Why film in Hollywood when Northern Virginia is camera ready? From classic films to newer releases, production crews have taken advantage of the area’s national landmarks, deep-rooted history, and natural beauty. Pop some popcorn and grab a blanket — we’re going to catch NOVA in the credits of these movies + TV shows.
Movies
“All the President’s Men” (1976) | This film follows two Washington Post reporters as they cover the Watergate Scandal, and many scenes are in the DC + NOVA area, including a high-rise apartment in Arlington. Watch it on Amazon.
“Argo” (2012) | Ben Affleck directed + starred in this movie about a CIA agent going undercover as a Hollywood actor. CIA headquarters scenes were filmed in McLean in Fairfax County. Watch it on Amazon.
“Broadcast News” (1987) | The NOVA + DC areas are prominently displayed in this romantic comedy, starting with its opening scene filmed in Clifton. Later, look out for scenes filmed in Old Town, Alexandria — especially at the 219 Restaurant. Watch it on Amazon.
“Captain America: Brave New World” (2025) | Marvel Studios filmed this blockbuster around the world, including locations in the DC and NOVA areas. Pay close attention for scenes showing the Arlington National Cemetery. Expected to stream on Disney+ in 2025.
“Hollow Man” (2000) | Kevin Bacon + crew filmed a particularly chilling swimming pool scene for this horror film in Alexandria — perhaps because production manager Robert Latham Brown was born in the city. The production team also dedicated a bench, which can be found at the Alexandria Visitor’s Center. Watch it on Amazon.
“J. Edgar” (2011) | Director Clint Eastwood shot scenes for this historic film in the DC area, and star Leonardo DiCaprio was seen filming on the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria. Watch it on Amazon.
“Jackie” (2016) | Natalie Portman portrayed former First Lady Jackie Kennedy in this biography that includes scenes at the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria. Stream it on Max.
“Mission: Impossible III” (2006) | This Tom Cruise franchise is no stranger to Northern Virginia, but the third film has a memorable scene filmed in the Arlington neighborhood of Rosslyn as Cruise’s character crosses the 14th Street Bridge. Stream it on Paramount Plus.
“National Treasure: Book of Secrets” (2007) | As the name implies, following this Nicolas Cage movie can feel like a treasure hunt. At one point, it takes you to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria for a lecture scene. Stream it on Disney+.
Arlington National Cemetery captures US history and stunning DC views.
Photo via Sean McCue on Wikimedia Commons
“The Next Karate Kid” (1994) | This sequel starring a young Hilary Swank is primarily set in Boston, but NOVA makes the cut in the opening scene when Mr. Miyagi travels to Arlington National Cemetery. Watch it on Amazon.
“The Pelican Brief” (1993) | Denzel Washington + Julia Roberts star in this legal thriller with many scenes in DC, but keep your eyes peeled for Mount Vernon and Arlington — some scenes are believed to be filmed outside the Ballston Common Mall. Watch it on Amazon.
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” (2006) + “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” (2007) | Alexandria’s replica naval tall ship Providence forged its own legacy by appearing in the legendary Disney pirate films. You can spot it in the franchise’s second and third installments, or you can explore it yourself by taking a tour. Stream the films on Disney+.
“Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” (2009) | The second installment of Michael Bays’ action franchise filmed around the world, including Fairfax County. Some scenes were filmed at the Steven Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, and you may still see the franchise honored at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum if you visit. Stream it on Paramount Plus.
“Wonder Woman 1984" (2020) | Filmed inside the former Landmark Mall in Alexandria, this Gal Gadot superhero movie used Hollywood magic to turn back time. The shopping center is depicted as a bustling 1980s hot spot with the interior getting a retro make over. Stream it on Max.
The Mansion House Hotel served as a hospital during the American Civil War, which is depicted in “Mercy Street.”
Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Television
“American Dad!” (2005-present) | Animation hasn’t overlooked Fairfax County, and this long-running show is set in a fictionalized version of Langley. You won’t see any real-life shots, but you’ll find NOVA references sprinkled throughout the 21 seasons (and counting). Stream it on Hulu or Disney+.
“The Americans” (2013-2018) | This FX spy drama is set in Falls Church in the 1980s, but it was mostly filmed in Brooklyn. Still, locals have noted regional accuracy in the show’s depiction of life in NOVA. Stream it on Hulu.
“Mercy Street” (2016-2017) | Set in Alexandria during the Civil War, this historic medical drama depicts doctors and nurses who worked at the real-life Mansion House Hospital. However, much of the show was filmed in the Richmond area. Stream it on PBS.
“Scandal” (2012-2018) | This political drama has many scenes in DC, but it sometimes crosses the bridge into Arlington, like it did for this season 3 episode. Stream it on Hulu or Tubi.
In “The Walking Dead” Alexandria is a sign of safety.
Gif via giphy
“The Walking Dead” (2010-present) | This zombie franchise references the “Alexandria Safe Zone” throughout its run, a fictionalized depiction of Alexandria. “The Walking Dead: World Beyond” has many filming locations in Virginia, though most are not in NOVA. Stream on Netflix.
“The West Wing” (1999-2006) | Though this political drama is set in the White House’s West Wing, the show also features locations set in Arlington. Specifically, be on the lookout for Arlington National Cemetery or images of the Department of Defense. Stream it on Hulu or Max.
