Filming on MTA properties

When you want to capture the energy of NYC’s subway system for your movie, television series, or commercial, you don’t want to fake it—you want the real thing. The MTA can make your vision a reality. 

Since it opened in 1904, films have been shot in the subway system. In fact, the man behind the camera in much of that early subway footage was legendary inventor Thomas Edison. Since then, it’s been featured in many television shows, feature films—including Ghostbusters, The Americans, Russian Doll, and The Joker, and even in music videos. 

The MTA’s bridges, tunnels, railroads, and various other properties also are no stranger to the screen. Take Grand Central Terminal, for example, a cinematic dream that’s been featured in Hollywood classics like Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest. Hitchcock also shot scenes there for his 1945 movie Spellbound. You’ll spot this iconic location in The Avengers, The Fisher King, Midnight Run, and John Wick 3, too... to name just a few. 

Want to add your project to this impressive list? The MTA has the key to unlocking its vast system for your production. We’ve worked with TV and film crews for decades, and have met every kind of demanding technical, logistical, and scheduling requirement. 

The MTA has a look that fits any era you are trying to replicate on film. We’re a location manager’s dream. Some of the locations we offer: 

• Historic bridges, such as the Throgs Neck and the Verrazzano-Narrows 
• Underground locations isolated from public view 
• Buses 
• Commuter trains and suburban stations 
• Exteriors that showcase a range of residential and city views 

If you're looking for authenticity, the MTA has you covered. 

If this is a press request, please contact the MTA Press Office at (212) 878-7440 or by form.