The countdown to the March 23 opening of The Hunger Games is well under way. But once the movie is over and you’ve taken out your Katniss braid and slipped out of your Peeta khakis – what’s next for the die-hard fan?
How about a trip to District 12?
That would be, of course, in North Carolina, where The Hunger Games was filmed over the summer of 2011. That’s right – you can sleep in the same hotel that Jennifer Lawrence slept in, or visit the abandoned village that stood in as District 12. Hear that? It’s the sound of millions of backpacks being stuffed and slung over shoulders.
Here are a few of the spots where the stars of the movie spent their time:
Where they slept
Hotel Indigo: Described as having a “passion for hospitality, contemporary style blended with the beauty of nature, a downtown location and the best views of Asheville,” this modern hotel is where the lead cast of the movie – that would include Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci and Lenny Kravitz among others – laid down their heads after a long day of shooting.
Where they ate
Lexington Avenue Brewery: Josh Hutcherson reportedly dined with his Journey 2 co-star – and ex girlfriend – Vanessa Hudgens at this casual eatery in downtown Asheville. With live music and a long list of craft beers, it sounds exactly like the place to kick back after a long day of fighting to the death. (Don’t think they have squirrel on the menu, though.) The Laughing Seed Cafe was a favorite of Woody Harrelson – he was a fan of their vegetarian cuisine.
Where they trained
The Philip Morris Plant: Most of the scenes taking place in the Capitol were filmed in this former cigarette manufacturing plant in Concord, including the training center where the Tributes trained leading up to the games. The areas used for District 7 and 13 were built at this location, as well as many of the other sets.
Where they hung out
Malaprop’s Bookstore and Cafe: Cast and crew were often spotted here browsing the book aisles or nursing a cup of coffee over their laptops. The venue, described as “the region’s largest locally-owned independent bookstore,” is a favorite neighborhood gathering spot. I’m betting they have ample copies of the entire Hunger Games trilogy.
Where they came from
Henry River Mill Village: Scenes depicting Katniss’ home – District 12 – were filmed in this abandoned mill town in Hildebran. The village has sat empty for over fifty years, which made it ideal for shots of run-down and worn buildings, like the bakery owned by Peeta’s family.
Check out this video that shows outdoor locations from The Hunger Games.
Have you been to Asheville, North Carolina? What are your favorite things to do there?
By Marsha Takeda-Morrison Read my review of The Hunger Games, and also find me at: Sweatpantsmom.com