Set-Jetting USA: Visiting Real Places From Your Favourite TV Shows and Films (2025 Guide)

If you’re itching to step off your couch, grab your camera, and be in the scenes of your favourite shows and films — this one’s for you. Welcome to the vibrant world of set-jetting: travelling to real-life filming locations of movies & TV shows to experience the magic in person.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the trend, why it’s so hot right now, and pick 5 standout U.S. destinations where you can walk, pose, explore and immerse yourself in screen-history. Each location includes why it works for fans, tips for visiting, and the stories behind it.

Table of Contents

What Is “Set-Jetting” and Why Is It Booming in the USA?

Set-jetting, also known as screen tourism, is when travelers visit real locations where TV shows or movies were filmed. Think of it as stepping inside your favorite stories—whether it’s walking through the misty woods of Twin Peaks, relaxing on the Outer Banks, or sipping coffee near a Friends-inspired café backdrop.

In recent years, set-jetting has exploded into a global trend, but nowhere is it more vibrant than in the United States. With the country’s cinematic history and endless regional diversity, it offers countless filming sites for fans to explore.

Why the Boom?

A growing number of travelers are inspired by what they watch:

66% of travelers say that films or TV shows have influenced their travel plans.
Streaming platforms are constantly releasing high-definition stories set in breathtaking real locations, from Yellowstone’s Montana ranches to Succession’s New York luxury hotels.
Local economies benefit massively: the film-tourism sector generates millions of dollars annually, driving local hospitality and small businesses.
Social media makes it easy for fans to share their journeys with the world, recreating movie moments on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube.

What Counts as Set-Jetting?

It’s not just about standing outside a movie set—it’s an immersive travel approach:

Visiting diners, cafés, or hotels used as real shooting locations.
Exploring towns that doubled as fictional cities.
Joining guided tours of famous filming sites.
Planning routes around multiple show locations across states.

Key Takeaways

Set-jetting combines travel and storytelling, letting you live moments from beloved series.
You don’t have to be a film buff—anyone can appreciate the artistry and landscape.

How to Plan Your Set-Jetting Adventure in the U.S.

Planning your cinematic road trip requires both imagination and research. To make your journey seamless, follow this practical framework.

Step-by-Step Travel Blueprint

Choose your show or movie.
Begin with a few productions you’re passionate about. For instance, Outer Banks fans might head to North Carolina, while Stranger Things lovers can explore Georgia’s small-town charm.
Research filming locations.
Check databases such as IMDb or for verified spots.
Map your route.
Plot your chosen locations on Google Maps, optimizing for geography—some shows were filmed in multiple cities.
Check accessibility.
Some sites are on private property or within restricted areas. Contact local tourism boards or join certified tours.
Time your visit.
Off-peak seasons are best for peaceful photography and avoiding crowds.
Create content as you go.
If you’re a blogger, upload travel logs with SEO-rich metadata through Rank Math. Optimize your titles, URLs, and image alt-texts (e.g., “Twin Peaks Snoqualmie Falls filming site”).
Embrace the unexpected.
Many filming locations differ slightly from how they appear on screen due to editing and CGI. Enjoy discovering those real-world contrasts.

Top U.S. Set-Jetting Destinations You Can Visit Right Now

Below are the five best U.S. destinations for set-jetters—each packed with cultural context, cinematic magic, and real-life accessibility.

1. Seattle & Snoqualmie, Washington – Twin Peaks

When Twin Peaks premiered, its eerie Pacific Northwest atmosphere captured millions of viewers. Those forested mountains and roaring waterfalls are real—and you can experience them firsthand.

Key Locations:

Snoqualmie Falls: The mesmerizing waterfall seen in the show’s intro.
Twede’s Café (Double R Diner): Still serving cherry pie and “damn good coffee.”
Salish Lodge & Spa: Featured as the “Great Northern Hotel.”

