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Visiting Mystic Falls In Covington GA: The Vampire Diaries In Real Life

Are you a fan of The Vampire Diaries?  Have you ever wanted to step into the world of Mystic Falls Virginia and experience the supernatural for yourself? Look no further than Covington Georgia, the real-life location of the fictional town.

From the Mystic Grill to the Lockwood Mansion, there are plenty of iconic spots to explore. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect when visiting Mystic Falls in Covington, GA, and why it’s a must-see destination for any diehard Vampire Diaries fan.

As the real-life filming location for Mystic Falls, Covington offers fans a chance to immerse themselves in the world of vampires, witches, and werewolves. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring Mystic Falls in Covington!

Where is Mystic Falls?

For a long time, I thought Mystic Falls was a real place. I never bothered to ask where Mystic Falls actually is. Turns out it’s not in Virginia!

Mystic Falls is located in Covington Georgia and isn’t an actual town – Covington is just the set  mostly used for the Vampire Diaries. You’ll see many of the iconic Mystic Falls town landmarks in Covington.

Covington is a city in the central region of Georgia, specifically in Newton County. It is situated approximately 35 miles east of Atlanta, the capital city of Georgia.

The city has a population of around 14,000 people and covers an area of approximately 14 square miles.

Covington is known for its historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. And of course, because this is the home of Mystic Falls, you’ll see Vampire Diaries staples like the Mystic Grill and the town common.

Covington is easily accessible by car via Interstate 20 or by air through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport , which is located approximately 40 miles west of the city.

Covington, Georgia is not only known as the home of the fictional Mystic Falls, but it has also been a popular filming location for TV shows and movies for over six decades.

Recently, the town has been the primary setting for the Netflix original series, Sweet Magnolias. In addition, Covington has been featured in several beloved films, including Remember the Titans (1999), Sweet Home Alabama (2002), and Selma (2014). Georgia is often referred to as the Hollywood of the South, and Covington’s popularity as a filming location is a testament to that.

As a devoted fan of The Vampire Diaries, visiting Covington was a dream come true. Despite being a popular destination for film and TV enthusiasts, the town maintains a charming and low-key vibe, with cute local shops and welcoming hospitality that will have you missing it before you even leave.

The Vampire Diaries Filming Locations In Mystic Falls/Covington Georgia

Though the initial episode of “The Vampire Diaries” was filmed in Vancouver, the remainder of the eight-series show was in Covington, GA.

And guess what? You’ll be thrilled to know that many of the show’s iconic filming locations are open to the public for exploration. That’s right – you can walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters and see the places where their supernatural adventures took place.

One of the most famous filming locations is the Mystic Grill , a beloved hangout spot for the show’s characters.

Another must-see location is the Lockwood Mansion , which served as the home of the Lockwood family on the show. 

Of course, there is the Town Square , the site of many of the show’s pivotal moments, and the Wickery Bridge, where the tragic accident that kicked off the series took place. 

Let’s dive into each of these locations in more detail to get you ready for your trip!

Top Things To Do in Covington Georgia for Vampire Diaries Fans:

Here are the top things to do, ranked. I recommend either driving or renting a golf cart (which we did and it was awesome!) since some of these spots are a pretty long walk.

10. Join a Mystic Falls Tour  

Going on a tour with Vampire Stalkers is a great way to start of your Mystic Falls journey if you want to see everything at once. This tour will take you all around Mystic Falls and show you the most iconic places. You can easily see many of these places on your own, but the tour does make it a little easier.

You’ll have stops at famous filming sites like the Mystic Grill , the Town Square, and the Lockwood Mansion .

This tour does boast “exclusive” access to the Lockwood Mansion , which is a private residence, but this only means you get to go inside the gates (not inside the house). But you DO get to see the iconic Caroline and Klaus bench, which was totally worth it for me.

You’ll also get to see Elena’s home , Caroline’s home , and Isobel’s home .

But this tour is notable for more than just the places on the TV series. The guides at Vampire Stalkers know everything there is to know about Mystic Falls, and they love to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with other fans.

This tour takes about 2.5 hours and is a great way to see all of the Vampire Diaries spots in one swoop.

Check out more info about the tour here.

9. See The Characters’ Homes

Would you rather go on a self-guided tour? You can easily check out the characters’ homes yourself. Here are the addresses:

Elena Gilbert’s House : 2104 Floyd Street NE, Covington, GA

Caroline Forbes’ House : 2118 Floyd St, NE, Covington, GA

Isobel’s House : 2146 Conyers St, SE, Covington, GA

8. Dine at the Mystic Grill   

Yes, you read that right! You can actually dine at the Mystic Grill!

The Mystic Grill is a common place for The Vampire Diaries characters to hang out. You will love it more if you are a fan, as the restaurant has many souvenirs and props from the show.

But this place is also a great restaurant in its own right, with a menu full of Southern-inspired dishes and a cozy, welcoming setting that will make you feel at home. It serves both lunch and dinner. The Mystic Grill has something for everyone , from essential comfort foods like mac and cheese to more sophisticated dishes like pan-seared salmon. If you are there for dinner, try one of the Mystic Burgers or get the 13 Oz Ribeye. Either one won’t disappoint!

The bar area is exactly like the show, but the restaurant area looks a little different. Either way, coming here feels super iconic. If only Matt was actually our waiter.

You can also grab a seat on the rooftop (not shown in the Vampire Diaries but super beautiful!) and listen to live music on the weekends (think Caroline singing to Matt).

So, come for the food, stay for the mood, and feel the magic of the Vampire Diaries at Mystic Grill !

7. Visit The 1864 Flashback Plantation House

Fans of The Vampire Diaries may recognize the beauty of Covington, Georgia from the 1864 flashbacks featured in the show.

However, this home has also served as the inspiration for the plantation featured in the classic film, Gone with the Wind. One must-see location in Covington is the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast , which captures the charm and elegance of the antebellum South.

You can simply visit or actually stay in this home – we’ll cover more about that in the hotel section further down this post.

The address for this spot is 2176 Monticello St, SW, Covington, GA.

6. Explore Covington Square and The Clock Tower

As a fan of “The Vampire Diaries”, visiting Covington, Georgia was a dream come true. One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the Covington Square and Clock Tower.

The square is the heart of the city and offers a variety of local shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

The Covington Clock Tower , which has been a fixture of the city since 1896, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the square. It’s a truly beautiful spot!

The square is also home to several events throughout the year, including the Covington Farmers Market and the Covington Art Walk . You can look around the shops and stores, which sell everything from handmade crafts and artisanal goods to unique gifts and souvenirs.

Or, grab a bite at one of the many cozy cafes, hip bars, or fancy restaurants that line the square. Many of these places serve delicious Southern-style food and other favorites from the area.

Covington Square also has a lot to offer regarding fun things to do. The town center has live music performances, art shows, and other annual special events. And of course, our characters in the Vampire Diaries experience all of that, so this is a must-visit.

5. Visit Lockwood Mansion

Another stop to visit as you explore the real-life town behind Vampire Diaries is the Lockwood Mansion . This stately historic home was the outside setting of the Lockwood family house on the show. It has now become a popular place for fans of the show who desire to venture into the world of Mystic Falls.

You’ll feel like you’re in The Vampire Diaries as soon as you get close to Lockwood Mansion . It’s easy to imagine the characters from the show walking around the property because of the grand columns, long roads, and lush landscaping.

You can’t actually go inside (and can only go in the gates on the tour) but it’s still worth a stop to see from the outside.

4. See The Iconic Damon/Elena Kiss Spot:

You know that iconic kiss in the rain? That took place at the Academy Springs Park , which is super close to downtown. The park itself is pretty beautiful, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

The address for the park is: 3120 Conyers St SE, Covington, GA.

3. Spend Some Time at Mystic Falls Cemetery   

A Vampire Diaries tour wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the Mystic Falls Cemetery , one of the most critical settings of the show. But seriously: how much time did the characters spend here?

The stone walls, tall trees, and twisting paths of the cemetery all show up in different episodes, and it’s easy to picture the show’s characters wandering through the graves. This is where the group mourned so many iconic characters.

Even without Vampire Diaries, the cemetery is famous for photographers and history buffs because of its beautiful grounds and memorials. Its quiet atmosphere is a nice break from the business of everyday life.

The address for the cemetery is: 2151 Davis St., Covington, GA.

2. See The Welcome Sign

Grab a picture with the iconic Mystic Falls Virginia sign !

You will find the actual wooden sign inside the Visitor’s Center, and another one painted on one of the walls in The Alley.

1. Check Out Some Vampire Diaries Merchandise and Gift Shops

You can visit many places in Covington, Georgia, where the TV show took place, but there are also a few places in town that sell cool Vampire Diaries stuff.

The Vampire Stalkers tour group, located near the Town Square, runs one of the largest gift shops with the most extensive selection of Vampire Diaries items. 

The gift shop is a haven for fans who want to take a piece of Mystic Falls home. What’s great about it is that it is just a few steps away from some of the most famous film locations of the show, so it’s a quick stop in while sightseeing. 

Replicas of the show’s props are among the most popular things in the gift shop. You can get Damon Salvatore’s vervain collar and the Gilbert family ring , complete with great care and attention to detail.

But even if you don’t want a copy of a prop, the gift shop has a lot of other things to offer. You can get a Mystic Falls t-shirt or a mug with your favorite characters on it to show how much you like the show. And if you want a unique souvenir, you can have a piece of jewelry made just for you with a design inspired by the show.

