Skip The Usual Travel Spots And Visit Real-Life Holiday Movie Filming Locations

Ever watched a holiday movie and thought, “Wait, is that place even real?” Well, good news – it is, and it’s basically begging you to visit. And why settle for the usual travel spots when you can stroll through the very streets where your favorite festive scenes come to life?

These destinations are where movie magic meets real life, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to casually brag, “Oh yeah, I’ve been there”? Imagine wandering through a snowy town square or stepping into that charming little shop that practically oozes holiday cheer on screen. Because it’s not just a trip; it’s like stepping into the script…minus the awkward acting.

So, grab your coziest scarf, start practicing your best “main character” energy, and get ready to dive into the magic. And who knows? You might just find yourself in the middle of your own holiday movie moment.

Rockefeller Center – New York City, New York

A vibrant, festive scene at New York City's Rockefeller Center, featuring the iconic Christmas tree, the golden Prometheus statue, and people ice-skating in the rink surrounded by skyscrapers. — © Shutterstock

Movie: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

Rockefeller Center during the holidays feels like New York City showing off its festive A-game. Beneath the glittering Christmas tree that could probably be seen from space, there’s the famous ice rink – yes, the Home Alone 2 one – beckoning you to channel your inner figure skater.

Pro Tip: ice skating is less about graceful spins and more about not face-planting in front of a crowd. But honestly? That’s part of the charm. The rink is alive with wobbly first-timers, couples holding hands (and each other up), and a buzz that feels like pure holiday magic.

Union Station – Chicago, Illinois

An interior shot of Chicago's Union Station, showcasing its grand neoclassical architecture, including tall columns, an American flag, and a clock tower in the center of the hall. — © Canva Pro

Movie: Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Navigating this sprawling, wonderfully chaotic terminal feels like stepping into your own version of a travel comedy – minus the hilariously lost luggage or unexpected road trips with strangers.

The mix of stunning architecture and nonstop energy sets the stage for your personal “where’s-my-platform” drama. But I suggest you save yourself the escalator gymnastics if your suitcase takes off; it’s way less funny in real life than it looks in the movies.

Grandhotel Pupp – Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

A close-up of the luxurious Grandhotel Pupp, featuring a warmly lit entrance with international flags above the doorway, surrounded by ornate architecture. — © Shutterstock

Movie: Last Holiday

This hotel is as dreamy as it looks on the big screen. Step inside, and suddenly you’re in a fairytale ballroom, half-expecting a life-altering epiphany…or at least a meal that makes you rethink every other dinner you’ve ever had.

The marble staircases and glittering chandeliers might have you questioning why you didn’t pack that ball gown you never wear. And honestly, don’t fight the urge to twirl in the lobby. Go ahead, channel your inner royalty – no judgment here.

Inn At Perry Cabin – St. Michaels, Maryland

A serene waterfront view of a row of elegant white colonial-style buildings surrounded by lush green trees, with a calm river reflecting the scene. — © Shutterstock

Movie: Wedding Crashers (Holiday Scenes)

This waterfront inn serves up festive vibes with a side of cozy elegance. Stroll through its twinkling halls, and you’ll find yourself silently judging your own Christmas tree decor (spoiler: it doesn’t hold a candle).

The atmosphere? So serene it practically begs you to sit down, sip some cocoa, and pretend you’re pondering life’s big questions – when really, you’re wondering if you could pull off this level of holiday classiness at home.

Gabriel’s Wharf – London, England

A scenic riverside view in London showing the River Thames, a bridge, and the modern city skyline in the distance. People are walking along the paved path, and a classic red telephone booth is visible. — © Shutterstock

Movie: Love Actually

Take a stroll along the River Thames, and you’ll find this hidden gem that just screams London charm. The colorful storefronts, quaint cafes, and cobblestone streets make it feel like a secret village tucked away from the busy city vibes.

You might even catch yourself humming “God Only Knows” while browsing through the unique shops or sipping on mulled wine at one of the many street-side tables. And it’s all too easy to get lost in this picturesque world where love is literally all around.

