Since its inception, Stranger Things has captivated audiences with its masterfully crafted blend of nostalgia, supernatural elements, and compelling character arcs. But beyond its storytelling prowess lies an equally intriguing aspect: its filming locations. As we anticipate the much-anticipated release of Stranger Things 5 in November 2025, it’s the perfect time to explore the show’s filming roots in the picturesque state of Georgia.
Although Hawkins, Indiana, serves as the fictional backdrop for the crew's paranormal adventures, the heart of this beloved town beats in Jackson, Georgia. The charm of small-town America is beautifully captured through its streets, buildings, and the sense of community that Stranger Things portrays so authentically. Jackson’s scenic landscapes offered the perfect canvas for the show's creators, who aimed to evoke a nostalgic 1980s atmosphere. This fusion of location and imagination underscores how the setting plays a pivotal role in the narrative, encapsulating the essence of childhood adventure and eerie mystery.
Among the notable real-world locations that helped breathe life into Hawkins is the Georgia Mental Health Institute, which doubled as the Hawkins National Laboratory. This ominous facility is central to the show’s dark undertones, where clandestine experiments give rise to supernatural phenomena. Meanwhile, Patrick Henry High School in Stockbridge served as the backdrop for the middle and high school scenes, establishing the everyday lives of our favorite characters before their encounters with the strange and supernatural.
Beyond these primary locations, Stranger Things stretched its limbs across the broader Georgia landscape. The Georgia International Horse Park, Eastpoint First Baptist Church, and Stone Mountain Park also contributed to the richly layered setting that fans have come to adore. Each location displays its own unique charm and reinforces the show’s blend of ordinary and extraordinary, grounding fantastical elements in relatable experiences.
Creating a successful show like Stranger Things requires meticulous planning and execution. Much of the work on set was completed at Screen Gem Studios in Atlanta, providing a base for the team to craft the series’ intricate scenes. The studio's resources and proximity to various filming locations allowed the production to maintain an efficient workflow as they brought their vision to life. Filming for the first season began in November 2015 and concluded in early 2016, effectively capturing the essence of 80s nostalgia while establishing a visual aesthetic that resonates with viewers today. The choice of filming in Georgia was not merely a practical decision; it was part of a larger initiative to highlight the state’s burgeoning film industry and the unique landscapes it offers.
As we gear up for Stranger Things 5, we are reminded of the community embedded in the show’s very fabric—both in its storytelling and in its real-world roots. Whether it's the creeping dread at Hawkins National Laboratory or the camaraderie found at Patrick Henry High School, Georgia stands as the unsung character of Stranger Things, making it a vital part of the show's legacy. As the series returns, fans will once again be taken on a journey that reflects the heartfelt connection between the characters and the places that shaped their stories.
