New Jersey: Why Hollywood East is Your Next Unexpected Getaway

For decades, the name Hollywood has conjured images of California's golden coast, but what if the true magic of moviemaking is increasingly found in less expected locales? The tectonic plates of film production are visibly shifting, with the East Coast rapidly gaining ground and states like New Jersey not just vying for projects, but actively transforming their landscapes into immersive experiences for visitors.

Indeed, the focus is increasingly turning to the Tri-State area. While California still holds the top spot with $1.76 billion in movie and TV production spend, its 17 percent uptick was significantly outpaced by New York, which surged 87 percent to $1.61 billion in the last quarter, according to industry tracker ProdPro The Hollywood Reporter. Yet, beyond the direct competition for the top spot, New Jersey is carving out its own significant niche as a "major player" and "biggest growth hub" in its own right, steadily becoming known as "Hollywood East."

The East Coast's Growing Allure for Filmmakers

New York's impressive rebound has positioned it within reach of California, driven by bulked-up soundstage infrastructure, a large union crew base, and easy access to neighboring Tri-State locations. The state's soundstage inventory has grown an impressive 43 percent since 2020, hosting major titles and long-running scripted TV shows like Law & Order and Law & Order: SVU, alongside new series such as CIA, FBI, and Elsbeth New York Post. This robust ecosystem naturally extends its benefits to nearby New Jersey.

New Jersey, though not yet matching New York's overall spend, has emerged as a crucial complementary hub. Its appeal lies in strategic partnerships with industry giants like Netflix, Paramount, and Lionsgate, which have invested heavily in the state. Netflix is constructing its East Coast production hub at the former Fort Monmouth site, and Paramount secured a 10-year lease at the in-development 1888 Studios in Bayonne, just across from New York City New York Post. Lionsgate is an anchor tenant of Great Point Studios in Newark. While some soundstages are reportedly at capacity, leading to a temporary dip in filming count year-over-year, these major developments underscore a long-term commitment that promises sustained growth once new facilities are operational The Hollywood Reporter.

Beyond the Studios: New Jersey's Cinematic Landscapes

The appeal of New Jersey for filmmakers isn't just about its growing infrastructure; it's also about its diverse and accessible landscapes. From urban centers to quaint towns and picturesque natural scenery, the state offers a wide array of backdrops. Productions like Universal Pictures’ Miami Vice: 85 have utilized both New York and Wayne, New Jersey, showcasing the Tri-State area's versatility The Hollywood Reporter. Other recent productions include Netflix’s Kevin Hart-Henry Cavill actioner Spy Duo and Adam Sandler’s Grown Ups 3, both filming in Monmouth County, alongside series such as Cupertino (CBS) and Dan Levy’s Big Mistakes (Netflix).

Notably, New Jersey has deep roots in cinematic history, serving as the setting for iconic films like Friday the 13th and Annie. This rich heritage, combined with new investments, makes the state a natural fit for both large-scale productions and independent projects. Its proximity to New York City and easy access to diverse locations, from bustling boardwalks to serene forests, are significant draws that will only grow as the industry expands.

Your Next Trip: Exploring New Jersey's Movie Magic

For travelers, this burgeoning film industry in New Jersey translates into unique and immersive tourism opportunities. The state is actively inviting movie and television fans to explore real-world locations through new tourism platforms, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters NJ.com. Imagine visiting the actual sites where classic horror scenes were filmed or seeing the neighborhoods that inspired beloved musicals. This type of film tourism offers a compelling way to experience a destination, blending pop culture with local exploration.

As the "Hollywood East" moniker gains traction, New Jersey is poised to become more than just a production hub; it's becoming a destination in its own right. Its combination of burgeoning studio facilities, rich natural beauty, and a proactive approach to film tourism presents a strong case for why it should be on every curious traveler's list. Forget the traditional Hollywood sign; the real action, and your next great travel story, might just be found in the Garden State.