Massachusetts in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just north of Boston, the historic town of Salem offers more than its witch trial legacy; it’s a cinematic backdrop that’s enchanted filmmakers for decades. Salem’s cobblestone streets and colonial architecture set the scene in movies like “Hocus Pocus,” where you can stroll through the Salem Witch Museum and imagine the magic spilling from the screen. The town’s vibrant Harborwalk provides scenic views of the Atlantic while echoing the old maritime charm that movies often capture. Visiting in the fall adds a special kind of atmosphere, with crisp air and colorful foliage enhancing the eerie yet charming vibe that directors love.
Boston itself, about a five-minute drive from Logan Airport, has been the canvas for countless films and TV shows, including “Good Will Hunting” and “The Departed.” The Boston Public Garden, with its iconic Swan Boats and perfectly manicured landscapes, served as a peaceful contrast to the gritty urban scenes in these movies. Walking the Freedom Trail reveals spots like Faneuil Hall and the Old State House, which have appeared in various historical dramas. Early morning is a perfect time to experience these locations—before the crowds gather—allowing visitors to soak in the cinematic and historical layers of this storied city.
A short drive west, Lexington’s Minute Man National Historical Park, about 15 miles northwest of Boston, offers a tangible connection to the American Revolution, a backdrop featured in several period films. At the North Bridge, where the “shot heard ’round the world” rang out, visitors can walk the Battle Road Trail, a 5-mile loop that traces the colonial militia’s first engagement with British troops. The park’s rolling meadows and wooded paths uniquely capture the tension and hope of the revolution, making it a must-see for history buffs and film fans alike. Springtime, when the meadows bloom and the weather is mild, shines a new light on this pivotal place.
Down in Cape Cod, the quaint town of Chatham, about 90 miles southeast of Boston, has drawn filmmakers looking for quintessential New England charm. Its picturesque Main Street and iconic lighthouse have appeared in films like “The Finest Hours.” Exploring the Chatham Lighthouse Beach allows visitors to walk along sandy shores where dramatic rescue scenes were imagined. The lighthouse itself, perched atop rugged cliffs, offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean that are spectacular at sunrise or sunset. Summer’s long days and gentle sea breezes make it the perfect season to absorb the seaside ambiance immortalized on screen.
Traveling west to Northampton, nestled in the Pioneer Valley about 100 miles west of Boston, you’ll find the Calvin Theatre, a historic venue that has been both a filming location and a host for independent film festivals. The town’s vibrant arts scene and eclectic downtown streets have appeared in various indie films, adding authenticity to stories centered on small-town life and creative communities. Walking along Main Street, visitors can soak in the bohemian atmosphere that filmmakers often seek. Autumn here is magical, with the leaves turning fiery shades that seem to leap off the movie screen.
In Worcester, roughly 40 miles west of Boston, the Worcester Art Museum holds a collection that includes works with cinematic qualities, such as dramatic landscapes and portraits that inspired costume and set designs in period films. The museum itself, housed in a building combining classical and modern architectural styles, was featured in the TV series “The Blacklist.” Visitors can appreciate the blend of art and film history while exploring exhibits that range from ancient to contemporary. Springtime visits reward guests with blooming gardens outside that complement the museum’s galleries.
Finally, the quaint, coastal town of Rockport, about 40 miles northeast of Boston, offers a charming harbor and rocky shoreline that have enchanted filmmakers for decades. The iconic Motif Number 1, a red fishing shack on Bradley Wharf, is famously dubbed the most painted building in America and has appeared in numerous films and commercials. Walking along the harbor, visitors can enjoy local galleries and seafood eateries, soaking up the same maritime spirit that the movies capture. Early summer, when the light is crisp and the harbor bustles with activity, provides the perfect setting to relive these cinematic moments.