Georgia in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just a short drive northeast of Atlanta lies the historic town of Senoia, a charming spot that has become synonymous with television fame thanks to its role as Woodbury in the hit series “The Walking Dead.” Visitors can stroll down Main Street, where many of the show’s iconic scenes were filmed, and explore local shops and cafes that retain the rustic, post-apocalyptic charm seen on screen. The town offers guided tours that reveal behind-the-scenes details about the production and how Senoia’s preserved Southern architecture and quiet streets made it a perfect stand-in for a world overrun by zombies. Autumn’s mild weather and colorful foliage add an atmospheric touch that enhances the eerie yet quaint vibe for fans and newcomers alike.
Heading south to the coastal city of Savannah, film lovers can immerse themselves in the cinematic ambiance of the historic district, a favorite backdrop for numerous movies including “Forrest Gump” and “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” The Savannah Historic District’s cobblestone streets, moss-draped live oaks, and grand 18th- and 19th-century mansions create a timeless setting that filmmakers adore. Visitors can wander through iconic squares like Chippewa Square, where the famous bench scene from “Forrest Gump” was shot, and explore elegant homes that appear in multiple films. Evening walks here bring a magical glow as streetlamps cast gentle light on the hauntingly beautiful architecture, making it a perfect time to soak in the cinematic history.
Farther inland near the city of Macon, about 85 miles south of Atlanta, lies the Ocmulgee National Monument, a site that recently gained attention as a filming location for historical dramas. This vast archaeological park preserves ancient Native American earthworks and offers hiking trails that climb to the top of the Great Temple Mound. Walking these trails provides a palpable sense of Georgia’s deep history and the natural landscapes that have captivated filmmakers. The monument’s unique prehistoric structures and peaceful river views offer a striking contrast to urban filming spots. Springtime, when wildflowers bloom along the trails, is ideal for experiencing the monument’s serene atmosphere and rich cultural layers.
In the charming mountain town of Dahlonega, about an hour north of Atlanta in the North Georgia Mountains, visitors can explore the Dahlonega Gold Museum and stroll through the historic square that has appeared in several films and TV shows set in rustic small-town America. Dahlonega’s gold rush history and preserved Victorian architecture provide a picturesque backdrop that stands out from Georgia’s southern plantations or urban settings. The museum’s exhibits showcase the story of Georgia’s first major gold strike and the people who shaped the region, giving film fans historical context to the area’s on-screen appearances. Fall brings crisp air and vibrant foliage, making a trip here especially scenic and evocative.
Just outside of the bustling city of Atlanta is Stone Mountain Park, a sprawling natural and cultural landmark known for its massive granite dome and outdoor entertainment that has attracted filmmakers for decades. The park’s vast open spaces, dense forests, and rugged cliffs have made it a versatile location for movies ranging from action blockbusters to family adventures. Visitors can hike the popular Walk-Up Trail to the summit for panoramic views that stretch across the Atlanta skyline and beyond. The park’s unique combination of natural grandeur and proximity to a major city makes it a standout filming locale. Early morning visits offer the best light for photography and a peaceful start before the crowds arrive.
Roughly two hours southwest of Atlanta in the town of Newnan, you’ll find a preserved downtown district frequently used for period dramas and films requiring authentic Southern charm. Newnan’s brick streets, antebellum homes, and quaint public square have made it a favorite filming spot for movies like “The Help,” where the town’s distinctive architecture and well-maintained residential streets lend credibility to mid-20th-century settings. Walking tours here reveal not only film locations but also the rich history of this cotton-farming hub. Spring and fall, when the weather is mild and azaleas or changing leaves brighten the streets, are perfect times to visit and absorb the historic ambiance.
Finally, the coastal barrier island of Tybee, near Savannah, offers a very different kind of filming experience with its windswept beaches, charming lighthouse, and laid-back fishing village vibe. Tybee Island has appeared in films that emphasize Georgia’s maritime culture and natural beauty, providing a serene seaside escape from urban filming spots. Visitors can climb the Tybee Island Light Station for sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean or kayak through salt marshes that teem with birdlife. The island’s relaxed pace and unspoiled coastal environment create a distinctive setting that contrasts with the state’s other cinematic locations. Summer mornings, when the beach is quiet and the ocean breeze is fresh, showcase Tybee’s tranquil charm perfectly.
Together, these locations reveal the remarkable diversity of Georgia’s landscapes and communities, all of which have contributed to the state’s growing reputation as “the Hollywood of the South.” From eerie zombie towns to stately historic districts, ancient mounds to granite mountains, filmmakers have found inspiration all over the state. Visiting these places offers fans a chance to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters and see firsthand the real-world backdrops that bring stories to life on screen. Whether you seek small-town nostalgia, coastal serenity, or rugged wilderness, Georgia’s film-friendly destinations invite you to explore and experience a world of storytelling outside the theater.