The magic of movies often lies in their ability to transport us to different worlds, immersing us in stories that feel almost tangible. But what if you could step out of the cinema and into the very locations where these iconic scenes were filmed? For movie buffs and casual fans alike, visiting real-life movie sets offers a unique blend of nostalgia and adventure.
Considering this, we explore ten such memorable yet often overlooked movie locations that you can visit for nothing more than the price of the ticket need to bring you there. Let’s begin, shall we?
1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – Mansfield, Ohio
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 89%
- Google Maps Location: The Ohio State Reformatory
The Prison That Brought Shawshank to Life
The best movie of all time, according to IMDB, is the Shawshank Redemption, which is deeply rooted in its primary filming location—The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio. Serving as the fictional Shawshank State Penitentiary, this historic site played a vital role in bringing the story to life, with its imposing structure and eerie, decaying interiors perfectly capturing the movie’s mood. The film’s portrayal of hope and perseverance within the grim walls of the prison has left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
Unscripted Eerie Moments With Ghosts on Set
What many fans might not know is that the prison’s eerie atmosphere led to some unexpected moments on set. During filming, cast and crew frequently reported strange occurrences, such as unexplained sounds and sudden drops in temperature. Some even believed the prison was haunted, adding to the film’s intense atmosphere.
Tim Robbins (Andy Dufresne) once mentioned in an interview that these experiences helped him connect with his character’s sense of isolation and dread.
2. Forrest Gump (1994) – Savannah, Georgia
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 76%
- Google Maps Location: Chippewa Square
Filming Forrest’s Bench Scene Was a Race Against Time
The famous bench scene in Chippewa Square is perhaps one of the most memorable moments in Forrest Gump, but its simplicity belies the challenges behind filming it. To capture the perfect light, director Robert Zemeckis insisted on filming the scene during “magic hour,” the brief window of time right after sunrise and just before sunset when the lighting is soft and golden. This meant that the cast and crew had to return to the location over several days to get all the shots they needed.
What’s more, the scene required multiple takes due to the unpredictability of Savannah’s weather, with sudden downpours forcing the crew to pause filming. Despite these setbacks, Tom Hanks remained in character throughout, and his calm demeanour on screen hides the fact that the production team was constantly racing against the clock.
Where to Find Forrest’s Famous Bench Today?
Although the original bench has been moved to the Savannah History Museum for preservation, visitors can still explore Chippewa Square and imagine Forrest sitting there, with his box of chocolates, delivering the unforgettable line:
“Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.”
When visiting Chippewa Square, you will find it to be one of the most picturesque spots in Savannah, with its well-manicured gardens, historic monuments, and shady oak trees draped in Spanish moss. The square is located at the intersection of Bull and McDonough Streets, making it easily accessible for tourists.
3. Rocky (1976) – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 92%
- Google Maps Location: The Rocky Steps
Rocky’s Run at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Few movie scenes are as iconic as Rocky Balboa’s triumphant run up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Rocky. The 72 steps leading up to the museum have become synonymous with determination, grit, and the underdog spirit that the movie embodies. In the film, Rocky, played by Sylvester Stallone, uses these steps as part of his training routine, culminating in a victorious moment that symbolizes his journey from a small-time boxer to a champion.
The One-Take Wonder of Rocky’s Famous Run
Interestingly, the scene was shot in just one take due to budget constraints. Stallone himself was running on pure adrenaline, knowing that they had only one chance to get it right. That’s why his exuberant fist-pumping at the top of the steps was not scripted but was a genuine expression of his excitement and relief.
A Must-Do for Fans Visiting Philadelphia
Today, the “Rocky Steps” are a must-visit spot for fans and tourists alike. Every day, people from all over the world run up these steps, recreating Rocky’s triumphant climb. At the top, you will find a spectacular view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Philadelphia’s skyline—a perfect backdrop for a victory pose. Near the base of the steps, you will also find a bronze statue of Rocky, originally created for Rocky III, which has become a popular photo opportunity.
4. Harry Potter Series (2011 to 2011) – King’s Cross Station, London
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Highest Rated: Fresh – 96%
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Lowest Rated: Fresh – 77%
- Google Maps Location: The Harry Potter Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station
The Legendary Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station
The magical world of Harry Potter has captivated audiences worldwide, and one of the most notable locations from the series is Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station in London. This fictional platform is where young wizards, including Harry Potter himself, catch the Hogwarts Express to start their school year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The location has since become a pilgrimage site for fans eager to capture a bit of that magic.
A Mix-Up That Became Magic
Most fans don’t know that J.K. Rowling actually based Platform 9¾ on her memories of Euston Station, not King’s Cross. She itted this in a 2011 BBC interview. Despite the mix-up, the filmmakers chose to keep King’s Cross as the leading location, making it a key part of the Wizarding World.
