Devin Jacobs
Cozy cafes, bustling city streets, grand estates, and picturesque settings all add to the magic of television. Imagine standing in the very spot where your favorite characters once brought stories to life. For those eager to connect with beloved shows beyond the screen, here’s a look at the TV spots you shouldn’t miss in every state.
Alabama: Blaque Cigar Lounge (Love and Marriage: Huntsville)
A sophisticated stage for “Love and Marriage: Huntsville,” Blaque Cigar Lounge in Huntsville sets the stage for many pivotal scenes. Owned by a cast member, it presents a combination of luxury and intimacy that matches the show’s dramatic moments. Visitors often enjoy the lounge’s curated cigar selection, making it a hotspot beyond its TV fame.
Alaska: Dutch Harbor (Deadliest Catch)
Rugged terrains and treacherous waters define Dutch Harbor, the home base for the daring crab fishermen of “Deadliest Catch.” This location plays a critical role in the narrative, capturing the dangerous life at sea. Even outside of TV popularity, this port is acclaimed as one of the busiest fishing locations in the United States.
Arizona: Tanque Verde Guest Ranch (Hey Dude)
At the foot of the Rincon Mountains, Tanque Verde Guest Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, provided the sun-drenched scene for the beloved 90s show “Hey Dude.” With its sprawling desert views and rustic charm, this working ranch brought the show’s adventures to life. Today, sightseers can participate in various activities, from horseback riding to guided desert hikes.
Arkansas: Herman’s Rib House (True Detective, Season 3)
Deep in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Herman’s Rib House was integral to the third season of “True Detective.” Known for its mouthwatering BBQ, this local favorite also served as a significant filming location that supported the series’ gritty ambiance. The restaurant has been a local favorite since 1964, long before its time on TV.
California: Pasadena City Hall (Parks and Recreation)
Elegantly standing in the heart of Pasadena, City Hall’s grand architecture made it the perfect stand-in for Pawnee’s government building in “Parks and Recreation.” Its iconic façade is synonymous with the fictional town’s allure. Recognized as a prime example of the Spanish Colonial Revival style, it’s also a popular destination for architecture enthusiasts.
Colorado: Mork and Mindy’s House (Happy Days)
In Boulder, Colorado, a quaint Victorian house gained fame as Mork’s home in “Mork and Mindy,” a beloved spinoff from “Happy Days.” With its distinct charm, this iconic exterior continues to attract fans and symbolize the quirky, heartwarming comedy that introduced the world to Robin Williams.
Connecticut: The Turkey Hill Farmstead (The Martha Stewart Show)
Tucked away in Westport, Connecticut, Turkey Hill Farmstead is where “The Martha Stewart Show” found its most authentic environment. This serene farm, with lush gardens and a classic farmhouse, perfectly reflected the core of Martha Stewart’s lifestyle brand. Guests often come to experience the elegance and simplicity showcased in her show.
Delaware: Dewey Beach (Big Beach Builds)
Renovations in “Big Beach Builds” often centered around Dewey Beach, Delaware, a vibrant coastal town noted for its lively atmosphere. Under the guidance of host Marnie Oursler, ordinary beach homes became stunning retreats, highlighting this popular summer spot. Even now, Dewey Beach remains a beloved joint for relaxation and adventure.
Florida: Bayside Marketplace (Miami Vice)
Pulsing with energy, Bayside Marketplace in Miami became synonymous with the 80s classic “Miami Vice.” Energy and excitement filled this waterfront, totally matching the show’s pace. Beyond its TV popularity, Bayside Marketplace continues to draw visitors for shopping, dining, and live entertainment, making it a staple of Miami culture.
Georgia: Mystic Grill (The Vampire Diaries)
Covington, Georgia, where Mystic Grill is located, is a fan-favorite destination thanks to “The Vampire Diaries.” Prominently featured in the series, the restaurant draws in fans eager to experience the same small-town charm seen on screen. Covington’s rich history in film makes it a must-visit for TV enthusiasts.
Hawaii: Police Beach (Lost)
On Oahu’s North Shore, a stretch of coastline known as Police Beach became the eerie, isolated site for “Lost.” Rugged and untamed, the beach was chosen as the filming location for the show’s mysterious island scenes. Fans visit to walk the same sands where the survivors’ harrowing adventures unfolded.
Idaho: Pocatello High School (Ghost Hunters)
Rumored ghostly encounters at Pocatello High School in Idaho made it the perfect filming location for “Ghost Hunters.” Its eerie history and striking architecture added to the show’s supernatural vibe. Paranormal enthusiasts frequently explore its haunted halls, hoping to enjoy the otherworldly energy captured on screen.
