Have you ever watched a movie or TV show and felt inspired to follow in the footsteps of the characters? For decades, filmmakers have been drawn to the diverse landscapes of Washington State, finding the perfect backdrop for everything from romance to adventure.
Film locations offer a unique lens through which to explore the state. Each spot is more than just a setting—it’s a portal to a new adventure. Whether you’re a film fanatic or simply a curious traveler, these iconic locations provide a rich and engaging way to discover the cinematic beauty of Washington State. Get ready to create your own unforgettable story. Download the Setjetters mobile app to find more locations.
Here are just a few projects filmed in Washington State to get you started.
TV Series Filmed in Washington
Twin Peaks
Enter a world both strange and wonderful in the Snoqualmie Valley, the real-life home of the fictional town of Twin Peaks. David Lynch’s cult classic TV series put this sleepy corner of Washington on the map, and fans still make the pilgrimage to see the locations that defined the show’s eerie atmosphere or attend an annual celebration. The upscale Salish Lodge & Spa, now owned by the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, served as the exterior for the show’s Great Northern Hotel. The interior shots in the show’s pilot were filmed on the coast, near the town of Poulsbo at the Kiana Lodge, owned by the Suquamish Tribe. In North Bend, you’ll find Twede’s Cafe, which served as the Double R Diner (don’t miss the famous cherry pie). In nearby Fall City, discover another filming location at the Roadhouse Restaurant and Inn.
Northern Exposure
Step back in time to the 1990s and visit Roslyn, the small town that famously stood in for the fictional Cicely, Alaska, in the hit TV series Northern Exposure. The town has preserved much of its cinematic history. Visit the famous Brick Saloon, which was founded in 1899 and remains the oldest continuously operating saloon in the state. The Roslyn Cafe, with its iconic camel mural, is also a must-see. Roslyn’s history as a coal-mining town is on full display at the Roslyn Historical Museum. Situated in the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities and lodging options, including Suncadia Resort where you can hit the trails, links, or spa. Be sure to explore nearby Cle Elum and Ellensburg, too.
Z Nation
Washington’s second-largest city, Spokane, and the surrounding area served as the post-apocalyptic backdrop for the zombie series Z Nation. While the show mashed up the city, fans will recognize iconic landmarks like Riverfront Park. The Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) was transformed into a billionaire’s hideout, and scenes were shot at the old Kaiser Aluminum foundry in nearby Mead. Some episodes were even filmed in Snohomish and Island counties, including the towns of Index and Everett as well as Fort Casey State Park, in order to capture a more coastal feel.
Movies Filmed in Washington
Sleepless in Seattle
Sleepless in Seattle immortalized the city’s unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Begin your tour at Pike Place Market to find the 1909 Athenian Seafood Restaurant and Bar. Photos commemorate the film, and small plaques mark the actual stools where Tom Hanks and Rob Reiner sat at the counter. Located next door is Pure Food Fish. Selling fresh seafood since 1911, they can also arrange to ship some back home for you. Other Seattle landmarks in and around the city include the cinematic icon of so many films, the Space Needle. Take in breathtaking views and, if you dare, enjoy a spin on the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. Nearby, Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases a slice of the city’s thriving glass art scene.
An Officer and A Gentleman
An Officer and a Gentleman transformed the charming Victorian seaport of Port Townsend and the historic grounds of Fort Worden into the setting for its rigorous Naval training school. The former military base on the Olympic Peninsula is now a state park where you may explore the historic bunkers, batteries, and grounds. For a special overnight adventure, stay at the fort’s Point Wilson Lighthouse or the Tides Inn & Suites with its film-inspired suite. In downtown Port Townsend, a National Historic Landmark District, you can admire the Victorian architecture, browse art galleries, and enjoy the city’s maritime heritage.
Practical Magic
Whidbey Island is the inspiring setting for the film Practical Magic. While the iconic Victorian mansion was a temporary set in the San Juan Islands, the charming town of Coupeville provided the main backdrop for the village scenes. Walk the well-preserved streets that were transformed into the film’s New England town, and see real-life buildings like Toby’s Tavern, which served as The Catch and Fry, and Molka Xete, which was Verbena Botanicals. Beyond the film locations, explore the historic Coupeville Wharf on beautiful Penn Cove, home to fresh local shellfish. Be sure to explore the island’s many beaches and farmers markets, as well as scenic Deception Pass State Park (aim to arrive early or visit mid-week in the summer months).
10 Things I Hate About You
A love letter to the city of Tacoma, 10 Things I Hate About You was filmed in Washington State at Stadium High School, a spectacular, castle-like building. Note that as a public school, permission is required to enter. For a behind-the-scenes look, opt for a late-night tour with Pretty Gritty Tours. The school overlooks Commencement Bay and is a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Other memorable filming locations include Seattle’s Fremont Troll and Gasworks Park.
Benny & Joon
Spokane shines in the film Benny & Joon. Through movie magic, two beloved Garland neighborhood restaurants become one. The exteriors of the diner that the film’s characters frequent are of Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle, with its locally famous plaster-and-stucco bottle shape. The interiors, meanwhile, are of the neighboring Ferguson’s Cafe and Classic Soda Fountain (also featured in Vision Quest and Why Would I Lie?), whose lunch counter hosts many memorable scenes including the famous dinner roll dance. Explore the heart of downtown and Spokane Falls, one of the state’s dramatic waterfalls.
Free Willy 2: The Adventure Home
The beautiful San Juan Islands provided the picturesque, marine-rich setting for Free Willy 2: The Adventure Home. Filming took place on several islands, including Orcas, Friday Harbor, and Lopez. These islands, known for their stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, perfectly captured the adventurous spirit of the film. The islands are a premier destination for whale watching, particularly for spotting orca pods, a key element of the film. Take a whale watching tour from Friday Harbor or head to Lime Kiln Point State Park, often called “Whale Watch Park,” for some of the best land-based viewing.
This Boy’s Life
This Boy’s Life was filmed in the small town of Concrete in the Skagit Valley. The community was transformed to represent the 1950s, capturing a rustic and isolated sense of place. The crew painted “Welcome to Concrete” on the five massive cement silos in the town as a permanent set piece, serving as a visible reminder of the film’s presence. Discover Skagit Valley, famous for its stunning birding and agricultural landscapes. Continue east to explore North Cascades National Park or head west to the short-but-sweet Chuckanut Drive with its breathtaking coastal views.
Twilight
Although most of the filming did not take place in Washington, the main characters’ first encounter was filmed in Washington State in front of Kalama High School (aim to visit the building’s exterior outside school hours). The majority of the Twilight story is set in the small town of Forks, the rainiest town in the contiguous United States. Local residents have fully embraced the film phenomenon, creating a Forever Twilight collection, festival, and tour. Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park. Foodies will enjoy sampling the wide variety of fresh local treats and craft beverages on the Olympic Culinary Loop.
About the Author
Sherrye Wyatt is a writer who works in the state’s film industry through Washington Filmworks. She adores Washington and is obsessed with its diverse film locations. When she’s not traveling the state or streaming shows and movies, she loves spending time with her wire fox terriers.