Four iconic movie locations in America

(AP)

There’s no doubt that the magic of Hollywood extends well beyond the boundaries of a Los Angeles movie set. Over the past century, filmmakers have used countless American cities, landscapes and buildings to tell their stories on the silver screen. Some of these locations have become so memorable that tourists flock from all over to relive their favorite scenes first hand. Here are four locations in America that made their fame on the silver screen.

New York Public Library – Ghostbusters, Sex and the City

Filmmakers have been having love affairs with New York City since the medium was born over a century ago. The entire city could be described as a landmark, with virtually every street, square and park having appeared in one film or another over the years.

One of the city’s most famous landmarks, the New York Public Library, has graced the silver screen for numerous memorable outings. Many may remember it from the opening scene of “Ghostbusters,” when the eponymous trio of misfit parapsychologists battled an apparition in the building’s basement. More recently the library was the site of Carrie Bradshaw’s long-awaited wedding to Big in the “Sex and the City” movie.

Philadelphia Museum of Art steps – Rocky

The 72 steps leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art are the site of one of the most iconic scenes in the history of American cinema. You don’t need to be a film buff to recognize the timeless image of Sylvester Stallone’s underdog boxer, “Rocky,” standing triumphantly atop these stone stairs.

Thanks to the franchise’s enduring popularity, the affectionately nicknamed “Rocky Steps,” have now become one of Philadelphia’s most popular tourist attractions. On any given day you’ll see scores of excited tourists jogging up these famous steps, often humming the scene’s accompanying theme, “Gonna Fly Now,” as they ascend. There’s even a statue of the character near the foot of the steps to commemorate the film’s contribution to Philadelphia.

Tiffany & Co. – Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Of the hundreds of iconic film representations of New York City, perhaps none is as perfect as “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. And no New York City landmark captures the essence of this classic film better than the Fifth Avenue store from which it got its name. Relive the unforgettable opening scene outside the store’s front door and gaze at the priceless jewelry inside. Just remember, before you ask – the store does not serve breakfast.

Martha’s Vineyard – Jaws

In 1975, Steven Spielberg released his seminal film, Jaws, and singlehandedly redefined the summer blockbuster movie. Filmed on location on the idyllic Massachusetts island of Martha’s Vineyard, this iconic film remains one of the most beloved in cinema history. Fans of the movie will delight in taking a stroll through the familiar streets of Edgartown, and exploring Joseph Sylva State Beach, where many of the film’s most famous scenes were filmed. Such was the haunting power of Spielberg’s blockbuster that fans of the movie might even think twice about going in the water.