That’s pretty much it for the big locations in MysticFalls. However, there are some smaller places to see, too:

Bree’s Bar – 4139 Emory St NW, Covington, GA Whitmore College – 801 Emory St, Oxford, GA Sharp Gym 20’s Decade Dance – 2140 Newton Dr., Covington, GA

Other Things To Do in Covington, Georgia

Apart from exploring the filming locations of The Vampire Diaries, there are many more things to enjoy in this town. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply considering a relaxing getaway, the following things to do will surely make lasting memories!

Play a Round of Golf at Ashton Hills Golf Club

You can’t miss the chance to play at one of the best public courses. A golf course is a place where history and new ideas meet. The Ashton Hills Golf Club takes pride in giving players unique places to play and exciting things to do in Covington, GA. 

When you get there, you’ll see a lot of things. Clean greens and well-kept fields are just the start. You can play 18 of the best rounds at their Desmond Muirhead-designed course. The golf course is 6906 yards long, and it is a golfer’s dream. 

Give it a few swings to find out for yourself.

Partake in Covington Ghost Tour

For a more exciting time, go on a walking tour of Covington’s historical sites . Seasoned Ghost Guides will show you around a city with a long history of hauntings and give you a preview of what makes it the “Hollywood of the South.” 

You will visit places where TV shows like “In the Heat of the Night,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” and “The Vampire Diaries” were filmed. Most of the time, the walking ghost trip takes about 2.5 hours. The best way to see the hidden side of Covington City is on a Covington Ghost Tour .

View Local Arts at Southern Heartland Art Gallery

The Southern Heartland Art Gallery opened in 2004 on Covington’s old square. So far, the art center has done an excellent job of showing off unique and exciting works by local creators and artists. 

Since the gallery is in a great spot in the city, it is easy to get to and gets a good number of visitors every day. Even more, the Southern Heartland Art Gallery has several shows. 

Check their schedule to plan your trip to the city around it!

Appreciate the Outdoors at The Eastside Trail

The Eastside Trail is the newest multi-use greenway walk in Newton County. 

It goes from downtown Covington to Eastside High School, which is 2.5 miles away. It starts on Ramsey Drive, and for the first few miles, it winds behind the library and Newton County Health Center into an area of woodland. 

After taking a slow path through the woods, the route will traverse Martin Street at the crossing. The view on the trail will bring anyone relaxation .

For free things to do in Covington, GA, you can rent a bike from a shop close and ride down the trail. 

Go Sightseeing at Turner Lake Trail

The Turner Lake Complex is in Covington, near the end of Clark Street on the west side. Visitors can park at the Turner Lake Facility and use the trails behind the complex and along the lake to get to the lake.

After seeing the sights, you can get to downtown Covington. You can reach it via the boardwalk, a tunnel under the roundabout, or bike paths.

The trail’s natural setting allows you to escape all the distractions and focus on yourself. And, if you are with your loved ones, you can stroll down Broadway to have an excellent time!

Getting To Mystic Falls (Covington, Georgia)

Getting to Covington Georgia, is a breeze, with various transportation options available. Whether traveling by car, plane, or bus, there are numerous ways to reach this charming town and explore all Mystic Falls, Virginia, has to offer.

If you’re driving by car to Covington, Georgia, the trip will be beautiful and easy. The town is easy to get to from Atlanta and other nearby cities because it is right off Interstate 20.

It takes about an hour from Atlanta to Covington, but that can change based on how busy the roads are. If you’re going from out of state, plan your route and leave plenty of time for rest stops and to get gas.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the closest airport if you come by plane. You can rent a car, take a cab, or use a shuttle service to get to Covington from there.

Depending on traffic, the trip takes about an hour. Flights to Atlanta cost different amounts based on the time of year, but round-trip tickets usually cost less than $200.

Book your flights early to get the best deals and arrive in Covington at a good time. And don’t forget to bring only what you need. Airlines often charge extra for checked luggage.

If you would instead take a bus, the closest bus station to Covington is in Atlanta. You can take a GRTA bus from there; the trip takes about an hour, depending on the road conditions.

Just check the bus schedules before you go so you can get to Covington quickly.

Where To Stay in Covington, Georgia

If you plan to go to Covington Georgia, you should stay for more than one day. We suggest staying for at least a weekend or longer because there are so many places to see and charming Southern hospitality to enjoy. 

Luckily, there are a lot of places to stay, and there are options for all budgets and preferences. Here are the ones we like best!

The Twelve Oaks Bed and Breakfast

Do you like The Vampire Diaries? If so, you won’t want to pass up the chance to stay at the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast in Covington, Georgia! This beautiful house is in the middle of Mystic Falls and offers guests a luxurious and unforgettable stay.

The Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast is just a short walk from downtown Covington , so it’s a great place to stay while you check out the town’s charming shops, restaurants, and sights. The house is a work of art in and of itself. It has grand rooms and elegant furniture that take visitors back in time.

At the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast , guests can choose from six rooms , each with its style and personality.

There’s something for every taste and budget, whether you want a cozy room with a fireplace or a large suite with a four-poster bed. And with high-speed Wi-Fi and luxurious blankets, guests can enjoy all the comforts of home in a truly unique setting.

The delicious breakfast given every morning is one of the best parts of staying at Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast. In the elegant dining room of the house, guests can enjoy a gourmet meal, or they can have a more casual meal in the cozy breakfast nook.

Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast rooms start at around $200 per night , varying on the season and room type. Even though it’s not the cheapest place to stay in Covington, the luxurious rooms and fantastic service make it well worth the extra money.

We  highly recommend staying at Twelve Oaks for the full Covington Georgia Mystic Falls experience! You’ll feel like you’re part of Vampire Diaries during your stay – the rooms are just incredible.

Holiday Inn Express Covington

The Holiday Inn Express Covington is a popular hotel located in the heart of Covington, Georgia. The hotel offers a variety of amenities and services to make guests’ stays comfortable and enjoyable.

The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

Additionally, the Holiday Inn Express Covington is located close to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Mystic Grill and the Covington Square. The hotel also offers easy access to nearby highways, making it a convenient option for those traveling by car.

And what about pricing? Rooms at the Holiday Inn Express start at around $100 per night , depending on the season and room type. It makes it a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who still want a comfortable stay with all the modern amenities.

Hampton Inn

Hampton Inn is your home away from home in the charming town of Covington, Georgia! If you’re looking for a comfortable yet affordable stay with a touch of Southern hospitality, look no further than this cozy yet affordable hotel.

It is right off Interstate 20, making seeing all the town offers easy. Also, its friendly staff is always happy to improve your stay by giving suggestions and secret tips.

You can choose from different rooms, such as standard rooms with one or two beds or large suites with living rooms. Some comfortable rooms have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels, and soft mattresses.

Are you looking to stay active and fit during your trip? No problem! The Hampton Inn has you covered with an outdoor pool and fitness center, so you can break a sweat and cool off in style.

Moreover, the best part is that living here won’t break your budget. Prices start at about $100 per night , which makes it an excellent choice for tourists on a budget. You can be sure you’ll feel right at home as soon as you get there!

La Quinta Inn & Suites 

Looking for a place to stay in Covington, Georgia, that’s cozy and easy to get to? La Quinta Inn & Suites is an excellent place to stay . This famous hotel chain has clean, comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a prime location.

The rooms at La Quinta Inn & Suites are large and comfortable, with flat-screen TVs, premium cable programs, and high-speed Wi-Fi so you can stay in touch while there.

Plus, you can choose between standard rooms and larger suites with separate living rooms to find a room that fits your wants and budget.

But La Quinta Inn & Suites has more to offer than just that. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast served every morning in the dining room. You can have an excellent start to your day with various hot and cold foods, like eggs, toast, cereal, and more!

Additionally, service is one thing that makes La Quinta Inn & Suites stand out from other hotels . Some of the friendliest and most helpful individuals you’ll ever meet work here. They are always keen to go above and beyond to make your stay as easy and enjoyable as possible.

La Quinta Inn & Suites is right off Interstate 20, which makes it a good choice for travelers passing through the area or those who want to explore the town’s many charms and nearby sites.

This place has reasonable prices, with rooms starting at around $90 per night , based on the time of year and the room type. It makes it an excellent choice if you want to explore the town while on a budget!

FAQs About Visiting Mystic Falls Virginia (Covington Georgia):

Can you see mystic falls without a tour, can i visit the lockwood mansion, what is the best time of year to visit.

The best time of year to visit Covington, Georgia, to experience the Mystic Falls filming locations and immerse yourself in the world of “The Vampire Diaries” can depend on a few factors:

Spring (March to May): Spring can be a lovely time to visit. The weather is mild, and the blooming flowers and lush greenery can enhance the overall ambiance of the town. The pleasant temperatures make it comfortable for walking tours and exploring the filming locations .

Fall (September to November): Fall is another popular time to visit. The changing foliage adds a beautiful backdrop to your experience, and the weather remains comfortable. The fall season can also coincide with fan events or conventions related to “The Vampire Diaries.”

Summer (June to August): Summer is a peak tourist season, so you might encounter larger crowds. However, if you’re willing to brave the heat and the possibility of some rain, summer can be a good time to visit if you want a lively atmosphere and longer daylight hours for exploring.

Winter (December to February): Winter is the off-peak season for tourism in Covington. While the temperatures can be cooler, this might be a quieter time to visit the filming locations without the crowds. Some events or attractions might have limited availability during this time, so it’s good to check in advance.

Final Thoughts

That’s it for this guide on exploring the real-life town behind Vampire Diaries!

Mystic Falls Virginia, or more precisely, Covington Georgia , offers an unforgettable experience whether you are a fan of The Vampire Diaries or not. From exploring iconic filming locations to shopping and exploring the outdoors, Covington has something for everyone.

