2025 Edition

Destination Film Guide Magazine

Discover North America’s most compelling film locations, insider incentives, festival highlights and production news—all in one free digital magazine.

A Renaissance of Film and Television

Let’s face it: no matter what side of the actor’s strike you were on last year, everyone felt the impact. From venting about the absence of new blockbuster films and TV series to film productions coming to a screeching halt mid-scene, last year was literally lights out in Hollywood.

But after a groundbreaking agreement among industry leaders, our favorite stars, storytellers, and producers are back at it and hungry for new filmmaking opportunities. We decided to go big with this year’s Destination Film Guide by offering an abundance of thought-provoking, insightful film industry content.

One of the key discussions in this year’s film guide is the Impact of AI on Location Scouting in Filmmaking. We delve into the question of whether AI will eventually take our jobs, and the good news is that the outlook isn’t as grim as some might fear.

Sustainability is trending not only in how and why people travel these days, but also with Sustainability in Filmmaking and Eco-Friendly Practices in Production, which are finding their way into production offices worldwide.

We dive into the world of Reality TV Using Film Locations as a Home Base to uncover the economic benefits that reality TV filming has on the communities in which it’s filmed.

We also cover 8 Niche Film Festivals in North America from dynamic filmmakers featuring diverse and impactful topics, avant-garde cinema and celebrations of underrepresented communities that offer fresh filmmaking perspectives.

Stay inspired and keep the cameras rolling!

Heather Dale – Managing Editor

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Features & Columns

Let’s face it: no matter what side of the actor’s strike you were on last year, everyone felt the impact. From venting about the absence of new blockbuster films and TV series to film productions coming to a screeching halt mid-scene, last year was literally lights out in Hollywood.

 

AI in Filmmaking_digitaly enhancing backgrounds with AI. Photo credit aishazeyn via Freepik Premium (AI generated image)

The Impact of AR, VR and AI in Film Making

A deep dive into the innovations, impacts and ethics of new film production technology in the world of location filmmaking.

Sustainable Filming_lighting equipment photo credit EyeEm via Freepik Premium

Sustainable Filming: Eco-Friendly Film Production

From using renewable energy in film production to reusing and recycling, these eco-friendly practices are making a big difference.

Silhouette images of video productions behind the scenes. Photo credit andranik.h90 via Freepik Premium

How Reality TV Filming Locations Impact Local Tourism

Numerous reality TV hotspots around the US attract droves of fans for a glimpse of the stars and reality TV filming locations.

Unsung Heroes potential header image_on the red carpet. Photo credit mss8studio via Freepik Premium (AI generated image)

Unsung Heroes of Film: Academy Awards for Location Managers in Film

Recognizing the work and importance of location managers in film and how these geniuses help to create dazzling cinematic worlds.

Concordia Film Festival 1

8 Must-Experience Niche Film Festivals in North America

Filmmakers, TV show junkies and movie buffs mark your calendars for film festivals showcasing diverse genres and inspiring stories.

Central Park river bridge. Photo credit shamaoonstudio via Freepik Premium

Set-Jetting: A Travel Guide for Film Enthusiasts

Learn about the economic impacts of film tourism and famous North American film locations, plus bonus set-jetting tips.

Monterey Bixby Bridge

FLICS Thrives in the Filmmaking Landscape

California still reigns supreme when it comes to the hub for film and TV productions.

Top Filming Location Picks

Explore the most film-ready destinations across North America in our curated collection of top location profiles. From blockbuster favorites to under-the-radar gems, each spotlight features cinematic visuals, expert insights and direct connections to local film commissions. Whether you’re scouting for your next production or seeking inspiration, these locations across the US are ready for their close-up.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Billings, Montana

Durhan Region, Ontario

Glacier Country, Montana

St. Louis, Missouri

Kentucky

Southwest, Montana

Missouri Film Office

Montana Film Office

City Cruises, New York

Film Utica

Florida’s Adventure Coast

Simi Valley, California

Montana’s Yellowstone Country

British Virgin Islands

Mississippi

St. Joseph, Missouri

Film Incentive Guides

Maximize your production budget while discovering breathtaking locations. Our comprehensive incentive library covers federal, state, provincial, and Caribbean rebate programs—spanning tax credits, grants and refunds. Navigate complex eligibility rules and financial benefits so you can choose destinations that fuel both your creative vision and cost efficiency.

American West

Mountain West

Southwestern U.S.

Latin America, Hawaii & Carribean

Canada

Midwestern U.S.

New England

Mid-Atlanic

Southern U.S.

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