Illinois: Old Joliet Prison (Prison Break)
Shrouded in history, Old Joliet Prison in Illinois played a critical role in “Prison Break,” standing for Fox River State Penitentiary. The prison’s foreboding walls and storied past enhanced the show’s fierce vibe. Guided tours give a peek into its real-life heritage and the series’ world.
Indiana: St. Elmo Steak House (Parks and Recreation)
Amidst the bustling scene in Indianapolis, St. Elmo Steak House carved out its place in “Parks and Recreation,” quickly becoming a favored dining spot for the show’s characters. Recognized far past the screen for its legendary shrimp cocktail, the restaurant continues to attract travelers eager to taste a piece of heritage and pop culture.
Iowa: Kinnick Stadium (Coach)
Echoes of fictional touchdowns from “Coach” can still be felt at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. It depicted the home games of the Minnesota State Screaming Eagles. This real-life stadium, however, is the proud base of the Iowa Hawkeyes, drawing football fans from across the state to its storied field.
Kansas: Jones Bar-B-Q (Queer Eye)
Hidden in Kansas City, Kansas, Jones Bar-B-Q gained national fame through its heartfelt feature on “Queer Eye.” Highlighting the restaurant’s legacy, run by the Jones sisters, the show celebrated their dedication to traditional barbecue. Sightseers can enjoy the same mouthwatering flavors that left the Fab Five—and the audience—in awe.
Kentucky: Harlan County (Justified)
The gritty modern-day western “Justified” finds its roots in Kentucky’s Appalachian mountains of Harlan County. It follows U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens as he steers through the criminal underworld of this rural area. Although much of the series was filmed in California, Harlan County’s real legacy of bootlegging and its craggy terrain inspired the intense and atmospheric vibe of the show.
Louisiana: Buckner Mansion (American Horror Story)
Hauntingly beautiful, Buckner Mansion in New Orleans emerged as a central character in “American Horror Story: Coven.” Elegantly eerie, the stately home provided an impeccable setting for the supernatural series. Today, it stands as one of New Orleans’ most quintessential architectural landmarks, attracting fans of the show and lovers of historic homes.
Maine: Kennebec Cabin Company (Maine Cabin Masters)
Headquartered in Manchester, Maine, Kennebec Cabin Company is home to “Maine Cabin Masters.” The cast beautifully showcases Maine’s rustic retreats as they bring new life to old cabins. Fans often visit the company’s retail shop, which features local crafts and memorabilia from the show.
Maryland: The Bolton Hill Townhouse (House of Cards)
Within the historic neighborhoods of Baltimore, Maryland, a row house became notorious as the Underwood residence in “House of Cards.” The home’s classic architecture was an excellent background for the show’s intense political drama. Walking tours of the area often highlight this location, connecting fans to the dark intrigue of the series.
Massachusetts: Cheers, Beacon Hill (Cheers)
A bar in Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood gained worldwide fame as the inspiration for the beloved sitcom Cheers. Although the interior scenes were filmed on soundstage, the exterior shots and iconic signs were from the real-life Cheers bar. People regularly visit to experience a place where everybody knows your name.
Michigan: Pol Veterinary Services (The Incredible Dr. Pol)
In the small town of Weidman, Michigan, Pol Veterinary Services emerged as the heart of “The Incredible Dr. Pol.” The clinic, run by Dr. Jan Pol, is featured in the show as he cares for animals across rural Michigan. Visitors often come to see the clinic and meet the famous veterinarian who has captured the hearts of animal lovers.
Minnesota: The Mary Tyler Moore House (The Mary Tyler Moore Show)
A charming Victorian house in Minneapolis, Minnesota, became a remarkable landmark thanks to “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” As the setting for Mary Richards’ residence, the house’s exterior became a cherished landmark for viewers. Now, it is a tribute to the groundbreaking series celebrating independent women.
Mississippi: Rust College (Quarry)
Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi, was prominently featured in the gritty series “Quarry.” Intense and dramatic moments in the show were set against the college’s historic and captivating campus. Travelers to Rust College can explore the grounds that played a significant role in the show’s narrative.
Missouri: The Kansas City Queer Eye Loft (Queer Eye)
In Kansas City, Missouri, a stylish loft turned into the home base for the Fab Five in “Queer Eye.” Sleek in design and warm ambiance, the loft echoed the show’s underlying themes of transformation and acceptance. Fans primarily seek out this location to connect with the uplifting spirit of the series.
Montana: Chief Joseph Ranch (Yellowstone)
Set against the stunning backdrop of Montana’s rugged terrain, Chief Joseph Ranch is the real-life Dutton family ranch in “Yellowstone.” Expansive vistas and an authentic Western feel amplify the drama and power struggles in the series. It is also a working guest ranch, which offers guests a genuine taste of the Western lifestyle depicted in the show.
