Gossip Girl at The Empire Hotel | Iconic NYC Filming Location

Chuck Bass’s Home in the Upper West Side

The Empire Hotel became a pivotal location in the Gossip Girl universe starting in Season 3 when Chuck Bass, played by Ed Westwick, purchased the hotel as a power move. Featured in key episodes, The Empire was not just a backdrop—it became a symbol of Chuck’s ambition and growth. From major business deals to personal moments with Blair Waldorf, played by Leighton Meester, The Empire Hotel was woven into the fabric of their dramatic storyline. Fans of the show will recognize the hotel’s iconic exterior, which featured regularly in the show’s sweeping New York City shots, as well as the lavish lobby where many pivotal scenes unfolded.

gossip girl cast filming at the empire hotel

Courtesy of CW TV

Courtesy of CW TV

A Landmark for Gossip Girl Fans

The Empire Hotel New York

The Empire Hotel’s iconic architecture & Upper West Side address made it a natural fit for Gossip Girl, adding an authentic New York touch to the show’s glamorous world. As Chuck Bass’s hotel, the Empire became a central backdrop for power plays, plot twists, and unforgettable moments. Just steps from Lincoln Center, Central Park, and the famous Met steps, The Empire is still a go-to for fans looking to experience the show’s signature style. From the glowing "Hotel Empire" sign atop the hotel, to the rooftop bar and grand lobby, it’s the same New York luxury that made its mark on screen.

xoxo, Gossip Girl

girls trip gossip girl getaway at the empire hotel

xoxo Gossip Girl Package

While we can’t promise the drama of the Upper East Side (unless you bring it with you), we can offer the same luxury and glamour that made The Empire Hotel Chuck Bass’s ultimate power move. You’ll feel like NYC royalty when you book the Empire Hotel's XOXO Package. Indulge in a bevvy of perks fit for Queen B herself, with Empire robes, silk You Know You Love Me sleep masks, XOXO slippers, champagne & sweet treats included in your stay.

The XOXO Package

Book Your GG Getaway

xoxo gossip girl cocktail at the empire hotel rooftop bar

The Gossip Girl Experience at the Empire Hotel

Step into the world of Manhattan’s elite with the Gossip Girl Experience at The Empire Hotel Rooftop Bar. Sip on a peachy XOXO Gossip Girl cocktail, savor decadent tea sandwiches, and indulge in Blair Waldorf’s favorite macarons—all while soaking up the glam of the Upper West Side. Embrace your chance to live like NYC’s finest. Available on select weekends.

Gossip Girl Experience @ The Empire Rooftop

You know you love us..

Well, let’s just say… never say never! The Empire Hotel has already played host to some of Gossip Girl’s most dramatic moments, and it’s certainly got the charm (and views) for a return. Who knows? Chuck and Blair might not be the last to reign from our rooftop. Stay tuned, darlings—you know you love us.

XOXO

Memorable Moments Filmed at the Empire

Ah, where to begin? The Empire Hotel was Chuck Bass’s home and business, so we saw everything from romantic entanglements with Blair Waldorf to high-stakes business drama. From glamorous rooftop scenes to moments of triumph (and heartbreak) in our sleek lobby, the hotel was a central character in its own right. Step inside, and you might just feel a little Bass energy lingering.

Chuck Bass bought the Empire in Season 3, Episode 3, and the Empire served as a setting for high-stakes drama thereafter, including Chuck's rivalry with his uncle Jack Bass in “The Empire Strikes Jack” (Season 3, Episode 16). The hotel also hosted grand events, such as Chuck's charity gala ("Touch of Eva" - Season 4, Episode 4) and the Saints and Sinners masquerade in “The Witches of Bushwick” (Season 4, Episode 9), where Chuck and Blair's complex relationship took center stage once again. The Empire plays a key role in Season 6, Episode 3 "Double Identity" and pops up in many other episodes.

empire rooftop bar xoxo gossip girl cocktail

The Empire Rooftop Bar & Lounge

Absolutely! The Empire Rooftop Bar and Lounge has been a mainstay in New York City for over a decade, located atop the Empire Hotel. Plan your visit to the top of the Empire today & enjoy signature Gossip Girl themed cocktails.

The Empire Rooftop Bar

Explore Gossip Girl Locations in NYC

You can explore all of the fabulous filming locations of Gossip Girl during your stay at the Empire Hotel with a GG tour around New York City, from the steps of the Met to Grand Central Terminal, to Nate's townhouse and more.

Our guests enjoy exclusive savings on Gossip Girl Tours - save 15% off your GG tour with promo code: EmpireHotelxoxo

Book a Gossip Girl Tour

Gossip Girl's Serena and Nate atop the Empire Hotel

Gossip Girl Experience

Step into the world of Manhattan's elite with our exclusive Gossip Girl Experience at The Empire Hotel Rooftop. Enjoy themed GG cocktails, delectable treats, and capture your moment with a perfect selfie spot ala Blair & Serena.

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Gossip Girl Tours

Walk in the footsteps of Serena and Blair, with a guided Gossip Girl Tour of New York City. Book now and explore NYC’s most memorable filming sites from the show, with exclusive discounts for guests of Empire Hotel.

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