'The Walking Dead' Filming Locations: Exploring the Places Featured in the Iconic Zombie Series
"The Walking Dead" filming locations included small cities in Georgia. This horror drama series became an iconic TV show of the 2010s, amassing a dedicated fanbase.
"The Walking Dead," a successful horror-drama series, captured fans from various corners. This zombie-themed show, honored with two Primetime Emmy Awards and numerous other accolades, revitalized small cities in Georgia by using them as filming locations.
"The Walking Dead" was integral in encouraging much of the film and TV production to relocate to Georgia. The series also remarkably impacted the revival of remote cities in the region.
Cast of the walking dead at Hollywood Forever on October 23, 2016, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Senoia (pronounced Suh-NOY), once a small city, surpassed cities of similar size by 95%, expanding by 188% since 2000. In recent years, the city has attracted tourists from far and wide, with many visiting to witness some of "The Walking Dead" filming locations.
Where Was 'The Walking Dead' Filmed?
Senoia, located 40 miles outside of Atlanta in Coweta County, was established in 1860 by Reverend Francis Warren Baggarly. In 1864, just four years after its founding, residents from a nearby community called Willow Dell began migrating into Senoia. This integration marked the beginning of Senoia's growth.
Some of the initial structures in the town encompassed a factory, a church, and a school. The official incorporation of Senoia as a city occurred in December 1866.
In "The Walking Dead," Senoia served as a stand-in for different settings. It portrayed the fortified town of Woodbury in season 3 and transformed into the walled Alexandria safe zone, showcasing its versatility by representing a Virginia city.
The award-winning series follows the story of Sheriff Deputy Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln), who gets shot and falls into a coma. Upon waking up, he finds himself in a Zombie Apocalypse. Not knowing what to do, he sets out to find his family; in the process, he gets connected to a group of survivors and becomes their leader.
Grimes guides the group through survival challenges to secure shelter and food. The show delves into the theme of survival, highlighting the inherent risks and the difficult decisions one must make to survive. The show featured celebrated actors like Norman Reedus, Lauren Cohan, Melissa McBride, Danai Gurira, and more.
'The Walking Dead' Filming Locations Influenced the Show's Success
"The Walking Dead" ended in 2022, becoming one of the most successful series of the 21st century. Aired on AMC (America Movie Classics), the series is an adaptation of Robert Kirkman's graphic novel of the same name.
During the show's debut on AMC, the channel was relatively fresh, introducing original content such as the successful drama series "Mad Men," which garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards.
In Senoia, The Woodbury Shoppe" is the ultimate destination for "The Walking Dead" enthusiasts seeking memorabilia and fan merchandise.
At its inception, "The Walking Dead" faced skepticism for deviating from the standards set by shows like "Mad Men" and "Breaking Bad." Despite initial doubts, the series garnered a positive response as its storyline unfolded. The show eventually achieved extraordinary success, attracting over 17 million viewers.
"The Walking Dead" captivates audiences with its intense storytelling, compelling characters, and exploration of human survival in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by zombies. The show's ability to evoke emotion, suspense, and relatable dilemmas has contributed to its remarkable success.
'The Walking Dead' Filming Locations: Explore the City of Senoia
The renowned series elevated Senoia's prominence, with several filming locations becoming historic attractions drawing tourists. One such spot is Nic & Norman's, a Southern restaurant in downtown Senoia. This eatery holds significance as it is owned by Greg Nicotero, a producer, director, and special effects expert, alongside fan-favorite Norman Reedus, known for his role as "Daryl Dixon."
In Senoia, The Woodbury Shoppe" is the ultimate destination for "The Walking Dead" enthusiasts seeking memorabilia and fan merchandise. The store boasts an array of offerings, including autographed photographs, cardboard cutouts, and officially licensed items.
In the first season's fifth episode, The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre served as the setting for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In real-life, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, located in Atlanta, is a top-tier venue hosting a range of events such as Broadway shows, concerts, opera, ballet, and more.
Moreover, the Georgia Tour Company presents two-hour walking tours of Senoia that encompass sites featured in "The Walking Dead," along with locations from productions like "Fried Green Tomatoes," "Pet Sematary II," and "Drop Dead Diva." These guided tours highlight the base camp employed for "The Walking Dead" filming and engage visitors in interactive quizzes.