14 legendary filming locations you can explore in real life
Enjoy “Barbie” pink sunsets on the Venice Boardwalk, a popular filming location — Photo courtesy of mervas / iStock Via Getty Images
Visiting filming locations — or set-jetting — is one of my favorite vacations because it allows me to see things from the character’s vantage point. According to recent research, I’m not alone. “Film tourism” is a hot market, projected to grow from just under $70 million to $118 million in 2033.
The best way to set-jet is to pick a location associated with your favorite TV show or movie and build an itinerary. Start by visiting filming locations and then exploring the rest of the town or region for a few days. It’s like a two-in-one vacation. Here are my top 14 favorite film location destinations to give you some ideas.
“Reacher” – Toronto, Ontario
Scenes from “Reacher” were filmed in Toronto’s David Pecaut Square — Photo courtesy of Destination Toronto
The popular Amazon Prime Video series “Reacher,” based on Lee Child’s “Jack Reacher” book series, stars Alan Ritchson. Filmed predominantly around Ontario, Canada, the city of Toronto often served as a stand-in for New York and the fictional town of Margrave, Georgia.
Stroll to Toronto’s long-standing 24-hour Lakeview Diner for classic fare like club sandwiches and poutine — or pie! In Season 1, you’ll see it in an opening scene, where Jack Reacher is about to dig into some delicious pie before law officials interrupt him. About an hour’s drive is the quaint town of Port Perry, which rests along the banks of Lake Scugog. Several scenes were filmed along the town’s Queen Street, a main drag lined with pubs and small shops.
Stay at the Four Seasons Toronto in the historic Yorkville district, full of high-end boutiques and upscale restaurants. The hotel is also close to several museums, such as the Art Museum at the University of Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the VEMU Estonian Museum Canada.
“Virgin River” – Vancouver, British Columbia
“Virgin River” is mostly filmed in British Columbia — Photo courtesy of Destination Vancouver / Kazutoshi Yoshimura
Set in a fictional town in Northern California but filmed in British Columbia, this drama series follows Melinda Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge) as she settles into a new life to escape the heartaches of her past.
One of my favorite filming locations to explore in Vancouver is Grouse Mountain for its wildlife refuge, gnarly uphill trails, and the Skyride along the mountain. The exterior shots of Jack’s Bar, the town’s unofficial meeting place, were filmed at Watershed Grill in Brackendale, about an hour’s drive north of the city. The restaurant has a lovely patio overlooking the Squamish River and serves casual pub fare.
“Stranger Things” – Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a popular filming location for everything from “Stranger Things” to “The Walking Dead” — Photo courtesy of @jerrito1
The setting for Netflix’s science fiction hit series is the mythical town of Hawkins, Indiana; although, Atlanta, Georgia, was the primary filming location. A group of kids encounter strange, supernatural experiences as they try to uncover the answers involving secret experiments and other mysteries. The fictional Hawkins National Laboratory is Emory University’s Briarcliff Campus, and several scenes were filmed at Bellwood Quarry, now part of Westside Park.
Tiffany’s Kitchen, the setting for Benny’s Burgers in the series, is located in the charming town of Lithia Springs. The eatery appears several times throughout the show and is best known for its savory breakfasts.
“Stranger Things” isn’t the only series or movie to use Atlanta as a filming location. “The Walking Dead,” “The Vampire Diaries,” and “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay” were also filmed there.
“Twilight” – Portland, Oregon
Some scenes in the first “Twilight” were filmed around Portland — Photo courtesy of BruceBlock / iStock Via Getty Image
The first of the “Twilight” films introduces us to high schoolers Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) and Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) as they fall in love under dangerous circumstances because of Edward’s family history. The story takes place in Forks, Washington — a very real, very rainy place in the northwest corner of the state — but most filming locations were throughout the Pacific Northwest, including one of my favorite places to visit: Portland, Oregon.
Stay at Hotel Zags downtown, a chic, pet-friendly hotel with 174 trendy rooms and suites, an open courtyard, an on-site restaurant, and bike rentals. The hotel is a 12-minute drive to the Cullen family’s home on Quimby Street. (Note: This is a private property restricted to visitors.)
Most high-school interior scenes were shot at the former Madison High School, now known as the Leodis V. McDaniel High School, on the northeastern side of Portland. Afterward, grab a meal at RingSide Steakhouse; this classic spot has served both locals and tourists for over 80 years.
