Where was Spider-Man filmed?
2002
City Locations
New York, Los Angeles (USA)
Location Types
Museum, House, School, Office
Location Styles
American Art Deco, Colonial, Americana/Anywhere, Manufactured Home, School, Office Building Style
About Spider-Man
Spider-Man, a 2002 American superhero film directed by the talented Sam Raimi, features an outstanding cast including Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, Willem Dafoe, and James Franco. The narrative centers around Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire), a socially withdrawn teenager residing in Queens with his aunt (Rosemary Harris) and uncle (Cliff Robertson). A school excursion to Columbia University takes an unusual turn when a genetically modified spider bites him, bestowing him with extraordinary strength, agility, and sensory perception. Initially, Peter leverages these unique capabilities for personal benefit. However, following a heart-wrenching incident, he chooses to combat crime as the masked vigilante, Spider-Man. The movie was met with favorable responses from viewers and critics, who lauded Raimi's directorial prowess, the plot, the acting, the special effects, the action scenes, and the soundtrack. It earned nominations for Best Sound and Best Visual Effects at the 75th Academy Awards, among many other accolades. Spider-Man is recognized for reshaping the contemporary superhero genre and redefining the concept of a summer blockbuster. The film's triumph paved the way for two sequels: Spider-Man 2 (2004) and Spider-Man 3 (2007). Additionally, two animated spinoff films featuring characters from the franchise were created.
Spider-Man Locations
The hit 2002 film Spider-Man was a collaboration between the East and West Coast. Most scenes were shot in Los Angeles, particularly downtown near the Natural History Museum and West Adams at Dorsey High School. New York City is also featured, most notably Forest Hills in Queens, home to Peter Parker’s Aunt May and Uncle Ben. The Gothic Manhattan mansion block of Norman Osborn that was captured on film, is situated between First and Second Avenues at Tudor City, spanning from East 40th to East 43rd Street. Visiting all these locations for Spider-Man would be a worthwhile trip for any fan. In Los Angeles, you can stroll downtown and visit or take pictures outside the Natural History Museum, where Peter Parker gets his fateful spider bite. Over at Dorsey High School, fans may have an opportunity to enter and check out the different interior shots from the movie. In New York City, one can start at Forest Hills, Queens (the original home of Peter Parker) before heading over to Tudor City to explore Osborn's mansion block with its gothic architecture and buildings towering over Manhattan's iconic skyline. No matter what region you explore, there is something special about visiting iconic filming locations from a beloved movie like Spider-Man. It puts into perspective all of the work that goes into making a film like this come alive.
Fun Fact
After discovering that Tobey Maguire had been selected for the film, Kirsten Dunst chose to try out for the character of MJ, believing that the movie would have an indie vibe. She secured the role a month before filming, following a successful audition in Berlin.
Peter Parker's transformation scene in Spider-Man
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
A pivotal scene unfolds during Peter Parker's science class field trip to a genetics lab at Columbia University. Peter (Tobey Maguire) is busily snapping photos of Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst) for the school paper when a genetically altered red and blue spider escapes unnoticed. This spider lands on Peter's hand and takes a bite, setting the stage for his transformation into Spider-Man. This moment has become iconic in Spider-Man lore as it was the origin of his powers; it would be impossible to think of Spider-Man without this scene. It’s been referenced in TV shows, comic books, video games, and merchandise like t-shirts and mugs. This memorable sequence was filmed not in an actual university laboratory but inside the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County located in Exposition Park. The museum, the largest of its kind on the west coast, houses over 35 million artifacts and specimens. It opened in 1913 and was designed in the Beaux Arts architectural style. Over the years, it has undergone expansions that introduced elements of Neoclassical, Romanesque, and Spanish Plateresque styles. You can reach the museum via multiple routes depending on your starting point. For instance, if you're coming from downtown Los Angeles, you can take the I-110 S freeway and exit at Exposition Boulevard. Public transportation options exist, such as the Metro Expo Line that stops right before the museum at the Expo Park/USC Station.
Peter catches Mary Jane at the school scene in Spider-Man
Susan Miller Dorsey Senior High School, 3537 Farmdale Ave, Los Angeles, CA
After being bitten by a genetically altered spider, Peter (Tobey Maguire) discovers he can shoot webs from spinnerettes in his wrists. In a cafeteria sequence, he showcases his newfound agility by catching Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst) and her falling food tray after she slips. This scene was executed in one continuous shot, with Tobey Maguire performing all the actions himself. This memorable scene was filmed at Dorsey High School, at Rodeo Road, West Adams, midtown. While the film depicts the school as situated in Queens, New York, it is in Los Angeles, where most of the movie was shot. Please note that Dorsey High School is an operating educational institution, so any visits should respect the privacy and daily operations of the school. Getting to Dorsey High School is easy, as it’s conveniently accessible by car or public transportation. Those who wish to drive can get there via Interstate 10 or CA-110, while those who want to take public transit can do so via Metro trains or buses along Wilshire Boulevard.
