Unveiling the Mysteries: Stranger Things Filming Locations in Atlanta
Hello there, fellow Stranger Things enthusiasts! If you've found yourself binge-watching the Upside Down and wondering where your favorite scenes were filmed, you're in the right place. Today, we're embarking on a journey to uncover the stranger things filming locations in Atlanta. So, grab your Eggo waffles and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and stranger things filming locations in atlanta.
Why Atlanta? The Gateway to the Upside Down
You might be wondering why the beloved town of Hawkins is actually hiding in plain sight in the bustling city of Atlanta, Georgia. The answer lies in the state's generous film tax incentives. Georgia offers a 20% tax credit for productions, making it an attractive destination for filmmakers. So, while Hawkins might seem like a small town, it's actually a thriving metropolis with a rich history in film production.
The Byers' Residence: Where It All Began
Our journey begins at the iconic Byers' residence, the home of Joyce and her sons, Will and Jonathan. This quintessential suburban house is located in the neighborhood of East Point, just south of Atlanta. The exterior shots of the house are used throughout the series, but the interior scenes are actually filmed on a soundstage. The house has become a popular tourist attraction, with fans leaving offerings of Eggo waffles and Christmas lights in tribute to the show.
Hawkins National Laboratory: The Gateway to the Upside Down
Next on our list is the Hawkins National Laboratory, the secret government facility where Dr. Martin Brenner and his team conduct their experiments on the mysterious girl known as Eleven. The exterior shots of the lab are actually the C.W. Matthews PACP Plant in Atlanta. The plant's industrial aesthetic perfectly captures the cold, sterile feel of the laboratory. However, the interior scenes are filmed on a soundstage, as the plant is not accessible to the public.
The Upside Down: A Forest in Decatur
The eerie, alternate dimension known as the Upside Down is actually filmed in a forest in Decatur, Georgia. The dense, otherworldly woods provide the perfect backdrop for the show's chilling scenes. The forest is home to the iconic Mind Flayer lair, where the creature controls its minions and communicates with the Demogorgon. While the location is not open to the public, you can spot it in the background of several scenes throughout the series.
Starcourt Mall: The '80s Shopping Experience
In season three, the action moves to the Starcourt Mall, a sprawling shopping center that serves as the backdrop for much of the season's events. The mall is actually the now-closed Gwinnett Place Mall in Duluth, Georgia. The mall's retro '80s aesthetic was the perfect fit for the show's nostalgic setting. While the mall is no longer open to the public, you can still spot it in the background of several scenes throughout the season.
The Wheeler Brothers' Garage: Where the Kids Hang Out
The Wheeler brothers' garage is where Mike, Lucas, Dustin, and Max spend much of their time, playing Dungeons & Dragons and trying to figure out the mysteries of the Upside Down. The garage is actually located in the neighborhood of East Lake, just northeast of Atlanta. The exterior shots of the garage are used throughout the series, but the interior scenes are filmed on a soundstage.
The Hawkins Middle School: Where Friendship Began
The Hawkins Middle School is where Eleven first meets the boys and where much of the show's early action takes place. The school is actually the Atlanta Center for Self Sufficiency, a non-profit organization located in the city's Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. The exterior shots of the school are used throughout the series, but the interior scenes are filmed on a soundstage.
The Palace Arcade: Where the Kids Play
The Palace Arcade is where the kids spend much of their time, playing games and trying to avoid the adults. The arcade is actually the now-closed Funspot Amusement Center in East Point, Georgia. The arcade's retro aesthetic was the perfect fit for the show's nostalgic setting. While the arcade is no longer open to the public, you can still spot it in the background of several scenes throughout the series.
The Russian Submarine: A Surprising Location
In season two, the action takes a turn when a Russian submarine is discovered in the woods outside of Hawkins. The exterior shots of the submarine are actually filmed at the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead. The center's sprawling grounds provided the perfect setting for the show's chilling scenes. While the submarine is not a permanent exhibit, it was constructed specifically for the show and can be spotted in several scenes throughout the season.
Exploring the Real Hawkins: A Guide for Fans
If you're a Stranger Things fan looking to explore the real-life stranger things filming locations in Atlanta, there are a few things you should know. First, many of the locations are not open to the public, so you'll have to settle for exterior shots and selfies from afar. However, some locations, like the Byers' house and the Hawkins Middle School, are popular tourist attractions and welcome visitors.
Second, be respectful of the locations and the people who live and work there. Remember that these are real homes and businesses, and the people who live and work there deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.
Finally, be safe and be smart. Atlanta is a big city with its own set of challenges, so make sure you're aware of your surroundings and taking care of yourself. Use common sense and stay alert, and you'll be fine.
Conclusion: A Journey Through the Upside Down
And there you have it, fellow Stranger Things fans! Our journey through the stranger things filming locations in Atlanta has come to an end. From the Byers' house to the Upside Down, we've explored the real-life locations that brought the beloved show to life. So, the next time you're binge-watching the Upside Down, remember that it's hiding in plain sight in the bustling city of Atlanta. Until next time, stay curious and keep exploring!