Atlanta: The ‘Upside Down’ Stranger Things Private Tour

Getting a behind-the-scenes look at the filming locations of a hit series like Stranger Things in Atlanta is a unique way to connect with the show’s fictional universe. This private tour promises to bring fans closer to the action, all while exploring some of Atlanta’s most recognizable neighborhoods and sites. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get a mix of movie magic, local flavor, and fun stories that make the show’s world come alive.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authentic locations—from the streets of Hawkins to the steelworks where the Mind Flayer was born—and its flexibility, with options for a half-day or full-day VIP experience. The tour’s personal touch makes it feel less like a cookie-cutter experience and more like hanging out with a friend who just happens to know everything about your favorite show. The one thing to consider is that, at $175 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but many feel the value is justified by the exclusive access and expert storytelling.

This tour is ideal for die-hard fans, families, or anyone interested in film production or Atlanta’s local film scene. If you enjoy walking in a show’s universe while also learning about how and where it was made, this adventure will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guides tailor the tour to your interests, making it a more intimate and engaging outing.
• Iconic Locations: Visit well-known spots like Hawkins Public Pool, Hawkins Middle and High School, and the Brimborn Steelworks.
• Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Learn about the filming process and local film industry from your expert guide.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a 3-hour private tour or a full-day VIP experience for more in-depth exploration.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes pick-up and drop-off within Downtown or Midtown Atlanta and bottled water.
• Highly Rated: With a 4.9/5 rating from 26 reviews, most travelers seem thrilled with the experience.

This tour is a detailed journey through the fictional town of Hawkins, Georgia, brought to life right here in Atlanta. We love how it combines the thrill of visiting actual filming locations with educational insights about the local film industry. The tour’s private nature means you can ask questions freely, and the guide can customize the experience slightly based on your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour typically begins with a convenient pickup within Atlanta’s Downtown or Midtown areas, which are central and easy to access. The meeting point is in the parking lot for the MLK Historic Site, a familiar spot that makes starting easy—no need to navigate confusing city streets or hunt for parking.

Once underway, you’ll head to the Hawkins neighborhood, where the iconic homes of the Wheelers, Sinclairs, and Hendersons sit quietly, bearing witness to many scenes. Walking these streets, you’ll see where characters bike, trick-or-treated, and interacted in pivotal moments. As one reviewer put it, the guide’s storytelling “made the tour exciting,” showing their genuine passion and deep knowledge.

Next, you’ll visit the Hawkins Public Pool, the place where Eleven’s powers, or lack thereof, often took center stage. This spot offers a great photo opportunity and a tangible connection to the show’s more supernatural elements. From there, the tour takes you to Hawkins Middle School and High School, authentic-looking sets that have become iconic images for fans worldwide.

One of the main highlights is Cinespace, the studio where parts of the show were filmed. While you won’t get a behind-the-scenes studio tour, seeing the studio’s exterior provides added context about how Atlanta has become a major hub for film and TV production, thanks to its accessible locations and industry support.

Perhaps the most gripping site is Brimborn Steelworks, the fictional Nesting ground for the Mind Flayer. Seeing the industrial setting where some of the show’s darker scenes unfold is both eerie and fascinating.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

Beyond just visiting filming locations, the guide shares behind-the-scenes stories, giving fans a richer understanding of how the series was filmed, set design choices, and the local industry’s role in friendly production. This adds depth to the experience, transforming a simple sightseeing trip into a mini film history lesson.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

The reviews reflect the high regard for the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Jason from the U.S. notes, “Very informative tour guide, very nice, made the tour exciting,” and others praise guides like Greg and Chris for going above and beyond. Their familiarity with Atlanta’s film scene and the series makes the storytelling lively and engaging.

Practical Details & Value

At $175 per individual, the tour offers excellent value for fans eager to see these locations up close and learn about their real-world counterparts. The inclusion of bottled water and pick-up/drop-off adds comfort, especially in a city as sprawling as Atlanta. For those wanting more, the VIP all-day option promises even more sites and stories.

Timing-wise, the 3-hour tour is concise but packed, making it suitable for a morning or afternoon activity. The private group setting adds a layer of intimacy that larger bus tours lack, ensuring you can ask questions and take your time at each stop.

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Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re a dedicated fan of Stranger Things, or even just a lover of TV and film locations, this tour is a fantastic way to connect with the series beyond the screen. It also appeals to families, as evidenced by reviews mentioning children’s participation. The guides’ storytelling skills and local insights turn what could be a simple sightseeing jaunt into a memorable journey.

That said, for travelers looking for a comprehensive Atlanta experience, this tour might serve best as a focused side trip rather than a standalone activity. Its price reflects the exclusivity and tailored approach, but if budget is a concern, you might compare with larger group options or self-guided routes.

Final Reflection: Who Would Love This?

This tour is best suited for dedicated fans who want to see the exact locations where their favorite characters have been filmed, especially those who appreciate storytelling and learning about film production. It’s also ideal for families or groups who enjoy a personalized experience and are comfortable with a three-hour scheduled outing.

If you’re seeking an engaging, well-led exploration of a beloved TV series, this tour provides a perfect combination of authenticity, entertainment, and educational value. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge make it a highlight, especially if you’re eager to see the real-world backdrop behind the show’s supernatural mysteries.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention bringing children along. However, keep in mind that some locations like Brimborn Steelworks are industrial and may be less engaging for very young kids. The guide can help tailor the experience if needed.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private guide, pick-up and drop-off within Atlanta’s Downtown or Midtown, and bottled water. It’s a private experience, so it’s personalized and flexible.

How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts about 3 hours, which is enough to see multiple key sites comfortably without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for travel schedules.

Is there an option for a full-day experience?
Yes, for those wanting more, there’s a full-day VIP tour that covers additional locations and offers a deeper dive into the filming sites and Atlanta’s film industry.

Where does the tour start?
Pickup is available within Atlanta city limits, with the meeting point at the parking lot for the MLK Historic Site, making start-up logistics straightforward.

This private Stranger Things location tour in Atlanta offers fans a genuine chance to step into the show’s universe. With knowledgeable guides, stunning locations, and behind-the-scenes stories, it transforms a typical sightseeing trip into an immersive experience. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or simply curious about the filming process, you’ll find plenty of value here.

The focus on authentic sites combined with expert narration makes this a worthwhile purchase. It’s particularly well-suited for fans eager to see the real-world Hawkins, or anyone interested in Atlanta’s booming film industry. The personal touch of a private guide ensures that every moment feels special and tailored, making it one of the most memorable ways to spend a few hours exploring TV magic in Georgia.

If you’re in Atlanta and love Stranger Things, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your visit — mixing fun, learning, and a sense of connection to the series’ beloved characters. Just be prepared for a bit of investment; many think it’s worth it for the insider access and personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: