For fans of The Vampire Diaries, the show’s stunning settings and atmospheric locations have played a significant role in its enduring appeal. The Vampire Diaries, a supernatural drama that aired from 2009 to 2017, was filmed in various places that brought the fictional town of Mystic Falls to life. In this article, we'll explore the filming locations that became the backdrop for this beloved series.
From small-town charm to eerie forests, the locations used in The Vampire Diaries were carefully chosen to enhance the storytelling. These places not only served as the setting for the show but also became an integral part of its identity. Fans of the series will recognize these locations as they delve deeper into the world of vampires, witches, and supernatural beings.
This article will provide an in-depth look at where The Vampire Diaries was filmed, offering insights into the real-life towns and landmarks that inspired the fictional Mystic Falls. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious about the series' production, this guide will take you on a journey through the show's most iconic filming spots.
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Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Main Filming Locations
- Mystic Falls High School
- The Boarding House
- Mystic Falls Forests
- Other Notable Locations
- Why Georgia Was Chosen
- Filming in Canada
- Season-Wise Filming Locations
- Impact on Tourism
- Conclusion
Main Filming Locations
The Vampire Diaries was primarily filmed in Georgia, USA, with some additional scenes shot in Canada. The state of Georgia provided the perfect backdrop for the fictional town of Mystic Falls, offering picturesque settings that enhanced the show's supernatural themes.
One of the key locations was Covington, Georgia, a small town that became the primary filming site for the series. Covington's historic downtown area and surrounding landscapes were transformed into the iconic settings of Mystic Falls. The town's charm and accessibility made it an ideal choice for the production team.
Mystic Falls High School
One of the most recognizable locations in The Vampire Diaries is Mystic Falls High School. The school's exterior was filmed at the Newton County School System Central Office in Covington, Georgia. This location served as the backdrop for many pivotal scenes involving Elena, Stefan, Damon, and their friends.
- Newton County School System Central Office – Used as the exterior of Mystic Falls High School
- Interior scenes were filmed at a studio in Atlanta, Georgia
The central office building's architecture perfectly matched the show's vision of a small-town high school, complete with its red-brick facade and classic design.
The Boarding House
The Boarding House, where Damon Salvatore and Stefan Salvatore resided, was another key location in the series. This grand estate was filmed at the historic Rhodes Jordan House, located in Covington, Georgia. The house's gothic-inspired architecture and sprawling grounds added to the show's eerie and mysterious atmosphere.
- Rhodes Jordan House – Used as the exterior of The Boarding House
- Interior scenes were filmed at a studio in Atlanta
The Rhodes Jordan House, built in the late 19th century, is a stunning example of Victorian architecture and provided the perfect setting for the Salvatore brothers' home.
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Mystic Falls Forests
The forests surrounding Covington, Georgia, played a crucial role in The Vampire Diaries. These wooded areas were used for scenes involving werewolves, vampire transformations, and supernatural events. The dense foliage and eerie atmosphere of the forests added an authentic touch to the show's supernatural elements.
Some of the forests used for filming include:
- McDonald Forest – Known for its dense trees and dark ambiance
- Conyers Railroad Depot – Used for scenes involving the train tracks
These locations provided the perfect backdrop for some of the show's most intense and dramatic moments.
Other Notable Locations
Aside from the main filming locations, several other sites in Georgia contributed to the show's setting. These include:
- Covington Square – Used for scenes involving the Mystic Grill and other downtown areas
- Stone Mountain Park – Used for outdoor scenes and special events
- Atlanta Studios – Used for interior scenes and special effects
Each location was chosen for its unique features and ability to enhance the storytelling. The production team worked tirelessly to ensure that every scene was filmed in a way that brought the fictional world of Mystic Falls to life.
Why Georgia Was Chosen
Georgia was selected as the primary filming location for The Vampire Diaries due to several factors:
- Generous tax incentives offered by the state to attract film and television productions
- Access to diverse landscapes, including forests, towns, and urban areas
- Proximity to Atlanta, which has a well-established film industry infrastructure
These advantages made Georgia an attractive option for the production team, allowing them to film efficiently while maintaining high production values.
Filming in Canada
In addition to Georgia, some scenes in The Vampire Diaries were filmed in Canada. The production team occasionally traveled to Canada to shoot specific scenes that required different settings or weather conditions.
Canada's diverse landscapes and favorable filming conditions made it a suitable choice for certain episodes. Locations such as Vancouver and Toronto were used for scenes that required urban settings or unique backdrops.
Season-Wise Filming Locations
Throughout its eight seasons, The Vampire Diaries utilized various locations to bring its stories to life. Below is a breakdown of some key filming locations by season:
- Season 1: Primarily filmed in Covington, Georgia, with some scenes in Atlanta
- Season 2: Introduced new locations such as Stone Mountain Park for outdoor scenes
- Season 3: Expanded to include Canada for specific episodes
- Season 4: Continued to use Covington and Atlanta, with occasional trips to Vancouver
This season-by-season approach allowed the production team to explore new settings while maintaining consistency in the show's overall aesthetic.
Impact on Tourism
The Vampire Diaries has had a significant impact on tourism in Georgia. Fans of the series have flocked to Covington and other filming locations to experience the magic of Mystic Falls firsthand. Local businesses have capitalized on this interest by offering tours, merchandise, and themed events.
Some of the benefits of this increased tourism include:
- Economic growth for local businesses
- Increased awareness of Georgia's film industry
- Opportunities for fans to connect with the show's legacy
As a result, Covington has become a must-visit destination for fans of The Vampire Diaries, contributing to its reputation as a filming hotspot.
Conclusion
Where was The Vampire Diaries filmed? The answer lies in the beautiful state of Georgia, where the fictional town of Mystic Falls was brought to life through its charming towns and breathtaking landscapes. From Covington's historic downtown to the eerie forests surrounding the area, each location played a crucial role in the show's success.
The Vampire Diaries' production team carefully selected these locations to enhance the storytelling and create an immersive experience for viewers. The show's impact on tourism and the local economy has been significant, showcasing the power of television to transform real-life locations into iconic settings.
We invite you to share your thoughts on The Vampire Diaries' filming locations in the comments below. Have you visited any of these sites? What was your favorite location from the series? Don't forget to explore more articles on our website for additional insights into the world of film and television.
Data Source: The Vampire Diaries official production notes, interviews with the cast and crew, and Georgia Film Commission reports.