So pack your bags now and embark on a journey to this magical town!

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Mystic Falls Tours

Review Highlights

“ I would, and have already, recommend this tour to any TVD , Originals, or Legacies fans! ” in 7 reviews

“ Jessica was awesome and she knew so much about behind the scenes and history of the town. ” in 14 reviews

“ This is the #1 tour for all things related to The Vampire Diaries and The Originals . ” in 4 reviews

Location & Hours

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2101 Clark St

Covington, GA 30014

Serving Covington Area

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Providing Guided Tours to the sets and homes used on The Vampire Diaries, The Originals and Legacies. Vampire Stalkers not only has EXCLUSIVE access to many homes and sets but they also pride themselves on making sure you have a great time by providing scene reenactments for the best photo ops you could imagine! Recommended by the vampire diaries trilogy cast we know all the Behind the scenes stories you can't hear anywhere else! What are you waiting for? Today might be the day you get to see your favorite stars On Location with Vampire Stalkers! Don't forget to check out our amazing memorabilia and Museum section located inside our store. Including set props donated to us direct from Warner Brothers. …

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We only checked out the museum. We didn't do the tour. But the museum had a lot of different show props. The only thing I wish that was different would be to have more variation than just Vampire Diaries and spin offs. I know Mystic Falls brings in a lot of profit. But to have Dukes of Hazard and In the Heat of the Night filmed here and barely hit on it,.. just seems wrong.

See all photos from Dani C. for Mystic Falls Tours

Big fan of Vampire Diaries!! Went on the tour today with my daughter, and our tour guide, Amber was quite good. Visited many of the characters homes and drove by others. Stopping at the park and visiting the on-site location was very beautiful. Got to meet the actual owners of the Lockwood mansion, very nice gentlemen.! The little tour buses /large golf carts was a good way to get around the little town and not be too obstructive to the residence, which I actually appreciated on their behalf. However, it was way too snug on the carts, and really should consider sitting three people per row instead of four. I understand that in order to get a bit extra room you can buy two seats, but that honestly is not fair. The price of the tickets are already high enough considering what you're getting from the tour. The shop at the end of the tour was pretty awful. We walked in and basically walked right out. The merchandise is substandard to say the least. ... I really do think the gift shop has great potential if they actually strove to acquire better made products. Believe me I wanted to buy something......

See all photos from Ana G. for Mystic Falls Tours

This was a wonderful tour and a wonderful experience for my 13 year old birthday girls yesterday. Amber was a great tour guide and gave the group lots of interesting information. I'd like to thank Amber as well for making sure to recognize my twins on their birthday. She made it so memorable and special for them. I would, and have already, recommend this tour to any TVD, Originals, or Legacies fans! Thanks so much for following such an amazing experience.

See all photos from Lisa D. for Mystic Falls Tours

Jan 8, 2023

Thank you so much! We love birthdays!!!

Enjoyed the tours and the tour guides were awesome!!! Will definitely recommend to friends.

Thank you so much for joining us and taking the time to leave a review!

So glad I took the tour and picked up some behind the scenes information that the staff gives you from TVD! We had a really great time and thought the staff was so fun and so professional! Definitely recommend the tour!

Thank you! I hope your trip was magical

WORST PLACE EVER. The owner does not care about her consumers and only about herself and money. I purchased a sweater for my daughter, who is a huge fan of TVD, and we realized once we got home that it was too small. My daughter did not even put the sweater on. Anyways, I called the store the following morning and Jessica, the owner, answered the phone. Jessica rudely alluded to a no return policy, did not let us speak, and hung up on us. Afterwords we decided to stop by personally and try to resolve the dispute amicably. Instead, Jessica pointed at a hidden no return sign and offered us a $20giftcard to buy ANOTHER $50 sweater instead of just swapping out the sweater no one wore. Clearly a ploy to make an extra buck off of us... I'm extremely disappointed in this shop and this woman. My daughter is a huge fan of the series and this ruined our trip. B

Feb 22, 2021

Due to Covid 19 our return policy is very important for the safety of our customers and staff. We do have signage all throughout the store, at the register and on your receipts to make sure you are aware before purchasing. When checking out the day before you chose "No receipt" on the terminal, we did try to show you the signage in the store and explain to you that we are sorry but Covid 19 guidelines cant be changed. Safety is most important. Several of our staff have family members that are high risk and we take the guidelines to heart on their behalf and on the behalf of our customers. At the end of the day we want you and your daughter to be safe. We did offer a $20 gift card as a thank you for understanding and we hope you enjoyed using it or passing it along to a friend to use in the future. Thank you.

This tour was a great experience. My girlfriend really likes the show, and she thought it was awesome to get to hear the backstories and see the film locations live. I've seen most of the show, and thought it was really cool as well. Make sure to grab a burger at the mystic grill after! As always, team Rebekah

so glad you had a great time!!! Thank you for coming

Did the tour last week with friends and mystic falls is a beautiful town! Enjoyed getting to see the spots on the tour and hear the tour guides stories but I don't think this tour is worth $60. We saw several people doing their own tour and really the guide is sharing behind the scene details from their experiences but as far as seeings the spots you could do on your own.

Thank you for coming and enjoying all the behind the scenes stories you get while touring with us Being able to share our stories with fans while showing you homes only available to us is the highlight of our job

I am not a Vampire Diaires follower but came along with my friends. The entire experience was informative and anytime you get to "rub elbows" with Hollywood is well worth the tour. The guides were fun and had endless interesting stories and lots of behind the scenes information, artifacts and respect for the town, home owners, privacy of actors, crew, etc!! Definitely would recommend this experience!

If I could give 0 stars I would. I drove 50 mins to come here and as my friend was paying for the tour, I went to the restroom and on my way back I overheard the owner and her employee were talking. I'm still so shocked and sad writing this, they said and I quote " there weren't any n***** vampires " and they laughed. I grabbed my friend and we left. It's sad that poc must still deal with this, my heart breaks knowing such nasty people still exist.

Feb 24, 2021

This is not true. I don't know where this may have happened to you but it was not in our store. Our tours are booked months in advance so there is not really anyway your friend was paying for a tour that day...We also do Not have a restroom in our store. There really is NO way you heard us state something so awful on your way back from the restroom. I don't know why you are leaving this review please know we love each and everyone of the customers that we see from all over the world. I hope you realize that this was not at our store and hopefully you will remove this false review. Racism is not OK. I would not tolerate such behavior in my store from my employees, we do have cameras and our store and museum area is monitored 24-7. I hope you had a great time in Mystic Falls. If you would like to contact me directly and let me know the day you were in our store I would be happy to show you the footage on our cameras in order to set your mind at ease.

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Tour of Mystic Falls and Saying Goodbye to The Vampire Diaries

March 9, 2017 By Dwan Perrin 19 Comments

Are you a fan of The Vampire Diaries television series? With the last episode of the series airing this week, we thought we would take you on a virtual tour of Mystic Falls. We love visiting towns that are shown in our favorite movies and TV shows. There is something magical about seeing your favorite story come to life. A few years back I was given the chance to take a guided tour of the fictional town of Mystic Falls to see where The Vampire Diaries was filmed. Although Mystic Falls is said to be in Virginia, it is actually hosted in a small town outside of Atlanta in Covington, Georgia. Covington… that just sounds like a vampire town, doesn’t it?

Covington, Georgia was ranked one of the top ten vampire destinations by the TravelChannel.com.

The 16th episode of Season 8 marks the end. The fan base for this television show is pretty massive and we are among the ones that are sad to see it come to a close. However, you can still experience a little piece of this reality on a weekend getaway to Georgia.

The first thing we recognized when driving into town was the iconic clock tower. The clock tower was significant during the last episode of Season Six but appeared quite a bit throughout this last season with the ringing of the bell. Remember Damon standing at the top when the town went dark? Now can you see where the action took place.

When we arrived in Covington we stopped at the visitor center and picked up a free map. The Mystic Falls map outlines where all the scenes were filmed and the best places to visit. You can mostly walk around the square snapping photos and see majority of the houses over a span of a few blocks. We drove around the small town in our rental car and followed the route they suggested.

Below the clock tower is where you can find Mystic Falls Courthouse and Sheriff Forbes Office. We didn’t actually go inside this place of business.

Have you always wanted to hang out at the Mystic Grill ? Now is your chance. This Vampire Diaries inspired restaurant is now open to the public. When we visited Covington the Mystic Grill was undergoing renovations and preparing to open so unfortunately we did not get a chance to eat lunch there. However, I have since read great reviews. The restaurant is located in a historical building within the town center and an experience I hope to make it back for.

It was interesting to see the construction and read all the well wishes and fan signatures that were left on the board. Some had traveled all the way from Canada to visit the town of Mystic Falls!

Dr. Gilbert’s office.

Featured as the Lockwood Manor in flash back episodes, this beautiful property is The Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast . You may recognize it from more than just The Vampire Diaries. This B&B has been featured in numerous movies, including a Tyler Perry film. If you are staying in town then I would recommend checking out this place.

Home sweet home of Sheriff Forbes and Caroline.

Elena may have blown up the home of her and Jeremy but I assure you, it is still standing and available for photo opps.  Many memories were shared of this home. From Elena journaling in her room to Damon kissing her on the porch.

Do you recognize the home of Bonnie Bennett’s gram? It was featured a lot in the early seasons and again recently.

This beautiful property is the Worthington Manor, known as the Lockwood Mansion. The Vampire Diaries viewers have watched many scenes featuring this gorgeous home and breathtaking landscape.