“Top Gun: Maverick” – South Lake Tahoe, California
South Lake Tahoe provided a majestic backdrop for several flight scenes in “Top Gun: Maverick” — Photo courtesy of randymir / iStock Via Getty Images
South Lake Tahoe was the filming location for several pivotal scenes in “Top Gun: Maverick.” Many of the landscape flight scenes included the Sierra Nevadas and Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. The blockbuster’s climax took place at the Lake Tahoe Airport.
I recommend Jimmy Buffet’s island-themed Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe as your base camp. It offers all-suite accommodations, which is perfect for families. Amenities include an indoor pool and hot tub, several dining options, many family-friendly events, and complimentary ski and golf storage.
“Twin Peaks” – Snoqualmie, Washington
Every “Twin Peaks” fan knows the exterior of the Salish Lodge & Spa in Snoqualmie — Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla
Although it only lasted for two original seasons, this David Lynch-directed crime series has a cult following. The show follows FBI agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) to the fictitious town of Twin Peaks to solve high-schooler Laura Palmer’s mysterious death.
Most of the outdoor scenes were filmed in Snoqualmie and nearby North Bend about 30 miles east of Seattle. Twede’s Cafe served as the inspiration for the Double R Diner, where Cooper ate his first slice of damn fine cherry pie. It’s still one of the most popular restaurants in North Bend and celebrates its fame with events, merch, and, yes, cherry pie.
The Salish Lodge and Spa in Snoqualmie, also known as the Great Northern Hotel in the series, sits atop the gorgeous Snoqualmie Falls and offers a delightful experience with modern touches, a lively restaurant, and a luxurious spa.
Every February, fans can attend The Real Twin Peaks, an event celebrating the show with tours, workshops, speakers, and folks from the series (actor MacLachlan appeared in 2024).
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“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” – New York, New York
The Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park was a filming location for “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” — Photo courtesy of JUN DONG / iStock Via Getty Images
As a former New Yorker, I loved visiting almost all the spots featured in one of my all-time favorite films. The movie, starring Audrey Hepburn, was based on Truman Capote’s novella about a single woman in New York who falls in love with her neighbor.
Settle into a room at the Lotte New York Palace because it offers a luxury experience and is centrally located to all the hot spots to visit from the film. The Tiffany & Co. flagship boutique is a nine-minute walk away and worth a visit. Next, head to the New York Public Library, where the main characters, Holly and Paul, go when they spend a day “doing things they’ve never done before.” Stroll through Central Park, where Paul learns about Holly’s first husband, Doc Golightly, whom she married when she was only 14.
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“Sleepless in Seattle” – Seattle, Washington
Houseboats like Sam and Jonah’s in “Sleepless in Seattle” line Lake Union — Photo courtesy of gregobagel / iStock Via Getty Images
This 1993 romantic film starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan won our hearts when it first came out. Recently widowed, Sam Baldwin (Tom Hanks) moves to the city with his son Jonah (Ross Malinger) to rebuild his life. When Jonah phones into a radio station searching for a new wife for his father, Annie Reed (Meg Ryan) can’t help but become intrigued.
The famous Pike Place Market was the backdrop for many scenes, specifically the Athenian Seafood Restaurant and Bar, which remains open. Annie watches Sam interact lovingly with his son on Alki Beach in West Seattle; you can take a water taxi from downtown’s Pier 50 to get there. Sam and Jonah’s houseboat floats on Lake Union.
Choose to stay at the elegant Hotel 1000, a 10-minute walk to Pike Place Market and close to many of the area’s excellent eateries. For instance, Shaker & Spear serves a great breakfast with dishes like salmon Benedict, French toast, and savory omelets. For fans of Italian food, Haerfest is worth a visit. My favorites are the ricotta gnocchi and the Copper River salmon.
“Barbie” – Venice Beach, California
Throngs of people fill the Venice Boardwalk, where Barbie and Ken rollerbladed — Photo courtesy of ferrantraite / E+
To visit the real-life locations where Barbie (Margot Robbie) and Ken (Ryan Gosling) in-line skate on the boardwalk, head to the Venice Boardwalk. Visit the Lucky Venice store, where they emerged sporting cowboy gear.
