Florida in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
The sun-drenched Art Deco streets of Miami Beach come alive not just in real life but on screen, too. Just a short drive east from downtown Miami, this iconic district has served as the backdrop for countless films and television shows, including the stylish crime drama “Miami Vice.” Walking along Ocean Drive, visitors can admire the pastel-colored hotels with their geometric designs, neon lights, and vintage charm that evoke the 1980s vibe so central to that series. Beyond the nostalgic architecture, the area’s palm-lined sidewalks and Atlantic Ocean views make it a perfect place to soak up the sights that have become synonymous with Miami’s cinematic image. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the pastel hues of the buildings, ideal for photography and reliving scenes from the small screen.
Heading north along Florida’s Atlantic coast, the small town of Jupiter, roughly an hour’s drive north from Miami, offers a subtler but equally captivating connection to Hollywood. Jupiter’s Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum stood as a dramatic setting in movies like “Thunder in Paradise” and “The Sandlot.” Visitors can climb the 105 steps of the lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of the inlet and surrounding wetlands, a vantage point that blends natural beauty with cinematic history. The adjoining museum provides exhibits on local maritime history and the lighthouse’s role in film. Visiting in winter or spring brings pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring the trails around the lighthouse preserve, where native plants and birds complement the scene.
On Florida’s west coast, just outside Tampa about 30 minutes away lies the Hillsborough River State Park, a natural gem that doubled as a film set for scenes in “The Mosquito Coast” and “Joe Dirt 2.” The park’s lush river corridor, with its towering cypress trees and gentle rapids, offers miles of hiking and kayaking opportunities. The Riverside Trail is a popular three-mile loop that winds through dense forest and along the riverbank, revealing glimpses of the flora and fauna that provided a verdant backdrop for outdoor filming. Early mornings here offer misty river views and an abundance of birdlife, perfect for those who want to experience Florida’s wilderness as captured on screen.
Farther south in the Florida Keys, about an hour’s drive from Key West, Bahia Honda State Park is another cinematic landmark. This park’s turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and historic bridges made it a perfect filming location for scenes in “Licence to Kill” from the James Bond series. Visitors can snorkel along the park’s coral reefs or relax on the beach, surrounded by the vivid seascape that has dazzled both filmmakers and travelers. The park’s Old Bahia Honda Bridge, now a pedestrian walkway, offers striking views of the ocean and the Lower Keys islands. Late afternoons here bring spectacular sunsets, turning the sky into a canvas reminiscent of the dramatic closing shots in many films.
Moving inland, the charming town of St. Augustine, about 45 minutes south of Jacksonville, is steeped in history and has appeared in numerous productions, including parts of “Key Largo” and “The Legend of Tarzan.” The Castillo de San Marcos, the nation’s oldest masonry fort, is a standout attraction and a filming favorite due to its imposing coquina stone walls and strategic harbor views. Visitors can explore its well-preserved bastions and watch reenactments of its storied past. The town’s cobblestone streets and colonial-era architecture create an atmospheric setting that transports visitors back in time, providing a tangible connection to the historical narratives featured in cinema and television. Visiting in the fall or spring avoids the summer heat while still enjoying the town’s vibrant festivals and outdoor dining.
Close to Orlando, the historic Citrus Tower in Clermont has been a quirky filming location, featuring in productions like “Zombieland.” This 226-foot observation tower offers sweeping views across the rolling hills and orange groves, a rare sight in Florida’s otherwise flat landscape. Visitors can ascend to the observation deck to see the patchwork of citrus farms and lakes that define the region. The tower’s retro appeal and panoramic vistas make it a unique photo stop for fans of the film and anyone curious about Florida’s agricultural heritage. Early morning visits provide cooler temperatures and clearer skies, ideal for capturing the expansive views.
Down in the Panhandle, the small coastal city of Pensacola, about 30 minutes west of the Alabama border, has hosted scenes from the TV series “The Glades” and the film “Jaws 2.” The historic Pensacola Beach offers wide sandy shores, the iconic Casino Beach pavilion, and a laid-back vibe that contrasts with the tension of its on-screen portrayals. Visitors can stroll the beach, watch kite surfers, or explore the nearby Gulf Islands National Seashore, where nature and cinematic history intertwine. Spring and early fall provide mild weather and fewer crowds, enhancing the chance to enjoy the beach settings that have featured so prominently in regional productions.
Finally, just north of Tampa in the town of Tarpon Springs, the sponge docks area has been used in films like “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie” for its authentic Greek-American cultural atmosphere. The waterfront district buzzes with sponge boats, seafood markets, and Byzantine-style architecture, offering visitors a vivid sense of place rarely found in Florida’s more touristy spots. Strolling along the docks, you can sample fresh seafood and watch sponge divers unload their daily catch, immersing yourself in the lively scenes that have inspired filmmakers. Visiting during the annual Epiphany celebration in January adds another layer of cultural depth that ties into the town’s cinematic charm.
From the sun-soaked beaches of Miami and the Keys to the historic streets of St. Augustine and the natural wilderness of central Florida, these locations invite visitors to walk in the footsteps of their favorite films and shows. Each place offers a unique lens on the state’s diverse landscapes and stories, making Florida a vibrant backdrop not only for movies and TV but also for unforgettable travel experiences.