Destination Film Guide Magazine

Connecting the Film Industry with Destinations

Get Your Digital CopyContact Partners

Introduction to the 2024 Edition

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

Features & Columns

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 Filmmaking

A deep dive into the innovations, impacts and ethics of new film production technology in the world of TV and 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 Location Picks

Atlantic City, New Jersey

With a big city feel from the tall buildings and nightlife, Atlantic City offers so many possibilities for a wide array of genres and plotlines. The Steel Pier and boardwalk give off a summertime aesthetic that can bring you back in time or keep you in modern times. The natural surroundings of sandy beaches, ocean waves and greenery will give you a well-rounded area to work with for your production.

Billings, Montana

Montana’s largest city is alive with urban growth and vibrancy, yet it maintains its Western heritage and accessibility to natural resources for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit an art museum, experience a Native American powwow at nearby Crow Indian Reservation, explore ancient fossil beds, relive the Battle of the Little Bighorn, rappel down rimrock cliffs or navigate the mighty Yellowstone River. 

Parkwood National Historic Site Oshawa (1)

Durham Region, Ontario

Durham Region plays an important role in Ontario’s film, television and digital media industry with a unique mix of industrial, urban and rural locations that can be used as sets taking place in a variety of time periods. Its proximity to the Toronto film and television cluster plus existing natural and cultural heritage assets offer the potential for a wide range of film and television productions.

Glacier Country, Montana

Western Montana’s cinematic landscapes, Old West charm, and rich history have long inspired film producers, setting the stage for films like The Revenant and binge-worthy TV shows like Yellowstone. In addition to unrivaled landscapes, Glacier Country boasts more than 75 charming communities where you’ll find historic, Western architecture and authentic, small town Americana. You’ll also find ease of access and unmatched hospitality while filming here.

Indiana Dunes Header

St. Louis, MO

Great location, easy access, a favorable economy, four distinct seasons, an eclectic music scene, cooperative city and county governments, and great transportation options are just a few of the advantages to filming in St. Louis. The St. Louis Film office is here to help you find the best the city can provide.

Horses

Kentucky

Home to rolling hills, bustling cityscapes and friendly small towns, Kentucky offers a diverse array of settings while maintaining its distinct Bluegrass State charm. Whether your team is looking for a rugged Appalachian backdrop, a quintessential small town main street or city backdrops that can double for New York City, you can find them in the state that also offers four distinct seasons and more navigable waterways than any other state in the U.S. other than Alaska.

Southwest Montana

Southwest Montana is a unique film destination that offers a wide variety of landscapes, venues and friendly communities. We are excited to introduce you to a region that we love. Nestled between two of America’s most beautiful national parks, Yellowstone and Glacier, Southwest Montana is home to those wide-open spaces that Big Sky Country is known for. 

Missouri Film Office

Missouri has three major Midwest cities and hundreds of charming small towns. St. Louis is located on the banks of the Mississippi River and is the home of the iconic Gateway Arch, while Kansas City boasts more than 200 beautiful European fountains and some of the country’s best barbecue, and Springfield is the founding home of Route 66. 

Montana Film Office

Montana certainly lives up to its nickname as the Big Sky State. Spectacular national parks—Yellowstone and Glacier—are the highlights of an incredible landscape of roaring rivers, dramatic mountain ranges and serene prairies. Montana has been the site of historical battles, prehistoric dinosaurs and unforgettable vacations, and its blend of landscapes will appeal to productions who seek an epic scope.

City Cruises New York

While City Cruises is traditionally known for hosting public dining cruises and private events, the company’s fleet of yachts are also sought-after production venues for TV and movie producers looking for flexible spaces that offer a blank canvas for capturing scenes that include iconic NYC sights as the backdrop.

Film Utica

No matter the size or type of production that you are interested in filming know that Film Utica and its partners are here to make your production, life, and working experience in our area are as enjoyable, simple and exciting as possible.

