Stranger Things has always made location a central part of its vibe. The fictional Hawkins, Indiana might be small-town America at a glance, but it’s soaked in the neon and nostalgia of 1980s genre films. Whether you lived through the decade, were born somewhere in the haze of it (hi!), or just love its VHS-afterglow aesthetic, Hawkins feels both familiar and creepy AF.
For the first few seasons, Georgia doubled for Indiana. But with Season 4 blowing the show wide open—relocating the Byers family and sending Hopper halfway across the world—production needed new ground. Enter: New Mexico.
A surprising amount of Season 4’s action was filmed across the state, from roller rinks to military bases to a certain pizza van parked under the desert sun. Below, we’ve tracked down the real filming locations so you can see just how far from Hawkins the show ventured—and how close you can get to them in real life.
Why Albuquerque, New Mexico Was Chosen for Stranger Things
Despite the fact that I’ve visited the state a fair few times, it took me a while to realise that the sun-kissed landscapes of Lenora Hills, California were actually the sun-kissed landscapes of New Mexico.
Arguably, the main reason for choosing this Southwestern desert is quite simple: in 2018 Netflix purchased its first-ever U.S.-based production space, Albuquerque Studios. A year later they committed to spending $2 billion on production in the state and finally, in 2020, the streamer signed on to become New Mexico’s official film partner.
So, in short? It’s business, baby. And while plenty of soundstages formed the basis of many interior sequences, production nevertheless took advantage of the surrounding area.
Stranger Things‘ production designer Chris Trujillo told CN Traveler that he was most surprised by the variation of landscapes on offer:
“There’s everything from these white sands to stark yellows and tans. And then there’s the very beautiful painted foothills desert landscapes, too. The vastness and the variety of desert there was really surprising.”
Season four director of photography, Caleb Heyman, revealed in an interview with Filmmaker magazine that initial plans had New Mexico allotted for a “huge chunk” of the shoot, but as a result of the COVID pandemic it was reduced to “basically just stuff that had to be shot there.” I’d hazard a guess that they were likely going to film more interiors at the studios.
Key Locations
The Byers House
13212 Montgomery Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87111
What’s most astonishing to me is that I distinctly recall the first time I saw the Byers new digs during the first episode of season four, wishing that I too could move to California’s sun-dappled suburbia. Ha!
In reality, the Byers family homestead is located in the Glenwood Hills suburb of Albuquerque situated at the corner of a T junction, in the affluent communities at the base of the Sandia mountains.
“I wanted to go to New Mexico and make sure we could accurately recreate southern California and the Nevada [desert] there. And as soon as I got out there, I knew we could definitely find that world around Albuquerque—the beautiful foothills outside of Albuquerque very much look like parts of Southern California,” Trujillo added.
We drove out to the suburbs and found the house easily. We parked to the west of the house and walked in to capture images and footage– and whoo boy, did I take a lot of photos.
I suspect this specific house was chosen by the location team for the unique angles and perspectives it offers. The amount of sequences shot in the front yard/street area alone is not inconsiderable– and yet!
Depending on which direction you approach the property, you’re treated to a wholly fresh viewpoint of the house. All of the various scenes set in the yard take advantage of the tall trees, not only visually distinct but perfect framing devices worked into the show’s plot, too.
These exterior location scenes include:
- Argyle (Eduardo Franco) pulls up in his van to pick up the kids for school
- Joyce (Winona Ryder) destroys the doll in the side yard
- Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) is carted off by the cops
- Will (Noah Schnapp), Jonathan (Charlie Heaton), Mike (Finn Wolfhard) and agent Harmon escape from the house
Production shot all of the interiors here as well, despite alternate reports suggesting the Byers’ 1980s abode was constructed at a soundstage. For a period, the owners – who purchased the home shortly after filming wrapped – transformed it into a weekends-only AirBnb.
Fans from across the globe came to visit in droves. But maybe it became too much of a burden?
At time of writing (April 2025) it’s back on the market for $650k.
How to Get There
This one’s straightforward to find if you plug the address into Google Maps– it’s at the very end of the Boulevard, right at the bottom of the mountain.
Traveler’s Tip
There’s only on-street parking available and no sidewalks. We parked by the Glenwood Arroyo sign. When I was trying to do match-on shots (which, hey, I don’t know if you’ve noticed but I’m not beholden to. If you’d prefer I try to match shots then let me know!) I often had to wait for passing traffic, so be careful of cars– they’re coming from three directions.
Rink-O-Mania
Skate-O-Mania, 400 Paisano St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123
One of the highlights of the early part of season four is when Eleven stands up to her bully. Granted, she smashes the poor girl’s face in with a roller skate, which I can’t really condone but Angela is 100% someone who poked the bear one too many times.
