If you’re a Sopranos fan looking to visit some of the show’s most iconic filming locations, I’ve rounded up a few must-see spots that are easy to access. Plus, it makes for a great day trip from New York.
We start at Great Falls National Historical Park in Paterson, New Jersey. This iconic waterfall is not only a powerful force of nature, but also a filming location for one of the most intense scenes in The Sopranos.
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Great Falls: A Scenic Landmark with a Dark TV Legacy
At 77 feet tall and 260 feet wide, the Great Falls of the Passaic River are among the largest waterfalls by volume in the eastern U.S. They played a key role in American industrialization, fueling Paterson’s rise as the country’s first planned industrial city in 1792, thanks to Alexander Hamilton.
But for Sopranos fans, this stunning waterfall is known for something far less historic—and far more sinister.
Footbridge, Great Falls, Passaic County, 07501The Sopranos Connection
Trigger Warning: This reading may contain content that some people may find disturbing.
In Season 1, Episode 6 (“Pax Soprana”), one of Tony Soprano’s associates delivers a violent message to someone who owes him money. The encounter ends with the unfortunate debtor being sent over the edge of Great Falls—symbolically “crossing the River Jordan.”
The scene is chilling, not just for its brutality, but for how it showcases the way bullies operate in the mob world. Justice is served later in the series when the main instigator of this act gets his own taste of Sopranos-style retribution. Mikey Palmice was just a disagreeable fellow, so no love lost.
The Great Falls produce up to 2 billion gallons of water per day, making them one of the most powerful waterfalls in the U.S. It’s no wonder they made such an impactful backdrop for The Sopranos.
Things to See at Great Falls National Historical Park
Beyond its Sopranos fame, the park is packed with history, scenic views, and great spots to explore:
Overlook Park – The best panoramic view of the falls—perfect for snapping that Sopranos-inspired pic.
Footbridge Across the Falls – It’s closed indefinitely at the time of my visit, a shame but it is what it is. You can still get up close to it for that TV memorabilia snap.
There is also a hydro station still in operation today. This site has been used for hundreds of years to create power for local industry.
The falls are beautiful year-round, but they’re at their most dramatic after heavy rain or snowmelt, when the water volume surges—kind of like tensions rising in the Sopranos universe.
Visit Tony Soprano’s House
If you’re a true Sopranos enthusiast, your next stop should be Tony Soprano’s house in North Caldwell, NJ. This is the iconic home where Tony started his mornings grabbing the newspaper in his robe.
The house sits in a quiet, upscale neighborhood, so while you can snap a photo from a respectful distance, keep in mind that it is privately owned. Let’s not give the new homeowners a reason to block off the area, capisce?
16 Aspen Dr, , Essex County, 07006Holstens: Final Soprano Episode
Holsten’s, located in Bloomfield, New Jersey, is a classic American diner that gained legendary status after being featured in the final episode of The Sopranos (“Made in America”). This unassuming, old-school ice cream parlor and restaurant became the setting for one of the most debated endings in television history.
1063 Broad St, Brookdale Gardens, Essex County, 07003The Scene That Left Everyone Guessing
In the show’s last moments, Tony Soprano sits in a booth at Holsten’s, waiting for his family to arrive. As Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” plays on the jukebox, tension builds with every door chime. Meadow struggles to park her car, Carmela and A.J. are already seated, and a few suspicious characters lurk in the background. Just as Meadow finally enters, the screen cuts to black, leaving fans wondering whether Tony was whacked or simply enjoying a family meal.
The Famous Onion Rings
Before the abrupt ending, Tony and his family share a basket of onion rings, which he calls the “best in the state.” These crispy rings have since become a Sopranos fan favorite, with many visitors ordering them as a tribute to the show. Some theories even suggest that the onion rings symbolize communion, family, or even a “last supper” for Tony. Either way, they are delicious.
Final Thoughts: A Must-See for Fans of TV, History, and Nature
Whether you’re drawn to the cinematic legacy of The Sopranos, the fascinating industrial history of Paterson, or simply want to witness a breathtaking natural wonder, Great Falls National Historical Park is well worth the visit. The area around the falls is a bit dodgy, so don’t go at night or wearing your gold Rolex.
And if you make the trip, just remember: stay on Tony Soprano’s good side—or you might end up “taking a ride” you didn’t plan for.
Happy travels
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Brett Williams
Brett Williams is the founder of Ylore Travel, a platform dedicated to making self-guided travel accessible to adventurers worldwide. With experience exploring over 50 countries and living in four, Brett’s passion for discovering new places and immersing himself in diverse cultures inspired the creation of Ylore Travel. Based in New York, he continues to seek out unique experiences and empower others to explore the world at their own pace.