Iconic New Jersey Film Locations for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Shows

New Jersey has a bunch of iconic filming locations! Ready to explore the otherworldly side of New Jersey? From the shores to the cities, our state has played host to some pretty epic sci-fi and fantasy shows. Let’s dive into the spots that brought our favorite stories to life!

Just some iconic New Jersey Filming Locations for you Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fans!

If you live in New Jersey, you’re iconic for film locations!

A scene from 'The X-Files' featuring FBI agents Dana Scully, played by Gillian Anderson, and Fox Mulder, played by David Duchovny. Both characters are standing close together, looking upwards with serious expressions. Scully is on the left, holding a flashlight, while Mulder is on the right, holding a handgun. The background is dark and mysterious, adding to the show's suspenseful atmosphere. One of the iconic New Jersey Film Locations.

1. The Pine Barrens – “The X-Files”

Ever feel like you’re being watched in the woods? That’s the vibe the Pine Barrens gave off in “The X-Files.” This spooky, mysterious forest was the perfect stand-in for some of Mulder and Scully’s creepiest cases. Whether you believe in the Jersey Devil or not, the Pine Barrens are legendary for both their natural beauty and eerie tales.

A scene from the TV series 'Fringe,' featuring the characters Peter Bishop and Olivia Dunham. Peter, portrayed by Joshua Jackson, is on the left, wearing a dark jacket and looking off to the side. Olivia, portrayed by Anna Torv, is on the right, wearing a dark coat over a white shirt, also looking to the side with a serious expression. They are sitting on a park bench, with a dark, blurred background, suggesting an intense or contemplative moment. One of the iconic New Jersey Film Locations.

2. Liberty State Park – “Fringe”

Liberty State Park, with its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, has made cameos in several episodes of “Fringe.” This park provided the perfect backdrop for scenes that needed an iconic yet versatile location. Plus, it’s always rad to spot places you know while watching Olivia and the team save the world from bizarre phenomena.

A dramatic scene from the TV series '12 Monkeys,' featuring the characters James Cole and Dr. Cassandra Railly. Both characters are aiming handguns, with intense and focused expressions. James Cole, portrayed by Aaron Stanford, is on the left wearing a black leather jacket. Dr. Cassandra Railly, portrayed by Amanda Schull, is on the right, also in a black leather jacket. The background shows an urban setting at night, with blurred lights adding to the tension of the scene. One of the iconic New Jersey Film Locations.

3. Hoboken Terminal – “12 Monkeys”

The historic Hoboken Terminal isn’t just a commuter hub; it’s also a time-travel hotspot in the TV adaptation of “12 Monkeys.” The terminal’s old-school charm and architectural beauty make it a perfect setting for a show that dances through different eras. Next time you’re catching a train, keep an eye out for any time travelers! Just iconic New Jersey filming!

A scene from the Marvel series 'Daredevil,' featuring the character Daredevil in his red suit and mask with small horns. The character, portrayed by Charlie Cox, is shown in a dimly lit environment, possibly a dark alley or underground setting. He is looking to the side with a serious expression, highlighting the intense and gritty atmosphere of the show.

4. Atlantic City – “Daredevil”

Alright, so technically it’s more superhero than sci-fi, but “Daredevil” did film a few key scenes in the gritty, neon-lit streets of Atlantic City. The vibe of AC brought out the darker, edgier side of the Marvel universe. If you’re a fan of the Man Without Fear, you might want to take a stroll down these iconic streets.

A scene featuring the characters Cloak and Dagger from the Marvel series 'Cloak & Dagger.' Dagger, on the left, is a young woman with blonde hair, wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans, holding a glowing light dagger. Cloak, on the right, is a young man with dark skin, partially shrouded in a dark, flowing cloak that blends into the night. They stand on a rooftop with a cityscape in the background under a cloudy night sky, giving the scene a mysterious and dramatic atmosphere.

