17 Abandoned Movie Sets You Can Still Visit

17 Abandoned Movie Sets You Can Still Visit

Explore eerie remnants of Hollywood past with these 17 abandoned movie sets! Journey to iconic locations, from Western towns frozen in time to futuristic landscapes reclaimed by nature. Discover the secrets and stories behind forgotten productions and experience a unique blend of travel and film history. Perfect for location scouting or adventurous tourism.

Embark on a Cinematic Adventure: Discovering Forgotten Film Locations

From sprawling western towns to futuristic landscapes, these movie set locations are scattered across the globe, waiting to be rediscovered. Prepare to venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the magic of cinema, long after the cameras have stopped rolling.

Here's a curated list of 17 abandoned movie sets you can actually visit:

Movie SetMovieLocationStatusWhy Visit?
Popeye VillagePopeye (1980)Anchor Bay, MaltaTheme ParkWhimsical, colorful village built for the film. Offers interactive experiences.
Potemkin StepsBattleship Potemkin (1925)Odessa, UkraineHistorical LandmarkIconic staircase famous for a pivotal scene in silent film history.
Mos EspaStar Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)Tozeur, TunisiaPartially AbandonedAn entire Tatooine town remains, slowly being reclaimed by the desert.
"Western Town" SetVarious WesternsTabernas Desert, Almería, SpainActive & AbandonedSeveral western movie sets still exist in various states of preservation. Some are active studios, others are ghostly reminders of the Spaghetti Western era.
Game of Thrones Sets (Partial)Game of ThronesVarious locations in Northern Ireland, Croatia, Spain, IcelandPartially Preserved / TransformedWhile not fully abandoned, some key sets and locations are open to tours, offering insights into the show's production.
Film CityVarious Bollywood FilmsMumbai, IndiaActive & AccessibleWhile primarily an active studio, parts of Film City are accessible, offering a glimpse into the vibrant world of Bollywood.
Skellig MichaelStar Wars: The Force Awakens, Star Wars: The Last JediCounty Kerry, IrelandPreserved UNESCO SiteAncient monastic settlement used as Luke Skywalker's island retreat. Requires booking and is weather-dependent.
Villa del BalbianelloStar Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, Casino RoyaleLake Como, ItalyActive & AccessibleStunning villa featured in multiple films. Offers tours of its exquisite gardens and interior.
Al Khazneh (The Treasury)Indiana Jones and the Last CrusadePetra, JordanHistorical SiteMagnificent facade carved into sandstone cliffs, instantly recognizable from the film.
Ait BenhaddouGladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, The MummyOuarzazate, MoroccoPartially Inhabited / Tourist SiteFortified city used as a filming location for numerous historical epics.
Matamata Hobbiton Movie SetThe Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit trilogiesMatamata, New ZealandTheme ParkThe Shire comes to life! Fully recreated Hobbiton village open for tours.
The Wave2015 Norwegian Film "The Wave" (Bølgen)Geirangerfjord, NorwayNatural LocationWhile not a built set, the dramatic landscapes of the fjord were central to the film. Experience the scenery where the tsunami hit.
Glen Canyon National Recreation AreaPlanet of the Apes (original)Arizona, USANatural LocationThe dramatic landscapes of the region served as the alien world in the original movie.
Hatley CastleX-Men movies, SmallvilleColwood, British Columbia, CanadaActive Educational InstitutionServed as Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters. Can be visited for tours.
Bodega BayThe BirdsBodega Bay, California, USAActive TownThe town where Alfred Hitchcock filmed "The Birds" still retains its charm and eerie beauty.
Sidi Driss HotelStar Wars: A New HopeMatmata, TunisiaActive HotelExperience staying in the underground troglodyte hotel used as Luke Skywalker's childhood home.
Savoca and Forza d'AgròThe GodfatherSicily, ItalyActive TownsThese picturesque Sicilian towns served as locations for key scenes in "The Godfather."

Planning Your Movie Set Travel: Tips and Considerations

Before embarking on your movie set adventure, consider these factors:

Research thoroughly: Verify the accessibility of the set and any associated permits or fees.

Respect the environment: Some sets are in fragile or protected areas. Adhere to local guidelines and leave no trace.

Check for safety: Abandoned locations may pose risks. Be aware of potential hazards and exercise caution.

Consider guided tours: Tours can provide valuable insights and ensure a safe and enriching experience.

Timing is key: Seasonal closures or weather conditions might affect accessibility.

Learn about the film: Enhance your experience by re-watching the movie before your visit.

Photography opportunities: These locations offer unique photo opportunities, but always be respectful.

The Enduring Appeal of Cinematic Tourism

Movie tourism continues to thrive, offering fans a chance to connect with their favorite films on a deeper level. Exploring these abandoned movie sets provides a glimpse into the dedication and artistry that goes into filmmaking, creating lasting memories for film enthusiasts and travelers alike. These iconic movie locations await your discovery, offering a blend of cinematic history and real-world adventure.

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