Pop culture tourism, the practice of traveling to destinations featured in famous films or TV shows, has become a popular phenomenon for travelers looking to step into the fictional worlds of their favorite characters. The idea of standing where your favorite movie scenes were shot or exploring the places where iconic TV moments took place creates an irresistible allure. This type of tourism blends the magic of on-screen storytelling with real-world exploration, providing fans an opportunity to experience firsthand the landscapes and locations that shaped their beloved series and movies. From castles featured in fantasy sagas to charming streets that have become synonymous with iconic characters, pop culture tourism offers a truly unique way to experience destinations. Let’s delve into some of the most popular locations from TV shows and films that fans are flocking to for an immersive experience.
One of the most influential TV series of recent years, “Game of Thrones,” has given rise to a wave of tourism at the show’s breathtaking filming locations. The epic fantasy saga was filmed across several countries, and its captivating settings have inspired millions of travelers to visit. Dubrovnik, Croatia, which doubled as King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, is perhaps one of the most famous destinations. With its medieval architecture, ancient city walls, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik offers fans the chance to relive key scenes from the show. A stroll along the city walls provides panoramic views that match the grandeur depicted in the series. Similarly, Northern Ireland’s landscapes, which featured heavily throughout the show, have drawn visitors eager to explore places like The Dark Hedges, the eerie road that served as the Kingsroad, and Castle Ward, which became Winterfell, the seat of House Stark. Guided tours throughout Northern Ireland are popular among fans, allowing them to experience locations while learning about the behind-the-scenes stories of how the show was made.
Scotland has also seen a surge in tourism thanks to “Outlander,” the historical time-travel series based on Diana Gabaldon’s novels. The series, known for its breathtaking visuals, used real Scottish locations to depict the 18th-century Highlands, and these sites have since become major attractions for fans. Doune Castle, which stood in for Castle Leoch, has become a favorite destination for those wanting to experience a piece of the show’s history. The village of Falkland, which represented the 1940s town of Inverness, offers another point of interest for fans. Walking through Falkland feels like stepping back in time, with its charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture. For travelers seeking natural beauty, the show’s depiction of the rugged Scottish landscapes, such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the magical Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, have become must-visit spots for fans and travelers alike.
“Harry Potter” has enchanted generations of fans, and the locations used in the film series have become popular pilgrimage sites for devoted Potterheads. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, located in Scotland, is not only famous for its appearance in “Outlander” but also for featuring the Hogwarts Express train scenes in the “Harry Potter” films. Many visitors time their visits to coincide with the Jacobite Steam Train passing over the viaduct, allowing them to recreate the magic of traveling to Hogwarts. London also serves as a hub for Harry Potter enthusiasts. Kings Cross Station, particularly Platform 9¾, has a special place in the hearts of fans, as it was where young witches and wizards would catch the Hogwarts Express. Today, visitors can pose for a photo with a luggage trolley that appears to be vanishing into the wall, just as it did in the movies. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Leavesden, located just outside London, offers an immersive experience with authentic sets, props, and costumes, making it a must-visit for those wishing to learn more about how the magical world of Harry Potter was brought to life on screen.
The romantic streets of Paris, with their iconic architecture and dreamy atmosphere, have long been a favorite setting for filmmakers, making the city a popular destination for pop culture tourism. One recent hit, “Emily in Paris,” captured viewers with its depiction of the glamorous life of an American marketing executive navigating the City of Light. Fans of the show have flocked to Parisian neighborhoods like Montmartre, where Emily lived, as well as the Palais Royal, the spot where she shared a memorable conversation with her love interest, Gabriel. Paris’s charm has also been highlighted in other movies, such as “Midnight in Paris,” “Amélie,” and “Moulin Rouge.” Each of these films has showcased different aspects of the city’s personality, and travelers often find themselves visiting the same streets and cafes that played a part in these iconic films.
New York City has always been a central character in countless films and TV shows, and it continues to attract tourists who wish to live out their favorite scenes. Fans of the long-running sitcom “Friends” often find themselves visiting the Greenwich Village building that served as the exterior for Monica’s and Rachel’s apartment. Central Park, one of the most iconic locations in New York, has been featured in films like “Home Alone 2,” “When Harry Met Sally,” and “Enchanted,” making it a popular spot for tourists looking to relive movie magic. Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment stoop from “Sex and the City,” located on Perry Street in Manhattan’s West Village, is another fan favorite. Visitors pose on the steps where Carrie delivered her trademark voiceovers and reflected on her relationships. Exploring New York City as a fan of these iconic shows allows you to see the city through the lens of your favorite characters and experience firsthand the places that played a significant role in their stories.
Not all pop culture destinations are centered in bustling cities. Some are remote, off-the-beaten-path locations that have gained recognition because of their roles in films or TV series. One such example is Matamata, New Zealand, the filming location for Hobbiton in “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies. Peter Jackson chose the lush, rolling hills of this area to bring J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth to life, and today, Hobbiton remains a fully functioning set open to visitors. Guests can wander through the charming hobbit holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn, and explore the Shire in an experience that is both magical and immersive. Another destination that has risen to fame due to a film is Skellig Michael, an island off the coast of Ireland that was used as Luke Skywalker’s hideout in the latest “Star Wars” trilogy. While it takes a bit of effort to get there, including a boat ride over potentially choppy waters, the reward is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows fans to stand in the very spot where pivotal scenes were filmed.
The impact of pop culture tourism extends beyond just personal experiences. Many locations that have appeared on-screen have seen a boom in local economies due to the influx of fans wanting to visit. Tourism boards in places like Croatia, New Zealand, and Northern Ireland have capitalized on the opportunity to attract more visitors by promoting the filming locations of beloved shows. Additionally, some cities and countries have embraced their role in pop culture by creating official tours, attractions, and events, further enhancing the experience for visitors. In some cases, however, the popularity of these filming locations has led to concerns over the environmental and social impact of increased tourism. For instance, Iceland, which also served as a filming location for “Game of Thrones,” has faced challenges related to preserving its natural landscapes amid growing numbers of visitors. As fans continue to explore these destinations, balancing the allure of pop culture tourism with sustainable travel practices becomes increasingly important.
Pop culture tourism offers fans the opportunity to step into the worlds they have come to love through the screen. It blurs the lines between fiction and reality, enabling travelers to connect more deeply with the stories and characters that have impacted their lives. Whether it’s walking through the enchanting streets of Paris, standing before the mighty gates of Winterfell, or exploring the verdant fields of the Shire, pop culture destinations provide unique experiences that elevate travel to an entirely new level. The magic of visiting these iconic locations is not only about taking a picture in front of a famous landmark—it’s about becoming part of a narrative that has inspired millions. As new TV shows and films capture audiences’ hearts, there will always be more places to explore, allowing fans to continue their journeys into the fictional worlds that bring them joy.
