Image from Sick Slates
Yes, “The Vampire Diaries” was filmed in Georgia, specifically in the cities of Covington and Decatur. The popular supernatural drama aired on The CW from 2009 to 2017 and was based on the book series of the same name by L.J. Smith. The show followed the lives and loves of a group of vampires, werewolves, witches, and other supernatural beings in the fictional town of Mystic Falls, Virginia.
While the show is set in Virginia, the majority of “The Vampire Diaries” was actually filmed in Georgia. The production company chose the state for its tax incentives, diverse landscapes, and experienced film crews. Covington, in particular, became a popular filming location for the series due to its historic downtown area and charming southern architecture.
Many iconic scenes from “The Vampire Diaries” were filmed in and around Covington. The town square, with its historic courthouse and clock tower, served as the backdrop for many pivotal moments in the series. The Mystic Grill, a popular hangout spot for the show’s characters, was actually a restaurant called the Mystic Grill Bar & Restaurant in downtown Covington.
Other notable locations in Covington used in “The Vampire Diaries” include the Lockwood Mansion, the Salvatore Boarding House, and the Forbes Family Mansion. Fans of the show can even take guided tours of these locations to see where their favorite scenes were filmed.
In addition to Covington, the production crew also filmed in Decatur, Georgia, which is a suburb of Atlanta. The city’s historic square and courthouse were used as the location for the Mystic Falls Founder’s Day celebrations in the show.
“The Vampire Diaries” was not the only popular supernatural series to be filmed in Georgia. Its spinoff series, “The Originals,” was also filmed in the state. Other popular shows filmed in Georgia include “The Walking Dead,” “Stranger Things,” and “Ozark.”
Georgia has become a popular filming location in recent years due to its generous tax incentives and diverse landscapes. The state offers up to a 30% tax credit for film and TV productions, making it an attractive option for filmmakers looking to save money on their budgets.
In addition to its tax incentives, Georgia also has a strong film industry infrastructure, with experienced crews and state-of-the-art production facilities. The state has several major studios, including Pinewood Atlanta Studios and Tyler Perry Studios, which have attracted major film and TV productions in recent years.
Overall, “The Vampire Diaries” was indeed filmed in Georgia, primarily in the cities of Covington and Decatur. The show’s use of Georgia locations added to the authenticity and charm of the series, and many fans of the show still flock to Covington today to see where their favorite scenes were filmed. Georgia’s strong film industry infrastructure and tax incentives continue to attract major productions to the state, ensuring that Georgia will remain a popular filming location for years to come.