Visiting Mystic Falls In Covington GA: The Vampire Diaries In Real Life
Are you a fan of The Vampire Diaries? Have you ever wanted to step into the world of Mystic Falls Virginia and experience the supernatural for yourself? Look no further than Covington Georgia, the real-life location of the fictional town.
From the Mystic Grill to the Lockwood Mansion, there are plenty of iconic spots to explore. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect when visiting Mystic Falls in Covington, GA, and why it’s a must-see destination for any diehard Vampire Diaries fan.
As the real-life filming location for Mystic Falls, Covington offers fans a chance to immerse themselves in the world of vampires, witches, and werewolves. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring Mystic Falls in Covington!
Where is Mystic Falls?
For a long time, I thought Mystic Falls was a real place. I never bothered to ask where Mystic Falls actually is. Turns out it’s not in Virginia!
Mystic Falls is located in Covington Georgia and isn’t an actual town – Covington is just the set mostly used for the Vampire Diaries. You’ll see many of the iconic Mystic Falls town landmarks in Covington.
Covington is a city in the central region of Georgia, specifically in Newton County. It is situated approximately 35 miles east of Atlanta, the capital city of Georgia.
The city has a population of around 14,000 people and covers an area of approximately 14 square miles.
Covington is known for its historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. And of course, because this is the home of Mystic Falls, you’ll see Vampire Diaries staples like the Mystic Grill and the town common.
Covington is easily accessible by car via Interstate 20 or by air through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is located approximately 40 miles west of the city.
Covington, Georgia is not only known as the home of the fictional Mystic Falls, but it has also been a popular filming location for TV shows and movies for over six decades.
Recently, the town has been the primary setting for the Netflix original series, Sweet Magnolias. In addition, Covington has been featured in several beloved films, including Remember the Titans (1999), Sweet Home Alabama (2002), and Selma (2014). Georgia is often referred to as the Hollywood of the South, and Covington’s popularity as a filming location is a testament to that.
As a devoted fan of The Vampire Diaries, visiting Covington was a dream come true. Despite being a popular destination for film and TV enthusiasts, the town maintains a charming and low-key vibe, with cute local shops and welcoming hospitality that will have you missing it before you even leave.
The Vampire Diaries Filming Locations In Mystic Falls/Covington Georgia
Though the initial episode of “The Vampire Diaries” was filmed in Vancouver, the remainder of the eight-series show was in Covington, GA.
And guess what? You’ll be thrilled to know that many of the show’s iconic filming locations are open to the public for exploration. That’s right – you can walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters and see the places where their supernatural adventures took place.
One of the most famous filming locations is the Mystic Grill, a beloved hangout spot for the show’s characters.
Another must-see location is the Lockwood Mansion, which served as the home of the Lockwood family on the show.
Of course, there is the Town Square, the site of many of the show’s pivotal moments, and the Wickery Bridge, where the tragic accident that kicked off the series took place.
Let’s dive into each of these locations in more detail to get you ready for your trip!
Top Things To Do in Covington Georgia for Vampire Diaries Fans:
Here are the top things to do, ranked. I recommend either driving or renting a golf cart (which we did and it was awesome!) since some of these spots are a pretty long walk.
10. Join a Mystic Falls Tour
Going on a tour with Vampire Stalkers is a great way to start of your Mystic Falls journey if you want to see everything at once. This tour will take you all around Mystic Falls and show you the most iconic places. You can easily see many of these places on your own, but the tour does make it a little easier.
You’ll have stops at famous filming sites like the Mystic Grill, the Town Square, and the Lockwood Mansion.
This tour does boast “exclusive” access to the Lockwood Mansion, which is a private residence, but this only means you get to go inside the gates (not inside the house). But you DO get to see the iconic Caroline and Klaus bench, which was totally worth it for me.
You’ll also get to see Elena’s home, Caroline’s home, and Isobel’s home.
