Rebecca Paul

Rockefeller Center is one of New York City's most visited and recognized attractions. However, this iconic site is far more than just a tourist destination. The all-inclusive center was conceptualized as a "city within a city" and has remained so for over eight decades. And with its unprecedented design—including architecture, fine art, and public venues—it has provided inspiration for many urban planners around the world. While it is easy to be struck by the center’s conspicuous beauty, the history behind all that gold and grandeur packs in some surprising secrets. Ahead, find 10 things you didn’t know about the famed New York locale. 1. Rockefeller Center almost wasn’t built Initial development plans for Rockefeller Center were derailed when the stock market crashed in 1929. In fact, Rockefeller's original idea for the project was to erect "the grandest plaza in all of New York" that would include a new Metropolitan Opera House.  But when the economy tanked, the Met backed out of the deal and Rockefeller had to go at it alone. Rockefeller funded the project himself, and construction began in 1930. Later additions to the site were paid for with Standard Oil stocks and a healthy line of credit from the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. 2. It’s the world's largest privately-owned building complex Rockefeller Center took nearly a decade to complete and cost $100 million to build—again, a figured wholly financed by Rockefeller himself. The project became as a result the world

New York City has set the stage for hundreds, maybe even thousands of films and television shows dating as far back as the medium itself. Whether it's a feature film, long standing series or movie-short, the cityscape often plays a significant role in the plot line. But among the glass skyscrapers and back alleyways are the rooms and buildings featured in those memorable cinematic scenes, many of which have their own unique story to tell. From The Royal Tenenbaums to The Godfather, ahead we've compiled a hearty list of star-studded addresses throughout New York City—plus few in the city's environs. 1. The Eat, Pray, Love Firehouse in Cobble Hill Photograph: Courtesy Corcoran   We all have of dreams of escaping our everyday lives to explore the world beyond our own doorstep, and that's exactly what Elizabeth Gilbert does in her book Eat, Pray, Love. Featured in the Julia Roberts movie version of the best-selling title is this lovely 19th century firehouse located in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. The home is situated on a charming shade-dappled block surrounded by a myriad of cinematic qualities, including a street filled with quaint 19th century houses. The structure was originally built as a fire station but was later converted into a residential unit, and today it is owned by none other than singer Norah Jones. Get a look at its original interiors here, as Jones has started plans to completely revamp the inside and the back of the home. 2. The Brooklyn Townhouse from GIRLS Photo