19 TV Show Filming Locations in the USA: Small Towns You Should Visit

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Looking for the cutest TV show filming spots in the US? Are you a fan of The Vampire Diaries, The Goonies or even The Walking Dead? Well, these small towns have got you covered! We’re especially big fans of Wilmington, North Carolina as it’s where they filmed “One Tree Hill” and “Dawson’s Creek,” which are two of Marie’s all-time favorite TV shows (total ’90s kid vibes, right?).

Of course, Wilmington isn’t the only small town in the US that doubled as a famous filming location. We love learning about these as they take us off the beaten path and give us the opportunity to discover areas of the US we wouldn’t have always thought of.

We hope this list can achieve the same for you. Don’t hesitate to add some of these to your road trip or next US adventure. So, if you’re keen on exploring some charming places that have graced the small screen, these towns are where it’s at!

1. Covington, Georgia (The Vampire Diaries)

Covington, affectionately known as “The Hollywood of the South,” served as the fictional town of Mystic Falls in “The Vampire Diaries.” Fans can visit the iconic town square, recognized as the center of many of the show’s scenes. The historic Worthington Manor, which appeared as Lockwood Mansion, is another must-see.

The Mystic Grill, inspired by the show, offers a themed dining experience. Guided tours are available, taking fans to various filming locations, immersing them in the world of their favorite characters.

2. Wilmington, North Carolina (Dawson’s Creek, One Tree Hill)

This charming coastal town was the backdrop for both “Dawson’s Creek” and “One Tree Hill.” Key locations include the Riverwalk along Cape Fear River, a frequent setting in “Dawson’s Creek,” and Wrightsville Beach, where many iconic beach scenes were filmed.

Fans of “One Tree Hill” can visit TRIC, the nightclub from the show, and the famous bridge featured in the opening credits. The town’s picturesque scenery and its significance to both shows make it a pilgrimage site for fans.

Wilmington, North Carolina, provided many of the exterior shots for “Hart of Dixie.” The town’s southern charm and historic downtown were ideal for creating the fictional town of Bluebell, Alabama. Locations like the Riverwalk, Thalian Hall, and various streets in the historic district can be recognized from the show.

3. Seneca Falls, New York (It’s a Wonderful Life)

Although not a TV show, the classic movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” has deeply influenced the identity of Seneca Falls. Believed to be the inspiration for Bedford Falls in the movie, the town embraces this connection with an annual festival. Visitors can explore the It’s a Wonderful Life Museum and the Bridge Street Bridge, reminiscent of the movie’s pivotal scene.

4. North Bend, Washington (Twin Peaks)

When I lived in Idaho, I got to drive a couple of times around Washington State, which is a state I’d love to explore in detail. Visiting TV show and movie locations in Washington is one of the reasons why I want to visit this state!

In particular, North Bend, nestled in the Pacific Northwest, was the primary filming location for David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks.” Fans can visit Twede’s Cafe, known as the Double R Diner in the show, famous for its cherry pie and “damn fine” coffee. The scenic Snoqualmie Falls, featured in the show’s opening credits, is another must-see spot.

5. South Pittsburg, Tennessee (Stranger Things)

We got to visit Tennessee on our road trip across the USA and loved that state! South Pittsburg was used to represent the fictional town of Hawkins in “Stranger Things.” While much of the show is filmed in Georgia, South Pittsburg’s old-fashioned downtown provided the perfect 1980s backdrop. Fans can explore the main street and surrounding areas, which served as locations for several key scenes.

6. Tomales, California (13 Reasons Why)

The small town of Tomales in Northern California was used for several exterior shots in “13 Reasons Why.” The Tomales Regional History Center was transformed into the show’s Crestmont Movie Theatre. Visitors can also see the Tomales Town Hall, used as the Liberty High School gym.

7. Knightstown, Indiana (Parks and Recreation)

This quaint town served as the fictional town of Pawnee in “Parks and Recreation.” The Knightstown Gym, known as the Pawnee Community Center in the show, is a popular spot for fans. The town’s charming Main Street also appeared in various episodes, offering a real-life glimpse into the beloved show’s setting.

8. Monroe, Georgia (The Originals)

Monroe’s historic downtown area was transformed into the French Quarter of New Orleans for “The Originals,” a spin-off of “The Vampire Diaries.” The show’s fans can explore the picturesque town square and surrounding streets, which served as the backdrop for many scenes involving the Mikaelson siblings.

9. Astoria, Oregon (The Goonies)

Famous for the film “The Goonies,” Astoria has become a go-to destination for fans. While primarily known for the movie, the town’s picturesque setting and Victorian-era homes have also been featured in various TV shows. The Oregon Film Museum, located in the old Clatsop County Jail seen in the film, showcases exhibits on films and TV shows shot in Oregon.

10. Westfield, New Jersey (The Addams Family)

Westfield was the inspiration for the fictional town in “The Addams Family” TV series. Creator Charles Addams grew up here, and the town’s eerie, Victorian vibe influenced his iconic creation. Fans can stroll through the downtown area and see the Addams Tavern, a nod to the show, and visit the Westfield Historical Society, which features exhibits on Charles Addams.