Aunt May and Uncle Ben are concerned about Peter's changes scene in Spider-Man
88-39 69th Rd, Queens, NY
Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) prepares to test his newly acquired powers in an arena. He tells his Aunt May (Rosemary Harris) and Uncle Ben (Cliff Robertson) that he's heading to the library. Concerned about the changes in Peter's behavior, Uncle Ben insists on driving him. On the way, Ben attempts to explain his and May's worries, urging Peter to avoid further altercations. He reminds Peter, who recently bested the school bully Flash Thompson (Joe Manganiello), that "with great power comes great responsibility," an iconic line that encapsulates one of the central themes of the Spider-Man saga. The exterior shots of Peter Parker's residence were captured at a Queens, New York house. Specifically, the address is 8839 69th Road, between Metropolitan Avenue and Sybilla Street in Forest Hills, located in central Queens. This location brings authenticity to the film, reflecting Spider-Man's roots in the heart of Queens. Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst) resides in the neighboring residence at 8837 69th Road. If you wish to visit this iconic filming location, note that it is a private residence and not open to the public. The exterior can be viewed from the street, but please respect the residents' privacy. You can take Port Jefferson Branch, Babylon Branch, or Long Beach Branch to Forest Hills Station or Woodside stop. From there, it's a short walk along Queens Boulevard, then a right turn onto 69th Road.
'The Daily Bugle' newspaper company scene in Spider-Man
Flatiron Building, 175 5th Ave, New York, NY
The scenes of the Daily Bugle are iconic and have become a part of Pop Culture. It's where Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) works as a photographer and serves as Mr. Jonathon Jameson (J.K. Simmons), the cantankerous editor-in-chief of the newspaper. The audience can feel the tension between these two characters every time they interact, mainly when Peter delivers his photos to Mr. Jameson, who is never impressed by them. The exterior scenes of the Daily Bugle were shot at New York's famous Flatiron Building, situated at 175 5th Ave. This iconic location has also appeared in films like Bell Book and Candle, Warren Beatty’s Reds, and Godzilla since 1998. Found just south of Madison Square Park, this distinctively triangular building, reminiscent of a Renaissance palazzo, stands tall with 22 stories. It features a white terracotta facade, which was brought back to its original light color after restoration in the early 1990s. This historic site welcomes tourists, but please remember to secure a ticket. Getting to this location is accessible from anywhere in Manhattan. The closest subway station is 23rd Street on the 6 line, which will drop you off directly in front of the Flatiron Building. Alternatively, several bus lines are running along 5th Avenue that will also take you close to the building.
Goblin gives Spider Man the choice of saving Mary Jane or the trolley car scene in Spider-Man
Roosevelt Island Tramway - Island station, W Main St, New York, NY
Goblin (Willem Dafoe) kidnaps Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst) and sabotages a trolley car filled with children on the Mid-Hudson Roosevelt Bridge. Upon the arrival of Spider-Man (Tobey Maguire), the Goblin forces him to choose between saving Mary Jane or the trolley car and then releases them both from the bridge. However, Spidey manages to save both Mary Jane and the trolley car with the help of a passing barge and pedestrians on the bridge, who distract the Goblin by throwing debris at him. This crucial scene was captured at the Roosevelt Tramway, an aerial transportation in New York City that spans the East River, connecting Roosevelt Island to Manhattan. This location adds a dramatic backdrop to the scene, enhancing its intensity and suspense. If you want to visit this iconic filming location, you can ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway. The tramway system operates with two cabins that run at fifteen-minute intervals. During rush hours, the cabins run continuously to ensure smooth transportation. Getting to Roosevelt Island Tramway is relatively easy. It can be accessed by taking a ferry or bus from Manhattan. For those who wish to take in more views along their journey, several pedestrian paths around the island offer stunning views of Manhattan's skyline.
Peter goes to visit Uncle Ben's grave scene in Spider-Man
Cypress Hills Cemetery, 833 Jamaica Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) is seen visiting the grave of his Uncle Ben (Cliff Robertson). During this visit, Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst) finds him and admits her feelings for him. The scene culminates in a tender, passionate kiss. However, burdened by his secret identity as Spider-Man, Peter tells her they can't be more than friends. As he walks away from Mary Jane, who suspects she may have kissed him before, Peter reflects on his dual identity, saying, "Who am I? I'm Spider-Man." Cypress Hills Cemetery stayed as a filming location for this iconic scene. The grave is located just down the hill from the Jackie Robinson gravesite at the intersection of Cypress Road and East Dolorosa. This historic cemetery also served as the filming location for scenes in the sequel where Aunt May and Peter revisit Uncle Ben’s grave. To visit this memorable filming location, head to Cypress Hills Cemetery, which sits on the border between Brooklyn and Queens in New York City. You can reach the cemetery by car or by taking public transportation. Take the J train to Norwood Avenue if you're using the subway. From there, it's a short walk to the cemetery.
Conclusion
In Spider-Man, the seamless fusion of New York and Los Angeles filming locations brings the iconic web-slinger's world to life. New York's authentic streets, showcased through Times Square, Columbia University, and Queensboro Bridge, ground the narrative in Spidey's origins. Meanwhile, Los Angeles' contribution adds depth, with memorable scenes shot at the historic Natural History Museum and the famed Greystone Mansion. These locations serve as backdrops and integral elements that amplify Peter Parker's duality. These two vibrant cities cover the essence of Spider-Man, underlining his everyday struggles and superheroic feats. This film's location choices stand as a testament to the lasting impact of New York and Los Angeles in shaping the superhero genre's visual identity. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in superhero movies or just cinema, in general, to watch Spider-Man. Not only does it have all the hallmarks of great blockbusters, like engaging characters, amazing visuals, fabulous locations, or spectacular action set pieces, but it also manages to add a personal touch, giving it more depth than other titles in the genre.