Conch Shell Mound in British Virgin Islands

Florida Adventure Coast

Experience the cinematic allure of Florida’s Adventure Coast! From its pristine beaches to lush nature preserves, this stunning region offers a diverse and breathtaking backdrop for filmmakers. Read more to discover why Florida’s Adventure Coast is the ideal location for your next film project. 

Rocky Peak Hiking Trail in Simi Valley, CA - photo credit Cherise Masukawa

Simi Valley

Discover why Simi Valley is Southern California’s hidden gem for filmmakers! With its diverse landscapes and film-friendly community, this picturesque valley offers the perfect backdrop for any production. Click here to explore the secrets behind Simi Valley’s cinematic appeal.

Yellowstone Film Ranch in Montana

Montana's Yellowstone Country

Explore Montana’s Yellowstone Country, a filmmaker’s dream with its stunning landscapes and untouched beauty. From majestic mountains to serene rivers, this region offers the perfect backdrop for any production. Read more to uncover why Yellowstone Country is the ultimate destination for your next cinematic masterpiece.

Conch Shell Mound in British Virgin Islands

British Virgin Islands

Uncover the cinematic allure of the British Virgin Islands! With its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes, this tropical paradise provides an idyllic setting for filmmakers. Read more to see why the British Virgin Islands should be your next filming destination.

Filming at The Max Meridian in Mississippi

Mississippi

Discover the rich, cinematic charm of Mississippi! With its diverse landscapes, historic towns, and warm Southern hospitality, this state offers the perfect backdrop for any film production. Read more to learn why Mississippi is the ideal location for your next cinematic project. 

Yellowstone Film Ranch in Montana

St. Joseph, Missouri

Unveil the cinematic potential of St. Joseph, Missouri! With its historic architecture, scenic riverfront, and charming small-town vibe, this city offers a unique backdrop for filmmakers. Click here to discover why St. Joseph is the perfect setting for your next film project. 

Film Incentive Guide

Acadia

New England

New England’s visually dazzling fall foliage, charming coastal villages and winding, European-inspired streets are appealing to a variety of productions, whether you want an authentic period piece or an outdoor adventure epic.

Bruised

Mid-Atlantic

Home to New York City (one of the densest creative hubs in the world), charming coastal towns and everything in between, the Mid-Atlantic region can accommodate projects with any setting. 

Georgia Black Panther

South

From sweeping romantic dramas to a zombie apocalypse, the South had provided settings for thousands of Hollywood stories for over a century. The states in this region offer a variety of tax rebates, many soft incentives and a wealth of local, unionized talent that will ensure an unforgettable final project.

The Bear Illinois

Midwest

The Great Lakes region offers a variety of visuals to suit your next project. From dense forests and coastlines to bustling cityscapes, there is a landscape in this area to match your creative vision.

La La Land

American West

The American West is the cradle of modern Hollywood, with the talent pool and entertainment infrastructure of Los Angeles unmatched anywhere in North America. The states in this region are full of cinematic opportunity.

Django Wyoming

Mountain West

From the soaring peaks of the Rockies to the vast expanses of high desert, the Mountain West offers a stunning variety of settings that can stand in for almost any part of the world.

The Harder They Fall New Mexico

Southwest

The mythic qualities of the American Southwest have inspired stories and memories for generations. The mountains, valleys, vast rivers and immense horizon lines make for stunning compositions no matter your subject matter.

The Revenant

Canada

Besides Canada’s internationally recognized film locations — Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal — the Great White North holds a wealth of movie locations across its picture-perfect provinces.

Panama Long Song

Latin America, Hawaii & the Caribbean

The island nations and tropical locales of Central America and the Caribbean offer lush, colorful backdrops for your project after just a short flight.

Request Information

Use this form to contact any of the destinations you see featured in Destination Film Guide.

 

Download the Edition

Use the form below to get instant access to the PDF version of Destination Film Guide.

1