Mystical Missouri Locations to Shoot Your Next Fantasy Film

What if the perfect fantasy world wasn’t built in a studio, but hidden in plain sight? Missouri is full of fantastic, charming, and magical locations fit for princesses, hobbits, or dragons. When scouting for your next fantasy film, consider these Missouri gems for your magnificent, marvelous, and mystical setting.

Castleshire at Chateau Charmant – Fordland, Mo. Though the plan for Chateau Charmant was only conceived in 2003, the majestic castle transports visitors back to the 13th century. Located in the scenic southwest Ozarks, the French-inspired chateau was built by Bonnie and Robert Palmer. While traveling, the couple fell in love with the beauty and history of European castles and decided to bring the magic to Missouri.

After journeying through the iron gates, over the arched bridge, and down the winding road, Chateau Charmant sits upon a secluded, tree-lined hill. Inside, the Great Hall boasts authentic architecture, including stunning wooden beams, and natural light. The separate brides and grooms’ quarters provide luxurious lounge areas and beautiful arched windows. The 149-acres of castle grounds also include an outdoor theater and life-sized chessboard.

Don Robinson State Park – Eureka, Mo. Though it’s right outside the city, Don Robinson State Park transports you from St. Louis into a lush, enchanted forest. The serene area was gifted to the Missouri State Parks system when local salesman, Don Robinson, passed away in 2012. At an impressive 843 acres (equal to the size of Central Park), Robinson’s park is one of the largest gifts ever given to Missouri State Parks.

The park is complete with sandstone canyons, shelter caves, and wooded hillsides that filter outside noise. The LaBarque Creek, one of the healthiest streams in St. Louis, flows through the park and is home to forty-four species of fish. Rare and native plant species decorate the landscape, showcasing the area’s natural beauty. To learn more about filming in Missouri State Parks, check out our previous article, Filming in Missouri State and National Parks.

Hannibal Riverside Cemetery – Hannibal, Mo. The historic Hannibal Riverside Cemetery provides both a mysterious and whimsical backdrop. Hidden away near the Mississippi River, the burial grounds have green rolling hills and sweeping river views. Magnificent trees decorate the property, turning it into a colorful autumn landscape from September to November each year. In the last three centuries, notable civil war veterans, athletes, and entrepreneurs have been laid to rest at the Hannibal Cemetery. 

Hearth and Hobbit Cottage – Columbia, Mo.
Tucked into the hip college town of Columbia lies the quaint Hearth and Hobbit Cottage. The historic home is straight from a fairytale with its brick exterior, vine-covered chimney, and red front door. Though the interior has been modernized, many original elements still remain,
including the authentic living room hearth and cookware. A large, plant-filled sunroom contributes to the whimsy, and rustic wooden beams, windows, and doorways decorate the home

Onondaga Cave State Park – Leasburg, Mo.
Onondaga Cave State Park provides a multitude of picturesque backdrops – below the ground, upon a bluff, or at the river’s edge. Made popular during the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, Onondaga Cave highlights Missouri’s underground beauty. Large stalagmites, dripping stalactites, and stunning flowstones adorn the cave, making it a truly magical destination. Additionally, Onondaga Cave provides consistent shooting conditions, as it is devoid of natural light and remains at 57°F year-round.

Above ground, the Vilander Bluff Natural Area provides a scenic view of Southeast Missouri and the Meramec River. The 206-acre area boasts native birds, historic trees, and an overall immersion into nature. The park also has easy access to the Meramec River, which is popular for canoeing, fishing, and swimming.

Peter’s Orchard and Market – Waverly, Mo.
Outside of Kansas City, along the scenic Missouri River, lies Peter’s Orchard and Market. Beginning as a small orchard and dry-goods store, the family-owned business has been growing and selling fruit for over 115 years. Today, the property is lined with over 20 varieties of apple and peach trees, with a cozy farm store selling fruit, nuts, and baked goods. Though the orchard is always stunning, peaches are in season from July to August, and apples from August to October.

For more fantastical locations, check out our Location Gallery.

This article was written by Missouri Film Office intern Justine Favazza, a senior at the University of Missouri.