5. Jersey City – “Cloak & Dagger”

“Cloak & Dagger” brought some Marvel magic to Jersey City, showcasing its vibrant neighborhoods and urban landscapes. The city played a crucial role in bringing Tandy and Tyrone’s story to life, blending everyday realities with supernatural elements. Walking through Jersey City, you might just feel that heroic vibe in the air. Make it iconic New Jersey!

A scene from 'The Adventures of Pete & Pete' featuring the two main characters, Big Pete and Little Pete, standing side by side. Big Pete, on the left, has red hair and is wearing a blue sweater, black jacket, and red scarf. Little Pete, on the right, is bundled up in a plaid jacket, yellow scarf, and red and black checkered hat. The background is outdoors, with a tree and overcast sky visible.

6. Paterson – “The Adventures of Pete & Pete”

While not strictly sci-fi, “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” had its fair share of surreal and fantastical moments, many of which were filmed in Paterson. The Great Falls in Paterson set the scene for some of the show’s whimsical adventures. It’s a perfect spot for fans looking to relive some quirky TV magic.

A group photo of the cast from 'Altered States.' They are outdoors in a lush garden setting. Three women are standing in the back, smiling and posing, while two people are seated in front. The woman seated on the left is holding a small dog, and a man in a light blue shirt and glasses is seated on the right, looking off to the side. Another man kneels next to a small brown dog, engaging with it. The scene is casual and relaxed, with greenery and a wooden deck in the background. One of the iconic New Jersey Film Locations.

7. Princeton University – “Altered States”

This one’s for the classic sci-fi fans. “Altered States,” the mind-bending film about sensory deprivation and alternate realities, used Princeton University for some of its key scenes. The historic, ivy-covered buildings provided an academic yet otherworldly atmosphere fitting for a journey into the unknown.

A dramatic scene from the movie 'War of the Worlds' featuring Tom Cruise as the character Ray Ferrier. Ray is seen carrying his young daughter, Rachel, portrayed by Dakota Fanning, while surrounded by a crowd of distressed people and soldiers. The setting appears chaotic, with a sense of urgency and tension. Soldiers in camouflage uniforms and helmets are on either side, and the background shows an urban environment with bare trees and buildings. One of the iconic New Jersey Film Locations.

8. Asbury Park – “War of the Worlds (2005)”

Tom Cruise running from alien invaders? Yep, that happened in Asbury Park. This iconic Jersey Shore town was one of the filming locations for Spielberg’s “War of the Worlds.” The boardwalk and its surroundings added a layer of familiarity and terror when the extraterrestrial chaos erupted.

A daytime view of the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, New Jersey. The modern building features a large, prominent sign with green letters spelling 'liberty science center.' The structure includes a mix of glass and concrete elements, with a dome and various geometric shapes adding to its architectural interest. The background includes a view of the New York City skyline under a partly cloudy sky. One of the iconic New Jersey Film Locations.

9. Liberty Science Center – Various Shows

The Liberty Science Center isn’t just a spot for field trips; it’s also been a prime filming location for several sci-fi shows and movies. Its futuristic design and cutting-edge exhibits make it a natural choice for scenes set in high-tech labs or advanced research facilities.

What are your favorite Iconic New Jersey Filming Locations?

Iconic New Jersey? It doesn’t have to be Sci-Fi or Fantasy, just Jersey!

So there you have it, a geek’s tour of New Jersey’s most iconic sci-fi and fantasy filming locations. Next time you’re out and about in the Garden State, keep your eyes peeled – you might just find yourself stepping into another world!

Stay awesome, and remember, “The truth is out there.” – The X-Files.

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Ryder Sterling

Ryder is a 90s kid through and through, bringing a "rad, awesome" vibe to his writing. An expert on old 90s cartoons and anime, Ryder's upbeat and casual style captures the nostalgic essence of Saturday Morning cartoons. He knows everything about Dragon Ball Z and loves diving deep into the world of 90s and 2000s media. Ryder’s articles are a fun mix of enthusiasm and nostalgia, perfect for those who share a love for the golden age of cartoons.