Travel Tips:

Visit early morning to enjoy misty, crowd-free views.
Combine this trip with nearby Washington scenic drives.
Bring rain gear—the moody weather adds authenticity!

2. Los Angeles, California – Hollywood & Coastline Scenes

Los Angeles isn’t just Hollywood studios—it’s a living film set. From La La Land’s Griffith Observatory to Iron Man’s Malibu mansion location, LA invites fans to explore cinematic reality.

Must-See Spots:

Griffith Observatory: Where Sebastian and Mia danced under the stars.
Point Dume, Malibu: Used for iconic Iron Man cliff scenes.
Universal Studios Tour: Explore active sets from Jurassic Park to The Good Place.

Insider Tips:

Book a Universal or Warner Bros. Studio Tour.
Research addresses carefully—some famous homes are private.
End your day on Santa Monica Pier, featured in countless films.

3. Miami & South Florida – Cinematic Paradise

Miami’s pastel Art Deco buildings and coastal sunshine make it one of the most filmed cities in America. From Scarface to Burn Notice, its energy is electric.

Notable Locations:

Ocean Drive, South Beach: Featured in Scarface and The Birdcage.
Freedom Tower: Used in several historical and action sequences.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Classic spot seen in Iron Man 3 and Ace Ventura.

Local Advice:

Capture sunset shots for cinematic lighting.
Use local tour companies specializing in Miami film history.
Expect higher parking costs near beaches—plan accordingly.

4. North Carolina’s Outer Banks – Outer Banks (Netflix)

Netflix’s Outer Banks skyrocketed the Carolina coast’s popularity. Though filmed partly in South Carolina, the real Outer Banks inspired the show’s sun-bleached vibe.

Best Spots to Explore:

Kill Devil Hills: A charming beach town mirroring the show’s “Kildare.”
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: One of America’s most photographed beacons.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park: Largest sand dune on the East Coast.

Visitor Tips:

Visit in spring or fall for cheaper rates and mild weather.
Rent a beach cottage to live your “Pogue life.”
Try local seafood restaurants like Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar.

5. Georgia (Atlanta & Beyond) – Hollywood of the South

Georgia’s film industry is thriving. Stranger Things, Black Panther, The Walking Dead, and dozens of blockbusters were shot here.

Film Hotspots:

Trilith Studios (Fayetteville): Marvel’s production hub.
Senoia: The small town that doubled as The Walking Dead’s Alexandria.
Downtown Atlanta: Baby Driver, Spider-Man: Homecoming, and more filmed here.

Pro Tips:

Book “Atlanta Movie Tours” for expert insights.
Combine filming-spot visits with Atlanta’s rich culture (BeltLine Trail, MLK Historic Site).
Avoid rush-hour traffic—it can stretch your filming itinerary.

Advanced Tips & Practical Advice for Set-Jetting Travelers

Set-jetting can be pure magic when done right—but a bit of strategy ensures a smoother trip.

Avoiding Disappointment

Don’t expect everything to look exactly like it did on screen. Lighting, editing, and set design transform real locations.
Focus on atmosphere and cultural context instead of identical replicas.
Respect private properties—some fans have been fined for trespassing.

Travel Logistics

Timing: Early mornings and weekdays = fewer crowds.
Photography: Use tripods for scene re-creations.
Budget: Allocate funds for guided tours (usually $20–$50) and local souvenirs.
Weather: Check climate data before traveling—film sites often rely on seasonal beauty.

FAQs: Trending Questions About Set-Jetting in the USA

1. What is set-jetting?

Set-jetting is a travel trend where people visit real-life locations featured in their favourite movies and TV shows. It’s like stepping directly into the world of your favourite stories — walking the same streets, eating at the same diners, and standing where iconic scenes were filmed. In 2025, set-jetting has become one of the fastest-growing travel trends, especially in the U.S.

