The Forgotten Backlot of Hawkins, Indiana: A Guide to the Real-Life Locations of Stranger Things
Introduction
Stranger Things, the hit Netflix series created by the Duffer Brothers, has captivated audiences worldwide with its nostalgic blend of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age drama. Set in the 1980s, the show follows a group of kids as they battle supernatural forces and government conspiracies in their small Indiana town. But have you ever wondered where the real-life locations of Stranger Things were filmed? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the abandoned backlot, real-life settings, and behind-the-scenes facts of the show.
The Backlot
- Universal Studios Hollywood is often cited as the primary location for the show’s abandoned backlot, which served as the exterior of Hawkins National Laboratory. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD
- The exterior shots of Hawkins High School were filmed on a combination of sets in San Diego, California, and Studio City, California. **
Year Location 2016 Studio City, California 2017 San Diego, California **
- The lab itself, where many plot twists and revelations occur, was built at Universal Studios Hollywood.
The Small Town of Hawkins
- Hawkins, Indiana is the fictional town that serves as the primary location for the show. While the town exists, it is a relatively small and isolated community.
The Real-Life Equivalent
- The small-town atmosphere of Hawkins is often compared to that of the real-life town of Carmichael, California, just a few miles from Universal Studios Hollywood. CARMICHEL, CALIFORNIA
- The town’s architecture, with its iconic houses and deserted streets, was used to create a sense of eeriness and nostalgia.
Season 1 and Beyond
- Apple Ridge, a mountainous area near Springfield, Oregon, served as the secondary location for the show’s outer environment. The area’s scenic beauty and abandoned buildings made it an ideal setting for many key scenes.
The Departure of Season 1
- The production team built a set at Universal Studios Hollywood to serve as the exterior of Hawkins’ laboratory, just like in the show.
End Credits Sequence
- The End Credits Sequence was filmed at Universal Studios Hollywood, using a combination of real-life locations and created sets.
Hidden Gems and Easter Eggs
- Hidden Gems: Look out for the abandoned key collector on Elm Street, a lesser-known location that was used in the show.
- Easter Eggs: Pay attention to the props and sets, as the Duffer Brothers and the production team included many Easter eggs and references to the show’s universe.
Behind-the-Scenes Facts
- Practical Effects: The show’s use of practical effects, such as pyrotechnics and stunts, was handled by experts at Optimo Ink Studio.
- Costume Design: The show’s distinctive fashion sense was overseen by Priscilla Ogonetti, who worked closely with the cast to create outfits that were both on-trend and period-accurate.
Conclusion
Stranger Things is a testament to the power of nostalgia and the enduring appeal of 1980s pop culture. By exploring the real-life locations of the show, we gain a deeper understanding of the production process and the unique blend of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age drama that defines the series. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a casual viewer, the abandoned backlot, real-life settings, and behind-the-scenes facts of Stranger Things offer a fascinating glimpse into the creation of this beloved series.