Could I BE any happier?! When I received the invite to attend a media event at The Friends Experience The One in NYC, I nearly fell out of my chair. The show Friends has always been such a big part of my life. I can recite almost all of the lines and relate any real life event to an episode of Friends.
The Friends Experience was everything I dreamed it would be and so much more! I had explored the one in Dallas several years ago but The One in NYC has a lot more to offer. I could have stayed there all night. I felt as if I was truly on the set of my favorite show. From the props to the costumes to the recreated apartments, it was a surreal experience.
The adventure begins with a short video about the exhibit. Then the doors open to reveal the iconic orange couch in front of the fountain. It is the perfect way to kickoff the fun! From there, guests go on a Friends journey from start to end. You will learn about how the show was created, iconic scenes, guest star appearances, timelines, and so much more. Here are some of my highlights from the experience!
The Friends Experience: The One in NYC
Costumes and Props
Make sure to take your time to really look at all of the props and costumes from the show. I couldn’t believe how much detail went into some of the pieces, like a driver’s license, letters, credit cards, invitations, and more. You will also see some of your favorite props, such as Phoebe’s guitar and the gold friendship bracelet. Make sure to also check out Phoebe’s taxi and unique artwork.
Then there are the costumes…AMAZING! Some of my favorite costumes were displayed at The Friends Experience, and they were all the originals from the show. From the infamous red sweater to the bunny costume to the leather pants, there is so much to see. You can even pose as Joey dressed in “all” of Chandler’s clothes.
“Look at me! I’m Chandler! Could I BE wearing any more clothes?”
PIVOT!
Recreate one the funniest scenes in Friends history, PIVOT! Climb up the stairs and snap a photo with the famous couch that Ross asked Rachel and Chandler to help carry to his apartment. We all know how that turned out!
Las Vegas Wedding Chapel
During Season 5, Monica and Chandler spend their anniversary in Las Vegas. We assume those two will tie the knot, but to our surprise, it’s Ross and Rachel who say “I do!” At The Friends Experience, you can walk around a recreation of the wedding chapel in Vegas. Make sure to take in all the detail, and don’t forget to snap a photo!
Monica and Rachel’s Apartment
This was my happy place! I could have stayed in Monica and Rachel’s apartment all day. I made sure to take in every detail. I sat at the kitchen table, kicked back on the chair, relaxed on the couch, and looked at each item displayed in the cabinets, on the walls, and on the counters. We took so many pictures in this space to capture the moment. The purple walls, the large window, the art work on the walls, the iconic frame on the door, it was full of nostalgia.
After relaxing on the couch, make sure to go “out” on the balcony! Not only are there great photo ops, but you can also poke Ugly Naked Guy. When you leave the apartment, take a minute to check out the hallway too. So many memorable scenes took place in the hallway between the apartments. Take a picture knocking on the door or climbing the stairs. Too bad there isn’t any cheesecake on the floor to eat! (If you know you know.)
Joey and Chandler’s Apartment
Did you ever wish you could hangout in Joey and Chandler’s apartment? Well you can at The Friends Experience. Have a seat on a recliner, yellow couch, or kitchen stool, play a game of foosball, and leave a message on the Magna-Doodle wall. Make sure to also check out the memorabilia located around the apartment, especially Hugsy!
Central Perk
The Friends Experience ends with a visit to Central Perk. Not only is this a replica of the cafe from the show where you can take pictures and reminisce about your favorite episodes, it is also a fully working coffee shop! Grab a coffee and cookie and have a seat on the giant orange couch or enjoy a latte with a friend at the table by the window. Before leaving make sure to [urchase a bag of Central Perk coffee to take home!
What’s awesome is that Central Perk is open to the public! That means you don’t need a ticket to the experience to visit. As a Friends fan, this makes me so excited. I will definitely be visiting next time I am in the city.
The Friends Experience is a permanent exhibit in NYC and a MUST DO on your next trip to the city. It is located at 130 E. 23rd St (the corner of Lexington and 23rd). During your visit, make sure to take advantage of the premium photo ops. They are so much fun and make for great memories and souvenirs.
Learn more and get tickets here: https://friendstheexperience.com/new-york/.