The property is gated and you are only granted access to the backyard on approved tours. More details below.

Look at this front door! I’m envious. It is stunning. We truly enjoyed walking around this estate. We even got to go inside a couple of rooms that were filled with Vampire Diaries memorabilia. The only approved tours to go beyond the front gate are booked through Vampire Stalkers – Mystic Falls Tours . We booked our tour of Mystic Falls through them and had a great time.

Although you can walk around the town of Mystic Falls in Covington, Georgia following along with your free map, I felt the experience of the guided tour was worth the cost. The tour guides have been cast as extras in the television series so they had personal stories to share. It was a pleasure to chat with other fans of the shows and visit with all the women. Plus, spending time at the Worthington Manor was an extra bonus. The entire town was filled with friendly people welcoming tourists and fans of the show. They were willing to answer any questions.

While in Covington, Georgia the tour guides told us about the location to see filming of The Originals in a town fifteen minutes away in Conyers. We saw a little alley that was decorated and setup to resemble New Orleans. Even the signs stated such. It was pretty neat to see how the film crew recreate a town within another city.

If you enjoy seeing what goes into filming a movie or television show, want to see if you can catch some live action filming or even be cast as an extra, I recommend you check out the site On Location Vacations . This site is good for multiple states, not just Georgia.

About Dwan Perrin

Dwan Perrin { Life.Family.Joy } is a Dallas/Fort Worth area mom of 5. As an avid traveler she loves to always be on the go. From weekend road-trips to international travels, seeing the whole world is on her Life List . She loves to share snapshots of life on Instagram . You can connect with Dwan on Twitter @DwanPerrin .

Reader Interactions

March 11, 2017 at 6:01 am

I’m so sad,8 years of awesomeness in mystic falls,Damon and Stefan in the center of it all,becoming tv’s favorite vampires ..im so ready to binge all the seasons lol blows a kiss to Mystic Falls

March 11, 2017 at 4:52 pm

Wow, I’d love to live here. What a cute town.

March 12, 2017 at 11:33 am

No matter how many times I see an episode it’s never boring,it never gets old,this was an awesome series.

March 13, 2017 at 1:35 pm

I’m still in shock that we’ve reached the end of the coolest show on television!! I’ll so miss the drama and action of it all.

March 15, 2017 at 11:45 pm

I would so love to tour those houses! I love the show and am so bummed to say goodbye to it.

March 16, 2017 at 1:15 pm

This would make an awesome trip to see all of the familiar places from the show!

March 21, 2017 at 1:07 am

That’s so exciting! I love visiting cities of film locations too – it feels extra special!

March 21, 2017 at 9:04 pm

No matter how many times I hear it,I can’t believe that this epic tale is over

March 22, 2017 at 4:17 pm

Thanks for the article, this is pretty close to me and I never knew about it.

March 22, 2017 at 10:07 pm

I want to visit there! Looks so nice!

April 5, 2017 at 9:28 pm

Loved reading about this, makes me want to plan a visit.

April 15, 2017 at 10:20 pm

We lived in Virginia for over 12 years and I can’t believe we never visited Mystic Falls!! I love exploring unique places to visit and know my daughter would have loved seeing this place with her obsession with the Vampire Diaries books.

May 15, 2017 at 2:23 pm

Looks like a classy place.

May 28, 2017 at 6:35 pm

It looks like a truly beautiful place.

June 15, 2017 at 12:33 pm

I would love to visit the town. I loved the show & was sad to see it end.

March 24, 2021 at 5:35 pm

I know me too

July 24, 2017 at 11:17 am

Not going to lie – I was a total fan of TVD years ago. I haven’t had the chance to catch up with the most recent seasons, but I’m sure I will be total fan again once I do. I would love to go and visit Covington! It was pretty cool to learn that they opened the Mystic Grill to public.

June 12, 2020 at 12:02 pm

Me, my daughter, my friend and her daughters have traveled to the famous Mystic Falls twice from Texas in 2015 and 2016! It’s as beautiful in person as it is on television and made me almost pick up and move there! The town square is beautiful and the atmosphere feels like family. With the live music from atop the Mystic Grill, we sat in the town square enjoying the sights and sounds. The tours were great! We went with the expectation that we ‘might’ run into some celebrity, but sadly, both times we did not. I would definitely love to go back, especially since they are using Covington for Legacies and for the new Netflix show, Sweet Magnolias!

January 28, 2021 at 7:08 pm

I absolutely love the Vampire Diaries, The Originals and Legacies! My husband and I are planning a trip to Covington at the end of Feb! I can’t wait to c everything! I’m sad I can’t book a tour they are booked solid Feb and March!

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The Vampire Diaries Filming Locations – A Guide to Covington

I’m obsessed with The Vampire Diaries so, when I ran out of episodes I did what I do best, travel. And what better way to get the fix of your favorite neck-biting vamps than by squeezing in a weekender to Covington to explore The Vampire Diaries filming locations?

The Vampire Diaries Filming Locations in Covington, GA

If you’re a total Vampire Stalker you are going to flip out when you go to Mystic Falls, or as we call it in the real world, Covington, Georgia. Like you, I’m a huge fan, and hitting up The Vampire Diaries   filming locations has been on my bucket list for a while.

No, I haven’t been watching it since 2009 when it started, but when I finally got on the wagon, I binge-watched every single episode in a matter of a month. Yes, a month. Let me tell you, it’s a whole new level of geekery and I highly recommend it. 

How much will that cost me? Some budget-friendly tips to keep your money in your pocket.

Okay, okay, you’re budget-minded and I get that. Naturally, you want to get right to it. Is this even a feasible trip? No sense in getting your fangs out if you can’t actually afford it.

The good news, visiting Georgia is actually pretty budget-friendly. Here are some pointers to keep you winning:

Flying Into Atlanta

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a flight hub, one of the largest in the U.S. This means your flights are much cheaper than say if you were trying to fly into Tampa. Hey, even I like to save money (there’s always a kid or an animal who needs it more than I do).

Renting a Car

Really, you’re going to have to do this. Covington is a hot minute outside of the city. Plus, it’s the kind of place to check out and deserves more than a once-over. I always rent from Kayak… It’s just plain cheap.

Where to Stay

Well, this depends on your “Katherine” level. I’m a total Katherine when it comes to lodging. Call me spoiled but the hotel industry was my first career. I like unique places to stay, especially historic (and in light of the theme here, a historic inn is perfectly fitting)!

I can recommend the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast . Firstly, because they actually use this property for filming and secondly, because it came highly recommended to me by the Covington Visitor’s Bureau (and they don’t just put travel bloggers anywhere…we get the goods).

Apart from this, you can always save when using Kayak in Atlanta which is just a half-hour away. I’m not paid by Kayak, I just really love Kayak.

While you’re at it, if you’re a fan of The Walking Dead , you may as well knock that geek trip off your list too! It’s just an hour from Covington!  

Vampire Stalkers Mystic Falls Tours – Winging it Versus Having a Guide

Okay so, now that we’ve sorted that, let’s start talking! The Vampire Diaries filming locations in Covington A.K.A. Mystic Falls, are pretty much public property which gives you one of two options. You can either wing it, or you can take a guided tour.

Personally, I prefer the guided tour (and I generally dislike tours they bore the crap out of me), but when it comes to a film (the one you know darn well you’re crack-addicted to) a guided tour is anything but boring.

The ONLY tour to take for this is the Vampire Stalkers Mystic Falls Tour .  It will run you $55 USD/person and worth every dime. Plus, it’s partnered with the Ian Somerhalder Foundation which I love.

There are three and only three reasons I opted to take a guided tour of Mystic Falls with Vampire Stalkers over chumming it along on my own:

Jessica, the guide (and founder of Vampire Stalkers Mystic Falls Tours) knows more than you  I do about The Vampire Diaries filming locations . She’s from Covington, Georiga, she’s been watching The Vampire Diaries filming since it began in 2009, and she knows the cast.

This means that taking this tour will leave you with insider knowledge and backstories you otherwise NEVER would have known. Oh, and her startup story is awesome too. She is overall just a ball of sunshine and adored by the cast and of course now me.

Mystic Falls Tours has access to the VERY private Lockwood Mansion estate where loads upon loads of scenes have been filmed. When you wing it you just get the creepy drive-by version. AND, you don’t get to meet George Lockwood, the infamous fabulous feline.

You may get to actually see (some of the former) cast of The Vampire Diaries while you’re there.

Now, I’m not guaranteeing anything, but let’s just say they are known to ham it up with fans when they are done, and being seen with Jess is never going to hurt the situation.

Here are some of The Vampire Diaries’ filming locations I was able to see on the Mystic Falls Tour.

Just so you know, there’s a pretty little photo gallery at the end of this article for you to explore. Back in the day before Google updated a million trillion times, I had these images embedded under each location. But, in order to optimize this post to its fullest potential, I had to make a gallery so, keep reading to check that out.

Many scenes are shot here. Bench scenes, town scenes, and more. As soon as you stand in The Square you feel like you’re in the show. It’s pretty cool.

Elena’s Father’s Doctor’s Office

The show has to remove the props because people tend to steal them. This one got to stay though! Pretty cool!

The Mystic Grill

Gah! The Mystic Grill like for really reals! So cool hearing about all the scenes filmed here. You can actually eat inside, however, keep in mind all the inside stuff is filmed at a soundstage. P.S. the food is UHMAZE!

Mystic Falls Courthouse

When you roll into Covington this hits you! Boom, you’re in Mystic Falls. This is really the icon of the exterior set of Mystic Falls.

The Damon and Elena Rain Kiss Scene

We all melted when we saw this one. Like c’mon, this is one of the most memorable scenes in the series!

