6 Alabama Film Locations You Can Visit

While many films set in Alabama aren't actually shot here—Forrest Gump being a prime example—our state still boasts several spots that have made their mark on the big screen. From fictional towns to real-life inspirations, here’s a roundup of must-visit locations for movie buffs and film enthusiasts.

Jackson Lake Island

Jackson Lake Island in Millbrook is home to Spectre, a fictional town from Tim Burton’s 2003 film Big Fish. This unique location, with its picturesque water views and Spanish moss-draped trees, is also home to some whimsical remnants of the movie set, including cement trees and hanging shoes. Ideal for a family outing, this spot is perfect for both movie fans and animal lovers, thanks to its free-range goats.

The Old Courthouse Museum

For fans of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, the Old Courthouse Museum in Monroeville offers a tangible connection to the film adaptation. While the movie was not shot here, the museum features the courtroom that inspired the film’s iconic scenes. Stepping into this courtroom feels like stepping into the 1962 classic, making it a must-visit for literature and film aficionados.

Irondale Cafe

Although Fried Green Tomatoes was filmed in Georgia, the Irondale Cafe in Alabama served as the inspiration for Fannie Flagg’s Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café. Established 90 years ago, this beloved cafe is renowned for its fried green tomatoes, which gained national fame following the film’s release. Visiting the Irondale Cafe allows you to savor this Southern staple in the place where it first gained prominence.

Legion Field

In their 2015 film Woodlawn, Birmingham filmmakers Jon and Andrew Erwin chose Legion Field as the setting for the historic Banks vs. Woodlawn High School football game of 1974. This iconic stadium, along with other local locations in Hueytown and Bush Middle School, brought the story of NFL star Tony Nathan to life on screen.

Pine Flat Church

Fans of Netflix’s The Devil All the Time will recognize Pine Flat Presbyterian Church in Deatsville as Reverend Preston’s church from the 2020 thriller. Although the film is set in Ohio, much of it was shot in Alabama, including this picturesque church that also appeared in Tim Burton’s Big Fish.

Downtown Montgomery

Historic Dexter Avenue in Montgomery is a key filming location for the 2019 film Just Mercy, starring Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx, and Brie Larson. This biographical drama, based on Bryan Stevenson’s memoir, showcases several downtown Montgomery sites, with Dexter Avenue standing out as a notable backdrop for the film.