Set-Jetting Travel Trend: Visit Famous TV and Movie Filming Locations

From Yellowstone’s Montana ranch to Chicago hotspots from The Bear and global destinations like Thailand and the French Riviera, explore the top filming locations inspiring travel today

Chief Joseph Ranch in Darby aka the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch; photo courtesy of Chief Joseph Ranch
By Patricia King
April 7, 2026·2 min read
Chief Joseph Ranch--aka the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch--in Darby, Montana; photo courtesy of Chief Joseph Ranch

If your spring or summer travel plans feel like they were ripped straight from a screenplay, you aren’t alone. “Set-jetting” has officially taken over 2026, transforming our streaming choices into vacation itineraries. Whether you’re a senior seeking cinematic grandeur or a teen chasing sci-fi thrills, the world is your soundstage this season.

Chicago; photo by Ionel/Stock.Adobe.com
Chicago, setting of The Bear; photo by Ionel/Stock.Adobe.com

The biggest buzz? Big Sky Country. The entire Yellowstone universe, including prequels and spinoffs, has ignited a passion for the American West. Fans are booking trips to Montana to glimpse the Dutton Ranch—actually the Chief Joseph Ranch in Darby—which offers lodging and set tours. You can also tour the historic Daly Mansion in Hamilton or explore city scenes shot in Missoula and Butte for a deep dive into rugged American history.

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For the culinary crowd, the “Yes, Chef!” energy is hotter than ever, and Chicago tourism is booming thanks to The Bear. Its highly anticipated season 5 returns this summer. Fans are lining up for Italian beef sandwiches at Mr. Beef in River North, booking high-end tables in the West Loop and soaking in the scene-stealing skyline.

Saint-Tropez; photo by © Ville de Saint-Tropez-Guillaume Voiturier
Saint-Tropez, where season 4 of The White Lotus is being filmed; photo by © Ville de Saint-Tropez-Guillaume Voiturier

Meanwhile, the gates to The Upside Down have finally been closed. Since the conclusion of the epic Stranger Things, fans of all ages have been flocking to Georgia to see filming locations like the eerie Creel House in Rome and the town square in Jackson.

And, after transporting viewers to Maui, Sicily and Thailand, The White Lotus is headed to France. Travelers are still booking Bangkok after the massive success of the third season, but insiders are already securing their spot on the French Riviera for season 4. The rumored setting is Saint-Tropez, world-renowned as a playground for the elite with its elegant villas, superyachts, luxury boutiques and exclusive beach clubs.








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