18 Abandoned Movie Sets You Can Still Visit

Exploring abandoned movie sets is like stepping into a forgotten world. These places were once alive with the hustle and bustle of film production. Now, they stand silent, yet full of stories. Visiting these sets offers a unique chance to walk through scenes where your favorite movies came to life.

Time has added a layer of mystery to these locations. Nature often takes over, blending reality with the remnants of fantasy. The faded props, weathered buildings, and eerie stillness create an atmosphere that is both intriguing and haunting. It’s as if the characters might just return at any moment.

These abandoned sets are not just for movie buffs. They appeal to anyone who loves a good adventure. Exploring them feels like being part of a hidden secret, a place where the lines between real life and film blur. Whether you’re there to relive scenes from a favorite film or just to explore something different, these sites offer an unforgettable experience.

Get ready to uncover the magic of movie history as we delve into some of the most fascinating abandoned movie sets you can still visit. 

Abandoned Movie Sets You Can Still Visit

1. Hobbit Holes in Matamata, New Zealand (Lord of the Rings)

The Hobbiton movie set in Matamata, New Zealand, is perhaps one of the most famous abandoned movie sets in the world, though it’s hardly abandoned in the traditional sense.

Built for The Lord of the Rings trilogy and later expanded for The Hobbit films, the set features 44 hobbit holes, complete with round doors, tiny windows, and lush gardens. The set was initially intended to be dismantled after filming, but the popularity of the films led to its preservation as a tourist attraction.

Today, Hobbiton is a thriving destination for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work. Guided tours take visitors through the idyllic Shire, where they can see Bag End, the Green Dragon Inn, and other famous locations from the films.

The attention to detail is astonishing, with every aspect of the set designed to make visitors feel as though they’ve stepped into Middle-earth. Unlike many other abandoned movie sets, Hobbiton is well-maintained, offering a magical experience for fans of the films and books alike.

Address: 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata 3472, New Zealand

2. Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, Kentucky (Death Tunnel)

Waverly Hills Sanatorium is not for the faint of heart. This abandoned hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, has a long and eerie history, making it the perfect setting for the 2004 horror film Death Tunnel.

Originally opened in 1910 as a tuberculosis hospital, Waverly Hills quickly gained a reputation for its high death toll and the macabre “body chute” used to discreetly remove deceased patients. After closing its doors in 1961, the building fell into disrepair, adding to its haunted reputation.

Today, the sanatorium is a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts and horror fans. Guided tours take visitors through the decaying hallways and into the bowels of the building, where many have reported ghost sightings and unexplained phenomena.

The chilling atmosphere is palpable, especially in the dark, where the only light might come from your flashlight. Death Tunnel utilized this haunting environment to its full extent, making it one of the most terrifying movie sets you can visit. If you’re brave enough, Waverly Hills is open for tours, including overnight stays for those seeking the ultimate ghostly experience.

Address: 4400 Paralee Dr, Louisville, Kentucky 40272, USA

3. Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (12 Monkeys)

Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the oldest and most famous abandoned prisons in the United States. It was built in 1829, and was once home to notorious criminals, including Al Capone.

The prison’s design, with its long, narrow hallways and skylit cells, was intended to inspire penitence and reflection. However, it quickly became known for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates. After closing in 1971, the prison fell into disrepair, with parts of the building crumbling and nature slowly reclaiming the grounds.

This decaying environment made it the perfect backdrop for the dystopian scenes in the 1995 film 12 Monkeys, starring Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt. The film’s creators took full advantage of the prison’s eerie atmosphere, using its decayed interior to depict a bleak, post-apocalyptic future.

Today, Eastern State Penitentiary is a National Historic Landmark, open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the abandoned cell blocks, learn about the prison’s history, and even see Capone’s restored cell. The site also hosts an annual haunted house event, Terror Behind the Walls, which is not for the faint-hearted.

Address: 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19130, USA

4. Trail Dust Town in Tucson, Arizona (Unfinished Glenn Ford Western)

Trail Dust Town in Tucson, Arizona, started its life as a movie set for a Glenn Ford Western film that was never completed. The unfinished movie left behind a quaint Wild West-style town, complete with saloons, old-fashioned storefronts, and wooden sidewalks.

Today, Trail Dust Town has been transformed into a family-friendly destination while still retaining the charm of its cinematic origins.

Visitors can stroll through the dusty streets, explore the historic buildings, and even catch a Wild West stunt show. The town has been carefully preserved, and many of the original set pieces remain intact, offering a glimpse into the bygone era of Western films.

