If you’ve ever binge-watched Stranger Things and wondered, “Could Hawkins really exist?” The answer is a fun, spooky sorta‑yes. Although Hawkins, Indiana is fictional, much of the series was filmed in real towns across Georgia, New Mexico, and more, giving fans a tangible “road‑trip into the Upside Down.” Here’s a guide to the best Stranger Things filming locations you can actually visit – perfect for a fandom pilgrimage or a quirky travel detour.
Stranger Things Season 5: Release, Format & Where to Stream
The fifth and final season of Stranger Things arrives exclusively on Netflix, released in three parts to close out the saga. Volume 1 (Episodes 1–4) premieres on November 26, 2025 (available in India from early morning November 27).
Volume 2 (Episodes 5–7) drops on December 25, 2025, and the series finale, Episode 8, lands on December 31, 2025. This last chapter brings back the entire core cast for one final showdown as the story of Hawkins, the Upside Down, and its heroes reaches its climactic, high-stakes end.
You can stream all parts directly on Netflix as they release.
Real-Life “Hawkins”: Downtown, Small Town Vibes
Jackson, Georgia — the stand-in for downtown Hawkins
- Downtown Hawkins is filmed in Jackson, Georgia. Walk along the town square (2nd Street and Mulberry Street) to see storefronts that stood in for Melvald’s General Store and other iconic locations.
- The exterior of the public library is actually the courthouse/probate court building in Jackson/Butts County.
Why visit: Jackson captures the nostalgic 1980s Midwestern small-town feel – perfect for strolling, photos, and imagining yourself in Hawkins.
Secret Labs, Police Stations & Other “Institutional” Locations
Hawkins National Laboratory – Emory University’s Briarcliff Campus, Atlanta
- The creepy exterior of Hawkins Lab is filmed at the former Georgia Mental Health Institute, 1256 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta. Interiors were recreated on soundstages.
Hawkins Police Department – Douglasville, Georgia
- The police station exterior is actually the old Douglasville town hall. Fans can walk the area to imagine Sheriff Hopper patrolling the streets.
Schools, Hospitals & More – scattered across Georgia
- School scenes were filmed at Patrick Henry High School in Stockbridge, GA.
- Other Hawkins homes and buildings are located in East Point, Riverdale, Fairburn, and nearby towns. Many are private residences, so respectful viewing is essential.
Why visit: These locations offer a darker, moodier side of Hawkins, giving fans a feel for the show’s sci-fi and suspenseful elements.
When Hawkins “Moves”: New Mexico Locations
- Later seasons feature California settings filmed in New Mexico. For example, exterior shots of high schools are filmed at El Dorado High School in Albuquerque.
- “Rink-O-Mania” scenes were filmed at Skate-O-Mania, located at 400 Paisano Street, NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Why visit: Visiting New Mexico locations shows how the series blends real geography into its fictional world, adding variety beyond Georgia’s small-town vibe.
Tips for Visiting Stranger Things Filming Spots
- Many “houses” are private homes; do not trespass.
- Some iconic buildings, like the Briarcliff Lab interiors, are closed to the public.
- Check local parking and noise regulations before visiting.
- Since filming sites are scattered across multiple towns, plan your route ahead.
You May Like Also: Baahubali: The Epic Filming Locations You Must Know About Ahead Of The Re-Release!
Summing It Up
For fans of Stranger Things, real-world filming locations are the closest thing to stepping into Hawkins (or Lenora Hills) without crossing universes.
From the nostalgic charm of Jackson to the eerie institutional vibes of Briarcliff Lab, and the New Mexico stand-ins for later seasons, there’s something for every fan.
Visiting these spots is a mix of time-travel, nostalgia, and detective work – a pilgrimage into a world where reality and the Upside Down overlap.
Keep your eyes peeled, and you might just spot Hawkins in real life.
