Tennessee, a state rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, offers picturesque and historic locations that beckon filmmakers from around the world. From Memphis’ vibrant blues music scene in the state’s western corner to the breathtaking vistas of the Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border, the Volunteer State offers a tapestry of stunning backdrops for any film or music video.
Iconic Landmarks Across Tennessee
Tennessee’s unique history and culture enrich its identity. Its nickname, the Volunteer State, dates to the War of 1812, when thousands of Tennessee militiamen played a crucial role in the war effort. From its historic battlegrounds to its vibrant music scenes, Tennessee’s legacy is one of courage, creativity, and a steadfast sense of community.
- Beale Street: Known as the birthplace of blues, Beale Street is a bustling avenue filled with live music, neon lights, and a palpable sense of history. This iconic location provides an authentic, energetic atmosphere perfect for dynamic scenes and music-centric projects.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The gently rolling Smoky Mountains offer a serene and majestic setting ideal for nature documentaries, dramatic narratives, and everything in between. The park’s diverse flora and fauna provide a stunning, ever-changing backdrop for filmmakers in all four seasons.
- Graceland: The iconic home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is a must-visit for any production looking to capture a piece of rock ‘n’ roll history. Its opulent interiors and extensive grounds offer various visually appealing settings.
- Chattanooga Riverfront: This scenic waterfront provides a picturesque setting with beautiful views of the Tennessee River and the Walnut Street Bridge.
- Lookout Mountain: Offering panoramic views and stunning natural scenery, Lookout Mountain is ideal for dramatic, sweeping shots. The nearby Rock City and Ruby Falls add to the location’s appeal with their unique geological formations.
- Dollywood: This famous theme park, owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, combines Appalachian charm with the excitement of amusement rides and entertainment shows. It’s a vibrant spot for family-friendly productions.
Why Film in Nashville?
While these landmarks are undeniably captivating, Tennessee’s capital city of Nashville offers unique advantages that make it a premier choice for filmmakers.
- No permits required: A lack of bureaucracy is one of the most significant benefits of filming in Nashville. In Tennessee, film crews do not need permits to shoot unless they plan to be on state property. The ease of getting started means fewer hurdles and more time dedicated to creativity and production.
- Musical heritage: Nashville’s musical legacy infuses every corner of the city, from the vibrant nightlife on Lower Broadway to the stately Ryman Auditorium, a former church that is now a storied performance venue.
- History: Nashville, known for more than a century as the “Athens of the South,” has a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, complete with a 42-foot-tall statue of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom.
- Diverse urban and natural settings: Metropolitan Nashville provides a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Filmmakers can seamlessly transition from the city’s vibrant urban core to tranquil parks and riversides, offering multiple filming environments without leaving the county.
- Convenient location: Nashville sits at the intersection of three interstates – I-65, I-24, and I-40. The city is within a day’s drive for 75% of the U.S. population.
- Supportive local community: Nashville is home to a vast artistic community of talented actors, musicians, and crew members who are well-versed in the demands of film and video production. This local expertise ensures you can execute every aspect of your project with the utmost professionalism and creativity.
Ivy Hall: Nashville’s Premier Filming Location
Nestled in the heart of historic East Nashville, Ivy Hall is an exceptional filming location that combines historic elegance with modern convenience. Here’s why Ivy Hall should be on the shortlist for your next project.
- Historic charm with modern amenities: Built in 1935 and outfitted with state-of-the-art, low-latency recording equipment in 2016, Ivy Hall blends classic Tudor architecture with contemporary functionality. Its distinctive look and feel add character and depth to any production.
- Extended rental options: Understanding the unpredictable nature of film schedules, we offer daily and hourly rentals. This flexibility ensures your project has the time it needs to achieve perfection.
- Spacious and versatile environment: Ivy Hall’s expansive grounds and diverse interior spaces provide multiple settings within one location. Whether you’re shooting an intimate scene in a cozy, wood-paneled room or a grand exterior shot against the backdrop of stone-cut architecture, Ivy Hall delivers.
- Parking and accessibility: We have ample parking available for trucks and trailers. This ease of access means you can focus on the creative process without worrying about logistical constraints.
- Freedom from red tape: Filming at Ivy Hall means bypassing tedious paperwork, permits, and city regulations. Here, your creative vision can flourish without the interruptions of administrative procedures.
East Nashville’s Exclusive Creative Destination
Filming in Tennessee, particularly in Nashville, gives you and your crew access to stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and practical convenience few other locations can match. From Memphis’ diversity and vibrant nightlife to the timeless beauty of the Smoky Mountains, the state provides unrivaled backdrops from west to east.
Ivy Hall is Nashville’s premier filming location, studio space, and creative retreat, offering the perfect combination of historic charm, modern amenities, and logistical ease. Book your next project today to experience the best Tennessee has to offer in a setting designed to inspire and amaze you.
