Exploring Movie Filming Locations Across Genres: A Film Fan's Travel Guide

Step into the worlds of your favorite films by visiting the real-life locations where they were made. This guide explores romantic spots, horror settings, sci-fi landscapes, fantasy realms, and action-packed destinations — all tied to iconic films you know and love.

Romantic Movie Filming Locations

Whether it's strolling through Central Park or sipping wine in Mykonos, these settings have hosted unforgettable movie moments.

Highlights

• Central Park, New York City – Featured in Enchanted, When Harry Met Sally, and Friends With Benefits. Explore romantic movie scenes with the Sweetheart Stroll Tour.
• The Plaza Hotel – Famous from Bride Wars and The Way We Were. Book their romantic “With Love From The Plaza” package.
• Mykonos, Greece and the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland – As seen in The Princess Bride. See more romantic international locations here.

Horror Movie Locations You Can Visit

Love thrills? Visit the sites of iconic horror films — if you dare.

Must-See Places

• The Stanley Hotel, Colorado – Inspiration for The Shining. Offers ghost tours and overnight stays.
• The Exorcist Steps, Washington D.C. – Climb the legendary steps featured in the film. Info at washington.org.
• Nancy’s House, Los Angeles – From A Nightmare on Elm Street. View it from the street, listed in Discover Los Angeles.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Filming Sites

Explore otherworldly locations from sci-fi classics and fantasy epics.

Sci-Fi Favorites

• Vasquez Rocks, California – Seen in Star Trek and Planet of the Apes. Learn more at LA County Parks.
• Wadi Rum, Jordan – Filming site for The Martian and Star Wars: Rogue One. Visit Wadi Rum tourism site.
• Skellig Michael, Ireland – Where Luke Skywalker hid in The Last Jedi. Access info via Heritage Ireland.

Fantasy Highlights

• Hobbiton, New Zealand – Tours of the Lord of the Rings set available via Hobbiton Tours.
• Alnwick Castle, England – Hogwarts in the first Harry Potter film. Visit Alnwick Castle.
• Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland – Ride the Hogwarts Express via Visit Scotland.

Action Movie Locations

Relive adrenaline-packed scenes from your favorite blockbusters.

Notable Locations

• Fox Plaza (Nakatomi Tower), LA – Filming site for Die Hard. Visit info at LaTourist.com.
• Times Square, NYC – As seen in Spider-Man and The Avengers. Explore with NYCgo.
• James Bond Island, Thailand – From The Man with the Golden Gun. Details via Tourism Thailand.

Planning Your Trip

Make the most of your visit with genre-based itineraries and travel tips.

Tips for Travelers

• Group by genre or geography for efficient travel
• Stay in themed hotels (many offer movie packages)
• Use city passes or local tour buses — especially in film-dense areas
• Visit during shoulder seasons (spring/fall) for fewer crowds and better weather

Helpful planning resources:

• TourScanner’s guide
• I Love NY film location blog

Conclusion

From romantic bridges to eerie staircases and desert moonscapes, the world is filled with cinematic experiences waiting to be explored. Turn your love of film into unforgettable travel.

Which genre will your next adventure be inspired by?
Tag us in your photos and let us know which film sites you've explored!

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Sources: I Love NY, Discover LA, Visit Scotland, Hobbiton Tours, Tourism Thailand, Great Canadian Travel, and more as listed above.