Georgia Pop Culture Guide
Anime, Gaming & Film: Atlanta Cons, Trilith Studios & Southeastern Fandom.
The Hollywood of the South
Georgia has become a major Southeastern powerhouse for film production and pop culture IP. With tax incentives making it a top alternative to Hollywood, Atlanta serves as the epicenter for massive productions like Marvel and Stranger Things.
Beyond film, the state hosts massive conventions like Dragon Con, boasts strong anime retail, and supports a growing indie gaming and esports ecosystem. From the historic charm of Savannah to the tech corridors of Atlanta, Georgia offers a diverse landscape for fans.
Film & TV Production Districts
Atlanta Metro & Filming Sites
Atlanta, GA
The backdrop for major Marvel hits (Black Panther, Avengers) and Netflix sensations like Stranger Things and Ozark. A true 'Hollywood of the South'.
Trilith Studios
Fayetteville, GA
The largest production facility outside Hollywood (formerly Pinewood Atlanta). A massive complex of soundstages and backlots home to many Disney/Marvel blockbusters.
Savannah Historic District
Savannah, GA
Famous for period dramas and fantasy productions, offering historic charm and iconic locations from Forrest Gump and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Tyler Perry Studios
Atlanta, GA
A major studio complex founded by Tyler Perry, occupying the former Fort McPherson army base.
Major Conventions & Fan Events
Dragon Con
Official Site →Sept 3–7, 2026 | Atlanta (Marriott Marquis etc.)
The world's largest multi-genre pop culture convention, famous for its massive cosplay parade and taking over downtown Atlanta.
Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA)
Official Site →Nov 19–22, 2026 | Georgia World Congress Center
The Southeast's largest anime convention featuring cosplay contests, VTubers, gaming, and music premieres.
Anime & Pop Culture Districts
Anime Remix
Georgia's largest anime retail store offering figures, Gunpla, Funko, and manga. Known for being bootleg-free and officially licensed.
Buford & Alpharetta
Oxford Comics & Games
A long-standing Atlanta institution with a massive selection of comics, graphic novels, and a strong anime/manga section.
Atlanta, GA
Local Collectible Shops
Spots like Dokimeki Japan, Stukntyme Collectibles, and Rhen's Nest Toy Shop offer Pittsburgh-style crossovers for cosplay gear and kawaii goods.
Atlanta Metro
Gaming Hubs
Atlanta Indie Studios
Atlanta Metro
Home to successful studios like Blue Mammoth Games (Brawlhalla), Hi-Rez Studios (Smite, Paladins), and Tripwire Interactive (Killing Floor).
University Programs (GT / SCAD)
Atlanta & Savannah
Georgia Tech drives game design research, while SCAD fosters animation and game development talent, feeding the local industry.
Esports & Community
Statewide
Supported by the Georgia Game Developers Association (GGDA), with numerous arenas and tournaments for competitive gaming.
Immersive & Tech
VR/AR & Escape Rooms
Atlanta Metro
Venues like Sandbox VR and The VOID pop-ups offer IP-themed quests and interactive exhibits.
Fernbank Museum
Atlanta, GA
Science center that occasionally hosts pop-culture tie-in exhibits and events.
Atlanta Tech Corridor
Atlanta, GA
A hub for VR/AR startups, animation labs, and media incubators, fostering creative IP projects.
Georgia Itineraries
One-Day Atlanta IP Blitz
- AMAnime Remix or Oxford Comics for shopping.
- LunchThemed café or downtown spot.
- PMVR/AR experience or escape room.
- EveLocal meetup or gaming lounge.
Weekend Convention Adventure
- Days 1–3: Dragon Con (Sept) — parade, panels, cosplay.
- Alt: Anime Weekend Atlanta (Nov) for anime focus.
- Optional: Trilith Studios area (exteriors).
Visitor Tips
- Cons: Register early (Dragon Con sells out).
- Transport: MARTA in city; Car needed for suburbs/Savannah.
- Seasons: Labor Day (Dragon Con) or Fall (AWA).
Explore by Region
Atlanta & Metro
Marvel Filming, Dragon Con, Anime Shops
Savannah / Coastal
Historic Filming, SCAD
Macon / Central
Regional Sets