Exciting Film Sites You Can Actually Visit
Have you ever wanted to feel like you’re on the set of a movie or show? Better yet, have you ever wondered what it would be like to experience the actual universes of your favorite characters and stories?
Luckily, you can! We made a list of places you can visit around the world that have become famous filming sites.
Let’s take a look at them below.
But before you book that flight, make sure to pick up a Newverest Scratch Off Map Of The World so that you can plan and track your trips!
Petra, Jordan: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
The lost city of Petra, Jordan contains one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the Al Khazneh Temple. Historians speculate that this temple was the mausoleum for King Aretas IV.
Its ornate structure is made entirely out of sandstone and it was used to house the Holy Grail in The Last Crusade. You can visit the temple as well as tour the other fine ruins that this ancient city is home to.
Hobbiton, New Zealand: The Lord of the Rings
The Shire from The Lord of the Rings can be found in Hobbiton, New Zealand. You’ll be pleased to discover that all of the hobbit holes are still there! In fact, you can tour them yourself.
Much of the land has been preserved to keep the legacy alive for people to enjoy. It’s a truly immersive experience where fans can feel like they have been fully transported to Middle Earth.
Kauai, Hawaii: Jurassic Park
Most of the Jurassic Park filming took place in Hanapepe Valley. If you can remember the gorgeous trees and waterfalls amongst all the dinosaur attacks, then you’ll recognize the landscape instantly!
If you want to relive some of the helicopter scenes from the movie, you can take your own helicopter tour. This is a very fertile area with a low population density that grows many fresh fruits and other crops.
Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco: Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and The Mummy
If you want to hit a three-in-one, then we might suggest Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco!
This fortified village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been a filming location for several hits including Gladiator and The Mummy! It served as the slave city of Yunkai for Game of Thrones as well!
Mount Hood, Oregon: The Shining
If you dare, you can visit the luxury ski resort, Timberland Lodge, to get an in-person experience of The Shining.
One of the qualities that made The Shining so haunting was the deserted appearance of the Overlook Hotel. Any of you brave skiers out there are welcome to stay for the weekend!
Malibu California: Planet of the Apes
The original Planet of the Apes was filmed at Point Dume, a gorgeous cliff in Malibu that overlooks the Pacific. This spot is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
You can simply relax and enjoy the view or participate in activities such as hiking or rock climbing here. The beach party scene from The Big Lebowski and some scenes from Iron Man were also shot at Point Dume!
Atlanta, Georgia: The Hunger Games
Remember President Snow’s stately mansion from The Hunger Games? It is called the Swan House and it’s at the Atlanta History Center.
The inhabitants of this mansion were once a part of the Women’s Suffrage Movement. Swan house tours are now offered and it absolutely feels like you’re right in the thick of a Hunger Games scene at the Capitol. May the odds be ever in your favor!
Chicago, Illinois: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Truth be told, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off was filmed all over Chicago. One of the most magical things about the film is that it features tried and true Chicago - not just a bunch of fake set designs.
Of course, cult fans are sure to want to hit every spot on a visit to Chi-Town. But we’d recommend The Art Institute of Chicago, which features one of the most iconic scenes. You can feel like Ferris while he tours the museum’s rich artistic history with his pals.
Midway, Utah: 127 Hours
Film buffs and nature lovers alike will love this subterranean hot spring located in Midway, Utah. It was the filming site for the scene from 127 Hours with James Franco and a few hikers that he meets along the way.
Locals call it “The Crater” and it is owned and managed by The Homestead Resort. You can take a little dip yourself, and even scuba dive if you choose!
From natural scenery to historic landmarks, to everyday city buildings, the movie industry always finds exactly what it needs to make a movie stand out. You can make the movies that you love most come right out of the screen by visiting any of these wonderful destinations.
Which place do you want to visit the most? Let us know why in the comments!