For die-hard fans of Stranger Things, the allure of Hawkins, Indiana, extends beyond the screen. The series, with its captivating storylines and nostalgic 80s vibe, has filmed in numerous locations, primarily around Atlanta, Georgia. If you’re wondering, Where Was Stranger Things Filmed? you’re in for a treat. Many iconic spots are real and accessible, offering fans a chance to step into the world of Eleven, Mike, and the gang.
Inspired by our own obsession with the show and the immersive Stranger Things Experience in Atlanta, we embarked on a quest to explore these real-world locations. What we discovered was a treasure trove of recognizable sites, each holding a piece of the Stranger Things puzzle. Get ready to journey with us through the captivating filming locations that bring Hawkins to life!
The author standing in front of Creel House.
Unveiling the Creel House Mystery
Our adventure began at the chilling Creel House, a location that sent shivers down our spines even in broad daylight. Located at 906 E. 2nd Avenue in Rome, GA, about 70 miles northwest of Atlanta, this imposing Victorian mansion is instantly recognizable from season 4. As we approached, it felt like “Running Up That Hill” was playing just for us.
This magnificent estate, built in 1882 and currently valued at $1.5 million, exudes an eerie grandeur in person. Despite a recent renovation post-filming, including a fresh coat of paint, the Creel House retains its haunting presence. We couldn’t resist recreating the famous cast photo on its steps, imagining the Vecna’s curse lurking within.
A close up shot of the Creel House facade with its renovated paint.
A humorous photo with a sign stating "Probably not haunted!" in front of Creel House.
Another angle of the Creel House showcasing its architectural details and surrounding grounds.
The author standing on the steps of Creel House, mimicking a pose from the Stranger Things cast photo.
Venturing into the Woods: Hopper’s Cabin
Next on our itinerary was Hopper’s secluded cabin, nestled within the picturesque Sleepy Hollow Farm at 628 Sleepy Hollow Road in Powder Springs, GA. This location, also known for the infamous rotten pumpkin patch from season 2, requires a bit of planning as it’s on private property.
A pre-booked guided tour for $20 is essential to explore Hopper’s Cabin. The tour, starting from Hopper’s Hangout on the farm, leads you through the woods to the seemingly aged cabin. Surprisingly, this rustic dwelling was constructed specifically for the show, expertly weathered to appear centuries old.
A wooden sign for Sleepy Hollow Farm, with rotten pumpkins visible in the background, reminiscent of Stranger Things Season 2.
Stepping inside, you’re transported directly into Hopper’s world. While most interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, the cabin’s interior is meticulously decorated to mirror its on-screen appearance. Only the season 4 cleaning scene was actually filmed here. From the deer head on the wall to the vintage furniture and even a box of Eggos in the retro refrigerator, every detail enhances the immersive experience. El’s room even features a small red lamp with Mike’s picture – a truly heartwarming touch for fans.
A wooden sign for Sleepy Hollow Farm, with rotten pumpkins visible in the background, reminiscent of Stranger Things Season 2.
Close-up of Hopper's Cabin entrance, showing the weathered wood and cabin details.
Another interior shot of Hopper's Cabin, emphasizing the kitchen area with retro appliances and props.
Close-up of Eggo waffles box inside the retro refrigerator in Hopper's Cabin kitchen.
Close up of the red lamp with a picture of Mike in El's room, a tender detail for fans.
Reliving the 80s at The Palace Arcade & Family Video
Our next stop transported us straight back to the 80s: The Palace Arcade and Family Video, located side-by-side at 6501 Church Street in Douglasville, GA. While time has faded some of the vibrant 80s charm – signage is gone and paint is peeling – the locations remain unmistakably recognizable to fans.
Despite the lack of working games, the Palace Arcade still evokes nostalgic memories. You can almost hear the digital sounds of Dig Dug and Pac-Man echoing through the empty space. Don’t miss the photo opportunity on the right side of the building where the arcade’s iconic purple and orange lightning bolt remains. Inside, the blue ceiling tiles and checkerboard floor are still visible, offering a tangible link to the show. Standing in the very spot where Will Byers encountered the Mind Flayer is a genuinely eerie experience for any fan.
Exterior of The Palace Arcade and Family Video building, showing its current state without the show's signage.Exterior of The Palace Arcade and Family Video building, showing its current state without the show's signage.
Diner Delights at Benny’s Burgers (Tiffany’s Kitchen)
Craving a burger like Eleven? We headed to Benny’s Burgers, the on-screen diner where Eleven famously indulges after escaping the lab. In reality, these scenes, along with those of the Tiger’s Lair hangout in season 4, were filmed at Tiffany’s Kitchen, located at 7413 Lee Road in Lithia Springs, GA. While the name and signage are different, the distinctive diner exterior is instantly recognizable.
Exterior of Tiffany's Kitchen, the real-life location for Benny's Burgers from Stranger Things.
Exploring the Wheeler, Sinclair, and Henderson Homes
For a glimpse into the suburban life of Hawkins, we ventured into a residential neighborhood in East Point to find Mike, Lucas, and Dustin’s houses. Despite a local warning about the area, we found the neighborhood to be peaceful and safe.
Mike Wheeler’s house, located at 2530 Piney Wood Lane, sits at the end of a cul-de-sac and is virtually unchanged from its on-screen portrayal. Lucas Sinclair’s house is just a few doors down at 2550 Piney Wood Lane, and Dustin Henderson’s house is around the corner at 2886 Piney Wood Drive. Standing in front of these homes, you can almost picture the boys cycling down the street, ready for their next adventure. Remember, these are private residences, so please be respectful and observe “no trespassing” signs.
Mike Wheeler's House, a key filming location in East Point, GA, that remains largely unchanged from the show.