Whitmore Campus

Movie magic turns this into Whitmore Campus. Pretty cool! This is actually a local park which is very peaceful and serene.

Where Bonnie Stops Matt’s Heart

In the current season, we all just saw how Bonnie used her witchy magic to stop Matt’s heart and barely start it again. Whew! That was here!

The Lockwood Mansion

Such an amazing estate. This historic real-life home is Tyler Lockwood’s home in Mystic Falls . Lots of cool parties and scenes shot here. You can’t miss George either. He’s the resident spotlight stealer. He loves attention, so expect him to come around when you’re there!

The Cemetery

Most of the cemetery scenes are done at the soundstage, but this has been used for scenes before.

And just for fun! The stars in town:

All around The Square, you will find pavers in the sidewalks. Among them are the pressings of Paul Wesley (Stefan Salvatore), Ian Somerhalder (Damon Salvatore), Nina Dobrev (Elena Gilbert/Katherine), and the Worthington Manor (Lockwood Mansion).

Check out my gallery of Covington!

Now I know you’re stoked. If you’re like me you’re an uber-fan and you swear you have to make it to Mystic Falls or you’ll die. Please remember while we all love TVD, there are some things you just shouldn’t do.

As in… don’t be that person that ruins it for everyone. No one likes that person.

If you see talent (they are really cool and often will come by to say hello if they have time), please keep in mind these people work 12-16 hour days. They have a lot of responsibility to remember lines and get into the characters we all love.

Don’t be an ass. Use your best judgment.

Don’t ever steal anything from the set. Sure it’s a trophy but at what cost? This type of move will cause nothing but problems for the people who aren’t doing these things. For more information on visiting Covington and the greater Atlanta area to explore The Vampire Diaries filming locations, please visit: The Covington CVB

Christa Thompson is the Founder and Chief Editor of The Fairytale Traveler. She started traveling the world in 2003 when she attended a summer abroad study at the University of Cambridge in England. Since then, her wanderlust has been fierce. Her three passions in life are her son, traveling, and being creative. The Fairytale Traveler brand gives Christa the opportunity to do all of these things and to live intentionally every day. "It's never too late to believe in what you love and to pursue your dreams." -Christa Thompson

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164 comments.

I’d love to visit these places. Vampire Diaries is one of my favorite shows.

What about the school? Do you know where it is?

I do believe that is a sound stage.

The high school,or Witmore? The witmore scenes were shot at Oxford. Not sure about the high school.

Witmore scenes were shot at Academy Springs Park https://www.facebook.com/pages/Academy-Springs-Park-Covington/530759740270818

The house in which Stefan stayed in Savannah Ga?

Do you mean the Salvatore Home?

I want to take my daughter to stay at the bed and breakfast for her birthday and do the tour. It’s September 2020, are all of these places still open? Is Covington still dedicated to honoring the show and fans? T. Sanderlin

I have never seen the show myself, but I know a lot of people that love the show! I am pretty sure this would be someone’s graceland.

OMG I love this so much. I never thought to visit the place where it’s filmed, but I LOVE this show and want to get down there someday!

Oh it’s so awesome! You totally should!

My niece loves the Vampire Diaries and I’m sure she would love to check these places out! What a cool place to go.

The cat is a big bonus! Honestly, I have never seen any of the Vampire Diaries.

Question. Does anyone know where the scenes of the water falls and quarry were shot? It reminds me of Tahlloula Falls but im not positive and I can’t find it online.

I think it was Tallulah but you might call the tour office and ask them.

I love TVD. It is one of my favorite shows. How coll that you visited where they film! Awesome!

We drive through Georgia on almost a yearly basis to Florida. I had no idea the show was filmed there. I just started watching this show on Netflix and cannot seem to get enough of it. I feel somewhat obsessive…I need to tone down a bit. haha I am bummed that Elena moves on to Damon. I really like her with Stephan. However, they are both actors gorgeous and very charismatic. 🙂

I love the Vampire Diaries. It would be so nice to visit all these places.

I haven’t gotten into the Vampire Diaries. I’ll have to see if I can find season 1 on netflix or hulu.

I never think about taking tours, this would be so much fun. Even if I didnt love the show, which I do, it looks like a good sight seeing place!

I’ve never watched that show but these places do look awesome to visit. Thanks for sharing.

I’ve only seen clips of the show before, but this is the kind of thing that excites me. I would love to see those places. We’re in NC so I think that’s not too far from here. Going to check it out.

What a fun tour! I loved watching the Vampire Diaries and its so fun to know that the Mystic Grill is a real place!!!

Jennifer Ashley http://www.prettylittledetails.ca

I’ve never watched this show but I would totally travel for a TWD tour. I love that shows and movies are filmed partly in real cities. It’s so cool to literally walk into your favorite shows and walk the same places as your favorite stars have. If shows were purely on a sound stage it wouldn’t make the show as real, I think.

Still jealous of your Walking Dead tour. ;( But I have never seen this show, even though I’m vampire obsessed. I would only stay in B&Bs in the South, for sure. Theyre always amazing.

What a fun tour. I know my oldest and his wife would love to do this one too!

This would be perfect for any fan of the show. Haven’t really watched it but if I were a fan, I would totally go on this tour!

Omg I just love Vanpire Diaries! How cool to see photos of all the places I’ve seen in the show!!!!! Soooo cool!!!!

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This is so cool! I am going to Covington in 2 weeks and I am super excited about it! Do you by any chance remember what cemetery you went to as well as what local park the kissing scene took place?

im from the UK and love love TVD… I am currently trying to get enough moolah together so I can visit site. Thanks for this info page. debz xx

You’re welcome!

Where was episode Cold As Ice filmed? I’m specifically wondering about the Santa Pub Crawl scene. Thanks!

I will ask Jessica at Vampire Stalkers and get back to you!

TVD Christmas episode where they did the pub crawl and there were all the Santa’s and Santa’s helpers was filmed in Stone Mountain. It is a very cute town we went there to try and see filming that day.

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!! TVD fans stick together! And PS I’m going to DIE over the debacle they are in now.

Thank you Michele! I appreciate your reply. How did you know this? I am curious to know where a fan can get this kind of information for future reference. 🙂

Where is the famous salvatore house?

Sadly it was demolished to build a car factory. Tears ensue.

Thank you! Yes, please ask her! She is the expert after all. 😉

What is better to catch filming weekends or weekdays? Do they film in March?

Weekdays and I believe yes they are back in March!

Are they filming the vampire diaries now in august

Thank you so much 🙂

Do you know where the waterfall is from S2 E20 and can it be visited?

Let me ask the guide this one!

Is there a list of the locations with address for people who come when tour isnt available or it isnt in the budget? Thanks

I don’t know that the tourism office has published anything like that, but one look around and many places stand out.

There is! Google vampire diaries locations in Covington GA and most will pop up on Google maps

Do you know where the Delena rain kiss scene filmed?

Yes it’s in the article actually. It’s where they film Whittmore. I drive by it all the time now that I live here! YAY!

Loved it! Do you know how long the tour takes? Like what time it starts and what time it ends? thanksss

You can get all that information on their site which is linked in the article 😉

Hello everyone, in 2014 i wanted to become a vampire from one man in UK and he collected my money, and he did not make me a Vampire. In 2015 someone directed me to a vampire lord in Bulgaria and this man make me a vampire. I will advice anyone who want to become a vampire should contact Wallace Graham via email: [email protected] the money who make a Vampire.Miss Jennet.

So I actually love in Georgia and have still never been on this tour (sad) but do they take you to the Salvatore mansion and are the plate things on the ground with their names on them in the town square of Covington?

The mansion hs sadly been torn down. I know. A freaking tragedy! They are building a Mercedes factory or something there… UGH! Yes there are inlaid stars in the square 😉

Are Elena coming back at the 8 season and are they filming the 8 season?

Not likely.

And in witch website do you look at TVD 😀

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Do you know during which months they will be filming? Thank you.

They are filming now but it will be short… not many episodes this season sadly 🙁

Can you tell me where I can find the location from the Rain Kiss Scene ?

It’s in the park in town. Very easy. I forget the name of the park tho but our town is small, you could roll up and ask anyone where the park is and they will tell you 😉

Academy Springs Park

I was wanting to know if you had addresses for the Damon/Elena rain kiss scene.

This is the final season, with not as many episodes to film. Do you think they will still be filming in September?

Maybe, it’s possible 😉

R they filming right now?

Hi!! i’m from Chile, and i’ll be in canada this fall term and it’ll be the closest i’ve ever been to Georgia!, so i’m planning on going on september… do you think maybe the will be filming there?, and do you know when is it more probably for me to run with someone of the cast??? on the weekend, during the week ? .. etc and the last question, how do I reach Covington? any bus service and from where can I take it?, i’ll be traveling from Detroit 🙂 i’m super excited!!

Okay well for one, the filming is very top secret. No one knows in advance when they are filming unless it will be on their property or disrupting business. This is for obvious reasons. They film both on the sound stage and on location… Second, there is not bus service to Covington and Canada is over a day’s drive from here. You would need to fly into Atlanta and rent a car. Covington is 30 minutes out of the city and 45 minutes from the airport. There is not public transport to Covington. It is a small town. I recommend you rent a car and take the tour.

I love when people say Covington is a small town.. Lol ive been by it several times and to it once and got lost in like 5 minutes of being there.. But i never made it into the town center, just the outskirts. Lol I live about an hour south East in a smaller city outside Augusta.

What’s the name of the park the delena kiss scene is at?

