Starting in 2009 and running for eight seasons, not to mention spawning multiple spinoffs, The Vampire Diaries is one of the most popular series to be filmed in Georgia. Its impact is still seen today as the show gains popularity on streaming platforms.
It tells of a young girl who meets a pair of vampire brothers and finds herself falling deeper into their world. The show starred Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, and Ian Somerhalder and was filmed primarily in Covington, Georgia. This is also where Netflix’s Sweet Magnolias is filmed.
There are many to find, but some have since been demolished. Other locations are private and not open to the public. But here are some of the best spots to visit for The Vampire Diaries fans.
Looking for more fan guides? Check out our posts from Outer Banks, Stranger Things, and The Walking Dead.
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The Vampire Diaries Filming Locations
Homes from The Vampire Diaries
There are many homes used in the series over the years. It should go without saying, but DO NOT TRESSPASS, even if you find the address online.
Mayor Lockwood’s mansion is on East Street and visible from the street, the site of Caroline and Stefan’s wedding. You can usually snap a photo from the gates, but if you want to go onside, you’ll have to book a tour with Vampire Stalkers.
Elena’s House can be found at East and Floyd streets. Caroline’s House is right across the street. Gram’s house is on Conyers Street between Davis and East. Isabel’s mansion is next door to it.
Newton County Courthouse
The Newton County Courthouse and its iconic clock tower are featured heavily in the show and were originally built in 1884 in the Second Empire architectural style. It’s where Katherine prepares to jump and where Sheriff Forbes’ office is located. You may not be able to go inside since it’s an active courthouse, but you can see the outside.
Nearby, you can also find Dr. Gilbert’s medical practice and Covington’s “Walk of Fame,” honoring the many television and film productions that have filmed here.
Oxford College, Oxford
Located five minutes’ drive down the road, Oxford College at Emory University is the Atlanta school’s original campus, founded in 1836. It stands in for Whitmore College, where Elena, Bonnie, and Caroline attended school in season five. It was also featured in the first episode of The Dukes of Hazzard, along with In the Heat of the Night and Vacation.
Nearby, check out the exterior of Orna Villa, the former home of the college president. It was used in a particularly gruesome episode as a fraternity house.
Mystic Grill
While originally created as a set, Mystic Grill opened in 2014 and is now an operational restaurant, full of memorabilia from the series. The restaurant has a diverse menu that includes fried chicken, burgers, and sandwiches. There’s also a rooftop where you can see the best views of downtown.
Southview Cemetery
Iron gates surround Southview Cemetery, a historic cemetery in downtown Covington. The oldest plots date back to the 1800s. One of the more notable scenes from the show filmed here was when Damon and Elena kissed in the rain.
The Depot
Set in a former train depot, The Depot is a popular sports bar on the road to Oxford. The menu includes beer and food, including buffalo wings and burgers. In the show, it stands for Bree’s bar.
The Twelve Oaks Bed and Breakfast
The 1836 Antebellum mansion was used for flashback scenes on The Vampire Diaries. The home now operates as a bed and breakfast, boasting hearty Southern meals, spa tubs, and fine Turkish linens. Over 90 television shows and movies have been filmed here, including Madea’s Family Reunion, Life of the Party, and Bessie. It’s also been cast and crew accommodations.
The Vampire Diaries Tours and Experiences
If you’re looking for the best tour of the filming locations and stories from behind the scenes, your best bet is Vampire Stalkers, which has an office downtown. They also have artifacts from the show and souvenirs.
The Alley at Mystic Grill, located beneath the restaurant, is a must-see for fans of both The Vampire Diaries and Sweet Magnolias. It has souvenirs and memorabilia as well as a small museum of signed posters and props.
Where to Eat in Covington, Georgia
Downtown Covington has an abundance of fantastic restaurants. For fans of the show, it’s fun to try the places seen on screen, including Mystic Grill and The Depot. But that’s not all!
City Pharmacy is an award-winning restaurant in a former pharmacy building. Here you can enjoy dinner and brunch, including burgers, steaks, and pasta. For a sweet treat, Scoops ice cream shop is a favorite of the actors. Bread and Butter is a coffee shop and bakery in town with “wine blood bags” to appeal to fans.
Where to Stay in Covington, Georgia
Looking for a place to stay during your Vampire Diaries-themed trip? The Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast is popular with visitors, featured in television and film, with cozy rooms and a daily breakfast. Hampton Inn Covington has amenities like a daily breakfast.
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