Where to Strike a Pose at Platform 9¾?
Fans visiting King’s Cross Station can find a special tribute to the beloved series near the main concourse. A luggage trolley, seemingly disappearing into the wall beneath a “Platform 9¾” sign, offers the perfect photo opportunity for visitors.
Right next to this spot, you will also find the Harry Potter shop, designed to look like the Ollivander wand shop from Diagon Alley, where you can purchase your own wizarding gear.
5. The Great Gatsby (2013) – Sydney, Australia
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Rotten – 43%
- Google Maps Location: International College of Management
The Story of Alure and Pleasures
Directed by Luhrmann, this visually stunning adaptation of Scott Fitzgerald’s novel explores the opulent yet hollow lives of the wealthy during the Jazz Age. The story revolves around the mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, and his obsessive love for Daisy Buchanan, portrayed by Carey Mulligan. Most importantly, for all you Aussies who don’t want to travel that far to take part in this explorative series (you’re already dislocated from everything to begin with), we have some good news. Although the original location was set in New York, the International College of Management (ICMS) in Manly, Syndey, was transformed into a 1920s mansion. As such, it’s free for all to visit and roam around, but if you plan to organise one of those famous lavish Gatsby casino night theme parties, you’ll have to find your own venue and pair it with a local online casino or maybe even bring your own poker and blackjack table if the spot you choose if big enough.
What Powered the Tram, Now Powered the Movie
The movie was predominantly shot in Australia, and another iconic Gatsby location was the White Bay Power Station. It was built just in the right time window of when this story took place, between 1912 and 1917, so all the architectural feature marks were on point. Of course, there was a lot of CGI in place, but thanks to these locations, a lot less was needed to depict some of the iconic moments in this movie.
6. The Dark Knight (2008) – Chicago, Illinois
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 94%
- Google Maps Location: The Old Post Office
When Chicago Became Gotham City
Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight redefined the superhero genre with its gritty realism and complex characters. Much of this atmosphere was achieved by using real-world locations in Chicago to represent Gotham City. From the opening bank heist scene to the dramatic chase involving the Batmobile, Chicago’s towering skyscrapers and bustling streets were central to the film’s aesthetic.
The Unscripted Chaos at the Old Post Office
For instance, the bank robbery at the beginning of the movie was filmed at the Old Chicago Post Office. The building’s imposing architecture and deserted interior provided the perfect backdrop for the Joker’s (Heath Ledger) chaotic introduction.
Fun Fact: during filming, Ledger insisted on performing many of his own stunts to fully embody the Joker’s unpredictability. In fact, he was so dedicated to the role that he startled the extras playing the bank employees by unexpectedly firing the prop gun. This led to their genuine reactions of fear and confusion, which Nolan decided to keep in the final cut.
Explore Gotham’s Very Much Real Streets
If you’re a fan of The Dark Knight, a trip to Chicago offers the opportunity to visit many of these locations. Start with a visit to the Old Chicago Post Office at 433 W. Van Buren Street, where you can relive the tension of the opening scene. Although the building is now repurposed for modern use, its exterior remains largely unchanged.
Another key location is Lower Wacker Drive, the site of the epic Batmobile chase. This subterranean street, known for its maze-like structure and dark, industrial vibe, perfectly captured Gotham’s underbelly. Fans of the movie might be interested to know that Nolan chose this location for its unique ability to convey a sense of claustrophobia and intensity, which was enhanced by the use of practical effects rather than CGI.
7. La La Land (2016) – Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 91%
- Google Maps Location: Griffith Observatory
A Dance Among the Stars
In La La Land, the Griffith Observatory is the place where Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) and Mia (Emma Stone) share a dance in the planetarium, defying gravity as they float among the stars. The scene symbolizes their blossoming romance and serves as a love letter to Hollywood’s golden age, reminiscent of classic musicals like Rebel Without a Cause, which also featured the observatory.
The Secrets Behind La La Land’s Gravity-Defying Dance
Filming of the above-mentioned sequence was achieved with the help of a harness and crane, creating the illusion of weightlessness. The crew had to work meticulously to sync the movement of the camera with the actors’ choreography to maintain the dreamlike quality of the scene. Emma Stone has recounted how she felt dizzy during the take, but her genuine reactions of awe and wonder ended up enhancing the scene’s emotional impact.
Visiting Griffith Observatory at Twilight
For La La Land fans, visiting the observatory at dusk is ideal. The soft, golden light mirrors the enchanting atmosphere of the film, making it a perfect time for photos. You can even walk the same path that Sebastian and Mia took, leading up to the entrance, and inside, you will find the Tesla Coil and Foucault Pendulum, which were also featured in the movie. And… if you’re lucky, you might catch a live musical performance at the nearby Greek Theatre, another filming location from the movie.