Stay at the Hotel Erwin, which is two minutes away from it all. The hip hotel features casual rooms and suites and a rooftop bar overlooking the bustling boardwalk and ocean. There’s a cute cafe downstairs for quick grab-and-go snacks. For something more fulfilling, go to Abbot Kinney for window shopping and some of the best restaurants for Southern California dining. The Butcher’s Daughter, a popular spot for celeb sightings and Instagram-worthy food photos, is just one great option.
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“Captain America: The Winter Soldier” – Washington, D.C.
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is a popular filming location in Washington, D.C. — Photo courtesy of Wirestock / iStock Via Getty Images
The nation’s capital made several appearances in this 2014 hit movie starring Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson. Retrace the steps of Evans’ character, Steven Grant Rogers, by visiting the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, where he runs into Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie).
Plan a visit to Theodore Roosevelt Island, the site of Triskelion SHIELD headquarters in the movie. It’s a national park with hike and bike trails, fishing, and guided tours. Splurge and stay at the five-star Conrad Washington, D.C., in the heart of downtown.
“The Goonies” – Astoria, Oregon
Astoria, Oregon, played a significant role in “The Goonies” — Photo courtesy of JPLDesigns / iStock Via Getty Images
The Bowline Hotel is my favorite place to stay in Astoria because it’s right on the waterfront, offering stunning views of the Columbia River. It’s also the perfect spot for visiting iconic filming locations for “The Goonies.” An eight-minute drive takes you to the original “Goonie” house on Duane Street. (Although you can take photos in front of the house, remember it is a private residence.)
Stop at the Oregon Film Museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There, you can view a small selection of “The Goonies” memorabilia and other items from notable movies filmed in Oregon.
About 25 miles away in Cannon Beach is the beautiful Ecola State Park, known for the scene where the kids ride their bicycles into the forest to start their treasure hunt. Once back at the hotel, visit the Knot Bar for casual fare. Think baked salmon filets, braised ribs, and savory chowders.
“Breaking Bad” – Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is its own character in “Breaking Bad” — Photo courtesy of Sean Pavone / iStock Via Getty Images
The crime drama starring Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul was primarily filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For die-hard “Breaking Bad” fans, your first stop should be Walter White’s house at 3828 Piermont Drive. (Again, this is a private residence, so you’ll want to exercise discretion.)
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Head to Delta Uniform & Linens, which was Gustavo Fring’s laundry business and meth lab on the show. Next, visit the Owl Cafe, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s where Walter White (Cranston) and Jesse Pinkman (Paul) gathered for a meal in Season 2 after being stranded in the desert for four days.
I highly recommend staying at Hotel Parq Central, which is downtown and close to all these spots.
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“Practical Magic” – Coupeville, Washington
The majority of “Practical Magic” was filmed in Coupeville, Washington — Photo courtesy of Embrace Whidbey and Camano Islands
Based on a novel by best-selling author Alice Hoffman, “Practical Magic” centers around two sisters — Sally (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian Owens (Nicole Kidman) — who try to use witchcraft to resurrect Jimmy Angelov (Goran Visnjic), Gillian’s violent boyfriend. Most scenes filmed in Coupeville, Washington, were meant to resemble a quaint New England coastal town.
For rustic luxury, stay at the nearby Captain Whidbey Inn. Set along the water, the historic inn offers refurbished rooms with original wood beams and floors. The restaurant serves delicious Pacific Northwestern fare using fresh and local ingredients.
“Yellowstone” – Darby, Montana
“Yellowstone” is filmed in the quaint town of Darby, Montana — Photo courtesy of Western Montana’s Glacier Country
This “Yellowstone” TV series follows the Dutton family as they protect their large ranch from outside forces taking over. Seasons 1 through 3 were filmed in Utah, but seasons 4 and 5 centered around southern Montana.
Filmed at the historic Chief Joseph Ranch in Darby, Montana, the lodge, barn, cabins, and landscape of the 2,500-acre property are practically characters in the series. The historic working ranch offers several cabin rentals for visitors when “Yellowstone” isn’t filming. (There are many other resorts and working ranches if you want a “Yellowstone” experience but can’t get to Darby.)
Drive 50 minutes and dine at Glen’s Cafe, a family-owned establishment where John Dutton (Kevin Costner) orders a Salisbury steak dinner in the Season 4 finale.
