AdventureComedyDramaFantasy

🎬 Where Was The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Filmed? Complete Iceland Location Guide

2013

Ben Stiller

Added January 15, 2024

5 Locations

Journey from NYC's concrete jungle to Iceland's epic landscapes, following Walter Mitty's transformational adventure.

About 🎬 Where Was The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Filmed? Complete Iceland Location Guide

🎬 Where Was The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Filmed? Complete Iceland Location Guide

Ever dreamed of escaping the daily grind and embarking on an epic, life-changing adventure? Walter Mitty certainly did, and his journey took him (and us!) to some of the most breathtaking and unexpected corners of the globe.

"The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" isn't just a movie; it's a visual manifesto for wanderlust. It brilliantly contrasts the mundane with the magnificent, starting in the concrete jungle of New York City before whisking our hero away to the surreal, sprawling landscapes of Iceland.

What makes these locations so special? They're not just backdrops; they're characters in themselves, shaping Walter's transformation from a daydreamer into a doer. They invite you to step out of your comfort zone and explore.

So, buckle up your metaphorical seatbelt. We're about to dive deep into the real-world spots that brought Walter Mitty's incredible story to life. Prepare for an adventure that combines cinematic magic with practical travel inspiration!

🗺️ Major Filming Locations

🎬 Stykkishólmur Harbor, Stykkishólmur, Iceland - Where Adventures Begin 🛥️

Scenic view of Stykkishólmur Harbor showing colorful boats docked and traditional Icelandic buildings

🏛️ The Location

Stykkishólmur is a charming fishing town on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland, renowned for its colorful houses and picturesque harbor. It serves as a gateway to the Westfjords and offers stunning views of Breiðafjörður Bay. The town exudes a calm, authentic Icelandic atmosphere.

🎥 In the Film

This bustling harbor is where Walter Mitty takes his first bold step into the unknown. It's here he boards the boat, somewhat hesitantly, to chase the elusive photographer Sean O’Connell and the Greenland shark, truly kicking off his physical journey.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Stykkishólmur Harbor, Stykkishólmur, Iceland

🕒 Hours: Always open (as it’s a public harbor)

💰 Admission: Free to visit

🌐 Website: https://www.stykkisholmur.is/en/

💡 Pro Tip: Try some fresh seafood from the local restaurants right by the harbor. It’s an authentic taste of Icelandic coastal life! 🎬 Fun Fact: The fishing boat Walter boards was a real Icelandic vessel, adding to the film's commitment to on-location authenticity.

---

🎬 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York City, USA - The Heart of LIFE 🏙️

Stunning architecture of 30 Rockefeller Plaza featuring the iconic art deco facade

🏛️ The Location

30 Rockefeller Plaza is the iconic skyscraper at the heart of Rockefeller Center, a legendary landmark in Midtown Manhattan. Home to NBC Studios, it's famous for its Art Deco architecture and the "Top of the Rock" observation deck offering panoramic city views.

🎥 In the Film

This towering building stands in for the headquarters of LIFE Magazine, where Walter Mitty works as a negative assets manager. It represents his initial mundane, routine existence before his life-altering quest begins.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, USA

🕒 Hours: Ticketed tours and observation deck open daily, generally from 9 AM to Midnight. Check online for specific times.

💰 Admission: "Top of the Rock" observation deck tickets cost approximately $40-50 for adults.

🌐 Website: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/

💡 Pro Tip: Visit Top of the Rock at sunset for breathtaking views of the city lights and Empire State Building. Book tickets in advance! 🎬 Fun Fact: While the exterior was 30 Rock, the actual LIFE Magazine office set was built on a soundstage to allow for the elaborate "daydream" sequences.

---

🎬 125 Street Station, New York City, USA - The Commute Gateway 🚂

Beautiful view of 125 Street Station showcasing its historic design and bridge over the tracks

🏛️ The Location

125th Street Station is a vital Metro-North Railroad station in Harlem, New York City. Its distinctive elevated structure and historical architecture make it a recognizable part of the city's transport infrastructure, bridging Manhattan's vibrant neighborhoods.

🎥 In the Film

This station captures Walter's daily commute, symbolizing his ordinary existence before his extraordinary journey. It's part of the backdrop for his mundane routine, emphasizing the contrast with the wild adventures to come.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: E 125th St & Park Ave, New York, NY 10035, USA (Metro-North)

🕒 Hours: 24/7 (as it’s an active train station)

💰 Admission: Metro-North train fare if you ride; free to pass by.

🌐 Website: https://www.mta.info/mnr

💡 Pro Tip: For a quick, authentic NYC experience, take a Metro-North train from Grand Central and get off at 125th Street to see the station and vibrant Harlem. 🎬 Fun Fact: The specific station used, Harlem–125th Street, is one of the busiest Metro-North commuter rail stations, connecting the Bronx and Upper Manhattan.

