Cinematic Capital Region USA

The Capital Region USA, spanning Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, has long been a favoured backdrop for filmmakers.

From the political intrigue of House of Cards to the historical drama of Lincoln, the region’s diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks have played pivotal roles in many acclaimed productions.

Pharrell Williams, hailing from Virginia, recently announced he is developing a musical biopic due to be launched on 12th October 2024.

This film will highlight his formative years in Virginia Beach, with a special focus on the Atlantis Apartments, his childhood home.

The project promises to offer an intimate glimpse into the early life of one of music’s most dynamic figures.

Movie lovers can embark on a cinematic journey through Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, following in the footsteps of icons such as Julia Roberts, Daniel Day Lewis, Ben Stiller, Tom Hanks, Cynthia Erivo, and Robin Wright, and discover the locations immortalised on the silver screen.

Washington, DC:

In the Georgetown neighborhood, the eerie steps from The Exorcist are celebrated with a commemorative plaque and visitors are welcome to climb the steps to experience the scene. The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a frequent film backdrop, is where the illustrious reunion of Forrest and Jenny in Forrest Gump took place. The Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History also starred in Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian. Both museums are free and open to the public daily, alongside 14 other Smithsonian museums throughout the city. While the U.S. Capitol Building’s interior is off-limits for filming, its replica was the stage for Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. The U.S. Capitol Building is open to the public for free guided tours.

Maryland

In Maryland, the quirky essence of Baltimore is captured through John Waters’ films like Hairspray and Cry-Baby, particularly on The Avenue in Hampden. Atomic Books is a must-visit for fans to send letters to the director. House of Cards may be set in DC, but Maryland stands in, with the Underwoods’ residence in Baltimore’s Bolton Hill. Berlin, Maryland, is a historic gem, serving as the setting for Runaway Bride and Tuck Everlasting, and is a gateway to the serene Assateague Island National Seashore. The town of St Michaels on the Eastern Shore of Maryland was the primary film location for comedy film The Wedding Crashers, and guests can stay at the stunning Inn at Perry Cabin where the wedding reception scene was filmed.

Maryland and Virginia:

The landscapes and towns near Richmond, Virginia, served as the backdrop for the Oscar-nominated film Harriet, which chronicles the life of Harriet Tubman, the renowned abolitionist from Dorchester County, Maryland. Visitors can discover Tubman’s legacy whilst driving through Maryland by following the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Scenic Byway.

Virginia:

The historical drama Lincoln, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Oscar-winner Daniel Day Lewis, was shot across various locations in Virginia, featuring the unique octagonal structure of Old Towne Petersburg’s City Market and the grandeur of Union Station. Set against the picturesque Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Dirty Dancing captures the essence of a classic summer romance. Fans can experience the magic firsthand during special weekends dedicated to the film at the lodge.

For UK travellers, Bon Voyage offers a 10-day The Life of Harriet Tubman Through America’s Capital Region self-drive tour from £2,442 per person. The itinerary visits Washington, DC, Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Richmond, Charles City, Petersburg, Baltimore, Cambridge and Annapolis. Price includes nine nights’ accommodation, return international flights from London Heathrow to Washington Dulles International Airport, and car rental throughout. To book, visit www.bon-voyage.co.uk  

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