10 Iconic Movie Locations You Can Visit Today

Have you ever wondered where some of your favorite films were brought to life? This article takes you on a journey to 10 iconic filming locations that provided the stunning backdrops for some of our most beloved movies. Discover the real-life places that added a touch of authenticity and charm to your favorite on-screen moments.

1. ‘The Hunger Games’ - North Carolina

The first film of the “Hunger Games” series was filmed entirely in North Carolina. The Big Ivy Area, known locally as Coleman Boundary, near Asheville, served as the forest in District 12 where Gale and Katniss hunted. Additionally, scenes set in the Arena were shot in DuPont State Forest, also in the western part of the state.

2. ‘Jurassic Park’ - Kauai, Hawaii

In “Jurassic Park”, the characters’ first approach to Isla Nublar is actually footage of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. This location is known for its vibrant green vegetation due to frequent rainfall, which contrasts beautifully with the bright blue waters.

3. ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ - Mumbai, India

The makers of “Slumdog Millionaire” faced criticism for depicting only the gritty slums of Mumbai, yet the film drew attention to the city’s underbelly. Set mostly in Mumbai’s slums, it also showcases Agra, where Jamal and his brother work as tour guides. The iconic closing sequence was filmed at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station, highlighting another aspect of India’s vibrant landscape.

4. ‘Star Wars’ - Hôtel Sidi Driss, Tunisia

Nicknamed the “Star Wars Hotel,” Hôtel Sidi Driss in Matmata, Tunisia, is a renowned filming location for the “Star Wars” series, serving as the Lars homestead on Tatooine. The hotel is open year-round, with many “Star Wars” decorations still preserved.

5. ‘Lord of the Rings’ - New Zealand

Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy showcases New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, effectively promoting the country’s tourism. Fans can visit over 150 locations used in the films, including Tongariro National Park, which portrayed Mordor, Matamata, the site for Hobbiton, and various woods in Wellington.

6. ‘Pretty Woman’ - Beverly Wilshire Motel, Los Angeles

Once upon a time, a call girl named Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts) and a businessman named Edward Lewis (Richard Gere) fell in love at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Nowadays, thousands of “Pretty Woman” fans visit this luxurious Beverly Hills hotel to take photos and even check in to experience the magic of the iconic film.

7. ‘Forrest Gump’ - Savannah, Georgia

To get a real taste of Forrest Gump’s version of American history, skip the line at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and visit the Chippewa Square in Savannah instead, where the famous park bench was located.

8. ‘Ghostbusters’ - New York City

The “Ghostbusters” tourist trail in New York City became so popular that a map was created featuring all the iconic locations from the film. Notable sites include the New York Public Library, Columbia University, Manhattan City Bank, and City Hall.

9. ‘Notting Hill’ - London, UK

A one-hour walking tour of spots featured in the 1999 Hugh Grant rom-com includes several famous locations. You’ll see Rosmead Gardens, explore the Portobello Road Market, visit the iconic Travel Book Shop, and stop by William’s flat.

10. ‘The Godfather’ - Savoca, Italy

Photo by Eugenio Nicola Scarcella

Near the coastal town of Taormina lies Savoca, the picturesque village that stood in for Corleone in the 1972 classic “The Godfather.” This charming village, with its hillside terrace homes, citrus trees, and cacti, offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Despite its beauty, the frequent tour buses visiting the town can be bothersome to some locals.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated film location pilgrimage or simply curious about where the magic happened, these 10 spots provide a fascinating glimpse into the world behind the scenes.

Reference: 50 places where you can visit your favourite film sets in real life