11. Washington Depot, Connecticut (Gilmore Girls)

While “Gilmore Girls” was primarily filmed on a studio lot, the quaint town of Washington Depot in Connecticut was the inspiration for Stars Hollow. This charming New England town offers the idyllic setting that fans of the show adore. Visitors can explore the picturesque town center, reminiscent of Stars Hollow’s town square, and enjoy the small-town charm and cozy cafes that mirror the show’s beloved Luke’s Diner and Miss Patty’s School of Ballet.

12. Senoia, Georgia (The Walking Dead)

Senoia, Georgia, has been a primary filming location for “The Walking Dead” since its second season. The town’s rural landscapes and historic buildings provided the perfect setting for the post-apocalyptic world of the series.

Fans can visit the Woodbury Shoppe, a dedicated “Walking Dead” store and museum, featuring show memorabilia and set pieces. Main Street in Senoia was transformed into the town of Woodbury in the series, allowing fans to walk the same streets as their favorite characters.

Additionally, the nearby Alexandria Safe Zone, a pivotal location in the show, is set in a walled-off neighborhood in Senoia. Guided tours are available, taking fans to various filming locations throughout the town and its surroundings, offering a comprehensive experience of the show’s iconic settings.

13. Monterey, California (Big Little Lies)

The coastal city of Monterey in California serves as the picturesque backdrop for the critically acclaimed series “Big Little Lies.” This location is essential to the show’s atmosphere, with its stunning beaches and luxurious homes.

Fans can explore the beautiful Monterey Bay coastline, including the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, which appears in several scenes. Another key location is Lover’s Point Park and Beach, known for its scenic views and tranquil environment, making it a perfect spot for reflection just like the characters in the show.

The Bixby Creek Bridge on the Big Sur coast, featured prominently in the show’s opening credits, is also a short drive away. You can enjoy the breathtaking views and capture a piece of the dramatic and beautiful landscape that sets the tone for the series. If you’re spending a few days in San Francisco, take advantage of it to check out Monterey.

14. Scranton, Pennsylvania (The Office)

While “The Office” was filmed in California, the show is set in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and the city embraces this connection wholeheartedly. Fans can embark on a self-guided “The Office” tour in Scranton, visiting landmarks mentioned in the show, like the Pennsylvania Paper & Supply Company tower, which appears in the opening credits.

Other notable spots include Cooper’s Seafood House, with its “The Office” memorabilia and themed dishes, and Poor Richard’s Pub, referenced frequently in the series. Although the actual Dunder Mifflin office building is a fictional location, the spirit of the show is very much alive in Scranton, offering fans a chance to immerse themselves in the world of their beloved characters.

15. Deadwood, South Dakota (Deadwood)

The historic town of Deadwood in South Dakota, known for its rich history during the Gold Rush era, served as the inspiration and setting for the HBO series “Deadwood.” While the show was primarily filmed on a set in California, the real Deadwood offers a deeply immersive experience into the world depicted in the series.

Visitors can stroll through the streets of this National Historic Landmark, which retains much of its 19th-century charm. Key attractions include the Bullock Hotel, once owned by Seth Bullock, a central character in the series, and Saloon No. 10, a recreation of the saloon where Wild Bill Hickok was famously shot.

The Mount Moriah Cemetery, final resting place of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, also featured in the series, is another must-visit. The town hosts reenactments, tours, and museums that bring to life the era and characters that “Deadwood” so vividly portrayed.

16. Sylmar, Los Angeles, California (Just Add Magic)

The family-friendly series “Just Add Magic” was predominantly filmed in Sylmar, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles, California. The show’s central location, Kelly’s home where much of the magical cooking happens, is a house situated in this charming suburb.

Fans can explore the quiet streets of Sylmar, which capture the quintessential small-town feel depicted in the series. Nearby, the Sylmar Library, which appears as the exterior of the fictional Lavender Heights Library in the show, can be visited. It’s a spot where many key plot developments unfold.

Additionally, Sylmar’s local parks and eateries featured in various scenes offer fans a chance to immerse themselves in the world of “Just Add Magic.” The neighborhood, with its family-friendly ambiance and community feel, perfectly encapsulates the magical and adventurous spirit of the show.

17. Rockland County, New York (Orange Is the New Black)

While set in a fictional prison in Litchfield, New York, “Orange Is the New Black” was primarily filmed in Rockland County, New York. The former Rockland Children’s Psychiatric Center in Orangeburg served as the main filming location for the Litchfield Penitentiary.

Although it’s not open to the public, the exterior of this imposing, now mostly abandoned facility can be viewed from outside, giving fans a glimpse into the show’s setting. Additionally, several scenes were shot in and around the town of Nyack in Rockland County, capturing the essence of the show’s diverse and complex narrative.

18. North Caldwell, New Jersey (The Sopranos)

“The Sopranos” was filmed in various locations across New Jersey, with the suburban town of North Caldwell featuring prominently as the home of Tony Soprano. The iconic Soprano house, located on Aspen Drive, became a symbol of the show. Fans can drive through North Caldwell and nearby towns like Kearny and Newark to see various filming locations, including Satriale’s Pork Store and Holsten’s, the ice cream shop where the final scene was shot.

19. Torrance, California (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

“Buffy the Vampire Slayer” used Torrance High School in Torrance, California, as Sunnydale High. This historic school’s distinctive architecture made it a key visual element of the show. Fans can visit the school and see the familiar facade and front lawn that appeared in numerous episodes.