20 Must-Visit Movie Spots for 2025 That Will Make You Want to Jet Off Immediately
For movie enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, there’s nothing quite as exciting as visiting the iconic locations where legendary films were brought to life. From stunning landscapes to bustling cityscapes, these destinations offer a unique glimpse into the world of cinema. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply looking to indulge your passion for film, join us as we explore some of the most famous filming spots around the world, each with its own story to tell.
20. Hoover Dam, Las Vegas
Experience the cinematic grandeur of the Hoover Dam, a popular filming location for iconic movies. Featured in films like San Andreas (2015), Transformers (2007), and Superman (1978), this engineering marvel offers guided tours and stunning views. Visit the Hoover Dam to relive these movie moments and enjoy the historical significance of this National Historic Landmark.
19. Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas
Red Rock Canyon, just 30 minutes west of Las Vegas, has been a popular filming location for over 85 years. It has hosted over 100 movies, including classics like “The Mummy” (1932), “Jurassic Park” (1993), and “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” (1998). Visitors can enjoy hiking, auto touring, and photography in this scenic state park.
18. The Plaza Hotel, New York City
Experience the grandeur of The Plaza Hotel, a 19-story luxury hotel that has been the backdrop for numerous iconic films. Featured in movies like North by Northwest, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, The Great Gatsby, and Bride Wars, this National Historic Landmark offers a glimpse into Hollywood’s past. Visit the Oak Room, the Palm Court, and the Grand Ballroom to relive cinematic moments. https://onlocationtours.com/locations/the-plaza-hotel/
17. The Flatiron Building, New York City
The Flatiron Building, a 22-story steel-framed triangular building at 175 Fifth Avenue, is a quintessential symbol of New York City. Featured in films like Spider-Man, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Godzilla, it’s a must-visit for movie buffs. Completed in 1902, it remains an iconic part of the city’s skyline.
16. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia
Experience the iconic “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a must-visit for film enthusiasts. Featured in the Rocky film series, these steps offer a scenic view of the city. Join events like the March Man-ness Rocky Steps Walk/Run or take a guided tour to explore the museum and its surroundings.
15. The Oregon Film Museum, Astoria
Located in the historic Clatsop County Jail, the Oregon Film Museum in Astoria celebrates the state’s rich film history. Explore hands-on exhibits featuring iconic films like The Goonies, Kindergarten Cop, and Twilight. Visit the jail cells turned museum spaces, and even create your own short films on small sets with green screens.
14. Katz’s Delicatessen, New York City
Katz’s Delicatessen, located at 205 East Houston Street, is a must-visit for film enthusiasts. Featured in “When Harry Met Sally” (1989), this iconic deli is where Meg Ryan’s famous fake orgasm scene was filmed. Established in 1888, Katz’s serves 15,000 lb of pastrami weekly and has been ranked as the number one deli in New York City by Zagat in 2016.
13. Union Station, Los Angeles
Union Station in Los Angeles is the most filmed building in the US, appearing in 97 films according to an analysis of IMDb data. It has been featured in movies like “Blade Runner” and “The Dark Knight Rises,” often standing in for other fictional locations due to its versatile architecture.
12. Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles
Rodeo Drive is a cinematic hotspot, featured in films like “Beverly Hills Cop” and “Pretty Woman.” This iconic street is lined with luxury boutiques such as Cartier, Louis Vuitton, and Fendi, making it a must-visit for movie buffs and shoppers alike. For filming and photography, note that the 200 block of North Rodeo Drive has specific restrictions.
11. Central Park, New York City
Central Park in New York City is a hotspot for film enthusiasts, featuring over 30 movie locations. The Central Park Movie Sites Walking Tour takes you through iconic spots like the Plaza Hotel, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields, seen in films like “Home Alone 2,” “Autumn in New York,” and “Ghostbusters.” This 2-hour tour starts at 59th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue, offering a unique way to explore Central Park’s cinematic history.
10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia offers a plethora of iconic film locations, particularly from the Rocky franchise. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art to run up the famous “Rocky Steps” and see the larger-than-life Rocky Statue. Other notable locations include Mighty Mick’s Gym at 2147 N. Front Street and Rocky Balboa’s Apartment at 1818 Tusculum Street.
