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Boardwalk Empire movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Boardwalk Empire filmed?

2010

City Locations

New York City, NY; Atlantic City, NJ (USA)

Location Types

Mansion, Museum, House, Hotel, Restaurant

Location Styles

American Art Deco, Colonial, Building Dated/Retro, Gothic/Victorian

About Boardwalk Empire

Boardwalk Empire, a brilliantly crafted American television series, made its triumphant debut in 2010. Created by the talented Terence Winter and championed by renowned executive producers Martin Scorsese, Mark Wahlberg, and Tim Van Patten, it aired on HBO and graced the small screens for five seasons, running until 2014.

Set against the gritty backdrop of Atlantic City during the tumultuous Prohibition era of the 1920s, the series navigates the treacherous waters of crime, corruption, and power struggles. The story centers around the life and times of Enoch "Nucky" Thompson (Steve Buscemi). As the corrupt treasurer of Atlantic County, Nucky emerges as a potent political figure, deeply embroiled in various criminal activities and cultivating complex connections with mafias and mobs from New York to Chicago.

Boardwalk Empire boasts a remarkable ensemble cast, including luminaries like Michael Pitt, Kelly Macdonald, Shea Whigham, Michael Shannon, and Michael Kenneth Williams. Furthermore, the series witnessed awe-inspiring performances by actors such as Stephen Graham, Vincent Piazza, Paz de la Huerta, and Gretchen Mol.

The intricate plot and compelling narrative of the Boardwalk Empire explore Nucky Thompson's rise to power, his interactions with various historical figures and criminal organizations, and the far-reaching consequences of organized crime. This exploration of corruption, power dynamics, and crime resonates powerfully, keeping the audience hooked.

The series was met with universal acclaim, earning numerous awards and nominations. Among its accolades are several Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series and Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. Its writing, acting, and production design have also been widely appreciated.

Boardwalk Empire Locations

Boardwalk Empire dived into the intricate world of corruption, politics, and organized crime during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City. While the story is set in Atlantic City, the majority of the series was filmed in the bustling city of New York, specifically in New York City, Westchester Country Club, Ditmas Park, Vinegar Hill, Miller Field, Historic Richmond Town, and the historic Woolworth Estate. Additionally, Steiner Studios in Brooklyn served as a significant filming hub for the series.

The backdrop of these regions provides an authentic and visually stunning representation of the Roaring Twenties era. From the grandeur of the Westchester Country Club and the urban charm of Gramercy Park to the historic allure of Ditmas Park and the elegance of the Woolworth Estate, every location contributes to the overall aesthetic of the period drama. The blend of these locations with state-of-the-art visual effects from Brooklyn-based effects company Brainstorm Digital further enhances the realism and immersive quality of the series.

For fans of the show or history buffs, a trip to these locations would certainly be worthwhile. Not only do they offer a glimpse into the production of Boardwalk Empire, but they also provide an opportunity to explore some of New York's most iconic and historic landmarks. A visit to Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island, where filming took place in March 2012, would be particularly interesting as it offers a unique journey back in time to the early 20th century.

The party at Babette's Supper Club scene in Boardwalk Empire

Knife and Fork Inn, 3600 Atlantic Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA

In the pilot episode, viewers are introduced to Nucky's world on the eve of the ratification of the 18th Amendment, known as Prohibition. To mark the occasion, Nucky throws a grand party at Babette's Supper Club, a location that becomes a recurring setting throughout the series. This opulent establishment is portrayed as Nucky's preferred haunt, where he hosts mobsters and politicians in equal measure, all while indulging in gourmet meals and an endless flow of liquor.

This iconic scene was filmed at The Knife and Fork Inn, a real-life restaurant in Atlantic City that still stands today as a testament to the city's checkered past. Opening its doors in 1912, The Knife and Fork was set up by "the Commodore" Louis Kuehnle and his accomplices, including Mayor William Riddle, as an exclusive club for men to dine and drink. In true Boardwalk Empire fashion, The Knife and Fork and its patrons openly defied the 18th Amendment, serving and consuming alcohol throughout the Prohibition era.

Today, The Knife and Fork Inn welcomes everyone, transporting visitors back to its golden age as soon as they enter. To get to The Knife and Fork Inn, if you're in Atlantic City, you can take a short taxi ride or even walk if you're nearby. Moreover, it is just a two-hour drive from New York via the Garden State Parkway, and on-site parking is available.

Nucky Thompson’s mistress home scene in Boardwalk Empire

Morris-Jumel Mansion, 65 Jumel Terrace, New York, NY 10032, USA

In the sixth episode of season 2, fans are reminded of Lucy's challenges. Lucy (Paz de la Huerta) carries a plate to the sink; suddenly, she stops, dropping the plate as her water breaks. Alone in the apartment, she takes a seat, struggling with the pain of her contractions and calls out to a young neighbor across the alley, but he simply pulls his curtains closed. Gathering her strength, Lucy brushes her hair in front of her mirror before tying it back and preparing her bed for the imminent birth of her child.

This memorable scene was filmed at the historic Morris-Jumel Mansion in New York City. A block in Washington Heights was transformed into what was fondly referred to as "whore row", where Nucky Thompson housed his mistress during the show's early days. This street between St. Nicholas Avenue and Jumel Terrace leads to the Morris-Jumel Mansion. The mansion, Manhattan’s oldest surviving residence, has a rich history, having once been home to George Washington and Aaron Burr.

