Where Did Stranger Things Film: A Journey Through the Upside Down of Filming Locations

“Stranger Things,” the critically acclaimed Netflix series, has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of 80s nostalgia, supernatural elements, and compelling storytelling. One of the most intriguing aspects of the show is its setting, which plays a crucial role in creating the eerie and mysterious atmosphere that fans have come to love. But where exactly did the creators film this iconic series? Let’s delve into the various locations that brought the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, to life.

The Heart of Hawkins: Jackson, Georgia

The primary filming location for “Stranger Things” is Jackson, Georgia, a small town that perfectly encapsulates the essence of a quintessential American town from the 1980s. Jackson’s downtown area, with its vintage storefronts and quaint streets, serves as the backdrop for many of the show’s key scenes. The town’s historic courthouse, for instance, doubles as the Hawkins Public Library, a pivotal location in the series.

The Byers’ Home

One of the most recognizable locations in Jackson is the Byers’ home, where Joyce Byers and her sons, Jonathan and Will, reside. This modest house, with its peeling paint and overgrown yard, perfectly captures the struggles of the Byers family. The home’s interior, filled with 80s memorabilia and a sense of lived-in chaos, adds depth to the characters and their storylines.

The Hawkins National Laboratory

Another significant location in Jackson is the Hawkins National Laboratory, the site of numerous experiments and the gateway to the Upside Down. The lab’s exterior is actually the Georgia Mental Health Institute, a decommissioned psychiatric hospital that provides the perfect eerie backdrop for the show’s darker themes. The institute’s imposing architecture and abandoned state contribute to the sense of dread and mystery that permeates the series.

Atlanta, Georgia: The Urban Backdrop

While Jackson serves as the primary filming location, Atlanta, Georgia, also plays a crucial role in bringing “Stranger Things” to life. The city’s diverse landscapes and modern infrastructure provide a stark contrast to the small-town charm of Jackson, allowing the show to explore different facets of its narrative.

The Starcourt Mall

One of the most iconic locations in the series is the Starcourt Mall, a sprawling shopping center that serves as a hub for the characters’ adventures in the third season. The mall’s vibrant atmosphere, complete with neon lights and 80s-themed stores, is a nostalgic nod to the era. The real-life location for Starcourt Mall is the Gwinnett Place Mall in Duluth, Georgia, which has since become a popular tourist destination for fans of the show.

The Upside Down

The Upside Down, a parallel dimension filled with danger and mystery, is another key element of “Stranger Things.” While much of the Upside Down is created using CGI and practical effects, some of its eerie landscapes are filmed in and around Atlanta. The city’s abandoned warehouses and industrial areas provide the perfect setting for the dark and foreboding world that lies beneath Hawkins.

Beyond Georgia: Other Filming Locations

While Georgia is the primary filming location for “Stranger Things,” the show’s creators have also utilized other locations to enhance the narrative and visual appeal of the series.

New Mexico: The Desert Landscape

In the second season, the show ventures beyond Hawkins to explore the desert landscape of New Mexico. This location serves as the setting for the mysterious facility where Eleven is held captive. The vast, barren landscape adds a sense of isolation and danger to the storyline, highlighting the stakes for the characters.

California: The Golden State

In the fourth season, the show expands its horizons to include California, where the Byers family relocates. The sunny beaches and suburban neighborhoods of California provide a stark contrast to the dark and foreboding atmosphere of Hawkins, offering a fresh perspective on the characters’ lives and struggles.

Conclusion

“Stranger Things” is a masterclass in world-building, and its filming locations play a crucial role in creating the show’s unique atmosphere. From the small-town charm of Jackson, Georgia, to the urban landscapes of Atlanta, and beyond to the deserts of New Mexico and the beaches of California, each location adds depth and dimension to the series. As fans eagerly await the next season, one thing is certain: the show’s creators will continue to use these diverse locations to tell compelling stories that keep us on the edge of our seats.

Related Q&A

Q: Why was Jackson, Georgia, chosen as the primary filming location for “Stranger Things”?

A: Jackson, Georgia, was chosen for its small-town charm and 80s aesthetic, which perfectly aligns with the show’s setting and themes. The town’s historic buildings and quaint streets provide an authentic backdrop for the fictional town of Hawkins.

Q: Are the interiors of the Byers’ home and Hawkins National Laboratory filmed on location?

A: While some exterior shots are filmed on location, many of the interiors are created on soundstages in Atlanta. This allows the creators to have more control over the lighting, set design, and overall atmosphere.

Q: How has the popularity of “Stranger Things” impacted the filming locations?

A: The popularity of “Stranger Things” has turned many of its filming locations into tourist attractions. Fans from around the world visit Jackson and Atlanta to see the real-life settings of their favorite scenes, boosting local tourism and economy.

Q: Will future seasons of “Stranger Things” explore new filming locations?

A: While the show’s creators have not revealed specific details, it’s likely that future seasons will continue to explore new locations to keep the narrative fresh and engaging. The expansion to California in the fourth season is a testament to the show’s willingness to venture beyond its original setting.