It’s in the comments below 😉

I am getting the amazing opportunity to go the Atlanta area for business and I plan to extend my trip to go on TVD set tour! It’s an hour drive- but totally worth it! Do you know if filming is going on the first week in October or is filming already over for the season? Thanks!!

I think they film through October… it’s hit or miss. But I can tell you when they are filming it’s very secure. They have had so many issues with vampire stalkers that they’ve had to block a lot of the actual town off. But much of their filming is done on a sound stage. They aren’t out there all the time you know. As in, I live here and I’ve yet to see them filming around town…

Hi there!!! We are planning a trip to Mystic Falls Covington GA in 2 days!!! I only live an hour away but just found out about 6 months ago where they filmed!! I can’t tell you how excited I am about this trip. I’ve been waiting for this trip for about 3months. All your information on this was so helpful as to what to do and not to do. Especially what to expect and not to expect thanks for all your information. Hopefully I will be able to give more information after my tour!!!!

That’s so awesome!!! I’m so excited for you, you’re going to flip out when you see Mystic Falls. Head over to Conyers too and check out where they film the Originals! Super rad! xox

But where is high school?

That was my question, too.

High school is a sound stage. In fact a lot of it is done on the sound stages where they have their studio in Decatur.

The school is real and you can visit. The football field is in Monroe, Ga. It looks the same as when they filmed there. Hope this helps.

Where did they film the scene in season one episode eleven where Elena and Damon stop on the side of the road in Georgia

I would have to ask Mystic Falls Tours about that one. Can you email me and I’ll add it my list of things to do this week!

Where is the scene where Damon and Elena first meet filmed ??

I’d have to ask my friends over at Mystic Falls Tours 😉

Are they still filming? Or has show wrapped up yet?

Yes they are still filming 😉

What is the best time or days to catch them filming & are they still filming now?

Can you visit the town without doing the tour?

Sure, most things are public but the tour does have exclusive access to the private location which is the Lockwood mansion.

Are they going to show the season finale in the square in covington?

I haven’t been home in weeks but I will find out!

Yup. This weekend. I’m going. There is an event page on Facebook

I love the vampire diaries i got my sister into liking it too we’re going on a road trip to Georgia to go on the tour we’re both super excited i don’t know what im going to do when the show ends

Me either!!!! 🙁

Coming from Richmond Virginia this weekend for the vampire diaries finale. Have taken a tour with Jessica before but she is all sold out this weekend. Looking to cram as many tvd filming locations into the weekend as possible. Have heard several shows have shot in and around Walton mills, starrsville plantation and gathier plantation, that willouby is really stone mountain, etc. Where are these locations? Are there coordinates I can put in the gps?

Look up film locations on google maps. I’ve heard that helps! And have SO MUCH FUN!

Do you know where Season 2 “Kill or be Killed” was filmed. The volunteer site. It looks beautiful

I sure don’t I am sorry.

This place looks like a place I live but I wanted to know for sure, no need to broadcast just curious of where the bar was?

Covington, Georgia at the Mystic Grill 🙂

Is Wickery Bridge a real location in or around Covington? That would be a pretty awesome place to see. Thank you for all of this info, can’t wait to “geek” out on the tour!

I do believe it’s at the park where they film the kiss scene, but I don’t believe that’s the name of the bridge.

It’s a soundstage. Sorry lol. You will find out so much on the tour. They know everything there is to know.

The High School is real. The football field is filmed in another location in Monroe, Ga. It still looks like it did when filming.

Do you know the address for the high school and is it also in Monroe or just the football field?

Do you know the address to the Gilbert lake house? My friend and I have been searching high and low for the address. It’s a gorgeous view!

the film “Vamper Diaries” was so epic, i felt so emotional in several scene. I really enjoyed it, i just wished it never ended because i miss it every day, but right now i am on “The Originals” looks so much like vampire diaries with some same characters of Vamper Diaries”.. i just wish i could travel and see mystic falls..

Do you know the name of the park the Delena kiss scene was filmed?Been twice to Covington and haven’t found it yet.Email me Please??!!

It’s called Academy Springs Park

I put my name wrong.Its Bradford

Can anyone tell me where the house is that Bonnie stops Matt’s heart??

It’s in a small neighborhood called Dorchester Place right off the square in Covington. It’s the second or third from the last on the cul de sac. You’ll know it when you see it. 😉

Someone else asked this as well, but where was the waterfall scene (season 2, episode 20) filmed?

Amacalola falls in dawsonville GA

Where is the swimming hole location filmed?

I just got into this show a few years ago and I totally love it. Its an epic story. Just watched the last episode, wish the last series had been longer (it didn’t have as many episodes as the earlier series’s) especially regarding the last plotline which seemed squashed into a couple of episodes especially after the other storyline took over the whole series. Sorry this sounds confusing I wanted to say this without spoilers, but I believe that people who watched it will get it. About places my totally favourite set over the whole series had to be the Salvatore Mansion, their furniture was totally gorgeous, it was like a character in itself. Does anyone know where it is and if it is in the tour (yes I know the interior had to be a stage). I really like how Caroline evolves over the course of the show, I didn’t really like her character in the first few episodes but she really grows into such an admirable person. The guys where totally gorgeous, Damon, Stefan, Alaric, Matt, Enzo, Tyler’s uncle. The girls grew into really great role models, who were strong intelligent women who stood by their friends through thick and thin. I didn’t think I’d like it cause I thought it would just be a teen show but this show is more directed at different ages ( I fit into the Alaric and Damon age group). So this show was great in that it had storylines across the age ranges. The thing is its not just about vampires, its an epic love story and its about loyalty, bravery and friendship in adversity. And it is the camaraderie between the characters that make it stand the test of time. Not all the storylines were as enjoyable as others, i know there were times I felt like shouting at the screen, there were a couple of times characters and laughed with them too. There aren’t many shows like that today that you can suspend your disbelief and get so immersed in the story that you feel the emotions alongside the characters. Thank you vampire diaries. I am sorry the show is over but since it is still on Netflix at the moment I am sure I will step inside their world again for a little while. And its nice to share with other fans.

Thank you for all of your wonderful comments. If ever you want to share more of your thoughts on the UK feel free to send me an email! I’m always looking for a good story to publish 😉

I was wondering about the Salvatore Mansion too and came across this article http://www.priceypads.com/salvatore-boarding-house-aka-glenridge-hall-torn-down-photos/# how sad I couldn’t believe it, the mansion was truly gorgeous and such a shame that it was demolished.

Yeah…. they tore it down 🙁

The most awesome part for me is watching the show and seeing the town I grew up in. Planning to stop at the Mystic Grill on my next visit there

Hi just wondering is the cemetery a real place? And the forest scenes? Or is that on set ? I would love to take my daughter and do the tour. We are coming from Sydney Australia.

There is only one real cemetery scene, the one with the bird during the day. The rest are soundstage. Not entirely sure about the forest, I know a few of the later ones maybe.

Do you know which cemetery it is? I have googled cemetery’s in Covington and there are a couple?

The Cemetary was a soundstage, but there is one that they used for just one scene… it’s right in the middle of downtown Covington behind the white church.

Ahh I have to go here sometime is the salvatore house here or is it just a random house? has anyone ever been to the originals set, Coming from UK

Covington, Georgia is actually what got me into watching TVD. I came here once, a couple of years ago, when we were visiting my aunt, who works in a shop on the square. I had no idea that Covington was where TVD was filmed, and I was pretty confused once we parked and I saw groups of people walking around with t-shirts that said stuff like, “Damon’s wife”. So I guess thats the story of how I came to the set of TVD by accident lol

Yeah, it’s a pretty cool spot.

What’s the address for where Bonnie stops Matt’s heart?

It’s in the Dorchester neighborhood next to the park. But it’s a private residence.

4145 Dorchester Dr SE, Covington, GA 30014

I live in the North Georgia Mountains (Hiawassee, GA) and just finished watching s2e20 where Stefan takes Elena to the top of a mountain. What location did they film the scene where they get to the top and the view is so beautiful?

I think it is Amacalola Falls.

Hello! Do you know where the motel from Heart of Darkness is? I would like to stay there when visiting.

I don’t. But I bet you could call Mystic Falls Tours and they would know.

Very cool!!! I didn’t read any of the comments yet so it’s possible this has already been asked and answered, but did you ever see Elena Gilberts home? When watching the show you can totally see the clock tower from her home/street in the background… that home looks to be in Covington? I live in California and I’m a huge fan of Buffy The Vampire Slayer.. In 2015 I went to “Sunnydale” aka Torrance, and found “Buffy’s home”.. I walked down her street just like she would in the show…. I geeked out in front of the house lol.. took pics and some vids.. and then I went to “Sunnydale High”… which is literally walking distance from “Buffy’s house”… again, just like in the show.. geeked out there too and took pics!! It was so surreal and a very amazing experience!!

I do believe her home was a soundstage. But I could be wrong. There are a lot of locations in Covington though, more than I can even list.

Elena’s house is a real home that I know they used for exterior shots but I think all of the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage.

I feel like I know the answer to this! Gah! I need to visit and dig in a little. I’ll come back here and comment when I find out 😉

Do you know if they will book a tour by walking up or is it required to book online. I looked online last night and there were 28 spots left then went to book for tomorrow and now it is saying they are booked. My luck!

You have to call them, sorry!

Do you know if the cemetery where they spend most of their time is real? Do you know where the high school is?

Both sound stages. Sorry!

I’m rewatching Vampire Diaries for the fourth time, lol. In Season 2 Episode 5 The Historical Society Volunteer Day scene next to a stream, do you happen to know what location it was filmed? Thanks in advance!