There are several ways to get to this historic location, including by car, taxi, subway, or bus. An easy method is to take the #M15 bus from the stop at 122 Allen St. If you prefer a private car or taxi, it's a 20-minute drive from Lower Manhattan via FDR Dr.

Gyp Rosetti and his man visit the Tabor Heights scene in Boardwalk Empire

Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA

Season 3, Episode 5 takes us to Tabor Heights, a pivotal location for the development of the storyline. In this episode, Gyp Rosetti (Bobby Cannavale) and his men find themselves in Tabor Heights due to a flat tire en route to Atlantic City on December 31, 1922. As they struggle with the rusted wheel rim bolts, a local man named Johansen (Robert C. Kirk) comes to their aid with his pet dog, offering his 3-in-1 tool from his car.

This memorable scene was filmed in Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island, New York. Showrunner Terence Winter revealed that the Tabor Heights plotline was inspired by real-life incidents that occurred in the similarly small Methodist retirement town of Atlantic Highlands, NJ, in 1923.

Historic Richmond Town is a living history village that interprets, restores, and preserves material culture to foster understanding and appreciation of Staten Island's diverse histories. Founded in 1856 as the Staten Island Historical Society, it is its most prominent and oldest cultural institution. It houses over 100,000 artifacts, photographs, and archival collections spanning various periods, making it a treasure trove of American history.

A walking tour is available that guides visitors through the Historic Richmond Town campus, allowing them to travel back in time and explore the location's rich history. At the heart of Staten Island, Historic Richmond Town is easily accessible, just a 15-minute drive from all bridges. For those coming from the Staten Island ferry, it's a 30-45 minute ride on the S74 bus. Plus, they offer free parking, adding to the convenience for visitors.

The death of Frank Capone scene in Boardwalk Empire

Ditmas Park, Ditmas Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226, USA

In episode 5 of season 4, viewers witness a gut-wrenching scene depicting the death of Al Capone's brother, Frank Capone (Morgan Spector). The scene unfolds with Frank being brutally shot during a riot, a fictionalized account echoing the real-life events of his death during the 1924 election. Suddenly, a large group of Chicago Police, disguised as ordinary citizens, storm into the chaos and gun down Frank Capone with multiple shots. A helpless Al Capone (Stephen Graham) can only shout out "Frank!" as he watches his brother die before his eyes.

Ditmas Park in Brooklyn, renowned for its Victorian homes on E. 18th Street, was the filming location for this intense scene. The houses, primarily built in the early 20th century, were used for interior and exterior shots in Boardwalk Empire. As Ditmas Park Patch states, the historic district of Ditmas Park, situated in Flatbush near Prospect Park, is marked by its Victorian-style buildings.

To reach Ditmas Park, you can board the B or Q train and alight at the Church Avenue station. From there, a brief walk will lead you to the neighborhood. Alternatively, the B35 bus also services Ditmas Park. You can meander through the streets upon arrival, taking in the captivating Victorian-style buildings.

Joe the Boss and Lucky's meeting scene in Boardwalk Empire

John's of 12th Street, 302 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

The powerful scene unfolds in Chicago, where a devastated Capone (Stephen Graham) avenges his grief by killing a policeman on the streets. Later in Season 4, Episode 7, another memorable moment occurs when Joe Masseria (Ivo Nandi), also known as Joe the Boss, meets with Lucky Luciano (Vincent Piazza). These scenes are part of the rich tapestry that comprises the Boardwalk Empire's narrative.

The location for the meeting scene is John’s of 12th Street, a well-known Italian restaurant in New York City, which served as a backdrop for some of Boardwalk Empire's scenes. During the Prohibition era, the restaurant cleverly transformed its upper floors into a speakeasy, serving alcohol disguised in espresso cups. It's said that the clientele included many of the characters portrayed in Boardwalk Empire, possibly drawn by the original tile floors or the large wax candelabra at the back of the establishment.

Established in 1908, John’s of 12th Street continues to serve traditional Italian cuisine, boasting the use of top-quality ingredients. For over a decade, they have offered a full vegan menu meticulously prepared by their skilled chef and kitchen staff.

There are multiple ways to reach this historic location, whether by car, cab, subway, or bus. The most straightforward method is to take the #M15 bus from the stop at 122 Allen St. A brief 10-minute ride will bring you to your destination at 1 Avenue & East 11 St stop.

Conclusion

Boardwalk Empire is an extraordinary TV drama that masterfully combines historical events with fictitious elements, leaving a lasting mark. The series is defined by its memorable characters, who are skillfully portrayed by an exceptional ensemble cast. Their journey through the opulent and tumultuous era of the Roaring Twenties is captivating and deeply intense.

The series was filmed in various iconic locations in New York City despite being set in Atlantic City. Using real-world locations like the Westchester Country Club, Ditmas Park, Gramercy Park, Miller Field, Seguine Equestrian Center, and the historic Woolworth Estate added a layer of authenticity to the series. The film used these locations effectively, enhancing the visual storytelling and contributing to the overall viewing experience.

As for recommendations, Boardwalk Empire is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, politics, or character-driven narratives. Its engaging plot, unforgettable characters, and impressive production make it a standout series. Visiting the filming locations would offer fans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of the series and appreciate the effort put into recreating the Prohibition era. The series is not just a celebration of decadence; it's a masterclass in storytelling and a testament to the power of television drama.