The fictional Rink-O-Mania filmed at the real-life Skate-O-Mania, Albuquerque and to be honest, not a lot has changed since the shoot. Mostly because the production let the rink keep a majority of the set dressing once filming wrapped – possibly due to the huge discount the rink offered Netflix to shoot at their locale. The rink are happy with the free remodel– apparently the show never offered to leave behind set decor prior to this.
According to local news reports, it took four days to shoot the two episodes that take place at the rink, after four months of renovations that took place.
We initially thought the rink was closed due to the wrong times listed on Google–- it turns out it was 100% open and a bunch of kids were celebrating a birthday. So, perfect for us to saunter in and start filming, proclaiming loudly “And THIS is where Angela’s nose spurts blood, everywhere!”
The folks at the rink were incredibly friendly and very hospitable– we spent around 20 minutes inside filming. Before you even enter, there’s a sticker on the front door that lets you know filming took place inside.
A highlight for me is situated right across from the shoe rental, where they have a couple of demogorgons dressed up, ready to skate.
Once you’re in proper, it can be a tad disorienting to figure out exactly where everything was filmed. But that’s probably because I’m 43 and the lights are too much for my decrepit eyes. Alternately, it’s likely down to the production moving counters, lockers, and benches around, so they’re not in quite the same spots they were in the show.
Luckily, the cafeteria seating looks onto the main rink, and the owners have highlighted the exact booth that the Stranger Things gang hangs out in!
Fans of Outer Range will get a kick out of visiting too; the rink features in the flashback sequence of Episode 7 where it’s rebranded as Roller King.
How To Get There
Follow the address and trust your gut–- it’s definitely a weird few turns when you think you’re just heading into the back of some industrial estate. But no, it’s there! Keep going!
Traveler’s Tip
We visited on a weekend in midafternoon and to be honest, it wasn’t too busy. I’d recommend weekdays, ideally, because you’re more likely to guarantee space to capture all of your photos and videos without ruining a child’s birthday party. More on that later, when I finish editing our season 4 locations video!
💡 Planning a horror movie locations road trip through New Mexico?
Check out our guide to the Let Me In filming locations.
County Line Cafe
Cafe 66, 9200 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121
In episode 3 we are treated to a brief glimpse of this iconic New Mexico cafe that’s appeared in a slew of TV shows and movies. Eleven enters talks with Sam Owens (Paul Reiser) who reveals the existence of The Nina Project and tries to encourage her to return to Hawkins. She naturally orders waffles but they both leave before their food arrives.
This same trip we also scoped out the cafe, Cafe 66, as part of our Love Lies Bleeding locations post — and weird on weird, they both filmed in the exact same booth.
The owner and staff were incredibly friendly and let us come in and film while they were conducting their closing duties.
How to Get There
Pop 9200 Central Ave SW into Google Maps—Cafe 66 is right off Route 66 in Albuquerque’s Westside. Easy parking out front.
Traveler’s Tip
Make sure to work it into your itinerary– we arrived right before closing at 2.30pm, so if you’re wanting to spend a decent amount of time there plan accordingly. Oh, and buy a fountain soda for the road.
Eleven visits Max’s skateboarding memory
Snow Park, 9501 Indian School Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112
This location features in episode 9 of season 4, when Eleven visits Max’s memory of skateboarding back in California. In reality, it’s situated at Snow Park in Albuquerque.
In the scene, the younger version of Max can’t see Eleven as she tries to communicate with her. The jostling of memories causes the record player from the Snow Ball to appear on the bridge playing “Dream A Little Dream of Me.”
We see Eleven walk through an arroyo and around up onto a bridge while kids skateboard around her. This bridge is easily accessible and you can figure out its location based on the Snow Park Community Center. Once you’re on the bridge, the building is directly in front of you.
I enjoyed visiting this location, mostly because my girlfriend taught me all about arroyos and also because it was a pleasant locale to kick around for half an hour. After driving frantically around the city trying to make sure we made it to all of the places we had on our itinerary, it felt good to breathe in and soak up the beautiful mountainous views.
How to Get There
Head to Snow Park at 9501 Indian School Rd NE, Albuquerque. The small bridge over the arroyo is where Eleven stands in Max’s memory in Episode 9. Free parking is available nearby, and it’s a great spot to relive the scene—or just enjoy a walk.
Traveller’s Tip
Be careful in the arroyos!
Lenora Hills High School
Eldorado High School, 11300 Montgomery Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111
Part of the opening to season 4 involves the introduction of the Byers’ family’s new Californian life. It kicks off with Argyle picking up Will, Jonathan and Eleven for school, and we see them all bounce out at the Lenora Hills High School.
The actual locale is Eldorado High School and the entrance into the main atrium area is showcased in a high crane shot that includes the “Lenora Hills, California” title.