Where is the cabin that is in season 5 episode 20? its gorgeous I just wondered if it really exists

Do you have a list of locations and their addresses? We really want to do the tour but do not have the three hours they say it will take.

I’m sorry I don’t.

Im trying to find where the location of the bar that Enzo has stephan and elena tied up and questioning them about the death of his love maggie. The one on “campus” where the blonde witch works (i forget her name) right before stephan kills enzo. Do you know where it is? Season 5 episode 19

I do believe that it was a soundstage if it was not at the Mystic Grill.

Any recommendations for a self guided tour? We are down but don’t have the time for the actual tour

Did anyone else start crying when they read the title? ‘Cause your girl right here did!

Does anyone know where Stevens Quarry was filmed? It’s where Silas dumped Stefan and where they killed Cade.

Currently rewatching TVD and falling for Stefan all over again. I just watched S2E14, does anyone know where the Gilbert family lake house location is? Living in East TN it made me think of the lake cabins we have here.

You should def call Jessica at Vampire Stalkers in my article. She is all knowing. 😉

Do you know the address for the Parker house. My friend and I want to go there and I can’t find the address to that house.

I am going to covington and was trying to book the tour but I guess I was to late and all the spots have been taken. so I was trying to write an itinerary for my friends and I that love the vampire diaries. what are some of the best spots to visit? We would love to do the tour but we will have to wing it this time.

Do you have to have a reservation or can you just show up?

You need to get tickets for the tour. Link in post!

This is amazing,so informative

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A Self-Guided Walking Tour Through Mystic Falls:

Need a guide for your next visit to Covington, aka Mystic Falls aka, every Vampire Diaries superfan dream destination?

Don’t worry, I got YOU!

This is your new and approved, all-encompassing walking tour guide through the town of Mystic Falls . Spoiler alert: It is completely free!

- Map included at the end! -

[Also included: Accommodation nearby and the best bites Mystic Falls have to offer.]

Here we have seen Vampires, Witches, Werewolves, and even Hybrids, battle it out, fall in love, seen the devil, himself, and literally everything in between. You fell in love with them on screen, now you can visit the locations where your favorite scenes were filmed.

Kicking off this tour with a bang is our first stop:

1 The Covington Visitor’s center.

Right at the entrance is the ‘Welcome to Mystic Falls' sign. Inside, a museum filled with iconic show pieces. From tombstones, grimoires, outfits worn by cast members, and even the filming chairs of Elena, Stefan, and Damon.

Walking through is truly like walking through an episode of TVD!

Next up, a cultural landmark:

  2  Elena's House

Yes folks, the porch swing! Aren’t we all so glad that Elena did not actually burn down this showstopper? I sure am. Welcome to Elena Gilbert’s house, where she lived with her mom and dad (Miranda and Grayson), until they sadly passed away in a drowning accident. In the early seasons we spend a lot of time here watching her, Aunt Jenna and her little brother, Jeremy.

  3 Caroline's House

Right across the street we come to the front door of Sheriff Forbes' house,  who keeps all of Mystic Falls safe, even with all the fangs up and about. Throughout the show, we see Caroline Forbes turn from a ‘neurotic control freak’, to everyone’s favorite blonde Vampire Barbie. We even watch her say goodbye to her mom and we see her dabble on the dark side of the humanity switch for a bit.

  4   Lockwood Mansion

Who would have guessed that the Lockwood Mansion could be just around the corner? If it wasn’t for the big gate, maybe we could just waltz in and ask Tyler for a tour…

  5  Isobel's House

Can Mr. Damon Salvatore himself please teach all of us his ways when it comes to house hunting? Because man, Isobel’s house is breathtaking. Not far from her biological daughter’s house stands the ‘largest bank-owned foreclosed house’ in Mystic Falls.

  6  Sheila Bennett's House (aka Grams)

Oh, how we all miss Grams. Bonnie Bennett’s Gram’s house is a must see.

  7  Mystic Falls Cemetery

Our next stop, the Southview Cemetery, or as we all know it, T he Mystic Falls Cemetery.

[Disclaimer: This is a real cemetery, please be respectful of other’s lost loved ones. It is not necessary to pursue finding the Gilbert family grave, that can be found at the Visitor Center.]  

However, look out over the cemetery and you can just envision Elena sitting up against the headstone of her late parents, writing in her diary. Suddenly, the fog sets in, and the crow appears…

  8  The Clock Tower.

Fun fact: Banana Pudding is Ian Somerhalder's favorite flavor at Scoop’s Ice Cream.

  9  Town Square

Take a stroll through the Town Square , where all our favorite cast members have spent time.

 10  The Mystic Grill

Right across from town square, is easily one of the most iconic locations from filming… You guessed right, it is The Mystic Grill.

How about a bite?

Fun fact: The Grill used to be a lawyers’ office but was turned into a restaurant after filming wrapped because of how much fans loved the location.

 11 The Alley Shop

The alley behind the Grill practically became just as famous as the restaurant itself throughout the eight seasons of TVD. Well, great news folks, The Alley Shop is now right beside the grill. There you can find all your TVD souvenirs and even one last chance to grab a photo with the Mystic Falls sign. Don’t forget to stock up on blood bags!

Fun Fact: Ian and Paul started their own Bourbon company called Brother’s Bourbon. Available for purchase at the Alley Shop.

Did you spot the scattered stones for the cast of TVD throughout the town square? How about the sign for Dr. Grayson Gilbert’s office?

Even better, how about the sign for Elena Salvatore, MD?... oops, hope I didn’t spoil it for anyone.

 12  Vampire Stalkers Tours

For one last chance of some souvenir shopping, don’t forget to stop at Vampire Stalkers , or perhaps book a tram-tour for next time.

Fun fact: Catch the mural of the Salvatore brothers in Damon’s car right outside of Vampire Stalkers.

Well Vampire lovers, whether you are team Stelena or Delena, one thing is for certain, you love the Vampire Diaries and you will love reliving these locations even more!

Have fun, be safe and watch out for the fangs!

Fun fact: We all rewatch the show after visiting Covington, I don’t make the rules!

Need a place to stay for the night, but you haven’t quite had enough of vampires yet? The twelve Oaks Bed and Breakfast  is perfect for you and your family. This historic Inn has many options to choose from. Check the website for availability to stay in the Salvatore Brothers Study now. We all need a little bit more Katherine Peirce in our life, check for availability to spend the night in Katherine’s Mirror Image Grand Suite . [ For more information: Visit www.twelveoaks.com ]

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i love this!! miss you xoxo em

Thank you Em!! Glad you enjoyed. Miss you too xoxo

By far, my favorite location was the Mystic Grill! ✨🩸

If you have ever been, let me know what your favorite was…

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Mystic Falls Tours

2101 Clark St, Covington , Georgia 30014 USA

• Independent

Learn more about this business on Yelp .

“explore the town from The Vampire Diaries”

Mystic Falls location of the tv show vampire diaries Mystic Falls Tours is a family run business that includes Jessica and her husband Travis along with a few part time guides that we have added to our tour family since Mystic Falls Tours has grown so much from season 1 until now...   All of our employees work for the Ian Somerhalder Foundation and are knowledgeable in all things Vampire Diaries related. Travis and Jessica have also appeared in many episodes from the first season of TVD as well as being lucky enough to consider many of the cast to be good friends. We love sharing everything we know with all of you....and we are able to give you the ultimate fan experience while here in Mystic Falls.

Reviewed by Ana G.

Big fan of Vampire Diaries!! Went on the tour today with my daughter, and our tour guide, Amber was quite good. Visited many of the characters homes and drove by others. Stopping at the park and... Read more

Reviewed by Dani C.

We only checked out the museum. We didn't do the tour. But the museum had a lot of different show props. The only thing I wish that was different would be to have more variation than just Vampire... Read more

Reviewed by Lisa D.

This was a wonderful tour and a wonderful experience for my 13 year old birthday girls yesterday. Amber was a great tour guide and gave the group lots of interesting information. I'd like to... Read more

View 36 reviews on

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From One TV Junkie…To All Others

A Guide To Mystic Falls: All You Need To Know To Plan Your Visit

Where you obsessed with Vampire Diaries? Do you ever dream of having a drink at Mystic Grill, or visiting Elena’s house, or even have a walk on the Mystic Falls plaza and hear that Clock Tower ring?

What if I tell you that you can do all that and more. The fictional town of Mystic Falls is actually located in the wonderful city of Covington, Georgia. Just 45 minutes or less from Atlanta.

Recently I had the time to escape reality with my friends and visit this Vampire Hometown of one of my favorite series of all time.

You can always have the option of booking a Tour, The Vampire Stalkers run the Mystic Falls Tour , with exclusive access to the Lockwood Mansion. It was completely booked during my visit but if you know the show it should be easy to tour mystic falls by yourself.

If a made it to Mystic Falls so can you, here’s a guide of places you need to go when planning a visit to Covington.

1 Stop – Mystic Falls Sign

Located on Covington’s Welcome Center, a great way to start exploring mystics falls, besides taking a pic with the sign you have a bunch of information about the city and places to explore.

Address: 2001 Clark St. S.W. Covington, GA

2 Stop – Elena Gilbert’s House

Address: 2104 Floyd St. N.E. Covington GA

A three-minute drive from the Welcome Center you’ll find Elena’s House. It’s private property so you can’t sit on the iconic bench used in so many scenes during the show but a picture in front of the house will work just fine.

Tip: Right beside Elena’s House you’ll find Caroline Forbes house #2118.

