Finding inspiration for travel can come from the most unexpected of places — even your late-night Netflix binge sessions. The trend of “Set Jetting,” or visiting cities made popular by TV shows and films, has driven tourism for decades, but in the past few years it has exploded in popularity.
New York City is one of the most iconic destinations for set jetting. (Photo Credit: Heather Shevlin)
From dysfunctional-luxury-vacationer inspired trips to Hawaii and Sicily, to pink-themed, rollerblading meandering in Malibu, travelers are booking flights based off of the big screen, and are showing no signs of slowing down.
Check out the destinations below for travel inspiration from TV and film classics from over the years, and start planning your set-jetting trip now.
New York, New York
There is nowhere in the world quite like New York City, something that television’s most famous quartet of ladies have showcased since 1998. Follow in Jimmy Choo-adorned footsteps, and head to The Big Apple for a girls trip with your very own trio of ride-or-die besties.
Stroll amongst the streets of Greenwich Village. (Photo Credit: Belinda Fewings)
On Location Tours partner with Sarah Jessica Parker’s lifestyle brand on an official Hotspots Tour, where you can hit more than 40 film locations, including trendy restaurants like Buddakan, luxury shops in Greenwich Village, and — most especially — that iconic brownstone stoop.
So, call up your girlfriends, pack your bags, and just like that, the Big City is waiting for you.
Where To Stay: Kimpton Hotel Eventi or Kimpton Hotel Theta
Chicago, Illinois
After one afternoon in Chicago you’ll understand why a young kid would want to take the day off just to explore. Follow the 1980’s most adventurous kid on a zany adventure through some of Chicago’s most popular tourist destinations — and you can even visit some of the filming locations from the cult classic yourself.
Head to Wrigley Field for a classic game of American baseball. (Photo Credit: Daniel Ziegener)
Get lost admiring pieces at the Art Institute of Chicago, or catch a Cubs Game at Wrigley Field, where you may end up on the big screen.
Whether it’s a solo vacation or a group trip, start making plans sooner rather than later. After all, as the famous quote goes, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
Where To Stay: Kimpton Gray Hotel
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is home to one of the most acclaimed films of a generation, and lucky for film buffs and travelers alike, you can actually visit where some of this movie magic was made.
Sit amongst the moss-covered trees at Chippewa Square — or perhaps even go for a run. (Photo Credit: Alix Greenman)
The Academy Award-winning film was partially filmed in Savannah, Georgia, and you can head to filming locations like Madison Square, Love’s Seafood & Steaks Restaurant and, of course, Chippewa Square, where countless others have sat and recounted their lives on the legendary park bench that is now preserved at the Savannah History Museum.
Take a cue and run — don’t walk — to plan a weekend getaway to this charming southern city.
Where To Stay: Kimpton Brice Hotel
Miami, Florida
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence are rekindling their iconic detective roles this summer, giving travelers the perfect reason to start planning a trip to Miami.
Downtown Miami is a welcome respite after a day spent in the sun and sand of South Beach. (Photo Credit: Eric Ellis)
The Michael Bay action franchise depicts the chaotic-yet-compassionate brotherhood of two Miami detectives, but you can plan a trip to the 305 with friends that includes all of the cultural heat from the films — but none of the explosions.
Visit the Downtown/Brickell neighborhood of the films for delicious food, incredible shopping, and rowdy nightlife, and head to South Beach for a day of sun, sand, and strong drinks.
Where To Stay: Kimpton EPIC Hotel, Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel, Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach, or Kimpton Angler’s Hotel
Los Angeles, California
Everyone’s favorite indie-darling film not only captured the hearts of viewers around the world, but it showcased one of the best neighborhoods that the City of Angels has to offer.
Welcome to DTLA: Downtown Los Angeles. (Photo Credit: Bailey Alexander)
Set jetting is the perfect excuse to explore DTLA, an oft overlooked neighborhood in Los Angeles. (Photo Credit: Bailey Alexander)
While most people equate Los Angeles to clichés like the Hollywood Hills or the Walk of Fame, not a lot of films showcase the heart of DTLA, a most underrated part of the city to consider on your next trip to the West Coast.
After walking on a self-guided tour of downtown to see some of the historic buildings, grab food at Grand Central Market or a drink at the Redwood Bar & Grill, both of which are beloved local spots.
Where To Stay: Kimpton Hotel Palomar Beverly Hills, Kimpton Hotel Wilshire, Kimpton La Peer Hotel, or Kimpton Everly Hotel
Paris, France
Paris is always a good idea, and no one knows that better than America’s most famous fictional Parisian transplant. The viral Netflix phenomenon features the French capital as its backdrop, and inspires wanderlust for the City of Love in every single episode.
Welcome to Montmartre. (Photo Credit: Jeff Frenette)
This iconic neighborhood lies in the shadow of the Basilica of Sacré Couer. (Photo Credit: Giuseppe Mondi)
Season 4 of the romantic-comedy series started production earlier this year, but with no release date announced yet, it’s the perfect time to brush off your passport and experience Paris IRL, not just on a screen.
Take a trip inspired by a young woman’s adventures (and misadventures), which include filming destinations like the Jardin du Luxembourg, Café de Flore, the Montmartre neighborhood, and of course, the Eiffel Tower. Just like us, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this beautiful city.
Where To Stay: Kimpton St Honoré Paris
Tokyo, Japan
Travelers can feed their wanderlust by creating a trip based around the turn of the century’s favorite dreamy indie film rooted in the setting of Japan. The romantic-dramedy directed by legendary filmmaker Sofia Coppola, and was partially inspired by her travels to Tokyo as a young twenty-something trying to find her place in the world.
Don’t get lost in Shibuya. (Photo Credit: Spencer Davis)
Follow Coppola’s lead with a soul-finding trip to Tokyo, and visit set locations like the Shibuya Crossing and the Jōgan-ji Buddhist temple, while also paving your own path in this incredible city.
Where to Stay: Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
