10 Epic Movie Locations You Can Explore (Part 1)
Are you a movie lover with a passion for travel? What if you could walk through the exact places where some of your favorite scenes were filmed? For example: what would it be like to visit Luke Skywalker’s home planet? Or to step into Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings?
If you’re a movie fan who has always wanted to find out where some of the greatest movie scenes were actually shot from epic landscapes to legendary buildings. I’ve put together 10 real-life movie locations from famous films that you can actually visit. Feel the atmosphere of these places for yourself. Maybe your next vacation will feel like something straight out of Hollywood.
1. The Lord of the Rings / The Hobbit – Middle-earth (Matamata, New Zealand)
Fans of The Lord of the Rings will love the town of Matamata in New Zealand, where the iconic village of Hobbiton was created. The movie set was originally built for The Lord of the Rings trilogy and later rebuilt for The Hobbit. Today, fans can enjoy guided tours through the hobbit holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn, or stroll across the green hills that perfectly bring the atmosphere of Middle-earth to life. You can visit offical website here
Photo by David Broad, licensed under CC BY 3.0
2. Harry Potter – London and surroundings (England)
The wizarding world comes alive right in the streets of London and its surroundings. Visitors can see iconic places like Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, walk through Leadenhall Market (which served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley), or visit the Warner Bros. Studios, where they’ll find original sets, costumes, and props from the filming. For fans, it’s a true journey into the heart of the magical world.
3. Pirates of the Caribbean – Wallilabou Anchorage (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines)
This peaceful harbor on the island of Saint Vincent became iconic thanks to the movie Pirates of the Caribbean. Wallilabou Anchorage served as the main filming location for scenes in the Port Royal harbor. Today, tourists can still see remnants of the film set, including original buildings, props, and even photo boards showing shots from filming. The place has an amazing Caribbean vibe and is perfect for a themed getaway.
Photo by David Stanley , licensed under CC BY 2.0
4. The Shining – Overlook Hotel (Timberline Lodge, Oregon, USA)
The horror classic The Shining used the exterior of the Timberline Lodge in Oregon as the eerie Overlook Hotel. Although the interior scenes were filmed elsewhere, the hotel’s iconic facade is still instantly recognizable. Visitors can book a room at the lodge, enjoy the views of the snowy slopes of Mount Hood, and recall some of the most famous moments from the movie—with a bit of courage, of course.
5. Star Wars – Luke’s refuge (Skellig Michael, Ireland)
The Skellig Michael islands off the Irish coast became world-famous as the place where Luke Skywalker lived in exile in the latest Star Wars trilogy. These dramatic rocky formations with an ancient monastery are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer breathtaking views. Access to the island is limited and depends on the weather, but fans can book boat trips and climb the steep stone steps just like Luke did in the film.
6. The Hunger Games – District 12 (Henry River Mill Village, North Carolina, USA)
The abandoned village of Henry River Mill Village served as the movie version of District 12, home to Katniss Everdeen. Located in North Carolina, it still preserves the gloomy, industrial atmosphere that fit perfectly into the dystopian world of The Hunger Games. The site is open to the public, and fans can explore the houses, exteriors, and spaces where the early scenes of the film were shot.
Photo by licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
7. Batman – Gotham City (Chicago & Pittsburgh, USA)
Although Gotham City is fictional, its movie version in The Dark Knight trilogy was filmed in real cities like Chicago and Pittsburgh. Batman fans can walk the same streets where the Batmobile raced through, or visit local buildings and bridges that helped create the dark atmosphere of a crime-filled city. In Chicago, you can even join guided tours of the film locations.
8. Jaws – Amity Island (Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, USA)
The horror film Jaws was filmed on Martha’s Vineyard Island, which portrayed the fictional Amity Island in the movie. Today, fans can walk along the same beaches and streets where legendary scenes took place. The locals proudly preserve this part of film history and often host screenings and themed excursions.
Photo by Massachusetts Office Of Travel & Tourism, licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
9. The Goonies – Goonie Rock (Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA)
One of the most iconic spots from The Goonies is in Oregon—Cannon Beach with the dramatic rock formation known as Haystack Rock. This natural monument appeared in the final scenes of the movie. The site is easy to access, perfect for a day trip, and still holds its movie charm. Fans often take photos of the same views seen in the film.
10. Star Wars – Tatooine (Tunisia, Africa)
The desert scenery of the planet Tatooine was filmed in various parts of Tunisia, including the areas of Matmata and Chott el Jerid. Many of the sets still stand today, including “Luke Skywalker’s home,” located in the real Hotel Sidi Driss. The place attracts movie lovers from all over the world and offers a unique mix of sci-fi atmosphere and North African culture.
If you’re looking for movie locations you can actually visit, these real-life spots will make you feel like you’re part of the story. Whether you’re a fan of epic fantasy, thrilling adventures, or timeless classics, stepping into these filming locations adds a whole new travel experience. It’s one thing to watch your favorite scenes on screen—but walking the same paths as your favorite characters? So next time you’re planning a trip, why not let your favorite films guide your journey?
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If you liked discovering these real-life movie locations, make sure to check out the first part of the series here: 10 Epic Movie Locations You Can Explore (Part 2)