But this tour is notable for more than just the places on the TV series. The guides at Vampire Stalkers know everything there is to know about Mystic Falls, and they love to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with other fans.
This tour takes about 2.5 hours and is a great way to see all of the Vampire Diaries spots in one swoop.
Check out more info about the tour here.
9. See The Characters’ Homes
Would you rather go on a self-guided tour? You can easily check out the characters’ homes yourself. Here are the addresses:
Elena Gilbert’s House: 2104 Floyd Street NE, Covington, GA
Caroline Forbes’ House: 2118 Floyd St, NE, Covington, GA
Isobel’s House: 2146 Conyers St, SE, Covington, GA
8. Dine at the Mystic Grill
Yes, you read that right! You can actually dine at the Mystic Grill!
The Mystic Grill is a common place for The Vampire Diaries characters to hang out. You will love it more if you are a fan, as the restaurant has many souvenirs and props from the show.
But this place is also a great restaurant in its own right, with a menu full of Southern-inspired dishes and a cozy, welcoming setting that will make you feel at home. It serves both lunch and dinner. The Mystic Grill has something for everyone, from essential comfort foods like mac and cheese to more sophisticated dishes like pan-seared salmon. If you are there for dinner, try one of the Mystic Burgers or get the 13 Oz Ribeye. Either one won’t disappoint!
The bar area is exactly like the show, but the restaurant area looks a little different. Either way, coming here feels super iconic. If only Matt was actually our waiter.
You can also grab a seat on the rooftop (not shown in the Vampire Diaries but super beautiful!) and listen to live music on the weekends (think Caroline singing to Matt).
So, come for the food, stay for the mood, and feel the magic of the Vampire Diaries at Mystic Grill!
7. Visit The 1864 Flashback Plantation House
Fans of The Vampire Diaries may recognize the beauty of Covington, Georgia from the 1864 flashbacks featured in the show.
However, this home has also served as the inspiration for the plantation featured in the classic film, Gone with the Wind. One must-see location in Covington is the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast, which captures the charm and elegance of the antebellum South.
You can simply visit or actually stay in this home – we’ll cover more about that in the hotel section further down this post.
The address for this spot is 2176 Monticello St, SW, Covington, GA.
6. Explore Covington Square and The Clock Tower
As a fan of “The Vampire Diaries”, visiting Covington, Georgia was a dream come true. One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the Covington Square and Clock Tower.
The square is the heart of the city and offers a variety of local shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
The Covington Clock Tower, which has been a fixture of the city since 1896, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the square. It’s a truly beautiful spot!
The square is also home to several events throughout the year, including the Covington Farmers Market and the Covington Art Walk. You can look around the shops and stores, which sell everything from handmade crafts and artisanal goods to unique gifts and souvenirs.
Or, grab a bite at one of the many cozy cafes, hip bars, or fancy restaurants that line the square. Many of these places serve delicious Southern-style food and other favorites from the area.
Covington Square also has a lot to offer regarding fun things to do. The town center has live music performances, art shows, and other annual special events. And of course, our characters in the Vampire Diaries experience all of that, so this is a must-visit.
5. Visit Lockwood Mansion
Another stop to visit as you explore the real-life town behind Vampire Diaries is the Lockwood Mansion. This stately historic home was the outside setting of the Lockwood family house on the show. It has now become a popular place for fans of the show who desire to venture into the world of Mystic Falls.
You’ll feel like you’re in The Vampire Diaries as soon as you get close to Lockwood Mansion. It’s easy to imagine the characters from the show walking around the property because of the grand columns, long roads, and lush landscaping.
You can’t actually go inside (and can only go in the gates on the tour) but it’s still worth a stop to see from the outside.
4. See The Iconic Damon/Elena Kiss Spot:
You know that iconic kiss in the rain? That took place at the Academy Springs Park, which is super close to downtown. The park itself is pretty beautiful, so it’s definitely worth a visit.
The address for the park is: 3120 Conyers St SE, Covington, GA.
