnel. Instagram

While not always consistently offered, guided tours or special access events sometimes provide opportunities to see parts of the studio and its history. Check their official channels for announcements. Reddit

Public access to the backlot is limited. Photography is best done during designated events or from public areas surrounding the studio. Instagram

Entry to the studio lot itself is generally not permitted without a specific reason. Costs would apply only to ticketed events or tours. Instagram

🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience

You can see sound stages, production offices, and potentially the backlot. Special events might offer tours of trailers and support facilities. InstagramReddit

While the studios themselves are active production spaces, the nearby Museum of the Moving Image has exhibits related to film and television history, often connected to productions filmed at Kaufman. Instagram

Kaufman Astoria Studios has hosted productions like 'Sesame Street,' 'The Wiz' (featuring Michael Jackson), and music videos for Bon Jovi. It's a hub for many New York-based productions. Instagram+2

It's unlikely to meet actors or film crews as they are working. Access is restricted to authorized personnel during active production. Reddit

Information on accessibility for specific events or tours should be checked with the event organizers. Working studios often have accessibility considerations. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is best captured during public events or from surrounding public streets. Access to active filming areas is restricted. InstagramReddit

Special events or tours might offer unique photo opportunities, such as inside production trailers or with specific set pieces if available. Reddit

Daylight hours are generally best for exterior shots. For events, follow the event's schedule. Instagram

Photographing active film sets is strictly prohibited to protect productions. Only during specific, authorized events might some areas be open for photos. Reddit

Visitors often capture the studio's architecture, historical markers, and any public-facing elements during events. Reddit

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