Nebraska: The Scottish Rite Masonic Center (Creature Feature)
The Scottish Rite Masonic Center’s historic and mysterious ambiance in Omaha, Nebraska, made it a perfect fit for “Creature Feature.” With its striking architecture and rich history, the Masonic Center added an extra layer of authenticity to the show’s eerie vibe. Beyond its television fame, the venue is known for hosting various cultural events.
Nevada: The Las Vegas Strip (Friends)
Las Vegas’s vibrant Strip set the stage for one of “Friends”‘ most unforgettable storylines. The city’s bright lights and lively atmosphere totally contrast the chaos of Ross and Rachel’s impromptu wedding. Beyond its role in the show, the Strip remains a symbol of spontaneous fun and wild adventures, much like the episode itself.
New Hampshire: Frankenstein Trestle (Running Wild With Bear Grylls)
High above the White Mountains, Frankenstein Trestle in New Hampshire became a grueling challenge on “Running Wild With Bear Grylls.” Grylls and his celebrity guests face an actual endurance test in the dramatic setting. In recent times, the trestle, a popular spot for hikers and thrill-seekers, grants breathtaking views and a connection to the show’s intense survival experiences.
New Jersey: Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionery (The Sopranos)
What became the legendary end of “The Sopranos” took place at Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionery in Bloomfield, New Jersey. The choice of this old-school diner added to the tension and ambiguity that left viewers in suspense. Holsten’s remains a symbolic site in television history, representing one of the most debated endings in TV.
New Mexico: The White House (Breaking Bad)
Albuquerque’s most notorious address isn’t political—it’s the White family home from “Breaking Bad.” With its now-iconic pizza-on-the-roof scene, the unassuming house changed into the heart of Walter White’s descent into the drug trade. Even though the show ended, the house remains a popular spot, though the current owners might prefer you leave your pizzas at home!
New York: Magnolia Bakery (Sex and the City)
Magnolia Bakery is more than just a sweet spot in the heart of Manhattan—it’s a pop culture icon thanks to “Sex and the City.” Carrie Bradshaw and her friends made this little bakery famous with their love for its cupcakes. While the bakery still serves those famous treats, the natural charm is feeling like you’re part of the city’s chicest circle, one cupcake at a time.
North Carolina: The Cracker Jack Table (One Tree Hill)
Over in Wilmington, North Carolina, “One Tree Hill” fans will recognize the Cracker Jack table where so many of the show’s pivotal conversations took place. This table, tucked inside Karen’s Café, was more than just a piece of furniture—it was where friendships were forged and secrets spilled. The café might be fictional, but the love for this show in Wilmington is real.
North Dakota: Bakken (Boomtowners)
The rugged oil fields of Bakken in North Dakota provided the dramatic backdrop for “Boomtowners,” a series that delved into the lives of those chasing fortune in the boomtowns. Life in Bakken was portrayed with all its rough edges and opportunities, capturing the true essence of modern-day frontier life. It’s a place where the American Dream is pursued with grit and determination.
Ohio: Cincinnati Enquirer Building (WKRP in Cincinnati)
In downtown Cincinnati, the historic Cincinnati Enquirer Building became famous as the exterior of the fictional WKRP radio station in “WKRP in Cincinnati.” Initially built in 1926, this 14-story limestone building served as the headquarters for the Cincinnati Enquirer newspaper. Today, it has been beautifully restored and repurposed into two hotels, The Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites.
Oklahoma: The Oklahoma National Memorial (Saving Grace)
Where history and drama intertwine, the Oklahoma National Memorial in Oklahoma City served as a powerful backdrop in “Saving Grace.” Profound themes of loss, redemption, and justice were explored against the memorial’s backdrop. Beyond its role on the show, the memorial is a powerful tribute to the resilience and strength of a community that overcame tragedy.
Oregon: Portland (Grimm)
Moody weather, dense forests, and historic buildings made Portland the ideal setting for the dark fantasy of “Grimm.” Iconic spots like the grand Pittock Mansion and the mysterious trails of Forest Park were prominently featured in the show. Even Portland’s industrial areas contributed to the supernatural atmosphere, enhancing the eerie world that captivated viewers.
Pennsylvania: Cooper’s Seafood House (The Office)
A local favorite in Scranton, Cooper’s Seafood House was immortalized in “The Office” as the site of Michael Scott’s infamous “Business Ethics” meeting. Beloved for its welcoming vibe and nautical theme, the restaurant has long attracted devoted patrons. Travelers visit not just for the food but to feel closer to the world of Dunder Mifflin.
