The Most Iconic Movie Set Filming Destinations

Film fans and travelers alike have long been drawn to visiting the real-world places where some of cinema’s most iconic scenes were filmed. From exotic fantasy lands to ordinary neighborhood streets, the locations where our favorite movies were shot have taken on almost as much cinematic magic as the films themselves. 

Below we’ll explore some of the most legendary filming destinations that have become pilgrimage sites for film buffs and tourists through the years. Grab your camera and movie memory checklist as we embark on a journey to these iconic cinematic hotspots.

Forrest Gump: Savannah, Georgia

The sweeping Savannah, Georgia landscapes shown in Forrest Gump provide the nostalgic backdrop for many of the film’s pivotal scenes. Most famous is the park bench where Forrest narrates his life story to various strangers while waiting for the bus. The bench scene in Forrest Gump is where one of the most famous wisdom quotes was said: “My mama always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”. This iconic Chippewa Square park bench is located in Savannah’s Historic District and represents a memorable landmark for fans visiting the city.

Other recognizable Savannah spots seen in the film include the grand Live Oak trees draped in Spanish moss that Forrest runs through, as well as the picturesque Savannah streetscapes from the scene where Forrest meets Jenny again as an adult. Touring the Savannah sights seen in Forrest Gump allows fans to reminisce about the film’s meaningful moments and charming Southern scenery.

Harry Potter: Oxford, England

The ancient university city of Oxford provided the magical backdrop for many of the Harry Potter films’ most memorable scenes. Locations like the Bodleian Library and Divinity School at Oxford University were used as interior shots for the Hogwarts School library and infirmary. Fans can take Harry Potter walking tours around Oxford to see these iconic filming sites and experience the Gothic inspiration behind Hogwarts.

Another top Oxford Harry Potter site is the Christ Church dining hall, which served as the inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall with its long wooden tables and lit candles. Visitors can even grab a meal in the dining hall to feel like a Hogwarts student themselves. Oxford offers Harry Potter devotees an enchanting chance to step into the…