3. Spend Some Time at Mystic Falls Cemetery
A Vampire Diaries tour wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the Mystic Falls Cemetery, one of the most critical settings of the show. But seriously: how much time did the characters spend here?
The stone walls, tall trees, and twisting paths of the cemetery all show up in different episodes, and it’s easy to picture the show’s characters wandering through the graves. This is where the group mourned so many iconic characters.
Even without Vampire Diaries, the cemetery is famous for photographers and history buffs because of its beautiful grounds and memorials. Its quiet atmosphere is a nice break from the business of everyday life.
The address for the cemetery is: 2151 Davis St., Covington, GA.
2. See The Welcome Sign
Grab a picture with the iconic Mystic Falls Virginia sign!
You will find the actual wooden sign inside the Visitor’s Center, and another one painted on one of the walls in The Alley.
1. Check Out Some Vampire Diaries Merchandise and Gift Shops
You can visit many places in Covington, Georgia, where the TV show took place, but there are also a few places in town that sell cool Vampire Diaries stuff.
The Vampire Stalkers tour group, located near the Town Square, runs one of the largest gift shops with the most extensive selection of Vampire Diaries items.
The gift shop is a haven for fans who want to take a piece of Mystic Falls home. What’s great about it is that it is just a few steps away from some of the most famous film locations of the show, so it’s a quick stop in while sightseeing.
Replicas of the show’s props are among the most popular things in the gift shop. You can get Damon Salvatore’s vervain collar and the Gilbert family ring, complete with great care and attention to detail.
But even if you don’t want a copy of a prop, the gift shop has a lot of other things to offer. You can get a Mystic Falls t-shirt or a mug with your favorite characters on it to show how much you like the show. And if you want a unique souvenir, you can have a piece of jewelry made just for you with a design inspired by the show.
That’s pretty much it for the big locations in MysticFalls. However, there are some smaller places to see, too:
Bree’s Bar – 4139 Emory St NW, Covington, GA
Whitmore College – 801 Emory St, Oxford, GA
Sharp Gym 20’s Decade Dance – 2140 Newton Dr., Covington, GA
Other Things To Do in Covington, Georgia
Apart from exploring the filming locations of The Vampire Diaries, there are many more things to enjoy in this town. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply considering a relaxing getaway, the following things to do will surely make lasting memories!
Play a Round of Golf at Ashton Hills Golf Club
You can’t miss the chance to play at one of the best public courses. A golf course is a place where history and new ideas meet. The Ashton Hills Golf Club takes pride in giving players unique places to play and exciting things to do in Covington, GA.
When you get there, you’ll see a lot of things. Clean greens and well-kept fields are just the start. You can play 18 of the best rounds at their Desmond Muirhead-designed course. The golf course is 6906 yards long, and it is a golfer’s dream.
Give it a few swings to find out for yourself.
Partake in Covington Ghost Tour
For a more exciting time, go on a walking tour of Covington’s historical sites. Seasoned Ghost Guides will show you around a city with a long history of hauntings and give you a preview of what makes it the “Hollywood of the South.”
You will visit places where TV shows like “In the Heat of the Night,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” and “The Vampire Diaries” were filmed. Most of the time, the walking ghost trip takes about 2.5 hours. The best way to see the hidden side of Covington City is on a Covington Ghost Tour.
View Local Arts at Southern Heartland Art Gallery
The Southern Heartland Art Gallery opened in 2004 on Covington’s old square. So far, the art center has done an excellent job of showing off unique and exciting works by local creators and artists.
Since the gallery is in a great spot in the city, it is easy to get to and gets a good number of visitors every day. Even more, the Southern Heartland Art Gallery has several shows.
Check their schedule to plan your trip to the city around it!
Appreciate the Outdoors at The Eastside Trail
The Eastside Trail is the newest multi-use greenway walk in Newton County.
It goes from downtown Covington to Eastside High School, which is 2.5 miles away. It starts on Ramsey Drive, and for the first few miles, it winds behind the library and Newton County Health Center into an area of woodland.
