Was Stranger Things Actually Filmed in Chicago? Let's Dive In!

Hey there, fellow '80s nostalgia lovers! You might have heard the buzz that our beloved Stranger Things was filmed in the Windy City itself, Chicago. But was it really? Let's grab some Eggos and dive into the Upside Down of filming locations to find out! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and was stranger things filmed in chicago.

The Rumors: Stranger Things in the Second City

So, you've heard the rumors, huh? It's not exactly a secret that Stranger Things is set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. But with its vintage feel and eerie atmosphere, it's easy to see why some might think it was filmed in the heart of the Midwest, Chicago. Let's explore the rumors and set the record straight!

The Similarities: Chicago vs. Hawkins

Architecture: Both cities have their fair share of retro architecture, with Chicago's historic buildings and Hawkins' vintage homes bearing striking resemblances. Atmosphere: The moody, nostalgic vibe of Chicago, with its old-school diners and vintage stores, could easily pass for the fictional town of Hawkins. * Famous Faces: Chicago native and Stranger Things star, Winona Ryder, might have added fuel to the fire, but more on that later!

The Truth: Stranger Things Filming Locations

Alright, let's burst the bubble and talk about where Stranger Things was actually filmed. Grab your flashlight, it's time to explore the real Hawkins!

The Main Set: Jackson, Georgia

That's right, folks! The majority of Stranger Things is filmed at the Pinewood Atlanta Studios in Jackson, Georgia. This massive studio complex houses the majority of the show's interior sets, including the Hawkins National Laboratory, Hawkins Middle School, and the Byers' family home.

Exterior Shots: Various Georgia Locations

While the main sets are in Georgia, the show's creators, the Duffer Brothers, have scouted various locations around the state to capture the perfect '80s aesthetic for Hawkins' exterior shots. Some famous locations include:

Douglasville, Georgia: Home to the Hawkins Power & Light building (aka the Hawkins National Laboratory) and the Hawkins Police Department. Newnan, Georgia: Where you'll find the Hawkins High School and the Starcourt Mall. * Stockbridge, Georgia: Home to the Hawkins Pool and the Hawkins National Laboratory's exterior.

Winona Ryder and the Chicago Connection

As we mentioned earlier, Winona Ryder is a proud Chicago native. So, it's easy to see why some might assume that Stranger Things was filmed in her hometown. But despite her connection to the city, even Winona herself has confirmed that the show was filmed in Georgia.

Visiting Hawkins: A Georgia Road Trip

Feeling inspired to visit Hawkins yourself? While you can't physically visit the Upside Down, you can certainly explore the real-life filming locations in Georgia! Here's a quick road trip itinerary to get you started:

1. 1. Pinewood Atlanta Studios, Jackson, Georgia: Start your journey at the main studio complex where most of the show's interior scenes were filmed. Sadly, it's not open to the public, but you can snap a pic from outside the gates!
2. 2. Douglasville, Georgia: Next up, head to Douglasville to see the Hawkins Power & Light building and the Hawkins Police Department.
3. 3. Newnan, Georgia: Make your way to Newnan to explore the Hawkins High School and the Starcourt Mall.
4. 4. Stockbridge, Georgia: Finally, wrap up your road trip in Stockbridge to visit the Hawkins Pool and the Hawkins National Laboratory's exterior.

The Upside Down: Stranger Things Filming Secrets

Now that we've debunked the Chicago rumors, let's talk about some of the show's filming secrets and hidden gems!

The Secret Upside Down Set

Believe it or not, the Upside Down set was actually built right next to the Hawkins National Laboratory set at Pinewood Atlanta Studios. The crew would simply flip the lights on and off to create the eerie, otherworldly atmosphere.

The Demogorgon's Origin Story

Speaking of the Upside Down, did you know that the Demogorgon was originally designed to look like a mutated rat? Yikes! The show's creators eventually decided that a more humanoid creature would be scarier and more effective.

The Real-Life Inspiration Behind Hawkins

While Hawkins might not exist in real life, it was heavily inspired by the Duffer Brothers' own childhood experiences growing up in the '80s. The show's nostalgic aesthetic and small-town atmosphere are all drawn from their own memories.

Wrapping Up: Stranger Things and the Mystery of Filming Locations

So, there you have it! Stranger Things might feel like it could have been filmed in Chicago, but the real Hawkins is hiding out in Georgia. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the show's filming locations, we hope this article has shed some light on the mystery and inspired you to plan your own Hawkins road trip!

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes looks at your favorite shows and movies, and until then, keep exploring the Upside Down!