2. Why has set-jetting become so popular in 2025?

Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO have made global shows more accessible, inspiring fans to visit real locations. Combined with social media sharing, travel bloggers, and cinematic tourism campaigns, set-jetting has evolved into an experience that merges fandom with real exploration. It’s not just about seeing a place — it’s about living a story.

3. What are the most popular set-jetting locations in the USA?

Some top 2025 set-jetting destinations include:

Snoqualmie, WA (Twin Peaks)
Albuquerque, NM (Stranger Things 4)
Kiawah Island, SC (Outer Banks)
Fort Worth, TX (1883 / Yellowstone prequel)
Point Dume, CA (various Hollywood films like Iron Man and Planet of the Apes)
Other fan-favorite spots include New York City (Friends), Chicago (The Bear), and Hawaii (Jurassic Park).

4. How can I find out where my favourite movie or show was filmed?

You can use websites such as setjetters.com, Atlas of Wonders, or IMDb’s “filming locations” section. Many tourism boards also highlight filming spots in their cities. A quick search with “where was [movie/show name] filmed” will often give exact addresses or coordinates.

5. Do I need special permission to visit filming sites?

Not always. Many filming locations are public areas like beaches, cafes, or parks. However, some are private properties or active businesses. Always check access rules before visiting, respect private property signs, and avoid disturbing locals. For studio tours (like Warner Bros. or Universal Studios), you can purchase guided passes.

6. Are there guided set-jetting tours available in the U.S.?

Yes! Cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, and New York offer dedicated film-location tours. You can also find regional tours for shows such as Breaking Bad in Albuquerque, Game of Thrones (in international versions), or Outer Banks along the Carolina coast. These tours often include insider stories, props, and local trivia.

7. When is the best time of year to plan a set-jetting trip?

That depends on the region and series:

Pacific Northwest (Twin Peaks) – Visit in fall for misty, moody vibes.
South Carolina coast (Outer Banks) – Spring or early fall.
Texas (1883) – Avoid summer heat; go in March or October.
California (Hollywood beaches) – Late spring or early autumn for fewer crowds.
Generally, the “shoulder seasons” (spring/fall) give you ideal lighting, cheaper stays, and better filming-location access.

8. How can I make my set-jetting trip Instagram-worthy?

Recreate iconic scenes!

Wear subtle, show-inspired outfits.
Use the same angles or landmarks as seen in the movie.
Visit during “golden hour” (sunrise/sunset) for perfect lighting.
Add a caption like “Standing where Eleven skated 🛼 – #StrangerThingsSetJetting”.
Bonus: Use hashtags like #SetJettingUSA, #FilmTourism, or #OnLocation to join global communities.

9. Is set-jetting expensive?

Not necessarily. You can plan a budget-friendly trip by:

Choosing locations near your current region.
Staying in local inns or Airbnbs.
Using self-guided walking tours instead of paid ones.
However, exclusive studio experiences or remote film sites may cost more. Budget about the same as a short-city vacation — roughly $100–$200 per day, depending on your travel style.

10. What new or upcoming U.S. filming spots should fans watch for in 2025?

Several upcoming productions are predicted to boost new destinations:

Hawaii & Puerto Rico – upcoming adventure remakes.
These spots are likely to appear in 2025–2026 set-jetting lists — so planning a trip early can give you first-mover bragging rights!
Georgia & South Carolina – new Marvel and Netflix projects.
Utah & Nevada deserts – sci-fi epics and post-apocalyptic thrillers.

Final Thoughts

Set-jetting transforms a typical travel trip into story-based adventure. Whether you’re a fan of mysteries in the Pacific Northwest (Twin Peaks), 80s sci-fi in Albuquerque (Stranger Things), coastal treasure hunts (Outer Banks), cowboy dramas in Texas (1883), or dramatic cliff scenes in Malibu — there’s a spot for you.

Pick your show → pick your location → plan your trip → live your moment.
And whichever destination you choose, take a pause along the way to just feel the place — walk the street your character walked, sit where a scene was filmed, look at the view and say: “I was here.”