Private Stranger Things “The Upside Down” Film Locations Tour in Atlanta

If you’re a fan of the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, this private tour in Atlanta promises a chance to see the town’s most iconic filming spots. As someone who’s researched and written about travel experiences, I can tell you that this tour offers a rare blend of fandom and practicality. It’s not just about gawking at locations; it’s about understanding how Atlanta doubles for Hawkins, Indiana, and getting a behind-the-scenes peek into the show’s production and storytelling.

What stood out immediately is the personalized nature of this experience. It’s a private tour, so you won’t be sharing the space with a large crowd — perfect for fans looking for a more intimate connection with the show. Plus, the guide’s knowledge about both the series and Atlanta’s local history makes for a more enriching visit. On the flip side, it’s a three-hour commitment with a set price, which might seem steep for some, but many reviews suggest it’s well worth the cost if you’re a true Stranger Things enthusiast.

This tour is best suited for fans eager to see the show’s real-world locations while learning cool behind-the-scenes facts. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love the series, it’s a fantastic way to spend part of your Atlanta trip. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer exploring at your own pace, this guided experience might require some planning.

Key Points

• The tour is highly rated at 5.0 stars with positive reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides and interesting sites.
• It covers iconic filming locations in and around Atlanta, including neighborhoods and key scenes from the show.
• Transportation is private and comfortable, with bottled water provided.
• It’s tailored for Stranger Things fans, with behind-the-scenes insights included.
• The tour lasts about three hours, with options for morning or afternoon bookings.
• Cost per person is $175, which many reviewers find justified given the personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Stranger Things Locations Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at 423 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE in Atlanta, a central location easily accessible via public transit or car. The experience is private, which means your group won’t be mixed with strangers, making it perfect for fans looking to immerse themselves fully without distractions.

Once onboard, the guide takes the wheel, and you settle into a comfortable vehicle. The ride is supplemented with bottled water, so you stay refreshed as you bounce from one filming spot to another. The duration is roughly three hours, which balances a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Hawkins Neighborhoods: The tour starts with a drive through the neighborhoods that stand in for Hawkins, Indiana. Here, you’ll see the homes of the Wheelers, Sinclairs, and Hendersons. The chance to see these real houses up close offers a tangible connection to the series’ characters and plotlines. Many fans mention how walking past these locations makes the fictional town feel real, transforming a TV show into a shared Atlanta experience.

Biking Streets & Local School: Next, you’ll visit the streets where the boys spend many scenes on their bikes. It’s a fun moment for fans to imagine their favorite scenes unfolding right where they are. The tour also includes stops at Hawkins Middle School and Hawkins High School — actual filming sites that double as local schools. These sites are especially nostalgic for those who grew up in small-town America or loved the school scenes from the series.

Iconic Scenes and Filming Spots: The Hawkins Public Pool from Season 3 is a highlight for many. Fans love seeing Billy’s domain, recalling the tense swimming scenes. The tour even makes a stop at the studios, Screen Gems, where Stranger Things is filmed, giving a sense of the production scale behind the series.

The Mind Flayer’s Nest: The Brimborn Steelworks site is the nesting place of the Mind Flayer — a must-see for any Stranger Things fan. It’s where much of the show’s suspense unfolds, and standing there gives you a new appreciation for the series’ visual storytelling.

What the Guides Bring to the Table

Multiple reviews praise the guides, especially Greg, Julio, and Francesca, for their knowledge and friendliness. Reviewers mention how guides go beyond just pointing out locations — they share fun facts, film industry insights, and local Atlanta history. One reviewer summed it up, saying, “Greg was an amazing guide and was extremely knowledgeable and personable.”

The guides’ ability to blend show trivia with local context is what elevates this experience from just a sightseeing trip to a richer storytelling experience. They share tidbits like how the series makes use of Atlanta’s diverse locations and the challenges of filming certain scenes.

The Experience’s Value

At $175 per person, this tour might seem pricey at first glance. However, when you consider the private nature, expert guiding, and the exclusive access to filming locations, many find it well worth the cost. The reviews clearly echo this sentiment, emphasizing how the tour exceeds expectations by covering many locations within the three hours.

Travelers also value the convenience — hotel pickup and drop-off are included, saving you time and effort. It’s a hassle-free way to explore the city’s film side without the stress of navigating unfamiliar streets or coordinating transportation.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is perfect for Stranger Things superfans. If you’ve binge-watched the series and want to see where the magic happened, this is a must-do. It also suits those interested in Atlanta’s role in TV production or fans who enjoy behind-the-scenes stories. Families with children who are fans will find it engaging, especially with a guide who keeps things lively and informative.

On the other hand, if you’re not a fan or prefer a more flexible schedule, this tour might not be your best fit. Also, keep in mind that it’s a three-hour commitment, so plan accordingly.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

The tour operates with a minimum of two people, and most travelers book it about a month in advance — a good sign of its popularity among fans. It’s accessible for most, with no special requirements noted, but children need a paid ticket and adult accompaniment.

Weather can affect the experience, so it’s wise to check the forecast. If bad weather cancels the tour, you’re eligible for a full refund or a different date. Gratuities are not included but are customary if you appreciate your guide’s effort.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The blend of personalized guiding, exclusive filming locations, and a focus on Stranger Things makes this a standout experience for fans. The reviews consistently highlight how guides like Greg, Julio, and Francesca go above and beyond, sharing not just site info but also engaging stories that bring the series to life.

Travelers often comment on how the tour makes the series feel more real and enhances their appreciation for the show’s production. It’s not just about seeing houses and streets; it’s about understanding how a fictional town can be so convincingly brought to life through Atlanta’s diverse landscapes and skilled filmmaking.

The private aspect means you’re not just another face in a crowd, allowing for personalized questions and a tailored experience. The convenience of hotel pickup and bottled water ensures you can focus on the fun, not logistics.

The Sum Up

This private Stranger Things filming location tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience for fans who want more than just a list of sites. It’s a chance to see Atlanta through the lens of one of its most famous shows, with the comfort of private transport and expert guides making every moment more enjoyable.

If you’re passionate about the series and curious about the filming process, this tour delivers a good mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes insights. The value is evident in the glowing reviews, which highlight the guides’ knowledge and the variety of locations visited.

It’s most suited for dedicated fans, families, or groups who want a fun, informative way to connect with the show and the city. While the price isn’t negligible, the personalized service and access to exclusive sites make it a worthwhile addition to any Atlanta itinerary for series lovers.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s a private tour, so only your group participates, making it a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, giving you enough time to see key locations without feeling rushed.

Can I choose a morning or afternoon tour?
Yes, you can select either a morning or afternoon slot to suit your schedule.

What is included in the price?
You get private transportation, bottled water, and a guide who shares fun facts about the show and Atlanta.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, adding to the convenience.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour balances fandom enthusiasm with practical travel comfort, making it a smart choice for Stranger Things fans eager to see the show’s Atlanta roots firsthand.