---

🎬 Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland - The Ultimate Longboard Descent 🏞️

Impressive facade of Seyðisfjörður displaying the scenic fjord with actor Ben Stiller in the foreground

🏛️ The Location

Seyðisfjörður is an incredibly picturesque fjord town in East Iceland, nestled at the end of a dramatic fjord surrounded by towering mountains and waterfalls. It's famous for its colorful wooden houses and the blue church, and it's a hub for arts and culture.

🎥 In the Film

This is the legendary backdrop for Walter's exhilarating longboarding ride down a winding mountain road. The scene perfectly encapsulates his newfound courage and freedom, making it one of the most memorable moments in the film.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland

🕒 Hours: Always open (as it’s a town and road)

💰 Admission: Free to visit

🌐 Website: https://www.east.is/en/places/villages-and-towns/seydisfjordur

💡 Pro Tip: Drive the road from Egilsstaðir to Seyðisfjörður slowly to soak in the incredible views and imagine yourself longboarding down! 🎬 Fun Fact: Temperatures during the filming of the longboarding scene were freezing, making Ben Stiller's performance even more impressive.

---

🎬 Washington Square Park, Greenwich Village, New York City, USA - NYC's Green Heart 🌳

Authentic street scene of Washington Square Park capturing its vibrant atmosphere and iconic arch

🏛️ The Location

Washington Square Park is a vibrant, historic public park in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. It's a gathering place for artists, students, and residents, known for its iconic Washington Arch and bustling, eclectic energy.

🎥 In the Film

The park features in scenes depicting Walter's life in New York City, grounding his initial narrative in an authentic urban setting. It reinforces his relatively ordinary existence before he embraces his inner adventurer.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Washington Square Park, New York, NY 10012, USA

🕒 Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 1 AM

💰 Admission: Free

🌐 Website: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/washington-square-park

💡 Pro Tip: Grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and enjoy people-watching; the park is always alive with diverse activities and street performers. 🎬 Fun Fact: Washington Square Park has appeared in countless films and TV shows, making it a familiar sight for movie buffs and New York visitors alike.

---

🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' was a monumental undertaking, blending practical on-location shooting with Ben Stiller's unique directorial vision. The film's production embraced the spirit of adventure, just like its protagonist. It's a testament to how creative storytelling and stunning cinematography can transport an audience.

🎭 Director's Vision

🎯 Location Strategy: Ben Stiller was adamant about filming in real locations, especially Iceland, to ground the fantastic elements of Walter's journey in tangible reality. He wanted the vastness of the Icelandic landscape to evoke a sense of awe and possibility.

🎨 Visual Style: Stiller deliberately aimed for a natural, often wide-angle cinematic approach to make the audience feel immersed in Walter's world. The visual contrast between muted NYC and vibrant Iceland was a key narrative device.

🎪 Production Highlights

🎬 Epic Ice: Despite appearing to be Mount Everest, many of the mountainous 'Himalayan' scenes were filmed on Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s highest peak.

🎭 Cold Plunge: Ben Stiller genuinely swam in the freezing North Atlantic waters for the shark scene, enduring extreme conditions for authenticity.

🎨 Local Charm: Local Icelandic communities were incredibly welcoming and involved, providing everything from traditional costumes to background actors and logistical support.

🎯 Greenland's Stand-in: While scenes were set in Greenland, most of Walter's journey there was also filmed in the rugged, remote parts of Iceland for logistical reasons.

🌟 Cast & Crew Stories

😄 Longboard Lacerations: Ben Stiller reportedly took a few spills during the high-speed longboarding sequence, truly embracing the physical demands of the role.

😮 Weather Woes: The crew faced significant weather challenges in Iceland, from sudden blizzards to intense winds, forcing flexibility in filming schedules.

🎉 Tourism Boost: The film became an accidental tourism advertisement for Iceland, leading to a massive increase in visitors eager to explore Walter's world.

---

🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Ready to follow in Walter Mitty's footsteps and embark on your own epic adventure? Here’s how you can make your dream trip a reality, combining iconic NYC landmarks with the breathtaking wonders of Iceland.

🏨 Where to Stay

💰 Budget: Kex Hostel, Reykjavik - ~$50-70/night - A stylish, social hostel located in a former biscuit factory, perfect for meeting fellow travelers before your Icelandic adventures.

🏛️ Mid-Range: Hotel Borg, Reykjavik - ~$200-300/night - A historic Art Deco hotel in downtown Reykjavik, offering elegance and comfort after a long day of exploring.

✨ Luxury: The EDITION, Reykjavik - ~$400+/night - A modern, sophisticated hotel by the harbor, providing luxurious amenities and stunning views to unwind after your adventures.