3 Stop – Drive By The Lockwood Mansion

Address: 211 Anderson Ave. Covington GA

Like I mentioned before the access to the Lockwood Mansion it’s exclusive to The Mystic Falls Tour, but that doesn’t mean you can drive by and take a pic outside of the gate. If you follow this guide is right on the way to the next stop.

4 Stop – The Square Plaza

Address: 2001 Washington St. S.W. Covington GA

This will be the final stop driving, once you get to the plaza everything is within walking distance. So many scenes were filmed here and although you are not going to find Sheriff Forbes bench, you’ll see a bunch of the real benches used throughout the series.

5 Stop – Lunch or Dinner at Mystic Grill

Address: 1116 Clark St SW, Covington, GA 30014

By this time you should be hungry and what better way to eat that at the one and only Mystic Grill. Don’t expect the restaurant inside to look like the show since the actual interior was a set built on a soundstage but the food it’s really good so that’s a plus.

I would have loved a more Vampire Diaries theme menu, or maybe drink menu (Believe it or not they don’t have a bourbon-based cocktail), on the bright side the burgers were really good and if it’s not too cold the rooftop has a really nice view of the clock tower.

Tip: Make sure to go to the restaurant as soon as you arrive at the plaza, they usually have a waiting list (ours was 1 hour) add your name to the waiting list and start exploring Mystic Falls while you wait.

6 Stop – Clock Tower

Address: 2101 Washington St. S.W. Covington, GA

What better way to finish your tour with a picture of the Clock Tower. This place is magical and if you are lucky enough you’ll hear the bell ring and survived the visit.

More Places To Stop if you have time

THE DEPOT BAR

Address: 4122 Emory St NW, Covington, GA 30014

This was the set for Elena’s first solo trip with Damon on Season 1, Episode 11 Bloodlines. This is also the set from the Alley where Elena convince Lexie’s boyfriend not to kill Damon.

OXFORD COLLEGE OF EMORY UNIVERSITY AKA “WHITMORE COLLEGE”

Address: 801 Emory St, Oxford, GA 30054

This is not actually in Covington but it was on our way there. I didn’t actually stop, but if you have time you can tour the university with was the setting for most of Season 5.

Address: 1131 Church St, Covington, GA 30014

This Wasn’t actually a set of the Vampire Diaries, but it was the cast favorite Ice Cream place, Ian Somerhalder’s favorite flavor was Banana Pudding. If you want to channel your inner Damon Salvatore this is the place to go.

Hopefully, this guide will help with your self guided tour to Mystic Falls. If you want to see more about our trip visit below to visit my friend Rosa’s youtube vlog and see for yourself what a wonderful place Mystic Falls is.

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• Covington GA
• Guide to Mystic Falls
• Mystic Falls
• Vampire Diaries

Outdoor Travel & Lifestyle Blog

19 Places to See on Your Golf Cart Tour of Mystic Falls

If you’ve been following my adventures for some time, you already know how obsessed I am with The Vampire Diaries. Seriously, it is part of my life. Hence the reason why an epic golf cart tour of Mystic Falls sounds like absolute perfection is to see all the filming locations .

I love talking about this fictional town in which the show takes place because apart from being beautiful, it’s also filled with The Vampire Diaries filming locations.

This real town that transformed into Mystic Falls, is none other than the city of Covington, Georgia. Yes, this is another big reason why I love Georgia so much. I just love it when I get to see actual filming locations of movies or shows that I’ve watched.

[BTEN id=”2594″]

In fact, due to the great number of films that take place here, Covington is referred to as the Hollywood of the South.

With so many great filming locations , it makes sense to want to do a self-guided golf cart tour of Mystic Falls. And I will show you how to do it and where to stop!

Steps for Renting a Golf Cart for Your Tour of Mystic Falls

When planning things to do in Covington, a golf cart tour of Mystic Falls should be at the top of your list. It’s a super fun way to explore the town and visit other filming locations.

Some of the other films and shows that have been filmed here are Sweet Magnolias , Footloose , and Dukes of Hazzard , just to name a few.

Additionally, once you arrive, you will immediately fall in love with the charm of this picturesque town.

So, where should you start ?

1. Make your golf cart reservation with Cov Carts

Cov Carts is a family-operated business in Covington with whom you can rent golf carts for your self-guided tours. They provide maps for certain tours and have great deals on multi-day rentals.

For a single-day rental, the fees are as follows. The hourly rental is $40, a 1/2 day rental (4 hrs) is $150 and a full-day rental (8 hrs) is $250.

For a self-guided tour of Mystic Falls, I highly recommend the full-day rental . This gives you enough time to visit all of the filming locations of The Vampire Diaries, take great pictures, and explore the town square.

2. Grab a map for your tour of Mystic Falls

Without a map, you’ll pretty much be going around in circles. Not that I wouldn’t mind the views, anyway. However, to make the most of your trip to Mystic Falls , time is of the essence.

But don’t worry! To make your trip planning much easier, I got you covered with all the stops for your self-guided tour of Mystic Falls.

You’re welcome ! 😌

Self-Guided Tour of Mystic Falls

Take notes and enjoy your Cov Carts golf cart ride! And while you’re here, don’t forget to make a stop at Scoops for delicious ice cream.

This ice cream shop in Covington was also a favorite stop for the crew members of the show while The Vampire Diaries was being filmed.

Also, be sure to explore Covington’s town square to its fullest! With its charming town square renowned as the “ Real Mystic Falls “, it’s the perfect destination for both locals and tourists alike.

While you’re out in your golf cart checking out all the Vampire Diaries houses, immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of this town.

The town square also plays host to a variety of events and festivities throughout the year for fans of this popular show.

You can experience the screening of episodes at the Square, meet and greets with some cast members, and fan conventions.

The Vampire Diaries Filming Locations

1. start your tour of mystic falls at the courthouse and clock tower, located in the center of the town.

2. The Mystic Grill restaurant and The Alley, right across the clock tower

3. Dr. Gilbert’s Office – 1105 Washington St, SW, Covington, GA

4. Caroline’s Accident [Season 1] – Elm Street, South of College Ave., Covington, GA

5. elena’s house – 2104 floyd st ne, covington, ga.

6. Sheriff Forbes’ Funeral – 1113 Conyers St SW, Covington, GA

7. caroline forbes’ house – 2118 floyd st ne, covington, ga.

8. Lockwood Mansion – 2129 East St, Covington, GA

9. Isobel’s House – 2146 Conyers St SW, Covington, GA

10. Self-Guided Tour of Mystic Falls: Gram’s House – 2136 Conyers St SE, Covington, GA

11. Mystic Falls Cemetery – 2151 Davis St., Covington, GA

12. self-guided tour of mystic falls: damon/elena kiss – academy springs park, 3120 conyers st se, covington, ga, 13. witches mansion – 3190 conyers st., covington, ga.

14. Conyers Street Gym [50’s Dance] –  1146 E Conyers St, Covington, GA

15. old lockwood mansion – 2176 monticello st sw, covington, ga.

16. Rebekah’s House – 3115 Pennington St, Covington, GA

More Filming Locations to See on this Self-Guided Tour of Mystic Falls

17. bree’s bar – 4139 emory st nw, covington, ga, 18. ‘whitmore college’ – 801 emory st, oxford, ga, 19. sharp gym 20’s decade dance – 2140 newton dr., covington, ga.

Would you enjoy this self-guid ed golf cart tour of the real Mystic Falls ? Let me know in the comments!

Save it for Later!

About the Author

Yanitza Ninett

Yanitza is an avid adventurer with 15+ years of hiking experience and outdoor travel. As a PADI-certified scuba diver, she's also passionate about ocean conservation. When she's not exploring the great outdoors, Yanitza obsesses over The Vampire Diaries and dreams of traveling to Mallorca, Spain.

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32 thoughts on “19 Places to See on Your Golf Cart Tour of Mystic Falls”

Do you know where the Damon and Elena last dance in season 6 filming location is? Thank you

This was actually filmed on the studio property grounds.

Hi, I would like to know where the Mausoleum or Grave of the Salvatore is.

Hi! Unfortunately, the Salvatore Mausoleum was filmed in sound stage and is not an actual location. However, you can visit the Southview Cemetery (walking distance from the Covington Square) where the iconic “Damon Walk” scene in the cemetery.

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Mystic Falls in Covington, Georgia: Gender, Race, and Fandom in The Vampire Diaries Franchise

• Reference work entry
• First Online: 17 April 2024
• pp 1395–1409
• Cite this reference work entry

• Deanna P. Koretsky 2  

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This chapter examines the race and gender politics of vampire fandoms through one of the most enduring vampire franchises of the early twenty-first century, The Vampire Diaries and its extended universe (TVDU). Capitalizing on the success of Twilight and parroting core plotlines and tropes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer , The Vampire Diaries ran for eight seasons (2009–2017) and generated two spin-offs, The Originals (2013–2018) and Legacies (2018–2022), all airing on The CW. This chapter considers the confluence of race and gender in shaping this fandom, which has tethered itself to the small Georgia town where the series were shot. Contrary to vampire narratives set in places with existing vampire lore, such Transylvania and New Orleans, TVDU has effectively turned Covington, Georgia, into the fictional town of Mystic Falls, Virginia. This chapter examines how TVDU fandom’s investment in “Mystic Falls” both reflects and is exacerbated by the postfeminist and postracial fantasies espoused by all three series, as well as the neoliberal capitalist values that underpin the TVDU fandom industrial complex.

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Koretsky, D.P. (2024). Mystic Falls in Covington, Georgia: Gender, Race, and Fandom in The Vampire Diaries Franchise. In: Bacon, S. (eds) The Palgrave Handbook of the Vampire. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-36253-8_69

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