Prior to our arrival, I made certain I knew exactly where we were heading to capture the scene where Eleven goes up against Angela in the courtyard. We parked up, and immediately, I was struck with how inappropriate it felt to venture onto school grounds. That main entrance has gated doors and while they appeared to be open, I picked up on a distinct vibe that made me reluctant to go in.
🔗 More Filming Locations to Explore:
If you liked this peek behind the scenes of Stranger Things, you’ll love our other on-location deep dives:
🏨 Inside Timberline Lodge from The Shining– where the Overlook lives on
☎️ The Ring Filming Locations – yes, we found that cursed tape
👻 Ghostbusters 2016 in Boston – proton packs not included
Perhaps it’s the teen librarian in me who values the importance of protecting spaces for teenagers and fostering a sense of safety for them, or perhaps it’s the school shooting epidemic in the US, but me plodding around a high school campus without prior consent from the administration felt wrong. I have since watched videos of other location hunters on the premises, and I still stand by my decision.
Location hunting is such fun and I encourage people to do it all the time! But I would never encourage behavior that might put kids in danger or make them feel unsafe.
Nevertheless! I did snap some photos of the school exteriors without heading deeper onto the property. I recommend reaching out to the school if you wish to do so– and let me know what they suggest.
How to Get There
Just pop the address into Google Maps or your preferred GPS app—there’s plenty of street parking nearby, but remember this is an active high school, so be mindful of school hours and student privacy.
Traveller’s Tip
If you want to venture onto the grounds, as mentioned above, don’t do it without prior authorization from the school.
The Lenora Hills airport
Albuquerque International Sunport, 2200 Sunport Blvd, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Mike’s arrival to Lenora Hills kicks off at the airport in episode 2. I quite like this moment as the teens are anxious to see their old friends and Eleven’s nonstop babble is rather cute. I dislike it as it reminds me that, uhhh… Mike is the worst character.
When we arrived at the real-life Lenora Hills airport, the Albuquerque International Sunport, I immediately tried to locate the gate where the group begins their walk all the way to the outer doors.
Well, sadly, major construction was happening at the time so we were unable to find the exact locations as they were in no-entry zones. Gutted! As we were flying out of a different airport we couldn’t return, either.
The quarry where Jonathan and Argyle play golf
Montessa Park, 3615 Los Picaros Rd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87105
Montessa Park sits in the southern part of the city and we see the flattop rocks behind the crew as Jonathan and Argyle take aim at a quarry of abandoned cars while playing golf. This spot is where the gang pull together to figure out how they’re going to help Eleven.
How To Get There
Easily reachable by car—just plug the address into Google Maps.
Traveller’s Tip
To find the spot where the show filmed, you need to head into the Off-Road Vehicle area of the park.
Alaskan Motel
Americana Motel, 5908 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM
This scrappy motel in the middle of the city is located close to the Byers house and the Lenora Hills school locale but the wonders of small-screen magic transform it into an Alaskan roadside shelter. During Joyce and Murray (Brett Gelman)’s trip to rescue Hopper they catch a ride to Alaska and stop over for the night at this ramshackle establishment in room 109.
Production dressed the exteriors to appear as if they’re in the wintry climes of the northern state, and they similarly used the interior of the motel for their overnight stay.
How To Get There
Located right on Route 66—just enter the address into Google Maps for easy access and grab your classic roadside photo. But perhaps look a bit grumpy like Murray does?
Traveller’s Tip
Revisit the Seth Rogen TV series Preacher ahead of your visit– this cult show also filmed at the Americana.
Surfer Boy Pizza, Lenora Hills
Aliberto’s Mexican Food, 3476 NM-47, Los Lunas, NM 87031
Argyle’s place of employment winds up playing a huge role in the season finale when Eleven travels to Max’s mind… via a giant freezer full of ice. Hey, those kids are scrappy and work with what they have!
The real-life Surfer Boy Pizza is actually a Mexican restaurant called Aliberto’s which is situated south of Albuquerque proper in a little town called Los Lunas. The store itself took to Facebook to announce its inclusion in the series. It appears that Netflix did another pretty extensive renovation on this location, too!
How To Get There
A straightforward drive south of Albuquerque—pop the address into Google Maps and enjoy some roadside eats while you’re there.
Traveller’s Tip
You can call Surfer Boy Pizza at 805 457 4992 and listen to a recorded message from Argyle.
Gas Station Stop
Whiting Brothers Gas Station, 421 Route 66, Moriarty, NM
The Whiting Brothers gas station in Moriarty is where Eleven realises she must help Max who is under Vecna’s influence and cannot break free.
This vintage gas station sits on Route 66 to the east of Albuquerque. While it’s no longer in use as a proper place to fill up for gas it stands as a historical artefact of a bygone era. The Whiting Brothers launched in 1926 with a series of stations along Route 66– this station in particular dates back to 1954.
How To Get There
Right off historic Route 66—enter the address into Google Maps for an easy stop at this vintage roadside relic.