8. The Goonies (1985) – Astoria, Oregon
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 77%
- Google Maps Location: Oregon Film Museum
Welcome to the Goonies Town
The Goonies is a beloved adventure film that has become a cult classic since its release in 1985. Set in the fictional town of Astoria, Oregon, much of the movie was actually filmed in and around the real Astoria. The town has embraced its status as a Goonies landmark, attracting fans who want to experience the magic of the film firsthand.
Mikey’s House and the Rainstorm That Almost Stole the Scene
One of the most famous locations is the Walsh family home, where the Goonies’ adventure begins. The house, located at 368 38th Street, Astoria, still looks much like it did in the movie, though it’s now privately owned. Fans are welcome to ire it from a distance, but the homeowners request that visitors respect their privacy. Interestingly, during the filming of the opening scene, where the Goonies gather at Mikey’s house, the production team faced an unexpected challenge: a sudden rainstorm hit the area, forcing them to quickly cover the set with tarps and halt filming for hours until the storm ed. Despite the delay, the scene turned out perfectly, capturing the chaotic energy of the group’s last-ditch effort to save their homes.
A Self-Guided Tour of Astoria’s Filming Spots
When visiting Astoria, fans of The Goonies can embark on a self-guided tour of various filming locations. Start at the Oregon Film Museum, which is housed in the old Clatsop County Jail, where the movie’s opening jailbreak scene was filmed. The museum offers interactive exhibits and is a treasure trove of Goonies memorabilia.
Next, head to Cannon Beach, where the final scene with the Fratellis’ ship, the Inferno, sailing away was filmed. The breathtaking Haystack Rock in the background is instantly recognizable and makes for an excellent photo opportunity.
Fun Fact: the ship used in the movie was fully constructed by the production team but was intentionally destroyed after filming to prevent it from being used in other movies, preserving its uniqueness in film history.
9. Braveheart (1995) – Glen Nevis, Scotland
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 76%
- Google Maps Location: Glen Nevis Camping Park
Braveheart is celebrated for its sweeping epic battles and the breathtaking Scottish landscapes that serve as the film’s backdrop. Glen Nevis, nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, was one of the primary filming locations for Mel Gibson’s portrayal of William Wallace’s fight for Scottish independence. The area’s rugged terrain and dramatic vistas perfectly captured the spirit of the film’s intense battle scenes.
The Weather Woes Behind Braveheart’s Battle Scenes
A lesser-known behind-the-scenes story involves the challenging weather conditions that the cast and crew faced while filming in Glen Nevis. Scotland’s unpredictable weather often led to sudden downpours and dense fog, which delayed shooting multiple times. During one particularly intense battle scene, the rain turned the ground into a muddy quagmire, making it nearly impossible for the actors to stay upright, let alone perform choreographed fight sequences. As a result, some of the stumbles and slips seen in the final cut were entirely unscripted, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the chaotic scenes of medieval warfare.
Glen Nevis’s Filming Locations
For fans of Braveheart, a visit to Glen Nevis offers a unique opportunity to walk through some of the same landscapes that were immortalized on screen. The glen is accessible year-round and offers a variety of hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging routes leading up to Ben Nevis. While exploring, visitors can imagine the dramatic scenes that took place here, from Wallace’s stirring speeches to the fierce battles.
10. The Sound of Music (1965) – Salzburg, Austria
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Fresh – 83%
- Google Maps Location: Mirabell Palace
Singing Through Salzburg
The Sound of Music is one of the most beloved musicals of all time, and Salzburg, Austria, serves as the picturesque backdrop for many of its most notable scenes. The Mirabell Palace and Gardens are particularly iconic, featured prominently during the “Do-Re-Mi” sequence where Maria (Julie Andrews) leads the von Trapp children in a joyful song and dance around the Pegasus Fountain and down the garden steps.
The Joyful Chaos Behind the ‘Do-Re-Mi’ Scene
During the filming of this scene, the young actors playing the von Trapp children were having so much fun that they kept getting distracted by the beautiful surroundings. Julie Andrews later recalled that they had to do several takes because the children would often forget their choreography, caught up in the excitement of exploring the grand gardens. To help them focus, the crew playfully encouraged the children by offering small rewards, like extra treats during breaks, to motivate them to stay on track.
Visiting Mirabell Gardens and Salzburg’s Sound of Music Sites
Visiting Mirabell Palace and Gardens is a must for The Sound of Music fans. The gardens are open to the public and free to visit, making them an accessible destination for anyone wanting to recreate that famous “Do-Re-Mi” scene. Salzburg is filled with other Sound of Music filming locations, such as the Leopoldskron Palace, which was used for the exterior shots of the von Trapp family home, and the Nonnberg Abbey, where Maria was a novice.