🚗 Getting Around

🚇 Metro: In New York City, the subway is your best friend. It's efficient and connects you to all major filming locations like 30 Rock and 125th Street Station.

🚗 Car: For Iceland, renting a car is highly recommended. It offers the freedom to explore the vast landscapes at your own pace, especially if you want to find those specific remote spots like Seyðisfjörður. Roads outside of Reykjavik are generally well-maintained.

🚶 Walking: Both NYC and many Icelandic towns (like Stykkishólmur and Seyðisfjörður) are very walkable. Embrace walking to discover hidden gems and soak in the atmosphere.

📸 Photo Tips

🌅 Best Times: For both NYC and Iceland, early morning or late afternoon light ("golden hour") offers the best photography conditions, avoiding harsh shadows and crowds.

📱 Instagram Spots: Don't miss capturing the iconic arch at Washington Square Park, the majestic views from Top of the Rock, and the winding roads of Seyðisfjörður for true Mitty-esque content.

🎬 Movie Moments: Recreate Walter's longboard pose in Seyðisfjörður (safely, of course!), or stand in front of 30 Rock imagining the LIFE building within.

---

❓ Quick Answers

🎬 Is this based on a true story?

No, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" is a fictional story based on a 1939 short story by James Thurber. While Walter's journey is fictional, the places he visits are very real!

🗺️ Can I visit all locations in one day?

No, not at all! The New York City locations can mostly be visited in one day. However, since the primary overseas locations are in Iceland, your trip will require at least a week to genuinely explore both countries.

💰 How much should I budget?

A trip covering both NYC and Iceland can range from $2,500 to $5,000+ per person, depending on your travel style, accommodation choices, and activities. Flights between continents will be a significant cost.

📱 Are there guided tours?

Yes, you can find various walking tours in NYC covering Manhattan landmarks. In Iceland, numerous tour operators offer packages that include Golden Circle tours, South Coast adventures, and even specific 'Mitty' themed trips, which may include Fjord-based excursions.

🎭 When was this filmed?

Principal photography for "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" began in April 2012. The bulk of the Icelandic scenes were filmed during the spring and summer months to capture the country's stunning natural light and accessible terrain.

🌍 Is Iceland safe for tourists?

Absolutely! Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Visitors should always be mindful of the elements, however; weather conditions can change rapidly, especially when exploring remote areas.

---

🎬 Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

Walter Mitty's journey reminds us that life's greatest adventures are often found simply by taking that first brave step outside our comfort zones. From the bustling streets of New York City to the epic, life-affirming landscapes of Iceland, the filming locations of "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" are more than just backdrops – they're invitations.

So, whether you're dreaming of a longboard descent through a majestic fjord or simply seeking inspiration in a familiar city park, these spots await your discovery. Embrace your inner Mitty and embark on your own real-life quest.

Which location are you most excited to explore? Share your thoughts, tag a friend who needs a cinematic adventure, and let us know about your favorite movie locations!

Year Released

2013

Director

Ben Stiller

Filming Locations

5 locations

Behind the Scenes

Ben Stiller's ambitious vision for 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' was to blend epic escapism with grounded reality, inspiring audiences to live their own adventures. He embraced practical effects and filming in challenging real-world locations to achieve an authentic, breathtaking visual journey, transforming mundane life into a grand epic. Stiller wanted the audience to truly feel Walter's journey, from the confines of his office to the vast expanse of Iceland.

Iceland nearly doubled as Afghanistan and the Himalayas for the film's 'larger than life' scenes.
The famous longboarding scene down the mountain was genuinely filmed in Seyðisfjörður, Iceland, with Ben Stiller doing most of it.
The 'shark fight' sequence in Greenland used a prosthetic shark head, allowing Stiller to perform with a tangible object in the water.
The movie's theme of 'stopping to experience' was so impactful, it significantly boosted tourism to Iceland.
The team reportedly flew over 100,000 miles to capture the film's stunning global backdrops.
The film was initially conceived in the 1990s with Jim Carrey in talks for the lead.
The iconic LIFE Magazine building in the film was actually a set built inside 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
A scene involving Walter jumping onto a helicopter was filmed in Iceland but digitally altered to appear like Greenland.
Local Icelandic musicians and extras were heavily involved in the filming process, adding authenticity.
The 'Mount Everest' peak Walter climbs was actually Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland's highest peak.
Ben Stiller took extreme care to respect the delicate Icelandic landscape during filming.
The film re-popularized the original James Thurber short story, sparking renewed interest.

Location Gallery

Stykkishólmur Harbor, Iceland

30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York City, USA

125 Street Station, New York City, USA

Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland

Washington Square Park, Greenwich Village, New York City, USA

Travel Tips

Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.
Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.
Guided tours are available that cover Stykkishólmur Harbor, Iceland, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York City, USA, 125 Street Station, New York City, USA in one day.