After taking a slow path through the woods, the route will traverse Martin Street at the crossing. The view on the trail will bring anyone relaxation.
For free things to do in Covington, GA, you can rent a bike from a shop close and ride down the trail.
Go Sightseeing at Turner Lake Trail
The Turner Lake Complex is in Covington, near the end of Clark Street on the west side. Visitors can park at the Turner Lake Facility and use the trails behind the complex and along the lake to get to the lake.
After seeing the sights, you can get to downtown Covington. You can reach it via the boardwalk, a tunnel under the roundabout, or bike paths.
The trail’s natural setting allows you to escape all the distractions and focus on yourself. And, if you are with your loved ones, you can stroll down Broadway to have an excellent time!
Getting To Mystic Falls (Covington, Georgia)
Getting to Covington Georgia, is a breeze, with various transportation options available. Whether traveling by car, plane, or bus, there are numerous ways to reach this charming town and explore all Mystic Falls, Virginia, has to offer.
By Car
If you’re driving by car to Covington, Georgia, the trip will be beautiful and easy. The town is easy to get to from Atlanta and other nearby cities because it is right off Interstate 20.
It takes about an hour from Atlanta to Covington, but that can change based on how busy the roads are. If you’re going from out of state, plan your route and leave plenty of time for rest stops and to get gas.
By Plane
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the closest airport if you come by plane. You can rent a car, take a cab, or use a shuttle service to get to Covington from there.
Depending on traffic, the trip takes about an hour. Flights to Atlanta cost different amounts based on the time of year, but round-trip tickets usually cost less than $200.
Book your flights early to get the best deals and arrive in Covington at a good time. And don’t forget to bring only what you need. Airlines often charge extra for checked luggage.
By Bus
If you would instead take a bus, the closest bus station to Covington is in Atlanta. You can take a GRTA bus from there; the trip takes about an hour, depending on the road conditions.
Just check the bus schedules before you go so you can get to Covington quickly.
Where To Stay in Covington, Georgia
If you plan to go to Covington Georgia, you should stay for more than one day. We suggest staying for at least a weekend or longer because there are so many places to see and charming Southern hospitality to enjoy.
Luckily, there are a lot of places to stay, and there are options for all budgets and preferences. Here are the ones we like best!
The Twelve Oaks Bed and Breakfast
Do you like The Vampire Diaries? If so, you won’t want to pass up the chance to stay at the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast in Covington, Georgia! This beautiful house is in the middle of Mystic Falls and offers guests a luxurious and unforgettable stay.
The Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast is just a short walk from downtown Covington, so it’s a great place to stay while you check out the town’s charming shops, restaurants, and sights. The house is a work of art in and of itself. It has grand rooms and elegant furniture that take visitors back in time.
At the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast, guests can choose from six rooms, each with its style and personality.
There’s something for every taste and budget, whether you want a cozy room with a fireplace or a large suite with a four-poster bed. And with high-speed Wi-Fi and luxurious blankets, guests can enjoy all the comforts of home in a truly unique setting.
The delicious breakfast given every morning is one of the best parts of staying at Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast. In the elegant dining room of the house, guests can enjoy a gourmet meal, or they can have a more casual meal in the cozy breakfast nook.
Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast rooms start at around $200 per night, varying on the season and room type. Even though it’s not the cheapest place to stay in Covington, the luxurious rooms and fantastic service make it well worth the extra money.
We highly recommend staying at Twelve Oaks for the full Covington Georgia Mystic Falls experience! You’ll feel like you’re part of Vampire Diaries during your stay – the rooms are just incredible.
Holiday Inn Express Covington
The Holiday Inn Express Covington is a popular hotel located in the heart of Covington, Georgia. The hotel offers a variety of amenities and services to make guests’ stays comfortable and enjoyable.
