The 1990s and early 2000s were a golden era of film, music, toys and TV. Beanie Babies were taking the world by storm, you could pop Clueless into your VHS player or Now That’s What I Call Music into your Walkman. And our Friends were there for us through thick and thin.
We’re talking about Phoebe, Rachel, Joey, Chandler, Ross and Monica, of course. We watched as the group of 20-something pals hilariously navigated New York in the ‘90s.
Even if you weren’t a die-hard fan, you’d probably recognize the orange couch at Central Perk and the lilac-hued walls of Monica’s apartment, be able to recite all the words from Phoebe’s hit single “Smelly Cat,” and say, “How you doin’?” just like Joey. Friends will forever be part of the conversation when it comes to ‘90s nostalgia. Who knew the iconic sitcom would be just as popular in 2022?
It’s arguably more popular than ever. In fact, a new pop-up that recreates some of the sets and props, and displays real costumes and manuscripts from the series is open now in North Phoenix. It’s called The FRIENDS Experience: The One in Phoenix and it’s every Friends fan’s fantasy land.
Have you ever wanted to sit in Chandler and Joey’s recliners or at Monica’s kitchen table? Have you wondered what it’s like to hang out at Central Perk? The FRIENDS Experience feels like you’re inside the show. You almost expect Janice to fling open the door and yell, “OH MY GOD!” at any moment.
The immersive experience offers photo opportunities at every turn with helpful employees in each of the 12 rooms who offer to take pictures for you. The experience starts, aptly, with the orange couch in front of the fountain, which many will recognize from the opening credits of the show. Take a seat on the sofa and strike a pose. You can linger as long as you like, but there’s so much more to explore at The FRIENDS Experience.
Next up: “Pivot” to the stairs where Rachel and Chandler attempted to hoist a heavy couch in season five. Pose at each end of the narrow staircase where the couch is precariously teetering, and pretend Ross is barking orders at you.
A realistic replica of Chandler and Joey’s apartment comes next. Chill on the overstuffed chairs or pose by the foosball table. Then, peruse the relics on the shelves. Then, you’ll get to Monica’s kitchen where the most popular place to pose is by the purple door with the yellow frame around the peephole. Pretend you’re peeking through it or listening to what’s going on on the other side.
The grand finale is, of course, a recreation of Central Perk, complete with the couch, rug, lighting fixtures, counter and small details and décor that make you feel like NYC is right outside. Instead, though, is the gift shop where you can pick up shirts, hats, tote bags and other Friends memorabilia. You can even grab a cup of coffee on your way out. Verdict: Could The FRIENDS Experience be any cooler?
The FRIENDS Experience: The One in Phoenix runs through Sunday, May 8. Visit friendstheexperience.com/phoenix for more info.
