Netflix’s smash hit “Stranger Things” combines a talented young cast (led by stars like Millie Bobby Brown and Finn Wolfhard) with acting veterans like Winona Ryder and David Harbour. This electrifying mix of 1980s nostalgia, government conspiracies and supernatural thrills has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
With the fictional town of Hawkins becoming a household name, fans often ask the same question: Where was “Stranger Things” actually filmed? If you’re looking to explore the real-world locations behind the Wheeler house, the eerie Hawkins Lab or memorable spots from later seasons, you’re in luck – there are plenty of places fans can visit.
Atlanta, Georgia, And The Surrounding Area Was A Major Filming Location
Key Scenes: Since the very first season, the state of Georgia has served as the production’s home base. As reported by Collider, “Stranger Things” utilizes the entertainment hub of Atlanta and several surrounding towns to create the series’ world. With its versatile backdrops and classic suburban atmosphere, Georgia provided the perfect canvas to build the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana.
Best Time to Visit: For the best experience, plan your trip during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These months offer the most pleasant weather for exploring outdoor filming locations. If you’re looking to save money, consider visiting in the winter (December to February). While it might be a bit chilly, this is typically the most affordable time to travel to the area.
Transportation Options: Atlanta and its surrounding areas may not be the easiest to navigate without public transportation, but there are options available. The MARTA rail and bus system is popular for major areas, but the Atlanta Streetcar is great for the downtown district. Alternatively, there are airport shuttles, private taxis and ride share services.
Georgia’s blend of suburban architecture, natural landscapes and film-ready infrastructure made it the ideal choice for production. Although the state is far from the show’s Midwestern setting of Indiana, it has played a seamless role throughout all four seasons. According to Collider, several real-world locations in Georgia provided the integral backdrops for Hawkins’ most famous landmarks.
The ominous exterior where Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) was experimented on is actually the former Georgia Mental Health Institute, located on the Emory University Briarcliff campus. Meanwhile, the neon-soaked setting for major battle scenes in later seasons was filmed at the Gwinnett Place Mall in Duluth, Georgia. Both Hawkins Middle School and Hawkins High School were depicted by the Patrick Henry Adult Education Center on South Lee Street in Stockbridge, Georgia.
Beyond these major landmarks, production crews utilized homes, stores and hospitals across Douglasville, Fayetteville, Smyrna and Atlanta to flesh out the world of the show.
Things to Do: While visiting the capital city, there are many mystical things to do and see, which may remind fans of “Stranger Things.” For one, the Atlanta Botanical Garden features some incredible seasonal exhibitions that showcase the natural beauty of the state and fantastical concepts. Then there is the popular Centennial Olympic Park, which is only about a 20-minute drive from Emory University. This park is well known for being the home of the 1996 Olympic Games, but is now filled with many different water features and walking paths.
Where to Eat: For visitors staying in Atlanta, there is the popular casual dining spot, The Vortex Bar & Grill. This adults-only burger spot, located in Little Five Points (with other locations), offers iconic bar options and a large menu. A more central and high-end experience can be uncovered at Ray’s In the City. This upscale restaurant serves seafood, steak, incredible wine options and has weekly live jazz.
Where to Stay: For travelers looking to splurge on comfort and stay in Atlanta, the Atlanta Marriott Marquis is a great choice. This hotel is well rated for its central location in the business district, proximity to nice restaurants, modern finishes, and high-rise views. A more economical option is the Home2 Suites by Hilton Atlanta Downtown, which is ideal. This accommodation still boasts a great location and all-suite rooms, making for a comfortable trip to the city.
New Mexico Played A Part In Creating The ‘Stranger Things’ Desert Terrain
Key Scenes: As the scope of “Stranger Things” grew, so did its setting. In season four, part of the Hawkins clan relocates to sunny Southern California – but the real filming took place in New Mexico. According to Condé Nast Traveler, the production team used Albuquerque and its surrounding areas to double for both the California suburbs and the vast Nevada desert, giving the show a fresh, distinct look.
Best Time to Visit: For the most comfortable experience, aim for spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). Both seasons offer mild weather and manageable crowds, making them ideal for exploring. Fall is a particularly popular choice because it coincides with several vibrant cultural events and festivals in the area.
Transportation Options: Travelers can take advantage of the free ABQ Ride bus system, hop on the Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) service or take the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter train. If you prefer to move at your own pace, the city is bike-friendly, and taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available.