9. Vasquez Rocks, California
Vasquez Rocks, located in northern Los Angeles County, California, is a 932-acre park known for its unique rock formations, a result of sedimentary layering and seismic uplift. Featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Star Trek, Planet of the Apes, and The Lone Ranger, it’s a must-visit for set-jetting enthusiasts. The park’s dramatic landscapes, shaped by the San Andreas Fault, offer a glimpse into geological history and cinematic magic.
8. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai, Hawaii, is a paradise for film enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This island has been the backdrop for over 60 feature films, including “Jurassic Park,” “The Descendants,” and “Blue Hawaii.” Visit iconic locations like Lydgate State Park, Wailua River, and Coco Palms Hotel, which starred in Elvis’s “Blue Hawaii.” Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the North Shore, including Hanalei Bay and the Nāpali Coast, featured in “South Pacific” and “Jurassic Park: The Lost World.”
7. Astoria, Oregon
Astoria, Oregon, is a haven for film enthusiasts, particularly fans of The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop. The Oregon Film Museum, located in the old Clatsop County Jail featured in The Goonies, offers a self-guided tour that includes the cell where Jake Fratelli was held. Visitors can also explore iconic locations like the Goonies House at 368 38th Street and Data’s House at 304 38th Street, both of which are private properties that welcome respectful visitors. Astoria’s film legacy continues with recent productions like the horror movie The Cycle, which began filming in 2024 at various locations around the city.
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s unique charm makes it a sought-after filming location. Visit iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, featured in “Ant-Man” and “The Matrix Resurrections,” and explore Alamo Square Park, where the Painted Ladies from “Full House” are located. Other must-see spots include the Palace of Fine Arts, seen in “Always Be My Maybe” and “The Rock,” and Fisherman’s Wharf, where the thrilling car chase in “Ant-Man” ends. Experience the city’s diverse neighborhoods, from Chinatown to Pacific Heights, which have been the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows.
5. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a haven for film enthusiasts, boasting over 130 movie locations. Visit the Tropicana, featured in The Godfather, and the Bellagio, known for its iconic fountains in Ocean’s Eleven. Caesars Palace, seen in The Hangover and Iron Man, is another must-see. Explore these and more on a self-guided walking tour.
4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah
Monument Valley, straddling Arizona and Utah, is a cinematic icon. Featured in numerous films since the 1930s, it’s most famously associated with John Ford’s Westerns like Stagecoach (1939) and The Searchers (1956). Recent appearances include Dark Winds (2022) and The Lone Ranger (2013). This Navajo Tribal Park offers breathtaking landscapes of red rock cliffs and sandstone buttes, making it a must-visit for film enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
3. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is a treasure trove of iconic film locations. Visit the Griffith Observatory, featured in “Rebel Without a Cause” and “La La Land,” or explore the Bradbury Building, known for its appearances in “Blade Runner” and “The Artist.” For a comprehensive tour, consider the Hollywood Filming Locations Tour, which covers over 80 movie clips and insider stories.
2. New York City, New York
Experience the magic of New York City by visiting iconic film locations. Visit The Plaza Hotel, featured in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and North by Northwest; the Empire State Building, seen in Sleepless in Seattle and Elf; and Central Park, which has appeared in Serendipity and Love Story. Explore Times Square, featured in Taxi Driver and Captain America, and stop by the iconic Statue of Liberty, seen in Titanic and Home Alone 2.
1. Hobbiton, New Zealand
Experience the magical world of Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, New Zealand. This 12-acre set features original hobbit holes, sets, and props from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies. Enjoy a guided tour, explore the Shire, and visit the Green Dragon Inn.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to these legendary film locations not only allows you to relive your favorite movie moments but also offers a deeper appreciation for the artistry and effort that goes into creating cinematic magic. From the towering structures of New York City to the serene landscapes of New Zealand, each location captures the heart and imagination of film lovers worldwide. So pack your bags and get ready to walk the steps of cinematic history, discovering the stories and scenery that have captivated audiences for generations.
