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

If you’re a Stranger Things fan planning a trip to Atlanta, chances are you’ve heard about the private film location tour that takes you through the show’s iconic spots. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve gathered enough reviews, details, and insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This is a journey that promises to bring the show’s fictional world to life right in the heart of Atlanta.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the fun of a pop culture pilgrimage with the practicality of a private, comfortable ride—no cramming into big groups or rushing through crowded streets. Plus, it’s designed to cater to fans who want a personalized, in-depth experience, complete with behind-the-scenes tidbits from knowledgeable guides. That said, it’s worth noting that at $175 per person, it’s definitely an investment, but one many say is well worth the cost for the experience and insights.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s length—about three hours—which means it’s a fairly compact peek into Atlanta’s Stranger Things universe. If you’re craving a full-day deep dive, you might find this short but sweet. And if you’re traveling with kids, just remember that the tour is adult-focused, with children needing their own paid ticket and adult supervision, making it ideal for older fans or groups of friends.

This tour is a fantastic pick for Stranger Things enthusiasts, film buffs, or anyone interested in exploring Atlanta’s neighborhoods through a pop culture lens. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided commentary and being chauffeured comfortably from site to site. Now, let’s get into what you’ll see and experience along the way.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, making for a tailored experience.
• Comfortable Transport: The ride is in a private vehicle, with bottled water provided.
• In-Depth Locations: Visit key Hawkins neighborhoods, schools, and notable filming spots.
• Expert Guides: Guides share fun facts and behind-the-scenes stories that bring the show to life.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose morning or afternoon tours to match your plans.
• Good Value for Fans: For around $175, you get a curated, immersive experience with logistics taken care of.

What to Expect from the Stranger Things Atlanta Tour

This private tour offers a neat way to see Atlanta through the lens of one of Netflix’s most beloved series. Starting with hotel pickup in Midtown or Downtown, you’ll be whisked around in your own vehicle, which makes a noticeable difference compared to crowded group tours. The ride itself gets you excited, as your guide peppers in fun facts about both the filming locations and Atlanta’s broader cultural scene.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The stops are carefully selected to highlight the show’s most recognizable filming locations. Expect to see the Hawkins neighborhoods — the houses of the Wheeler, Sinclair, and Henderson families, which appear in countless scenes. We loved the way these streets look just like they do on screen, with charming houses and quiet suburban vibes that bring Hawkins to life.

Next, you’ll visit Hawkins Middle School and High School, which serve as key backdrops for school scenes and hangouts of the main characters. The schools aren’t open for interior visits, but standing outside and knowing this is where so many pivotal moments occurred adds a layer of magic.

The Hawkins Public Pool is another highlight—fans of Season 3 will recall Billy’s iconic poolside scenes. It’s a fun spot that gives you a real sense of the show’s setting, even if it’s just the exterior.

A quick glimpse at Screen Gems Studios offers insight into where the magic of filming actually happens, and the Brimborn Steelworks, the nesting ground of the Mind Flayer, adds a slightly eerie touch to the tour.

What Guides Say and What You’ll Feel

Many reviews emphasize how personable and knowledgeable the guides are. “Greg was an amazing guide and was extremely knowledgeable and personable,” one review states. Others appreciated the extra Georgia history tidbits, which added context to the locations.

The tour duration—about three hours—is enough to cover all these sites without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for a condensed but immersive experience. “Greg was very informative about the film industry and Atlanta,” mentions another happy traveler. The guides really seem to enhance the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

The Logistics

For $175, the tour includes private transportation and bottled water, making it a hassle-free outing. The pick-up point is centrally located, and the tour ends right where it started, in a convenient part of Atlanta.

Booking is straightforward, with most travelers booking about 34 days in advance. The flexible scheduling (morning or afternoon) allows you to fit it into your broader travel plans easily.

The Value of a Private, Guided Experience

Many reviews highlight how guided tours like this offer a richer experience than simply visiting locations on your own. Your guide not only points out what’s visually interesting but also shares behind-the-scenes stories and trivia that deepen your understanding and appreciation of the show.

The personalized attention means questions are encouraged, and guides can tailor their commentary based on your interests—whether that’s more about the filming process, the neighborhoods, or the actors.

Authenticity and Fun

Reviewers have shared how excited guides like Greg, Julio, and Francesca bring the tour to life with their passion and knowledge. “Greg was very friendly and informative,” states one reviewer, while others mention how guides took extra steps—like quick detours or sharing extra Georgia facts—that made the experience special.

The Experience’s Special Touch

The inclusion of video clips, fun facts, and even themed playlists (as some guides do) can elevate the tour from simple sightseeing to an engaging storytelling session. This is where the tour really shines—being led through a familiar town that feels just like Hawkins, thanks to the guides’ enthusiasm and insights.

Practical Details: What Should You Know?

The tour lasts roughly three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. It covers key external filming sites and neighborhood streets; interior visits are not part of this package. The private vehicle is comfortably climate-controlled, and bottled water keeps you hydrated.

Children are permitted but need to have their own paid ticket and be supervised by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those with an interest in the show or Atlanta’s film scene.

Booking is recommended around 34 days in advance, especially during peak times. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, which offers some peace of mind if plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a Stranger Things fanatic, this tour feels like a treasure hunt through the show’s universe. It’s a great way to see Atlanta in a different light, especially if you enjoy guided commentary and behind-the-scenes stories. The private setting makes it ideal for small groups, couples, or friends wanting a personalized experience.

Those with a casual interest in filming locations or Atlanta neighborhoods will also find value here, thanks to the knowledgeable guides and comfortable logistics. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of pop culture and local scenery.

The Sum Up

This private Stranger Things tour offers a charming, intimate way to explore the show’s filming locations in Atlanta. The combination of knowledgeable guides, convenient private transport, and the opportunity to see real-life Hawkins neighborhoods makes it stand out. It’s a perfect choice for fans eager to step into the world of their favorite series without the hassle of large group tours.

While it’s priced higher than some generic city sightseeing options, many reviews affirm that the experience is worth the cost—especially for the personalized touch and the behind-the-scenes stories. If you’re a dedicated fan or love exploring film locations with a local expert, this tour is likely to deliver more than just a few photo ops; it offers a deeper connection to the show and the city.

For anyone who values comfort, personalized attention, and a curated peek into Atlanta’s pop culture landscape, this tour hits most marks. Just be sure to book ahead, prepare for a few hours of sightseeing, and get ready to relive the Stranger Things magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children need to have a paid ticket and be accompanied by a paid adult. It’s generally aimed at fans and older kids, as interior visits aren’t included.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, covering multiple outdoor filming locations and neighborhoods.

Can I choose a morning or afternoon tour?
Yes, you can pick based on your schedule.

What’s included in the price?
Private transportation, bottled water, and a guided tour with fun facts and behind-the-scenes insights.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 423 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE in Atlanta and ends back at that point.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 34 days ahead to secure their preferred date.

Is the tour canceled if the weather is bad?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is private, so guides can tailor it slightly to your interests—just be sure to communicate your preferences.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is interior filming location access included?
No, only outside locations and neighborhood streets are part of the tour.

In all, this Stranger Things film location tour in Atlanta is a well-reviewed, fun, and comfortable way to enjoy the show’s universe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the show’s filming process, you’re likely to find this experience both enjoyable and memorable.