California’s landscapes, cityscapes, and even seemingly ordinary buildings have played starring roles in countless films and TV shows. Transform your next California road trip into a cinematic adventure by visiting these iconic filming locations scattered throughout the state.

Northern California Delights

• San Francisco: This picturesque city serves as a backdrop for numerous films. Hitchcock fans can seek out the San Francisco locations of “Vertigo,” while action lovers can retrace the thrilling car chases of “Bullitt.”
• Redwood Forests: The towering redwood groves of Northern California provided otherworldly landscapes for movies like “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” (Endor scenes) and the “Planet of the Apes” series.
• Point Reyes Lighthouse: Seen in John Carpenter’s horror classic “The Fog,” this scenic and windswept lighthouse evokes an atmospheric sense of mystery.

Hollywood and Los Angeles Magic

• Griffith Observatory: Featured in “La La Land,” this Art Deco landmark offers stunning city views along with a glimpse into cinematic history.
• The Bradbury Building: Its ornate Victorian interior made this Los Angeles architectural gem a memorable location for “Blade Runner” and other science fiction films.
• Vasquez Rocks: Instantly recognizable to sci-fi fans, these distinctive rock formations in the Mojave Desert have stood in for alien planets in numerous “Star Trek” episodes and films.

Southern California Adventures

• Venice Beach: This lively boardwalk and beach epitomize Southern California vibes in films like “The Big Lebowski” and countless television shows.
• Malibu Beaches: From the teenage dramas of “The OC” to the lifeguard action of “Baywatch,” Malibu’s sandy shores are synonymous with California beach culture.
• San Diego: The historic Hotel del Coronado provided a luxurious backdrop for the Marilyn Monroe comedy “Some Like it Hot,” and the city’s beaches doubled for Florida in “Top Gun.”

Unexpected Locations

Discover the hidden cinematic gems scattered throughout the state:

• Zabriskie Point, Death Valley: This otherworldly desert landscape with panoramic vistas became iconic after appearing in Michelangelo Antonioni’s counterculture film, “Zabriskie Point.”
• Bronson Canyon, Griffith Park: This former quarry has been a versatile stand-in, from the Batcave in the 1960s “Batman” TV series to countless Westerns and science fiction adventures.
• The Madonna Inn: This kitschy and flamboyant hotel in San Luis Obispo is a California landmark in its own right and has turned up in music videos and films.

Tips for Your Filming Location Tour

• Plan Ahead: Research specific locations from your favorite movies and TV shows. Some filming sites may require reservations or special access.
• Respect the Sites: Many filming locations are private residences or businesses. Be mindful of opening hours and don’t disturb the locals.
• Online Resources: Websites and blogs dedicated to filming locations offer detailed information, photos, and even GPS coordinates to aid your search.
• Keep Cameras Ready: Re-enact your favorite scenes, capture the unique details, and take photos that will spark cinematic memories for years to come.

Beyond simply sightseeing, exploring California’s filming locations allows you to step into the magic of the movies. It transforms the everyday into the extraordinary, showcasing the state’s diverse landscapes and its enduring role in shaping cinematic history.