Empire State Building – New York City, New York

A stunning nighttime view of the Empire State Building in New York City, lit up in green and red against the dark sky, with the city's skyline glowing in the background. — © Canva Pro

Movie: Elf

If you think the Empire State Building is just for tourists, well, let me gently burst that bubble. When Buddy the Elf landed in New York City, his first stop was (literally) on top of the Empire State Building (yes, ON it). And while I don’t recommend recreating that entrance, you can still channel a bit of his magic by heading up to the 86th-floor observation deck.

The views? Absolutely breathtaking. The elevator ride? Slightly less so if you follow Buddy’s lead and push all the buttons…unless you’re looking to get politely escorted out. But whether you’re a local or playing tourist for the day, the Empire State Building is always worth a visit.

Chateau Frontenac – Quebec City, Canada

A nighttime image of the iconic Château Frontenac in Quebec City, illuminated in green, red, and white lights, with bare trees framing the scene. — © Canva Pro

Movie: The Santa Clause

This hotel practically wrote the book on “regal Christmas.” Outside, it’s like Frosty himself supervised every snowflake’s landing. Step inside, and you’re suddenly at the North Pole – with a French-Canadian twist.

Wandering through these festive halls feels like unwrapping holiday magic, one twinkling corner at a time. And honestly, no gingerbread house you’ve ever made could compete.

Fox Plaza – Los Angeles, California

A sleek, modern skyscraper with reflective glass windows labeled "Fox Plaza" under a bright blue sky, with palm trees lining the background. — © Shutterstock

Movie: Die Hard

Alright, so this one isn’t exactly your feel-good, fuzzy holiday flick – but it’s a classic. And if you’re going to make a pilgrimage to Nakatomi Plaza (aka Fox Plaza), you might as well do it during the holidays, right?

Those massive Christmas trees in the lobby basically demand a photo op. Plus, wandering around pretending you’re John McClane – just trying to get home for Christmas while casually saving the day – makes for a solid adventure. Just…maybe leave the guns and bad guys back at home, yeah?

Country Club Plaza – Kansas City, Missouri

A nighttime view of Kansas City's Country Club Plaza, decorated with glowing holiday lights on buildings and a horse-drawn carriage with a sparkling carriage design. — © Canva Pro

Movie: Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story

The Country Club Plaza in Kansas City turns into a magical holiday wonderland at Christmas, straight out of one of those corny Christmas movies. Its Spanish-style architecture sparkles with twinkling lights, reflecting off boutique shop windows and cozy restaurants.

Horse-drawn carriages and festive music bring old-world charm, while the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the crisp winter air. And even though it feels like a scene from a Hallmark movie, I can’t help but love it – this is my hometown, after all.

Public Square – Cleveland, Ohio

A beautifully lit Christmas tree and festive decorations in Cleveland's Public Square at night. The area is adorned with sparkling green and multicolored lights, with a toy train display in front of the towering holiday tree. — © Shutterstock

Movie: A Christmas Story

Public Square gets decked out as if the 1940s called and said, “Keep the spirit alive!” The setting from A Christmas Story transforms into a living postcard, where it’s easy to imagine tiny shopkeepers shouting welcomes.

And this place is so quaint; it is almost believable that bb-gun-related accidents couldn’t possibly happen in this nostalgia-fueled town. Just try not to shoot your eye out on a visit.

Leavenworth Reindeer Farm – Leavenworth, Washington

A stunning aerial view of Leavenworth, Washington, during winter, covered in snow. The Bavarian-style village is decorated with colorful holiday lights, vibrant Christmas trees, and a festive crowd enjoying the snowy streets. — © Shutterstock

Movie: Hallmark Holiday Films (Various)

Leavenworth doesn’t just dabble in holiday spirit – it dives headfirst, antlers and all. And this place reminds me of stepping into your grandma’s favorite snow globe…only better because you can actually hand-feed the reindeer here (don’t count on any flying stunts, though).

The whole farm practically oozes cozy, like it was plucked straight out of a Hallmark movie (umm, because it was) and sprinkled with extra twinkle lights. Every corner radiates that warm, fuzzy glow that makes you wonder if they’ve unlocked the secret to bottling holiday magic.

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