On-Location Adventures | How to Visit the Real-Life Sets of Your Favorite Films & TV Shows

Have you ever been so captivated by a film or TV show that you wished you could step right through the screen? The windswept cliffs of Game of Thrones, the magical halls of Hogwarts, or the charming New York streets from Sex and the City feel like characters in their own right. This desire to experience these worlds firsthand has given rise to a popular travel trend known as film tourism or “set-jetting.” It’s a unique way to travel, turning a regular vacation into a cinematic pilgrimage. But how do you go from watching a scene on your couch to standing in the exact spot it was filmed? This guide will walk you through the entire process, from a bit of detective work to making the most of your on-location adventure.

The detective work: finding your filming locations

The first step in any great adventure is drawing the map. Before you can plan your trip, you need to pinpoint exactly where your favorite scenes were shot. Luckily, in the digital age, you don’t need to be Sherlock Holmes. The internet is your best friend. Start with dedicated online databases, which are treasure troves of information. Websites like IMDb have a “Filming & Production” section for most titles, listing specific cities and sometimes even street addresses. Other specialty sites like Movie-Locations.com or Atlas of Wonders are built specifically for film tourists, offering detailed guides, maps, and even then-and-now photo comparisons.

Don’t underestimate the power of social media. A quick search on Instagram or Pinterest for hashtags like #filmlocation or #[moviename]location can reveal geotagged posts from fellow fans. Fan forums and blogs are also invaluable, as passionate communities often share insider tips and hard-to-find spots. Once you have a list of potential locations, use Google Maps and Street View to do a virtual scout. This helps you confirm locations, check their accessibility, and start building a realistic itinerary for your cinematic journey.

Planning your cinematic pilgrimage

With your locations identified, the real planning begins. The most crucial part is understanding the accessibility of each site. A public park in London or a beach in New Zealand is one thing; a private residence or an active film studio is another entirely. A little research will tell you if a location is open to the public, requires an entry ticket, or is only viewable from a distance. Respect for privacy is paramount, especially when locations are private homes. Remember, the family living in the “Goonies” house in Astoria, Oregon, deals with visitors daily.

Timing is also key. Do you want to see the Scottish Highlands in the moody, atmospheric winter as depicted in Skyfall, or would you prefer to hike them in the mild summer? Visiting during the off-season can mean fewer crowds and cheaper travel, allowing for a more intimate experience. For popular franchises like The Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter, you’ll also need to decide between an official guided tour or a self-guided adventure. This decision will significantly impact your budget and schedule, so it’s an important distinction to make early in the planning process.

Guided tours vs. self-guided adventures

Choosing between an organized tour and a DIY trip depends entirely on your travel style and the specific locations you want to see. Each approach offers a distinct set of advantages and disadvantages.

Guided Tours are often the best option for major franchises with numerous, sometimes remote, locations. Think of the Game of Thrones tours in Northern Ireland or Croatia, or the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London.

• Pros: You get expert commentary, behind-the-scenes stories you wouldn’t otherwise hear, and hassle-free transportation. Some tours even gain you access to otherwise restricted areas or props.
• Cons: They operate on a fixed schedule, which means less flexibility. They can also be expensive and you’ll be sharing the experience with a group of strangers.

A Self-Guided Adventure, on the other hand, offers ultimate freedom. It’s the perfect choice for exploring urban locations, like the various coffee shops and apartments from Friends in New York City, or for travelers who prefer a more personal and spontaneous experience.

• Pros: You move at your own pace, linger as long as you want at your favorite spots, and can easily pivot your plans. It is often the more budget-friendly option and allows for a deeper, more immersive sense of discovery.
• Cons: This route requires significantly more research and planning. You’re responsible for all your own navigation and logistics, and you might miss out on the insider knowledge a guide provides.

On location: making the most of your visit

You’ve done the research and made the journey. Now you’re finally standing on set. To make this moment truly memorable, keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, be a respectful tourist. Whether it’s a natural wonder, a historic building, or a residential neighborhood, treat the location with care. Stick to public paths, don’t trespass, and follow the principle of leaving no trace. The continued accessibility of these locations for future fans depends on the good behavior of those who visit today.

To deepen the experience, bring the film with you. Before you go, take screenshots of key scenes on your phone. Trying to match the exact camera angle for your own photo is a fun challenge and creates a fantastic souvenir. Some fans even bring small props or dress in costume for a truly immersive photo op. But don’t just focus on recreating shots. Take a moment to simply soak it all in. Look beyond the specific spot where the actor stood and appreciate the entire environment. The director chose this location for its unique atmosphere, so explore the surrounding town, landscape, or architecture to understand why.

Set-jetting is more than just a novelty; it’s a tangible way to connect with the stories that have shaped our imaginations. By following a clear path of research, planning, and respectful on-site exploration, you can transform your appreciation for a film from passive viewing into an active, unforgettable adventure. Whether you choose a meticulously planned guided tour to the fortresses of Westeros or a spontaneous self-guided walk through the streets of Notting Hill, the journey offers a new perspective. You’ll see the location not just as a backdrop, but as a living, breathing part of the narrative. So pick your favorite film, start your research, and get ready to step into the story.

Image by: Joe Purmal
https://www.pexels.com/@joe-purmal-1263104