Stranger Things in Georgia: The Ultimate Guide to Filming Locations
Journey through the iconic Georgia sites that transformed into Hawkins, Indiana, and explore where every season of Stranger Things came to life.
Since its debut in 2016, Netflix’s Stranger Things has captivated viewers with its blend of supernatural horror, nostalgic 1980s charm, and unforgettable characters. While the story is set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the series was filmed almost entirely in Georgia, utilizing the warmth and atmospheric allure of southern towns to bring Hawkins to life. This guide is your all-access pass to the most iconic and hidden filming locations—perfect for fans, road trippers, and seekers of pop-culture history alike.
Why Georgia?
Georgia has become a filming powerhouse, thanks to its diverse landscapes, generous film tax incentives, and welcoming small towns. The Duffer Brothers, creators of Stranger Things, found the setting ideal for capturing the essence of small-town America—lush forests, quiet streets, abandoned institutions, and vintage storefronts. Many key locations remain accessible, letting visitors walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters.
Essential Stranger Things Filming Locations in Georgia
Below you’ll find the must-see locations featured prominently in multiple seasons. Whether you’re recreating Eleven’s escape, trailing Hopper, or chasing the neon glow of the Palace Arcade, these places are as thrilling to visit as they are to watch on screen.
- Jackson, Georgia as Downtown Hawkins
- Douglasville and East Point for suburban homes and main streets
- Atlanta for institutional and urban sites
- Duluth’s Mall as Starcourt
- Nearby woods, cemeteries, and rural lanes for supernatural encounters
Downtown Hawkins: Jackson, Georgia
The heart of Hawkins, Indiana, is really found in the picturesque square of Jackson, Georgia. This historic downtown features multiple storefronts seen throughout the series, including:
- Melvald’s General Store – Joyce Byers’ workplace and key scene location
- Radio Shack – Where Bob Newby worked in Season 2
- Hawkins Library – Various exterior and interior shots
Walking around the square, many buildings still have familiar façades and offer ample photo opportunities for fans. Guided tours in Jackson even spotlight hidden set details and fun anecdotes from behind the scenes.
Hawkins National Laboratory: Atlanta
1256 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA
Few Stranger Things landmarks are as instantly recognizable as the grim exterior of Hawkins National Laboratory. In reality, this is the former Georgia Mental Health Institute on Emory University’s campus. The exterior, often shrouded in mist, is where Eleven’s journey began and the Upside Down first broke loose. Public access inside is prohibited, but the building’s façade is visible from the road—a chilling must-see for fans.
Hawkins Police Department: Douglasville
8485 Courthouse Sq W, Douglasville, GA
This small brick building served as the Hawkins Police Department, where Chief Hopper’s office drama unfolds and the kids often seek help. The building anchors Douglasville’s town square and still retains an air of officialdom, with fans stopping for snapshots and a quick tour of familiar streets.
Palace Arcade: Douglasville
8415 Campbellton St, Douglasville, GA
Introduced in Season 2, the Palace Arcade became a haven for the Hawkins crew. This brightly-painted, neon-lit spot was once a laundromat, but the production temporarily transformed it into the ultimate gaming destination. Look close, and you’ll spot remnants of the checkered floors and classic tiles. While not in operation as an arcade now, its exterior is still instantly recognizable.
Starcourt Mall: Duluth
2100 Pleasant Hill Rd, Duluth, GA
Season 3’s action-packed climax and retro shopping scenes centered on Starcourt Mall—actually the Gwinnett Place Mall in suburban Atlanta. Once a bustling hotspot, the mall’s deserted halls were revived for production, complete with period storefronts and food court details. While some redevelopment is underway, guided tours occasionally grant fans access to former filming zones.
Forest Hills Trailer Park: Griffin
A & B Trailer Park, 1478 Kilgore Rd, Griffin, GA
This trailer park appears in Season 4 as home to Max Mayfield and figures in pivotal storylines involving the rise of Vecna. The exteriors here provide a glimpse into the more vulnerable side of Hawkins’ families, and just a short drive from Atlanta, this stop is a poignant addition for series devotees.
Creel House: Rome
906 E 2nd Ave, Rome, GA
Season 4’s chilling haunted mansion sequences found their location in Rome’s historic Creel House. With its Victorian architecture and imposing presence, the site provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s foray into gothic horror. The house is privately owned, but fans can admire its dramatically atmospheric façade from the street.