Rhode Island: Block Island (The Affair)
Known for its dramatic and picturesque terrains, Block Island was a stunning setting in “The Affair.” Contrasting sharply with the series’ intense personal drama, the island’s serene environment added depth to the story. Block Island remains a favorite escape, with far fewer secrets than those that drove the show’s plot.
South Carolina: North Charleston Coliseum (The Righteous Gemstones)
Taking center stage in “The Righteous Gemstones,” the North Charleston Coliseum in South Carolina hosted the Gemstone family’s extravagant megachurch events. Its grandeur entirely captures the show’s themes of excess and spectacle. Outside of its role on television, the Coliseum is a critical venue for concerts and community events in the area.
South Dakota: The Black Hills (Gunsmoke)
Amidst the rugged terrain of South Dakota, the Black Hills provided the best backdrop for many episodes of “Gunsmoke.” These hills heighten the show’s authentic frontier atmosphere, which is celebrated for depicting the Old West. This area remains steeped in the heritage of the West, offering visitors a chance to step back into the era that “Gunsmoke” brought to life.
Tennessee: Bluebird Cafe (Nashville)
At the heart of Nashville’s music scene, the Bluebird Cafe emerged as an iconic location in the series “Nashville.” Countless country music careers have begun in this café, celebrated for its cozy atmosphere and superb acoustics. The city’s essence was perfectly captured at this venue, symbolizing dreams and heartbreaks in the show. Even outside the TV show, the Bluebird Cafe remains a must-visit spot for music lovers.
Texas: Pflugerville High School Stadium (Friday Night Lights)
Friday nights in Texas are legendary, especially at Pflugerville High School Stadium, the real-life stand-in for Dillon High’s football field in “Friday Night Lights.” Here, the show’s intense football scenes were filmed, flawlessly capturing high school football’s raw emotion and drama. Today, Pflugerville’s stadium is a pilgrimage site for series enthusiasts wanting to relive the glory of the Dillon Panthers.
Utah: Monument Valley (Westworld)
Monument Valley’s striking vistas in Utah provided a stunning background for “Westworld.” Expansive shots of the wild, untamed frontier were filmed here, where the rugged beauty adds depth to the series’ futuristic narrative. Monument Valley’s spectacular scenery has made it a favored location for filmmakers. Still, its appearance in “Westworld” reimagines the classic Western environment in a new light.
Vermont: The Waybury Inn (Newhart)
Situated in the small town of Middlebury, Vermont, the Waybury Inn gained fame as the exterior of the Stratford Inn in “Newhart.” Its quaint charm and picturesque surroundings were central to the show’s setting, representing the idyllic New England lifestyle. Even today, the Waybury Inn continues to welcome guests, many of whom come to experience a slice of TV heritage and the same hospitality that made the show a classic.
Virginia: Veritas School (Homeland)
Standing in for the Washington Navy Yard, Veritas School in Richmond, Virginia, played a pivotal role in the seventh season of “Homeland.” While high-stakes drama unfolded in the series, the school’s serene campus and stately architecture presented a striking contrast. Veritas School remains an essential institution in the community, recognized for its academic excellence and beautiful surroundings.
Washington: Salish Lodge & Spa (Twin Peaks)
Overlooking the dramatic Snoqualmie Falls, Salish Lodge & Spa in Washington was famous as the Great Northern Hotel in “Twin Peaks.” The lodge’s rustic charm and stunning views absolutely match the show’s eerie, mysterious atmosphere. Visitors to the lodge can still experience the unique blend of serenity and suspense that made “Twin Peaks” a cult classic.
West Virginia: Sissonville and Charleston (Buckwild)
“Buckwild,” the reality show famous for its wild antics, was primarily filmed in Sissonville, West Virginia, near Charleston. Young adults in this rural area faced the challenges of Appalachian life, with their adventurous spirit highlighted throughout the series. While Sissonville served as the main backdrop, some scenes highlighting the region’s distinctive culture and character were also shot in Charleston.
Wisconsin: ABC 27 News WKOW-TV (Battleground)
At ABC 27 News WKOW-TV in Madison, Wisconsin, the political world of “Battleground” came to life. By incorporating the real newsroom, the show brought a touch of realism to its comedic portrayal of campaign life. Madison’s reputation as a politically engaged city added an extra layer of authenticity to the series, making it a unique entry in TV political satire.
Wyoming: Lost Creek Ranch (Modern Family)
Set against the breathtaking scenery of the Teton Mountains, Lost Creek Ranch in Wyoming was featured in “Modern Family” as the Pritchett-Dunphy family’s vacation destination. The ranch’s expansive views and outdoor activities provided a perfect setting for the show’s family bonding episodes. It continues to welcome visitors by offering a mix of luxury and rustic adventure that matches the experience seen on screen.