Where was Coyote Ugly filmed?
2000
City Locations
New York City, New York; Los Angeles, California; South Amboy, New Jersey (USA)
Location Types
Apartment, Cafe, Bar, Restaurant, Club, Party Hall
Location Styles
Colonial, Building Dated/Retro, Dilapidated/Neglected, Industrial Style, Modern Building
About Coyote Ugly
Coyote Ugly, a lively comedy-drama film released in 2000, is a cinematic gem. This masterpiece, directed by David McNally and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, boasts a talented ensemble cast. Maria Bello shines as Lil, while Piper Perabo captivates as Violet Sanford. Alongside them, the film showcases the remarkable performances of John Goodman, Tyra Banks, Adam Garcia, Bridget Moynahan, Melanie Lynskey, and Izabella Miko.
The plot revolves around the journey of an aspiring musician, Violet Sanford (Piper Perabo), who moves to New York City with dreams of making it big as a singer-songwriter. To make ends meet, she starts working at Coyote Ugly, a new nightspot where the young and attractive female staff dance on the bar, flirt with the customers, sing along with the jukebox, and encourage the patrons to match them shot for shot. The bar quickly gains popularity, turning the staff into overnight celebrities and presenting them with fresh challenges.
Despite receiving negative reviews from critics, Coyote Ugly was a commercial success, grossing over $113 million worldwide. Over the years, the film has gained cult status among audiences. In 2020, Tyra Banks, who played one of the barmaids, revealed that she had been advocating for a sequel for years.
Coyote Ugly Locations
Coyote Ugly is a film that showcases an assortment of vibrant locations, with the backdrop of each region playing a significant role in setting the movie's tone and atmosphere. Most scenes were shot in New York City, New Jersey, and Los Angeles, with portions filmed in Las Vegas.
One of the most memorable settings in the film is the bar and restaurant in the heart of New York City. This captivating city, renowned for its awe-inspiring architecture and perpetual energy, provided the perfect backdrop for a young woman with dreams of accomplishing great things. The bar and restaurant, nestled on South Street in Manhattan, was none other than the renowned Hogs & Heifers Saloon.
In Los Angeles, the filmmakers utilized the Hollywood Hills, known for its scenic views and iconic Hollywood Sign. This gave a different, more relaxed vibe compared to the fast-paced life of NYC. On the other hand, Las Vegas, the city of lights, offered a contrasting backdrop with its flashy casinos and vibrant nightlife. Key scenes were shot at renowned places like Caesars Palace and the Bellagio.
Producing Coyote Ugly came with its own set of challenges, from working around existing architecture to managing logistics for transporting the cast and crew. Yet, despite these hurdles, the filmmakers created a classic film that has withstood the test of time.
For film enthusiasts and fans of Coyote Ugly, a trip to these locations would indeed be worthwhile. Each location offers a unique charm and the opportunity to walk through the same streets and establishments that served as the backdrop for this cult classic.
Fun Fact
Coyote Ugly bars can be found worldwide, but the first one opened in New York in 1993. The original establishment was founded by Liliana Lovell, who also served as a consultant for the film.
Violet Sanford signs an autograph in the pizzeria scene in Coyote Ugly
101 S Broadway, South Amboy, NJ
The film kicks off with a heartwarming scene featuring Violet Sanford (Piper Perabo) as she prepares to leave her small hometown to chase her dreams of becoming a songwriter in New York City. In this poignant moment, Violet says goodbye to her colleagues from the pizzeria where she worked. As a symbolic farewell, she signs an autograph that gets pinned on the wall of the pizza place, marking the beginning of her journey.
This opening scene was shot at 101 S Broadway, South Amboy, NJ, which served as the exterior for the pizza place in the film. However, fans planning a visit should know that the location seems abandoned, and the original pizza place or cafe no longer exists. Despite this, the exterior of the building still maintains a resemblance to the pizzeria from the movie.
You can take a train from Penn Station in New York City to South Amboy via the North Jersey Coast Line to reach this location. From the South Amboy train station, it's just a short walk to 101 S Broadway. Even though the exact pizza place from the movie is no longer there, walking around the city can still offer fans a sense of the film's atmosphere and a glimpse into Violet's humble beginnings.
Gloria helps Violet relocate to New York scene in Coyote Ugly
165 Mott St, New York, NY
Violet Sanford (Piper Perabo) moves to New York City with the help of her best friend, Gloria (Melanie Lynskey). Gloria drives Violet and her belongings to the city and even offers to help financially once they reach Violet's new apartment. However, Violet declines the monetary aid, prompting Gloria to stash the money in the fridge as a surprise. It's a testament to the enduring friendship between Violet and Gloria and sets the tone for Violet's NYC adventure.
This memorable scene was filmed at 165 Mott St, in New York's Chinatown neighborhood. The exterior of this apartment building was used for filming, while the interior scenes, including the stairwell and shots through the window showing birds on the sill, were shot on a soundstage. The design of the staged apartment mirrored the style of the actual building.
If you want to visit this location, you can reach it by taking the F train from Manhattan to the Grand St station. From there, it's just a short walk to Mott Street. Please remember that this is a private property, so fans are advised to respect the residents' privacy and only observe the exterior.
Violet attends the Fiji Mermaid Club scene in Coyote Ugly
Los Angeles Theatre, 615 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
Violet Sanford (Piper Perabo) strives to get her demo tape noticed by music studios, producers, or club managers in New York City. She encounters a bartender who mischievously points out Kevin O'Donnell (Adam Garcia), tricking her into believing he's the bar owner. Eager to seize an opportunity, Violet tries to get Kevin to listen to her demo tape, only to discover she's been made a fool of when the joke is revealed.