The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
Additionally, the Holiday Inn Express Covington is located close to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Mystic Grill and the Covington Square. The hotel also offers easy access to nearby highways, making it a convenient option for those traveling by car.
And what about pricing? Rooms at the Holiday Inn Express start at around $100 per night, depending on the season and room type. It makes it a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who still want a comfortable stay with all the modern amenities.
Hampton Inn
Hampton Inn is your home away from home in the charming town of Covington, Georgia! If you’re looking for a comfortable yet affordable stay with a touch of Southern hospitality, look no further than this cozy yet affordable hotel.
It is right off Interstate 20, making seeing all the town offers easy. Also, its friendly staff is always happy to improve your stay by giving suggestions and secret tips.
You can choose from different rooms, such as standard rooms with one or two beds or large suites with living rooms. Some comfortable rooms have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels, and soft mattresses.
Are you looking to stay active and fit during your trip? No problem! The Hampton Inn has you covered with an outdoor pool and fitness center, so you can break a sweat and cool off in style.
Moreover, the best part is that living here won’t break your budget. Prices start at about $100 per night, which makes it an excellent choice for tourists on a budget. You can be sure you’ll feel right at home as soon as you get there!
La Quinta Inn & Suites
Looking for a place to stay in Covington, Georgia, that’s cozy and easy to get to? La Quinta Inn & Suites is an excellent place to stay. This famous hotel chain has clean, comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a prime location.
The rooms at La Quinta Inn & Suites are large and comfortable, with flat-screen TVs, premium cable programs, and high-speed Wi-Fi so you can stay in touch while there.
Plus, you can choose between standard rooms and larger suites with separate living rooms to find a room that fits your wants and budget.
But La Quinta Inn & Suites has more to offer than just that. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast served every morning in the dining room. You can have an excellent start to your day with various hot and cold foods, like eggs, toast, cereal, and more!
Additionally, service is one thing that makes La Quinta Inn & Suites stand out from other hotels. Some of the friendliest and most helpful individuals you’ll ever meet work here. They are always keen to go above and beyond to make your stay as easy and enjoyable as possible.
La Quinta Inn & Suites is right off Interstate 20, which makes it a good choice for travelers passing through the area or those who want to explore the town’s many charms and nearby sites.
This place has reasonable prices, with rooms starting at around $90 per night, based on the time of year and the room type. It makes it an excellent choice if you want to explore the town while on a budget!
FAQs About Visiting Mystic Falls Virginia (Covington Georgia):
Can You See Mystic Falls Without a Tour?
Can I visit the Lockwood Mansion?
What is the best time of year to visit?
The best time of year to visit Covington, Georgia, to experience the Mystic Falls filming locations and immerse yourself in the world of “The Vampire Diaries” can depend on a few factors:
Spring (March to May): Spring can be a lovely time to visit. The weather is mild, and the blooming flowers and lush greenery can enhance the overall ambiance of the town. The pleasant temperatures make it comfortable for walking tours and exploring the filming locations.
Fall (September to November): Fall is another popular time to visit. The changing foliage adds a beautiful backdrop to your experience, and the weather remains comfortable. The fall season can also coincide with fan events or conventions related to “The Vampire Diaries.”
Summer (June to August): Summer is a peak tourist season, so you might encounter larger crowds. However, if you’re willing to brave the heat and the possibility of some rain, summer can be a good time to visit if you want a lively atmosphere and longer daylight hours for exploring.
Winter (December to February): Winter is the off-peak season for tourism in Covington. While the temperatures can be cooler, this might be a quieter time to visit the filming locations without the crowds. Some events or attractions might have limited availability during this time, so it’s good to check in advance.
Final Thoughts
That’s it for this guide on exploring the real-life town behind Vampire Diaries!
Mystic Falls Virginia, or more precisely, Covington Georgia, offers an unforgettable experience whether you are a fan of The Vampire Diaries or not. From exploring iconic filming locations to shopping and exploring the outdoors, Covington has something for everyone.
So pack your bags now and embark on a journey to this magical town!
