Learn about the economic impacts of film tourism and famous North American film locations, plus bonus set-jetting tips
Set-jetting is a trend among film enthusiasts and involves traveling to locations where popular movies and TV shows were filmed. This type of film tourism has been gaining traction around the world, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the world of their favorite films and TV shows by exploring iconic movie sites. Set-jetting provides an exciting adventure for film enthusiasts and travelers alike and can also bring significant economic benefits to the local communities that host these famous filming locations.
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Economic Impact of Film Tourism on Communities
Filming movies and television shows in a specific location can have a profound impact on the local economy, specifically in part due to the popular trend of set-jetting. Representatives from various Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) in numerous locations claim that the presence of a film crew typically leads to an increase in local tourism because fans are eager to visit the sites they’ve seen in movies and on TV.
An influx of visitors can potentially significantly boost the local economy and businesses, such as restaurants, hotels and tour operations. The flood of tourists creates jobs and generates revenue for the local community.
Must-Visit Set-Jetting Locations in North America
You don’t have to cross the ocean to find iconic film and TV locations with so many famous film destinations closer to home. If you’re looking to travel around North America on a set-jetting adventure, here are a few iconic places to visit.
- New York City’s Central Park: This is one of the most famous public parks and film locations for set-jetters on the East Coast of the United States. Set in the heart of Manhattan in New York City, Central Park has served as the backdrop for many films, including the holiday classics Elf and Home Alone 2.
- Los Angeles, California’s Griffith Observatory: This iconic location offers stunning views of Los Angeles and has been featured in movies like La La Land and Rebel Without a Cause.
- Oregon and Washington: Fans of the Twilight books series can become intimately acquainted with the small town of Forks, Washington where the story takes place. However, nothing was actually filmed there, rather, the beautiful scenery of Oregon filled that role. To visit Twilight filming locations, set-jetters can head to Portland, Silver Falls State Park, Oregon City and St. Helens on the historic Oregon Film Trail for a cinematic and scenic road trip.
- Arizona’s Monument Valley: This place, featuring stunning red rock formations, has been immortalized in films such as Forrest Gump and countless Westerns.
- Toronto, Canada: Toronto offers a chance to explore the city that brought the comic book, “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” to life on the big screen. Other notable features filmed here include Guillermo del Toro’s The Shape of Water, the television adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s classic novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, and the 1997 classic Good Will Hunting, which was filmed at the University of Toronto.
- Hawaiian Islands: Many iconic movies and television shows have been filmed in Hawaii, including Jurassic Park, The White Lotus, and The Hunger Games. Many tourists flock to the famous Kualoa Ranch to tour the area where dinosaurs roamed throughout the Jurassic Park movie and battles played out in Kong: Skull Island.
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Set-Jetting and Residual Effects on Local Tourism
One of the most beneficial aspects of the set-jetting trend is its long-term impact on local tourism and the communities in general. Even years after the production of a movie or television show has ended, fans continue to visit the locations featured on screen, providing a steady stream of tourists to the community. This has been the case for Sex and the City fans visiting New York City and Twilight buffs visiting the small town of Forks, Washington, all year long.
Another prime example is the small town of Senoia, Georgia, which was the filming location and backdrop for the smash hit television series The Walking Dead. The show began filming there in 2011; since then, the town has seen a significant increase in tourism. This massive increase has led to the opening of new businesses, job creation, and a boost to the local economy that lasted long after the show ended.
Community Impacts from CVB Perspectives
Offering more than just economic benefits, set-jetting and film tourism can also have significant cultural and social impacts on local communities. Exposure to popular films and TV shows can help put smaller towns on the map, attracting visitors who may not have considered their travel destinations or even knew about them beforehand. An increase in local tourism can certainly help fund improvements to local infrastructure, foster new business growth and create a sense of pride among residents.
After the glow of film tourism wears off and the quieter off-season sets in, communities and businesses can shift their focus to other types of tourists and maybe even consider hosting online events, summits, or other virtual experiences to sustain themselves. If you are considering set-jetting in the off-season, check local CVB and city websites for these types of events and experiences. Remember, some experiences are offered year-round depending on the location.
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Set-Jetting Tourism Statistics
According to a report by the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, set-jetting and film tourism led to $1 billion in visitor spending in 2022 alone. The report stated, “Approximately 12.7% of all visitors were motivated at least in part to visit Hawaii due to television programs and movies filmed in Hawaii or participated in a television program and movie filming location tour.” This adds up to a total of 4.5 million visitor days in 2022, leading to $1 billion in visitor spending. The report also stated that the results “support the importance of the film industry in promoting Hawaii as a tourist destination.”
Film tourism and set-jetting overall is a trend that has been on the rise since the end of the pandemic. According to Future Market Insights, the Film Tourism Sector – set-jetting – was estimated at US $66.7 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach US $128.78 billion by 2032, which is a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.82% from 2022 to 2032.
Why Should You Consider Set-Jetting?
Set-jetting is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. This unique form of tourism offers an exciting, unique, and experiential way for film enthusiasts to connect with their favorite movies and television shows while also supporting the local community economies. From the vibrant streets of New York City to the small towns of Georgia and Washington, there are countless iconic movie and television locations waiting to be explored across North America.
7 Practical Set-Jetting Tips
Our travel guide for film enthusiasts sets you up with tips for a successful trip. Before hopping on a plane for your next set-jetting adventure, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Consider planning your visit during the off-season to avoid large crowds and potentially score better deals on lodging, transportation and activities.
- Research all transportation options ahead of time, including car rental options, types of available and reliable public transit, or joining an organized tour.
- Calculate your trip budget by including expenses like lodging, meals, transportation and any special events or tours you want to experience.
- Be respectful of the residents and be sure to adhere to any guidelines or rules applicable to the city or town, like curfews or noise ordinances.
- Even though set-jetting is mostly about visiting iconic movie sites and television show sets, don’t forget to experience the local cuisine and shops, which also help support the local economy.
- Many famous movie locations offer guided tours or host special events like festivals related to the films and TV shows shot there. CVB insights on tourism and more information about guided tours and special activities can typically be found on most CVB websites, so be sure to check the area you’ll be visiting and plan accordingly.
- Remember to bring your camera because these iconic spots are perfect for capturing memorable photos to share with your family, friends, and fellow film buffs.
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By Ashley Dale