Traveller’s Tip
Visit during daylight for the best pics, and be respectful as it’s private property. No climbing on structures, no matter how tempting the retro vibes are!
Lenora Hills Municipal Building
Valencia County Clerk’s Office 444 Luna Ave SE, Los Lunas, NM 87031
According to this report, production also shot scenes at the courthouse which stands in for the Lenora Hills Municipal Building. A bit of sleuthing and it’s clear this is Valencia County Courthouse in Los Lunas. We see an establishing shot of cops milling around the exteriors of the precinct before we cut to indoors.
I suspect the scenes of Eleven’s questioning were shot on a soundstage but once she’s cuffed and escorted to a van, this appears to all be filmed on location.
The moment she leaves, we see Mike, Will and Jonathan also exit the front of the building. The scene cuts from Mike to the police van and back again. A quick comparison on Google Maps shows that it’s the exact same locale. Another one to add to the list for my next visit to New Mexico.
How To Get There
A quick drive from Albuquerque—just plug the address into Google Maps. There’s street parking nearby.
Traveller’s Tip
This is an active government building, so aim for a quick visit during off-peak hours. Be mindful of people heading in and out—snag your photo without disrupting daily business!
Map of Stranger Things Season 4 New Mexico Locations
Tip: Tap ‘View Larger Map’ for easy navigation on your phone while hunting down filming locations—just watch out for any Upside Down portals
How to turn the Stranger Things Season 4 Filming Locations into a Killer New Mexico Road Trip
If you’re in Albuquerque for the day, well, I recommend stretching this out over a couple of days so you are less frazzled and actually have time to enjoy these locations!
🏨 Staying overnight?
Book a room at the Albuquerque Crowne Plaza by IHG– this spot is not only right by the interstate AND in the middle of the city, making it a great hub for travel, it features as a location in 2024’s noir-horror Love Lies Bleeding!
Day One
- Start at Eldorado High School and snag some photos of the signage out front– as mentioned, be careful with student privacy and if needs be, reach out to the high school in advance if you want to venture onto the grounds.
- A two-minute drive and you’re at 13212 Montgomery Blvd NE the site of the Byers house. I’d expect to take a few photos here as it’s such a big location.
- From here, stop at Satellite Coffee at 8405 Montgomery Blvd NE before heading onto Snow Park.
- After Snow Park, it’s a 10-minute drive to Skate-O-Mania for some rollerskatin’ action.
- Head to the Albuquerque International Sunport from here and grab snaps of the kids hanging out and Murray arriving to help Joyce.
- Next up, is Montessa Park, a short 15-minute drive from the airport.
- Then we’re onto the Americana Hotel for a few snaps before our final stop of the day….
- Cafe 66. Grab lunch here and treat yourself to a fountain coke. They use pebble ice, you know.
Day Two
- Start the day in the city and then venture out to Los Lunas.
- Let’s not get locked up like Eleven, so be respectful when visiting the Valencia County Clerk’s Office.
- Head on over to Aliberto’s Mexican Food and fuel up for the rest of the day.
- An hour’s drive from Los Lunas and you’ll be at the Whiting Brothers Gas Station in Moriarty. This is the last stop on the itinerary, but take the NM-41N and you’ll head right into Santa Fe, where you can hang out in the quaint downtown area and visit where they filmed Odd Thomas.
Travel Tips
Best Time To Visit
New Mexico is beautiful all year round— we visited in October for Balloon Fiesta and as you can see, I was in shorts and a tank for our drive around Albuquerque. That’s the time you’re gonna capture shots — the sun, the dry heat -a that most closely resemble what the city looks like in season 4.
Hidden Gems Worth Checking Out
Outside of the show’s filming locations dotted across the city, fans of Breaking Bad might want to scope out Walter White’s “grave” or take an R-rated walking tour of the city’s spookiest attractions.
Nearby Filming Locations To Explore
Aside from Zack Snyder’s Army of the Dead – more on that soon – two vampire remakes filmed in the city and its surrounding areas: Let Me In filmed here and in nearby Los Alamos, as did the 2011 Fright Night up in Rio Rancho. While you’re there scope out some of the spots from Love Lies Bleeding. Outside in Santa Fe, you can snag pics in the downtown area from Odd Thomas.
Your Turn—Let’s Talk Stranger Things.
Did you spot any other New Mexico filming locations we missed? Been to any yourself?
👇 Drop a comment below — we do read them.
And if you’re planning your own filming location road trip, don’t leave without grabbing the Final Girl Field Guide — it’s free, it’s useful, and it won’t drag you to the Upside Down.
In this blog, discover iconic Stranger Things Season 4 filming locations in New Mexico from the Byers’ house and Lenora Hills High (Eldorado High School) to Skate‑O‑Mania rink and Snow Park skate spot.