Hawkins Cemetery: Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain Cemetery, Stone Mountain, GA
Key scenes of Hawkins’ somber moments—funerals, supernatural encounters, and quiet reflection—were filmed amid the moss-draped oaks of Stone Mountain Cemetery. Its timeless beauty and eeriness add to the show’s emotional depth, and respectful visits are encouraged.
The Stranger Houses of East Point and Riverdale
Several cast homes are located just southwest of Atlanta and can be seen within a short radius:
- Sinclair House – 2550 Piney Wood Ln, East Point
- Henderson House – 2886 Piney Wood Dr, East Point
- Holland House – 2980 Piney Wood Dr, East Point
- Harrington House – 8253 Carlton Rd, Riverdale
- Hargrove/Mayfield House – (Multiple addresses, surrounding neighborhoods)
Locals report seeing production teams in the area during late fall and winter—prime Stranger Things filming months. Please remember these are private residences; admire from the sidewalk and respect the families’ privacy.
Bonus Locations and Easter Eggs
Beyond the main sites, attentive fans will recognize a few more spots:
- Georgia Renaissance Festival Grounds (Fairgrounds): The Season 3 fair sequence was filmed here, transforming the festival grounds into a bustling, neon-lit summer carnival.
- Boat Rock Bouldering Area: Used as Skull Rock, this outdoorsy destination near Atlanta brings adventure scenes to life and conceals portals to the supernatural.
- Hawkins General Hospital (2813 E Point St, East Point, GA): Host to tense action and memorable chases, still retaining its facade from filming.
Plan Your Own Stranger Things Road Trip
With so many unique sites, fans can easily organize a driving tour. Here’s how to make the most of your adventure:
- Organize your trip geographically: Focus on sites near Atlanta, then loop down through Douglasville and Jackson, before heading up to Rome and Stone Mountain.
- Respect private property: Several exteriors are homes or closed institutions; always observe posted rules and be considerate.
- Check for tour availability: Some locations, like parts of Gwinnett Place Mall or insider locations in Jackson, are only accessible through arranged tours.
- Pack for nostalgia: Many fans bring retro costumes or props—think Eggo waffles, Christmas lights, or Hawkins T-shirts—for photos at key sites.
Where to Stay
Some of the best lodging options for Stranger Things fans include:
- Quaint B&Bs and boutique hotels in Rome and Jackson, many decorated with period touches and local memorabilia.
- Downtown Atlanta hotels for quick access to urban locations and the airport.
- Vacation rentals near Stone Mountain and Lake Allatoona for those seeking outdoor adventure between stops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I visit Hawkins National Laboratory?
A: The location (Georgia Mental Health Institute) is closed to the public, but the exterior is visible from the street. No interior tours are available.
Q: Are all Stranger Things locations open year-round?
A: Most public locations like squares and exteriors are accessible year-round, but access to private or restricted areas (homes, labs, malls) may vary. Check with local tour providers for seasonal details.
Q: Is there a Stranger Things guided tour?
A: Yes! Several companies, especially in Jackson and Atlanta, offer immersive walking or bus tours, providing anecdotes, trivia, and access to restricted sites.
Q: Can I see active filming?
A: Occasionally, fans spot crews during new season shoots (mainly fall and winter), but filming zones are usually off-limits for safety and secrecy.
Q: Which location is the most popular for photos?
A: The Jackson square (Downtown Hawkins), Hawkins Lab exterior, and the Palace Arcade site are fan favorites for photo ops.
Stranger Things Travel Planning Checklist
- Check the latest travel advisories for site access and opening hours.
- Book guided tours (especially in Jackson) for deeper insights and exclusive access.
- Bring a camera or fully charged phone for plenty of photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the various town squares and neighborhoods.
- Be respectful of private homes and closed businesses—leave only photos, take only memories.
Stranger Things Location Map
Plan your trip with a custom Stranger Things map. Here are the key spots to pin for your adventure:
- Downtown Hawkins (Jackson, GA)
- Hawkins Lab (Atlanta, GA)
- Police Department (Douglasville, GA)
- Palace Arcade (Douglasville, GA)
- Starcourt Mall (Duluth, GA)
- Forest Hills Trailer Park (Griffin, GA)
- Creel House (Rome, GA)
- Stone Mountain Cemetery (Stone Mountain, GA)
Stranger Things Beyond the Screen
Georgia’s embracing of Stranger Things has turned these towns into cult tourism destinations. Local businesses welcome fans, many offering memorabilia, themed treats, and unique experiences. From trivia nights in Jackson to themed room rentals in Rome, there’s something for every Demogorgon-hunter and Eggo-lover. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a hardcore fan tracking every supernatural sign, Georgia offers a window into the Upside Down you’ll never forget.
