Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas is a cinematic masterpiece that takes us through the gripping life of Henry Hill, a mobster navigating the dangerous yet alluring world of organized crime.
From iconic one-liners to unforgettable visuals, the movie has left an indelible mark on pop culture.
Let’s dive into the unique filming locations, trivia, and some hidden gems about the film. 🚖💼
Goodfellas filming locations 🗺️
| Location | Scene | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| 24-09 32nd Street, Astoria, Queens | Young Henry’s childhood home | Still a residential area 🏡 |
| Jackson Hole Diner, Astoria Heights | Airline Diner where Hill and DeVito steal a truck | Operating as part of the Jackson Hole chain 🍔 |
| Copacabana Nightclub, Manhattan | Iconic kitchen entrance tracking shot | Now Avra Madison, a Greek restaurant |
| Neir’s Tavern, Woodhaven | Lufthansa heist planning spot | Still operating, celebrates Goodfellas 🎉 |
| 1080 Inwood Terrace, Fort Lee, NJ | Henry and Karen’s flashy home | Private residence |
Where Was Goodfellas Filmed?
The film was predominantly shot on location across New York and New Jersey, with Scorsese carefully crafting every scene to feel authentic. Let’s break it down:
1. The Queens Connection
Henry Hill’s journey begins in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens. His childhood home, where he first admired the mobsters’ flashy lifestyle, is located on 24-09 32nd Street. Just nearby, you’ll find the Airline Diner (now part of the Jackson Hole franchise), where a young Hill got involved in petty theft.
2. Iconic Nightclub Moments
The legendary kitchen entrance shot of the Copacabana Nightclub in Manhattan is etched in film history. Though the Copa is no more, the original building now hosts a Greek restaurant called Avra Madison.
3. Nostalgia at Neir’s Tavern
A gem for fans, Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven remains one of the oldest bars in NYC, dating back to 1829. It’s where the Lufthansa heist was planned and where Jimmy Conway (Robert De Niro) lost his cool. This spot has become a pilgrimage site for Goodfellas enthusiasts.
Fun Filming Trivia 🤔
- Improvised Gold: Joe Pesci’s infamous “Funny how?” scene was unscripted, showcasing his acting brilliance.
- Tracking Perfection: The Copacabana tracking shot took 8 takes to perfect and lasts almost 3 minutes, making it one of the most celebrated long takes in cinema.
- Authentic Casting: Many real-life mobsters appeared as extras to ensure authenticity.
Final Thoughts 🕵️♂️
From Queens to Manhattan, Goodfellas transforms real-life locations into cinematic landmarks.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love exploring movie trivia, visiting these spots can bring the film to life in a whole new way. So, next time you’re in NYC, take a tour and relive the gangster epic! 🗽🔗
For more filming location guides, don’t forget to check out our other articles. 🎬✨
Top 5 FAQs About Goodfellas Locations
What diner was featured in Goodfellas?
The Airline Diner, now called the Jackson Hole Diner in Astoria, was used for scenes involving Henry and Tommy.
Is Neir’s Tavern still open?
Yes, Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven, Queens, is still operating and proudly celebrates its connection to the movie.
Where is Henry Hill’s house in the movie?
The flashy, gold-plated home is at 1080 Inwood Terrace in Fort Lee, New Jersey.
Was the Copacabana a real nightclub?
Absolutely! The Copacabana was an iconic Manhattan nightclub, though it closed in 1992.
Is the Sherwood Diner a real place?
While the Sherwood Diner existed, the scenes were filmed at the Clinton Diner, later renamed Goodfellas Diner.