If you’ve totally fallen in love with a movie, chances are you’ve fallen in love with its setting, too. True cinephiles will delight in seeking out movie backdrops in the wild, visiting the cities and natural spaces that starred alongside their favorite actors on the big screen. From moody urban streets and vibrant cityscapes to lush countryside and stark desert landscapes, these destinations have inspired unforgettable movie moments.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Atlanta, USA – The Futuristic Icon
The Atlanta Marriott Marquis has appeared in blockbuster films from The Hunger Games to Spider-Man: Homecoming. Its 52-floor atrium has served as a futuristic backdrop in Loki and as the Tribute Center in Catching Fire. Beyond the big screen, guests can enjoy the hotel’s pool, fitness center, and dining — or attend Dragon Con, Atlanta’s iconic pop culture convention.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – “Crazy Rich Asians” Glamour
Many lavish scenes from Crazy Rich Asians were filmed at The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur and nearby locations like the Perdana Botanical Gardens. The Carcosa Seri Negara mansion doubled as Nick Young’s family estate, while other luxury spots brought John M. Chu’s dazzling adaptation to life.
Cleveland, USA – Superman’s Metropolis
In the 2025 Superman film, Cleveland’s Public Square becomes Metropolis, where epic battles unfold. Visitors can explore the Leader Building (Daily Planet HQ), Progressive Field (home of Superman’s brawls), and Hotel Cleveland, restored to its 1920s grandeur.
Edinburgh, Scotland – Gothic Drama
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein (2025) transformed Parliament Square into a 19th-century street. Stay at The Glasshouse, a boutique hotel blending historic architecture with modern comforts. Just outside Edinburgh, North Esk Reservoir and Arniston House also appear in cinematic works.
Namibia – “Mad Max: Fury Road”
The stark beauty of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund set the apocalyptic tone for Fury Road. Visitors can explore dunes, canyons, and lagoons teeming with flamingos, before relaxing at coastal resorts overlooking the Atlantic.
London & Beyond – “Wicked” and “Snow White”
Director John M. Chu brought Wicked to life with sets in Hertfordshire and flower fields near Norfolk. Meanwhile, Surrey’s Bourne Wood — a frequent star in films from Gladiator to Harry Potter — hosted scenes from Snow White and the Huntsman. Stay at St. Ermin’s Hotel in London for easy access to these legendary film locations.
Whidbey Island, USA – “Practical Magic”
Coupeville, Washington doubled as a Cape Cod village in Practical Magic. Fans return yearly for festivals celebrating the film. Stay nearby at The Westin Seattle, which itself appeared in The Ring and offers stunning skyline views.
Final Thoughts
For cinephiles, traveling to real-life filming locations offers a chance to relive cinematic magic while exploring vibrant destinations. From Namibia’s deserts to Scotland’s gothic streets and Malaysia’s lush gardens, these places prove that the setting can be just as captivating as the story itself.
