From atomic bomb testing sites to dreamy pink fantasy lands and bustling culinary hubs, the United States offers an array of real-life locations featured in some of the most acclaimed films and TV shows. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a film buff, or a foodie, these destinations are worth adding to your travel bucket list.
New Mexico – The Atomic Legacy of Los Alamos
A Town That Changed History
The critically acclaimed film Oppenheimer by Christopher Nolan, which won seven Academy Awards, brought renewed interest to Los Alamos, New Mexico. Known as the birthplace of the atomic bomb, this once-isolated town played a key role in the Manhattan Project, where J. Robert Oppenheimer and his team of top scientists developed the world’s first nuclear weapon.
Visit the Real Oppenheimer Sites
Visitors can explore the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, Oppenheimer’s former home, and the iconic Fuller Lodge, a historic building that once housed scientists involved in the project. Bronze statues and museum exhibits bring the town’s history to life. 
Ghost Ranch – Hollywood’s Oppenheimer Set
For the film’s production, Nolan meticulously recreated 1940s Los Alamos at Ghost Ranch, a remote retreat in the Chama Valley. Known for its dramatic canyons and stunning desert landscapes, the ranch was also a source of inspiration for renowned American modernist painter Georgia O’Keeffe. Today, it serves as a popular hiking and retreat destination.
California – The Pink Fantasy of Barbie’s World
The Real-Life Inspiration for Barbieland
The 2023 box-office hit Barbie grossed over $1.4 billion and sparked a global “pink wave.” The film’s dreamlike Barbieland drew inspiration from California’s modernist architecture and vibrant beach culture.
Palm Springs – Kaufmann House
Barbie’s iconic Dreamhouse was influenced by Kaufmann House in Palm Springs, an architectural masterpiece designed by Richard Neutra. This sleek, minimalist home is a prime example of Mid-Century Modern design, tailor-made for the arid desert climate.
Venice Beach & Santa Monica
The film’s beach scenes were shot at Venice Beach, where the famous boardwalk brims with roller skaters, street performers, and tattoo artists. Other notable filming locations include the Santa Monica City Hall, Tongva Park, and Century City, which doubled as the Mattel headquarters.
Chicago – A Culinary Journey Inspired by The Bear
Exploring Chicago’s Food Scene
The award-winning TV series The Bear takes viewers deep into the intense world of restaurant kitchens while showcasing some of Chicago’s most renowned eateries.
Michelin-Starred Filipino Dining – Kasama
One of the show’s most memorable moments features Kasama, a Michelin-starred Filipino bakery-turned-fine-dining restaurant. If you visit, don’t miss their signature breakfast sandwich, mushroom adobo, or mango tart.
Avec – A Mediterranean Fusion Favorite
Another must-visit spot is Avec, a beloved Mediterranean-inspired restaurant known for its truffle focaccia and Spanish bacon-wrapped dates.
Other Iconic Chicago Eateries
Pequod’s Pizza, famous for its deep-dish pizza, Margie’s Candies, a legendary ice cream parlor, and Lao Peng You, a go-to for handmade Chinese dumplings, all appear in The Bear and are essential stops for food lovers.