In addition to its movie set roots, Trail Dust Town features a miniature train, a Ferris wheel, and several restaurants, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. It’s a place where the Old West comes to life, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the magic of a movie set that never quite made it to the big screen.

Address: 6541 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, Arizona 85715, USA

5. Plaszow Camp in Krakow, Poland (Schindler’s List)

Plaszow Camp in Krakow, Poland, is not just a movie set; it’s a site of profound historical significance. The camp was originally a Nazi concentration camp during World War II, where thousands of Jews and other prisoners were held under horrific conditions.

For Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List, a replica of the camp was constructed in the nearby Krakus Mound Quarry, as filming at the actual site would have been too painful and disrespectful given its tragic history.

The replica set remains in place, offering a stark, sobering reminder of the atrocities that occurred during the Holocaust. While visiting, you can see the remnants of barracks, watchtowers, and fences, all meticulously designed to recreate the grim reality of the camp.

Although the original Plaszow Camp is now a memorial site, the replica used in the film has been preserved as a tribute to the memory of those who suffered there. It’s a place where history and cinema intersect, providing an educational and emotional experience for visitors.

Address: Jerozolimska Street, Krakow, Poland

6. Baseball Field in Dubuque County, Iowa (Field of Dreams)

“If you build it, they will come.” This iconic line from Field of Dreams led to the creation of a baseball field in Dubuque County, Iowa, that still stands today. The field was constructed on a cornfield for the 1989 movie starring Kevin Costner, and it has since become a pilgrimage site for baseball fans and movie buffs alike.

The simple, yet beautiful, setting captures the essence of America’s favorite pastime and the magic of cinema. Visitors can walk around the bases, sit in the bleachers, or even play a game of catch on the field. The farmhouse featured in the movie is also open for tours, giving fans a chance to see where key scenes were filmed.

Every summer, a group known as the “Ghost Players” takes to the field in vintage uniforms, reenacting scenes from the movie and playing exhibition games. The site’s rural charm and deep connection to the film make it a must-visit destination for anyone who loved Field of Dreams.

Address: 28995 Lansing Rd, Dyersville, Iowa 52040, USA

7. District 12 in Henry River Mill Village, North Carolina (Hunger Games)

Henry River Mill Village in North Carolina served as the hauntingly desolate District 12 in The Hunger Games. Before the movie, this area was already a ghost town, abandoned after the local mill closed in the 1970s. The village’s eerie, empty streets and crumbling buildings made it the perfect location to depict the poverty-stricken district where Katniss Everdeen’s story begins.

Today, the village remains largely untouched since filming wrapped. Visitors can explore the dilapidated homes, walk the same paths as the characters, and soak in the atmosphere that made the district so memorable on screen.

The site offers a unique opportunity to see a piece of film history, especially for fans of the series. The village’s remote location adds to its charm, making it feel as though you’ve truly stepped into the dystopian world of Panem. While the site is private property, tours are occasionally available, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the setting of one of the most iconic films of the 2010s.

Address: 4255 Henry River Rd, Hickory, North Carolina 28602, USA

8. Port Royale in Wallilabou Anchorage, St. Vincent (Pirates of the Caribbean)

The set of Port Royale from Pirates of the Caribbean remains one of the most popular abandoned movie locations in the Caribbean. This set, which is located in Wallilabou Bay, St. Vincent, was the backdrop for many of the early scenes in the blockbuster film. After filming ended, much of the set was left behind, giving visitors a chance to walk through the remnants of Captain Jack Sparrow’s world.

Today, the set is still largely intact, though it has fallen into some disrepair. Visitors can explore the decaying docks, weathered buildings, and even a small museum that houses props and memorabilia from the movie.

The area’s natural beauty, with its crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, contrasts with the abandoned set pieces, creating a surreal experience for visitors. It’s a must-visit for fans of the franchise and anyone interested in exploring a piece of Hollywood history in a stunning tropical setting.

Address: Wallilabou Bay, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines

9. Town of Spectre in Montgomery, Alabama (Big Fish)

Tim Burton’s Big Fish brought us the charming yet eerie town of Spectre, a fictional place that still exists in real life. Located on a private island in Montgomery, Alabama, the town remains almost as it was during filming, albeit a bit more worn with age.

The set includes several weathered buildings and rundown streets that add to its ghostly charm. While the town might look abandoned, it’s actually open for visitors, though it’s technically private property.

