Traveling to places where popular movies and TV shows are filmed has gained significant popularity recently. This phenomenon allows fans to immerse themselves in the real-life settings of their favorite on-screen stories. With its rich history and iconic landmarks, Washington, DC has become a prime destination for set-jetters. From the political intrigue of “House of Cards” to the thrilling treasure hunts in “National Treasure,” D.C. offers an immersive journey through cinema and television.
Set-jetting in Washington, D.C. is more than just visiting film locations—it’s about experiencing the stories and moments that have captivated audiences worldwide. Travelers can take guided tours that offer behind-the-scenes insights and anecdotes about the filming processes, providing a deeper connection to their favorite screen moments. With each step, visitors can relive their beloved movies and shows’ drama, romance, and adventure. Below are some of the famous spots that one might want to get on their bucket list the next time they’re in DC!
- The National Mall: Featured in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” and “Transformers: Dark of the Moon”.
- The White House: Central to “Olympus Has Fallen”, featured in “Don’t Look Up”
- The Exorcist Steps in Georgetown: Iconic from “The Exorcist”.
- Smithsonian Museums: Prominently shown in “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian”.
- National Archives: Key location in “National Treasure”.
- Lincoln Memorial: Seen in “Forrest Gump” and “X-Men: First Class”.
- Capitol Building: Shown in “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” and “Logan’s Run”.
Some of the most recent movies and shows that were shot in DC include:
- In the romantic comedy-action film Ghosted (2023), viewers can see the National Gallery of Art and Ford’s Theatre.
- Rustin (2023) tells the story of Bayard Rustin, an openly gay Black Civil Rights leader and architect of the 1963 March on Washington; a self-guided audio tour in partnership with Netflix allows visitors to experience landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Statue while listening to original recordings from the march.
- Wonder Woman 1984 (2020) showcases the Smithsonian Institution.
- The Post (2017) highlights the Library of Congress and the National Archives.
- TV shows such as Designated Survivor (2016-2019) and House of Cards (2013-2018) offer dramatic portrayals of the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol Building.
- The miniseries White House Plumbers (2023) centers around the Watergate complex, while The Night Agent (2023) and Blacklist (2013-2023) showcase various iconic DC locations.
As set-jetting continues to gain popularity, Washington, D.C. stands out as a premier destination for fans of film and television. The city’s blend of historical significance and modern allure makes it the perfect place for travelers to immerse themselves in the narrative worlds they love.
