The Last of Us Real Life Locations
The Ultimate Post-Apocalyptic Filming Locations Guide (U.S. Edition)
About
The Last of Us franchise paints a haunting post-apocalyptic America grounded in real geography. The games recreate cities and towns with near-photographic accuracy, while the HBO series uses Canadian locations to stand in for U.S. settings.
This guide highlights real U.S. counterparts that inspired the story route, plus key HBO filming spots (mostly Canada) for fans doing cross-border pilgrimages.
Updates as of 2026: With Season 2 released, Vancouver/BC now dominates for Seattle and expanded Jackson scenes. Real Jackson, Wyoming continues to see major tourism from fans seeking the "miracle town."
Full Pilgrimage Guide
Curated videos and routes — click a card to watch and plan your trip.
Spotlight Location Guide
Jackson, Wyoming (Survivor Settlement)
Game Inspiration. Modeled directly after real Jackson Hole—Town Square with antler arches, Cache Street, and Grand Teton views. A major fan pilgrimage spot.
Best Time to Visit
Winter for game-accurate snow.
Access
Public town square / National Park.
Photography Tips
- • Walk under the antler arches.
- • Visit Grand Teton National Park nearby.
- • Experience the "miracle town" vibes.
Boston, Massachusetts (Quarantine Zone)
Part I / Season 1 Opening. Militarized QZ inspired by the North End, Faneuil Hall, and Custom House Tower. Brownstones and brick streets match the game aesthetic.
Best Time to Visit
Spring or Fall.
Access
Public streets and parks.
Photography Tips
- • Walk the North End for brownstone vibes.
- • Visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
- • See the Custom House Tower.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Hunter City)
Part I Mid-Game. Flooded rust-belt city with iconic yellow bridges (Fort Duquesne, Roberto Clemente) and industrial decay.
Best Time to Visit
Summer or Fall.
Access
Public bridges and riverfronts.
Photography Tips
- • Walk across the yellow bridges.
- • Visit Point State Park.
- • Capture the industrial skyline.
Salt Lake City, Utah (Firefly Hospital)
Part I Climax. Urban medical center setting near the Wasatch mountains. University of Utah area serves as the real-life counterpart.
Best Time to Visit
Spring.
Access
Public areas.
Photography Tips
- • Visit University of Utah campus.
- • See the Salt Lake Temple (exterior).
Alberta, Canada (HBO Season 1)
Filming Locations. Calgary (Boston), Canmore (Jackson), and Edmonton stood in for the U.S. journey.
Best Time to Visit
Summer for travel, Winter for snow scenes.
Access
Public towns and cities.
Photography Tips
- • Canmore is the TV show's Jackson.
- • Calgary featured as the Boston QZ.
Suggested Itineraries
East-to-West Classic Journey
HardThe ultimate pilgrimage following Joel and Ellie's route. Boston (QZ) -> Pittsburgh (Hunters) -> Jackson (Settlement) -> Salt Lake City (Hospital).
Transportation
Car Rental / Flights
Locations
- • Boston
- • Pittsburgh
- • Jackson
- • Salt Lake City
Jackson, Wyoming Deep Dive
EasyFly into Jackson Hole. Explore the Town Square, antler arches, and nearby Grand Teton National Park. Best in winter for game vibes.
Transportation
Car Rental
Locations
- • Jackson Town Square
- • Grand Teton NP
HBO Filming Road Trip (Canada)
ModerateExplore the filming locations in Alberta. Calgary (Boston), Canmore (Jackson), and Edmonton.
Transportation
Car Rental
Locations
- • Calgary
- • Canmore
- • Edmonton
Tips & Etiquette
Timing
Winter for Jackson (snow). Spring/Fall for cities.
Photo Tip
Golden hour for overgrown ruins aesthetic.
Budget
National Parks Pass for Grand Teton. Free city walking.
Fan Events
Jackson Hole tourism often embraces TLOU fans.