The owners are quite relaxed about allowing people to explore, picnic, or even fish in the area. Visitors can walk through the remnants of Spectre, imagining themselves in the whimsical world created by Burton.

The idyllic setting on the banks of the Alabama River adds to the surreal atmosphere, making it a unique destination for fans of the movie and those seeking something a little off the beaten path. There’s a small toll to cross the bridge onto the island, but it’s a small price to pay for a journey into cinematic history.

Address: Jackson Lake Island, Millbrook, Alabama 36054, USA

10. Signs in Malibu Creek State Park, California (MAS*H)

Malibu Creek State Park in California is home to the remnants of the set from the long-running television show MASH*. This iconic show, which aired from 1972 to 1983, depicted the lives of doctors and nurses during the Korean War. The show was filmed in the picturesque hills of the Santa Monica Mountains, and much of the original set was left behind after the series ended.

Today, visitors can hike through Malibu Creek State Park and discover the remaining signs and structures from the show. The most notable remnants include rusted vehicles, the famous signpost pointing to various global destinations, and a few informational plaques that provide background on the filming location.

The surrounding natural beauty of the park enhances the experience, making it a perfect blend of history and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply enjoy exploring abandoned sites, the MASH* set offers a unique and nostalgic visit.

Address: 1925 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas, California 91302, USA

11. Danvers State Hospital in Danvers, Massachusetts (Session 9)

Danvers State Hospital in Massachusetts is infamous for its dark history and eerie atmosphere. This abandoned psychiatric hospital, once known as the Danvers Lunatic Asylum, served as the chilling backdrop for the 2001 horror film Session 9.

The movie, which explores themes of madness and the supernatural, used the hospital’s decaying interior to full effect, creating a truly haunting experience.

Although many of the hospital’s buildings have since been demolished or converted into apartments, parts of the original structure remain, including the iconic façade that fans of the film will recognize.

The site’s history as a place of suffering and its role in Session 9 make it a magnet for those interested in the macabre. While exploring the grounds, visitors can almost feel the lingering presence of the past. The hospital’s dark and tragic history adds an extra layer of eeriness to this already unsettling location.

Address: 1101 Kirkbride Dr, Danvers, Massachusetts 01923, USA

12. Old Spanish Mission in Cypress Gardens, South Carolina (The Patriot)

Cypress Gardens in South Carolina served as a stunning backdrop for several scenes in the 2000 film The Patriot, starring Mel Gibson. Among the most memorable locations is the Old Spanish Mission, a set piece built specifically for the movie.

The mission, with its rustic charm and historical design, perfectly captured the era depicted in the film. After the filming wrapped, parts of the set were left behind, including the remains of the mission and a nearby bridge.

These remnants blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of Cypress Gardens, where cypress trees, swamps, and reflective waters create a serene environment. Visitors to the gardens can explore the area, imagining the scenes that were once filmed there. The site is not only a piece of movie history but also a beautiful location for those who enjoy nature and historical settings.

Address: 3030 Cypress Gardens Rd, Moncks Corner, South Carolina 29461, USA

13. Bus Scene in Dillsboro, North Carolina (The Fugitive)

The small town of Dillsboro, North Carolina, played host to one of the most memorable scenes in the 1993 film The Fugitive, starring Harrison Ford. The iconic bus crash scene was filmed on a stretch of the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.

After the dramatic sequence was shot, the wrecked bus and train cars were left behind, turning the location into a must-visit spot for movie enthusiasts.

Today, visitors can still see the remnants of the bus and train wrecks near the tracks. The site has become somewhat of a local landmark, drawing fans of the film who are eager to relive the adrenaline-pumping escape sequence.

The surrounding area’s natural beauty adds to the experience, making it a great destination for both film buffs and nature lovers. Whether you’re there to see the famous wreckage or simply to enjoy the scenic railway, Dillsboro offers a unique blend of Hollywood history and outdoor adventure.

Address: Dillsboro, North Carolina 28725, USA

14. Tatooine in Tozeur, Tunisia (Star Wars)

For fans of Star Wars, the desert planet of Tatooine is one of the most iconic locations in the galaxy. Filmed in the Tunisian desert near the town of Tozeur, the set for Tatooine was built to bring George Lucas’s vision of a distant, sandy world to life. The location served as the backdrop for many key scenes in the original trilogy, including Luke Skywalker’s childhood home.