As production designer Chris Trujillo explained to CN Traveler, the unique terrain of Albuquerque was the perfect stand-in for the show’s shift to the West Coast. The area served as the backdrop for “Lenora Hills,” the fictional town where the characters move to start a new life. Fans will recognize Eldorado High School as the real-life setting for Lenora High, where the intense scenes of Eleven being bullied were filmed.
In a massive visual twist, production also managed to turn the hot desert into snowy Alaska. Through the use of special effects, the storyline featuring Joyce and Murray’s rescue of Hopper was filmed in the same region, despite looking like a frozen wasteland. The location wasn’t just strictly business; the cast and crew fell in love with the area. Trujillo told CN Traveler that he and his family were “enchanted” by the desert landscape, adding, “I’d cruise around there again for sure.”
Things to Do: As Trujillo recommends, the Valles Caldera is an incredible place to explore while visiting Albuquerque. This expansive nature preserve is a local favorite that ranks as one of the best things to do due to its scenic beauty. Although this site is about two hours from central areas, it is well worth the trip. Then there is the Albuquerque Museum, which showcases local history and culture in a modern, central facility. For travelers who want to get to know the roots of New Mexico, this museum is a top cultural site.
Where to Eat: For foodies who enjoy having an array of options, the Sawmill Market is a nice food court-style option. This eclectic warehouse offers a variety of bar and eatery options, along with a spacious courtyard for outdoor enjoyment. A more casual atmosphere and taste of local flavors can be uncovered at La Guelaguetza. This restaurant is just 10 minutes away from the food market and offers curbside and dine-in Mexican cuisine.
Where to Stay: The Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town offers a more residential feel and is located near the Sawmill Market. This upscale hotel is ornamented with cultural decor and is near some of the most popular attractions in Albuquerque. Another well-rated but more affordable stay option is the Arrive Albuquerque. This accommodation offers a convenient location for sightseeing and exploring the area.
Lithuania Set The Scene For Snowy European Backdrops
Key Scenes: According to Cosmopolitan, a portion of the show was set in Russia but was actually filmed in Lithuania. Despite their similar landscapes, these locations are very different. Scenes showcasing Hopper landing in a snowy prison camp are actually showcasing a real-life prison in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Best Time to Visit: To see Vilnius at its best, plan your trip for late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and the scenery is striking, creating the perfect conditions for walking tours and other outdoor activities.
Transportation Options: There is an extensive public bus and trolleybus network in Vilnius. For long-distance travel in Lithuania, the most convenient ways to get around are by bus or train. Alternatively, there are taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber (as well as car rental services like Citybee and Bolt Drive).
While Lithuania is often an underrated travel destination, it proved to be the ideal location for some of the darker storylines of “Stranger Things.” The most iconic location used was Lukiškės Prison. With its own dark real-world history and eerie atmosphere, it served as the authentic backdrop for the intense gulag scenes featuring Hopper.
The Lithuanian countryside also played a major role. Production Designer Chris Trujillo told CN Traveler that the forests felt “larger and older” than those in the US. He noted that the unique quality of the light in the region gave these scenes a distinct, moody look that stands out entirely from the footage shot in Georgia.
Things to Do: If you want to retrace the steps of the cast and crew – or just have some fun – check out Who Hit John. This gem in the heart of the city is a must for nightlife lovers. Known for its great vibes and excellent cocktails, it was a favorite hangout for the “Stranger Things” team, offering you a little peek into their off-duty life. For a more hands-on experience, visit the Vilnius Museum of Illusions. It features immersive exhibitions, mind-bending optical illusions and unique artwork that make for great photo ops.
Where to Eat: The Etno Dvaras is a highly celebrated Lithuanian restaurant to check out. This spot is relatively affordable and serves authentic, local cuisine. For a bite of something a bit different, the Galo do Porto is a popular Portuguese restaurant. It serves traditional dishes with impressive plating and offers a friendly atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Hotel Pacai is one of the top-rated accommodations in Vilnius, and its location in charming Old Town makes it a great option for visitors. The historic mansion is an elegant yet modern accommodation option with a classic style. Then there is the more economical option, Artis, which is located in the historic center and nearby popular shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did “Stranger Things” season one come out?
Season one of the series premiered worldwide on Netflix on July 15, 2016, per IMDb.
When was “Stranger Things” season four filmed?
According to ScreenRant, filming for season four began in early 2020 but was delayed due to the pandemic. It later resumed in 2020 and wrapped up in 2021, which reflects in the season release gap fans likely noticed.
