Few coming-of-age comedies capture the chaos of post-secondary friendships quite like “Roommates.” The film follows Devon (Sadie Sandler), a shy college freshman eager for connection, who convinces the magnetic Celeste (Chloe East) to become her roommate. What starts as an exciting friendship quickly turns tense, as jealousy, resentment and emotional games push their bond into a painful war of passive aggression. The story taps into the messy reality of college relationships, showing how fast admiration can turn into rivalry in the close quarters of dorm life.
The emotional rollercoaster unfolds across some of New Jersey’s most scenic destinations, with production centered in Jersey City, Morristown, Hoboken, Long Branch, Cranford and Montclair. Additional (though less significant) shoots also took place in Barcelona and Los Angeles, according to PrimeTimer. New Jersey gave producers gorgeous campuses, urban skylines and oceanfront scenery in one compact state. Fans wondering about “Roommates” filming locations can turn that curiosity into a road trip packed with colleges, beaches and urban cities. Better yet, nearly every public location is accessible, making this guide the perfect route to the best hotels, restaurants and attractions behind the comedy film.
Where Was ‘Roommates’ Filmed?
Jersey City serves as the backdrop for several of the film’s urban exterior scenes, giving “Roommates” its lively college-town atmosphere. According to What’s on Netflix, the production shot around downtown streets and waterfront neighborhoods to create the social buzz surrounding Devon and Celeste’s college world. The city’s mix of modern towers and historic blocks gave the movie youthful energy without the cost of filming in Manhattan.
According to Patch, Hoboken’s brownstone streets and skyline views created the ideal backdrop for energetic student scenes. Beach scenes were filmed in Long Branch, especially around Ocean Place Resort & Spa, according to iHeart. These oceanfront moments add emotional breathing room to the story, giving the characters a temporary escape from campus tension.
Montclair features heavily in “Roommates,” with filming for the graduation ceremony taking place at Montclair High School and local residential streets, according to Atlas of Wonders. These scenes deepen the characters’ backstories and add suburban realism to the film.
Roam Around New Jersey Like The Cast Of ‘Roommates’
Key Scenes: Drew University served as the fictional Walton University in “Roommates,” according to Atlas of Wonders. The filmmakers used the Gothic stone buildings, wooded pathways, and classic collegiate quads for the movie’s most important campus scenes. This is where Devon first steps into college life and where the friendship with Celeste begins. Producers selected Drew because it delivered a prestigious East Coast university look with cinematic charm.
Best Time to Visit: Fall offers crisp air and gorgeous campus foliage at Drew University and Stevens Institute. Summer is perfect for Long Branch beach visits and boardwalk fun. Spring brings mild weather and blooming streets in Montclair and Cranford. Winter feels quieter but still scenic in Jersey City and Hoboken. If you want the same warm, vibrant look seen in “Roommates,” late spring and early fall work best. Those seasons deliver pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and the perfect mix of beach weather and campus beauty.
Transportation Options: The easiest way to visit “Roommates” filming locations is by rental car. Driving gives you the freedom to explore Long Branch, Cranford and Morristown on your own schedule. For Jersey City and Hoboken, trains and PATH service make public transit fast and convenient. Rideshare apps work well for short city trips. If you want a relaxed travel pace, combine train rides in the urban areas with a car rental for the suburban and beach stops.
In a wide-ranging interview, director Chandler Levack describes how “Roommates” captures the emotional chaos of early adulthood. She explained to Fandom Wire that she connected to Jimmy Fowlie and Ceara O’Sullivan’s script because “that first year of college is so bizarre” and students “desperately cling” to new friends as they figure out who they are. Levack also praised the film’s collaborative energy. She told What’s On Netflix that she and her team worked to shape a story that feels “funny, truthful, relatable and very Gen Z” while still delivering bold, big-studio comedy set pieces.
Things to Do: Walk the waterfront at Liberty State Park for breathtaking views of New York City. Or, simply tour the palatial wooded campus at Drew University. If you love the seashore, enjoy the beach and boardwalk in Long Branch. You can also visit the boutiques and cafés of downtown Montclair. In Hoboken, stroll the waterfront promenade and enjoy more Manhattan views. Each stop adds something unique, from college charm to beach relaxation.
Where to Eat: Fans of authentic Italian food will love the waterfront dining at Battello in Jersey City. In Morristown, The Committed Pig serves standout burgers and brunch. In Hoboken, pizza fans should try Benny Tudino’s, where Adam Sandler actually stopped by during filming, according to Patch. If you’re in Montclair, try Faubourg, a French brasserie with delicious cuisine.
Where to Stay: Stay at Hyatt House Jersey City for skyline views and quick access to Jersey City filming locations. In Morristown, The Madison Hotel offers classic elegance near Drew University, while the W Hoboken places you close to Stevens Institute. For the beach in Long Branch, book Ocean Place Resort & Spa for its azure pools and beautiful sea views. In Montclair, The George offers boutique charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Adam Sandler’s daughter in “Roommates”?
Yes. Sadie Sandler stars as Devon, the shy freshman at the center of “Roommates.” Her performance drives the story as Devon’s friendship with Celeste turns from sweet to toxic.
Is “Roommates” based on a true story?
No. “Roommates” is not based on a true story. It is an original comedy screenplay, but it draws on the very real emotional ups and downs of freshman-year friendships, which makes the story feel relatable and authentic.