This scene was captured at the iconic Los Angeles Theatre at 615 S Broadway. Built in the early 1930s and masterfully designed by S. Charles Lee and Samuel Tilden Norton, this theater is celebrated for its opulent French Baroque interior. Its magnificent central staircase and lavish gold brocade drapes have solidified its status as one of the city's most exquisite landmarks.
You can take the Metro's Red or Purple line to the 7th Street/Metro Center station to reach the Los Angeles Theatre. From there, it's just a short walk to the theater on South Broadway. Fans of the movie will be pleased to know that the theater is open to the public and even offers tours, providing an opportunity to soak in the atmosphere and imagine Violet's hopeful efforts to launch her career.
Violet meets coyotes scene in Coyote Ugly
Quality Cafe, 1238 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA
There's an engaging scene where Violet Sanford (Piper Perabo) finds herself in an all-night diner with only a few dollars to her name. She notices a group of lively girls flaunting large sums of money earned in tips. Amid the fun, one of the girls, Zoe (Tyra Banks), begins to dance for the patrons. Intrigued, Violet learns from the diner owner that these girls are 'coyotes' who work at a trendy bar called Coyote Ugly; he hands her a card with the bar's address.
This scene was filmed at the Quality Cafe at 1238 W 7th St in Los Angeles. Although shot in LA, the cafe is depicted in the movie as if it's situated in New York's Chinatown, close to Violet's apartment. The scene, filmed late at night, featured Snap's energizing song "The Power".
The Quality Cafe has a rich history in Hollywood, having been featured in numerous films, including "Training Day," "Million Dollar Baby," "Old School," "Se7en," and "Catch Me If You Can". However, the diner ceased operations in 2006. Unfortunately for fans, it's now closed and only the exterior can be viewed.
You can take the Metro's Purple or Red line to the 7th Street/Metro Center station to reach this location. From there, it's a short walk to the former diner on West 7th Street.
Violet finds the Coyote Ugly bar scene in Coyote Ugly
West 13th Street, Manhattan, New York, NY
Violet Sanford (Piper Perabo) finds her way to a vibrant bar and persuades the owner, Lil (Maria Bello), to hire her. Lil, intrigued by Violet's innocent appearance resembling a kindergarten teacher, believes the bar's unruly patrons will be drawn to her. As Violet embarks on her new job, she quickly learns that she must master singing, dancing, and performing audacious acts before a boisterous crowd.
The scenes in the Coyote Ugly Bar were filmed on West 13th Street between Washington Street & 10th Avenue in Manhattan. Though the exact location is not open to the public, fans can still see the exterior site. Regrettably, the original building has been demolished and replaced by a hotel.
Despite the changes, this area in Greenwich Village continues to pulsate with life. Known as the epicenter of the city's 1960s counterculture movement, Greenwich Village today boasts popular cafes, bars, and restaurants. Its tree-lined streets are also home to jazz clubs, Off-Broadway theaters, brownstones, and New York University buildings, offering ample opportunities for exploration.
To access this destination, you have several options. You can take the A, C, E, or L lines and disembark at the 14th Street and 8th Avenue station. From there, it's just a brief stroll to West 13th Street. Alternatively, if you're coming from Manhattan, a mere 20-minute drive by taxi or car will get you there swiftly.
Violet performed at the open mic night scene in Coyote Ugly
The Bowery Ballroom, 6 Delancey St, New York, NY
The final climactic scene unfolds at an Open Mic night at the Bowery Ballroom, where Violet Sanford (Piper Perabo) delivers a triumphant performance that lands her a record deal. In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, all the 'Coyotes' from the bar support her.
This pivotal scene was filmed at the real Bowery Ballroom at 6 Delancey St in New York. This venue remains a popular music hub, earning high praise from artists and audiences alike. In 2013, Rolling Stone magazine polled industry insiders, dubbing it the finest club in America. They praised its unique blend of intimacy and grandeur, exceptional sound and sightlines, and charming hints of old-school elegance.
Established in 1998 by Michael Winsch, Michael Swier, and Brian Swier, the Bowery Ballroom remains under their ownership and management. This iconic venue consistently showcases captivating performances by emerging indie artists and cherished veterans. Fans can effortlessly immerse themselves in the dynamic ambiance by visiting this remarkable location.
To reach the Bowery Ballroom, you have a couple of options: take the F train to the 2nd Avenue station or hop on the J or Z trains to the Bowery station. Once you arrive, it's just a short stroll down Delancey Street to the venue. If you prefer to drive, the trip from Manhattan typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Conclusion
The filming of Coyote Ugly traversed iconic locations across three distinct states, painting a vibrant canvas of America's diverse landscapes. New York City, New York, provided the pulsating heartbeat of the story, showcasing the electrifying hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. The neon-lit streets and energetic ambiance captured the essence of the film's spirited nightlife scenes.
Los Angeles, California, added its unique flavor, offering a contrasting backdrop of sunny skies and laid-back vibes. From scenic shots to studio sets, the city lent its diverse locales to bring depth to the film's narrative, presenting a rich blend of urban landscapes and Californian charm.
Lastly, South Amboy, New Jersey's quaint charm, provided an authentic setting for certain pivotal scenes for the film's larger-than-life moments. This New Jersey town's rustic charm and intimate settings added depth to the storytelling, offering a glimpse into a different facet of the American experience.
Collectively, these filming locations stitched together the vibrant tapestry of Coyote Ugly, showcasing the fusion of urban energy, coastal allure, and small-town warmth that formed the backdrop of this spirited tale.