Taking a Dip at Hawkins Community Pool
Before darkness fell, we made a final stop at the Hawkins Community Pool, where Billy Hargrove reigned as lifeguard in season 3. The South Bend Pool, located at 2000 Lakewood Avenue SE in Atlanta, served as this location. Although closed for the season during our visit, the pool area was still recognizable, and we could almost picture Billy lounging in his lifeguard chair.
Hawkins Community Pool (South Bend Pool), the filming location for the pool scenes in Stranger Things.
Immersed in the Upside Down: Stranger Things: The Experience
After a day of location scouting, we plunged headfirst into the Stranger Things: The Experience at Pullman Yards in Atlanta. While photos are prohibited during the immersive experience itself, the post-experience 80s themed area is a photo-op paradise.
Stepping out of the lab, we were greeted by a vibrant 80s zone filled with food, drinks, and countless Stranger Things merchandise. Photo opportunities abound, allowing fans to pose with Vecna, the Demogorgon, and even in the Byers’ living room – upside down, of course! Scoops Ahoy! ice cream parlor is a must-visit for a sweet treat, and themed areas like the Palace Arcade, Surfer Boy Pizza, and Hawkins High School extend the immersive fun.
Exterior of Pullman Yards in Atlanta, the venue for the Stranger Things: The Experience.
Facing Fear at Hawkins National Laboratory
The following morning, we braced ourselves to visit the ominous Hawkins National Laboratory. Located at 1256 Briarcliff Road NE on the Emory University campus in Atlanta, this building, a former psychiatric hospital, truly embodies the sinister atmosphere of the show. Sadly, it’s currently vacant and slated for demolition to make way for a senior living community.
Ignoring the “no trespassing” signs (briefly!), we ventured onto the property for a closer look. While we don’t condone ignoring warnings, the deserted nature of the building seemed to warrant a quick photo opportunity – until the Emory University police arrived. A friendly officer promptly informed us we were on private property and needed to leave, which we, of course, did. Despite the brief encounter with law enforcement, capturing the lab in person was worth the mild risk for this devoted fan.
Hawkins National Laboratory (Emory University Briarcliff Campus), a deserted and imposing building used for filming.
School Spirit at Hawkins High School (Patrick Henry High School)
Our next stop was Hawkins High School, or rather, the former Patrick Henry High School at 109 South Lee Street in Stockbridge, GA. This location served as both Hawkins Middle and Hawkins High in the series, and still proudly displays the Hawkins High School logo.
Unfortunately, fan vandalism has become an issue at this location, with graffiti covering parts of the school. Police presence is now a regular occurrence to prevent further damage before season 5 filming commences. Like the lab, Hawkins High is also scheduled for demolition after season 5 wraps, making our visit even more poignant. While we couldn’t see the tiger mural inside the gym, just standing outside this iconic location was a thrill.
Exploring Downtown Hawkins (Jackson, GA)
Our final destination was Jackson, GA, the charming small town that serves as the quintessential Hawkins town square in Stranger Things. Located about 40 miles southeast of Atlanta, Jackson has wholeheartedly embraced its connection to the series.
The town square’s courthouse doubles as the Hawkins Library in the show. Look closely at the banner above the door – a subtle nod to Hawkins. Joyce Byers’ workplace, Melvald’s General Store, is situated just off the square at 4 2nd Street. While Radio Shack, where Bob Newby worked, is no longer standing, its sign has been preserved and relocated to an outdoor patio at 34 Mulberry Street, near Buddy Blu’s ice cream shop and a fantastic Stranger Things mural. Another mural can be found on the wall of Roots Outdoors sporting goods at 38 Oak Street. Even the alley where Steve and Jonathan’s fight scene took place is in Jackson, running between W. 2nd and W. 3rd Streets. Jackson is a must-visit for any Stranger Things enthusiast wanting to experience the heart of Hawkins.
Further Exploration: More Stranger Things Locations
Our weekend adventure only scratched the surface of Stranger Things filming locations. If you have more time, consider visiting these additional sites:
- Starcourt Mall: Gwinnett Place Mall, 2100 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, GA
- Bradley’s Big Buy (Eleven’s Eggos): 504 Center Street, Palmetto, GA
- Will Byers’ House: 149 Coastline Road, Fayetteville, GA
- Train Tracks (Stone Mountain Park): Stone Mountain, GA
- Forest Hills Trailer Park: Ponderosa MH St. & Minter Rd., Griffin, GA
- Billy & Max’s House: 5280 Moore Street, Stone Mountain, GA
- Barb Holland’s House: 2980 Piney Wood Drive, East Point, GA
- Steve Harrington’s House: 8253 Carlton Road, Riverdale, GA
- Brimborn Steel Works (Mind Flayer’s Lair): 2903 RN Martin Street, East Point, GA
- Skull Rock (Eddie’s Hideout): Boat Rock Bouldering Area, 1221 Boat Rock Road, Atlanta, GA
- Pennhurst Mental Hospital: Berry College, 2277 Martha Berry Hwy NW, Mt Berry, GA
- The Hawkins Post: 6980 Main Street, Lithonia, GA
- Hawkins Town Hall: 2777 E. Point Street, East Point City Hall, East Point, GA
- Sattler Quarry: Bellwood Quarry, Chappell Rd NW, Atlanta, GA
- Hawk Theater: 2 Oak Street, Jackson, GA
- Bethany Cemetery (Will’s Funeral): 607 Rivers Road, Fayetteville, GA
- Billy’s Grave: Stone Mountain Cemetery, 1025 Silver Hill Road, Stone Mountain, GA
So, where was Stranger Things filmed? Primarily in and around Atlanta, Georgia, offering a wealth of locations for fans to explore. Which of these Stranger Things filming locations will you add to your must-visit list? Let us know in the comments below!
