Virginia in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just a short drive west from Richmond, the historic town of Colonial Williamsburg offers a living history experience that’s been featured in numerous period dramas and documentaries. This meticulously preserved 18th-century district lets visitors step back in time with costumed interpreters, restored buildings, and cobblestone streets. Films like “Lincoln” and “National Treasure: Book of Secrets” captured the authentic colonial atmosphere here. Walking the Duke of Gloucester Street, you can imagine the bustle of Revolutionary America, and special reenactments add to the immersive feel. Fall and spring bring particularly pleasant weather for strolling, with vibrant seasonal foliage or blooming gardens enhancing the scenic charm.
Heading south toward the coast, Norfolk’s Granby Street district has appeared in several modern TV shows and movies due to its eclectic urban vibe and waterfront views. Located just a few miles east of downtown Norfolk, Granby Street offers lively shops, restaurants, and public art. The nearby Norfolk Botanical Garden, about a 10-minute drive from town center, showcases a stunning variety of plant collections and themed gardens that have served as backdrops for nature-focused documentaries. Visiting in late spring or early summer lets you enjoy peak blooms, while the pleasant climate year-round invites exploration. The juxtaposition of historic naval sites and contemporary culture makes this area uniquely photogenic.
In the mountains west of Roanoke, the Blue Ridge Parkway’s McAfee Knob overlook is a cinematic favorite for its sweeping vistas that have graced numerous outdoor adventure films and series. Located approximately 30 minutes northwest of Roanoke, this spot is famed for its dramatic rock outcrop jutting over rolling hills and valleys. The hike to McAfee Knob is about 8 miles round-trip, moderately challenging but rewarding with panoramic views at an elevation of nearly 3,200 feet. Filmmakers are drawn to its epic scenery, which encapsulates the Blue Ridge’s rugged beauty better than most spots. Early fall is ideal for visiting, when colorful foliage paints the landscape in fiery reds and golds, enhancing the natural grandeur.
Further east, Alexandria’s Old Town neighborhood has been a prime setting for numerous historical and contemporary productions thanks to its well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture along the Potomac River. Just a short drive from Washington, D.C., Old Town features winding brick sidewalks, colonial-era taverns, and waterfront parks. The Torpedo Factory Art Center adds an artistic flair with its working studios and galleries, frequently captured in documentaries on American art. Strolling the King Street pedestrian corridor provides a blend of history, shopping, and dining, making it a vibrant experience. Springtime offers mild weather and cherry blossoms along the waterfront, perfect for outdoor filming or a leisurely walk.
Down on Virginia’s Eastern Shore near Chincoteague, the wildlife refuge and surrounding tidal marshes helped bring the story of “Misty of Chincoteague” to life. About a 90-minute drive southeast of Norfolk, this quiet island town offers visitors a chance to explore sandy beaches, salt marshes, and the famous wild ponies that roam freely. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge includes miles of hiking trails and birdwatching spots, giving a close-up look at coastal ecosystems featured in nature series and family films alike. Summer and early fall are prime times to visit, as the weather is warm and the ponies are most visible during the annual Pony Swim event, which inspired the beloved story.
In the heart of Richmond, the Virginia State Capitol grounds and surrounding historic districts have frequently stood in for various political thrillers and Civil War dramas. Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the Capitol building’s neoclassical architecture offers a grand, stately backdrop that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Nearby, the Shockoe Bottom neighborhood with its brick warehouses and cobblestone streets adds industrial-era atmosphere that filmmakers treasure. Guided tours inside the Capitol offer insight into the building’s history and design, making it a rewarding stop for history buffs and movie fans. Visiting on a clear autumn day allows for crisp photos with vibrant leaves framing the monument.
Lastly, the small town of Abingdon in southwestern Virginia is a gem for lovers of theater and film history. Just about 15 miles from Bristol, Abingdon is home to the Barter Theatre, the state theater of Virginia, which has hosted countless live performances and served as a filming location for several productions. The Barter’s historic stage has welcomed stars and storytellers for over 80 years, making it a cultural cornerstone. The nearby Virginia Creeper Trail offers a scenic outdoor escape with gentle terrain, perfect for cycling or hiking through lush Appalachian landscapes. Early fall is a wonderful time to visit for a show, combined with colorful trailside views and crisp mountain air. This blend of performing arts and natural beauty makes Abingdon a unique cinematic destination in Virginia.