Despite the passage of time, much of the set remains intact, allowing visitors to step into the world of Star Wars. The site includes structures like the famous igloo-shaped buildings and other desert dwellings that are instantly recognizable to fans. The vast, arid landscape surrounding the set enhances the otherworldly experience, making it feel like you’ve truly traveled to another planet.

Guided tours are available, and the site is popular among both tourists and hardcore Star Wars fans. It’s a pilgrimage spot for anyone who has ever dreamed of visiting the galaxy far, far away.

Address: Chott el Jerid, Tozeur, Tunisia

15. Harrisburg State Hospital in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (Girl, Interrupted)

Harrisburg State Hospital, located in Pennsylvania, served as the eerie backdrop for several scenes in the 1999 film Girl, Interrupted, starring Angelina Jolie and Winona Ryder.

The hospital, originally opened in 1851, was a functioning psychiatric facility for many years before closing its doors in 2006. Its imposing architecture and long history made it the perfect setting for the movie’s depiction of a mental institution.

Although parts of the hospital have been repurposed or demolished, several buildings remain standing, preserving the site’s haunting atmosphere. The grounds, with their overgrown paths and crumbling facades, evoke a sense of the past, providing visitors with a glimpse into the history of mental health treatment in the United States.

While exploring the area, you can imagine the film’s characters walking the same halls and courtyards. The site’s mixture of cinematic and real-life history makes it a compelling destination for those interested in both film and the darker chapters of medical history.

Address: 10 Cameron St, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101, USA

16. Underwater Village in Cap d’Antibes, France (L’Enfant et la Sirène)

In the 1960s, a bold experiment in filmmaking led to the creation of an entire underwater village off the coast of Cap d’Antibes, France. This unique set was built for the film L’Enfant et la Sirène (The Child and the Mermaid), which was one of the first movies to be filmed almost entirely underwater.

The set, constructed nearly 100 feet below sea level, includes small houses, streets, and other village elements designed to bring the film’s magical world to life.

Today, this submerged set remains largely intact, preserved by the ocean’s depths. Divers from around the world visit this site to explore the eerie, silent village, which has become an underwater museum of sorts.

The structures, now covered in marine life, add an extra layer of mystery and beauty to the experience. Visiting this set requires scuba diving gear, making it an adventure that blends the thrill of diving with the allure of cinema history.

Address: Cap d’Antibes, Antibes, France

17. Village in Augsburg, Germany (Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters)

In the heart of the woods near Augsburg, Germany, lies the remains of the village set from the 2013 fantasy horror film Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters. The film, which offers a dark and twisted take on the classic fairy tale, needed an appropriately eerie setting.

The village was built specifically for the movie, featuring rustic wooden structures, a town square, and even a fake well, all designed to evoke the atmosphere of a medieval, haunted forest.

After filming concluded, the set was left behind in the woods, where it has slowly begun to decay, adding to its creepy charm. Visitors who venture into the forest can still find remnants of the village, now partially overgrown and weathered by the elements.

The site has become a hidden gem for those who enjoy exploring abandoned places, offering a unique glimpse into the world of dark fairy tales brought to life. The setting, combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding woods, makes for an unforgettable experience.

Address: Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany

18. The Abyss Set, Bonne Terre Mine, Missouri, USA (The Abyss)

James Cameron’s 1989 sci-fi thriller The Abyss required an extraordinary set to match its underwater setting. For the film, a massive set was constructed in the Bonne Terre Mine in Missouri, a former lead mine that had filled with water.

The mine’s vast, submerged caverns provided the perfect environment to create the claustrophobic, underwater world depicted in the movie.

The set for The Abyss included detailed underwater structures and props, many of which remain in the mine to this day. The site has become a popular destination for divers, who can explore the flooded tunnels and see remnants of the film set, now encrusted with minerals and surrounded by the mine’s eerie silence.

The Bonne Terre Mine is one of the largest fresh-water dive sites in the world, and it offers a unique opportunity to dive into the history of filmmaking while exploring an abandoned movie set like no other.

Address: 185 Park Ave, Bonne Terre, Missouri 63628, USA

Final Thoughts

Exploring abandoned movie sets offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and nostalgia. Each site tells its own story, capturing the imagination long after the cameras stopped rolling.

Whether submerged underwater, hidden in forests, or nestled in remote locations, these sets invite visitors to step into the worlds created by filmmakers. They are more than just remnants of cinematic history; they are gateways to unforgettable experiences.

If you’re a fan of movies or simply love exploring the unusual, these abandoned sets are destinations worth adding to your travel bucket list.