Can You Visit Monk’s from Seinfeld?
If you’re a fan of the show Seinfeld, I’m sure you have wondered what it would be like to go to Monk’s Cafe.
Can you really order the “Big Salad” or “Chicken Salad on Rye, Untoasted”? What would it be like to sit at the same table as the cast from Seinfeld?
Find out if you can visit Monk’s Cafe, what you can do in the area, and where you can stay on your Seinfeld film location tour.
Let’s go!
About Seinfeld and Monk’s Cafe
Seinfeld is an iconic comedy from the 90s starring comedians Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, and Michael Richards. The “show about nothing” was created by Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David.
The main characters frequent Monk’s Cafe, talking about their lives, loves, and struggles. Outside of Jerry’s apartment, Monk’s is the second most used location on the show.
Where Is Monk’s?
In the show and real-life, Monk’s Cafe is located in New York City. However, if you head to New York City and search for a Monk’s Cafe, you won’t find it.
There is no Monk’s Cafe in real life.
Can You Visit Monk’s from Seinfeld?
All the interior shots of Monk’s were filmed on a soundstage in LA. However, the exterior of Monk’s, with the neon lights, is the outside of an authentic diner called Tom’s Diner.
If you go inside the diner, you’ll see photos and memorabilia from Seinfeld along the walls. Although you can’t order “The Big Salad” or “Tuna on Rye,” they have plenty of diner food to fill you up.
Monk’s Cafe, AKA Tom’s Diner, is near Columbia University on the corner of Broadway and 112th Street on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
Location: 2880 Broadway, New York, NY 10025
Can You Visit Jerry’s Apartment?
On the show, Jerry’s apartment is in the heart of New York City. In reality, the apartment building used on the show is located in LA. All the interior shots took place on a soundstage in LA.
The actual apartment is private property, so you can’t visit, but you can walk or drive by.
Location: 757 S New Hampshire Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Pro Tip: After completing your Seinfeld tour, leave the city for these 7 Best Small Towns in New York.
Best Things To Do Near Monk’s Cafe from Seinfeld
There are many things to do near Monk’s from Seinfeld, but we’ll narrow it down to two places: Central Park and The Statue of Liberty.
Central Park
Located just 5 minutes from Monk’s, Central Park is a well-known and well-loved park in the middle of Manhattan. It’s a place to sit back and relax in a green space surrounded by high-rises and the hustle and bustle of a large city.
Visitors can walk, bike, and run alone or on a guided tour through the park’s 843 acres. Some of the top spots to visit within Central Park include Belvedere Castle, Central Park Zoo, Shakespeare Garden, Bethesda Fountain, and Conservatory Garden.
Pro Tip: The park is also the home of various festivals and events, so check the calendar before you go.
The Statue of Liberty
While you’re in the area, check out The Statue of Liberty. It’s a national monument and a symbol of freedom, located on Liberty Island, only 30 minutes from Monk’s Cafe. The only way to the island is via ferry.
Enjoy the ride with views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline.
Before you go, make sure to find out what’s open to visitors. You can enjoy ranger-led or audio tours, peruse the museum, explore the pedestal, and climb 154 stairs to the crown.
Best Camping Near Monk’s Cafe
Finding camping near a big city is always tricky, and New York City is no exception. The best two camping options are at least an hour away at Nickerson Beach Campground and Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Nickerson Beach Campground
Nickerson Beach Campground is a seasonal beach-front park with 74 gravel campsites located on Long Island. The campground has 66 full hookup sites, two onsite dump stations, and a comfort station.
The campground is part of Nickerson Beach Park. The park has 155 acres with ball fields, swimming pools, numerous athletic courts, and a dog run. Call ahead to find out what activities your camping fees include, or ask when you arrive.
Location: 880 Lido Blvd., Lido Beach, NY 11561
Pro Tip: Want to explore more of New York? Check out these 5 Best Free Camping Spots in New York.
Liberty Harbor RV Park
If you’re looking for an urban camping experience closer to Monk’s, Liberty Harbor RV Park is right for you. Although it’s in New Jersey, it’s less than an hour away.
This RV park is open year-round and has 50 water and electric campsites on concrete with an onsite dump station. There’s zero recreation at the park, but it’s a convenient location to park, sleep, and explore the city. If you get hungry, there’s a restaurant and bar on site.
Is a Trip to Monk’s Cafe from Seinfeld Worth It?
If you’re a fan of Seinfeld, a trip to Monk’s is an absolute must. Not only can you get some fabulous selfies in front of the famous sign, but you can check out all the memorabilia inside and have a hearty meal! Of course, Central Park and The Statue of Liberty are close by too. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy television history in the city that doesn’t sleep.
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