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8 Places Dedicated Entirely to Your Favorite Pop Culture

Whether it is slaying a dragon, joining the Resistance, or riding on the back of a Hippogriff, every self-proclaimed nerd craves to live in the world of their favorite pop culture icon—now they can.

You could spend hundreds of dollars at a theme park or studio tour to fulfill your nerd-fantasies, or you could check out the locations around the globe that bring these famous stories and characters to life. Though they may not be affiliated with the brand, they are sure to treat you to a unique experience.

From small towns to major cities, there are dozens of pop culture restaurants, bars, hostels, hotels, and cafes that are sure to spark your interest. These eight pop culture destinations are ones every fan needs to put on their bucket list.

1 OF 8

Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum

WHERE: Elkhart, Indiana

Let your inner child run amok in the Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum in Elkhart, Indiana. The two-story museum, which is a replica of the Hall of Justice from the 1970s Super Friends cartoon, houses over 60,000 comic books, 10,000 toys, and hundreds of original animation artwork. This museum is the world’s only one to cover the entire 80-year history of superhero comics, animations, toys, and live-action films. Within its walls are items from each significant era in superhero history, including Adam West’s Batman costume, the original shield from the first Captain America film, a rare Marvel Superhero Express tin train, the Green Lantern ring worn by Ryan Reynolds in the 2011 movie, and original comic books dating back to 1938. If you’re in Elkhart for its world-famous Jazz Festival or just merely passing through, do not miss the opportunity to explore the Hall of Heroes!

INSIDER TIPYou can treat your child to a superhero birthday by renting out the museum’s Party Room, and can even organize a visit from their favorite superhero!

 

2 OF 8

Always Cafe

WHERE: Hanoi, Vietnam

Spend time reminiscing about the defeat of the Dark Lord at the Always Cafe in Hanoi, Vietnam. Named for Snape’s undying love for Lily, the cafe is a hole-in-the-wall Potterhead paradise serving up the best elixirs in town–a must-see for any fan. You can enjoy tasty drinks inspired by J.K. Rowling’s books, including Butterbeer, Polyjuice Potion, and Amortentia as you gaze upon the portraits of your favorite Hogwarts professors, and snap a photo with your house banner. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for new robes and other Harry Potter swag on your way out.

3 OF 8

Lebowski Bar

WHERE: Reykjavik, Iceland

Whether you’re a member of the Church of the Latter-Day Dude or simply enjoy a White Russian, you won’t want to miss the Lebowski Bar in Reykjavik, Iceland. The bar has been serving up specialty White Russians for 31 years and is decorated to look like a 1950s diner meets The Dude’s back porch and favorite bowling alley. Sit back in your bathrobe and enjoy one of the 24 different varieties of the staple drink, a mouthwatering Walter burger, a mock version of the film’s famous rug, and the weekly pub quiz. This Dude haven is sure to give you “occasional acid flashbacks” for years to come.

INSIDER TIPBe sure to ask about the White Russian of the month–you can sip on this specialty for only 1.500 KR.

 

4 OF 8

King’s Landing Hostel

WHERE: Dubrovnik, Croatia

Go back to medieval times at the King’s Landing Hostel in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The Game of Thrones-inspired hostel is located inside a 15th-century villa and is only steps away from the world-famous Banje Beach, as well as amazing restaurants, entertainment, and bars. The old building has been restored with modern necessities, but still retains its history in its original oak and terra cotta flooring, wooden beams, stone walls, fountains, doors, and locks. You will also find many Game of Thrones pieces throughout, including Lannister Lion door knockers, wrought iron viper and dragon door handles, family banners, swords, shields, and maps. The hostel is truly fit for a king.

INSIDER TIPSign up for the hostel’s free walking tour, which is led by a real Game of Thrones actor from seasons two, four, and five.

 

5 OF 8

Rancho Obi-Wan Museum

WHERE: Petaluma, California

Blast off into the galactic world of Star Wars at the Rancho Obi-Wan Museum in Petaluma, California. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest Star Wars collection, the museum houses thousands of pieces within a 9,000-square-foot building, all collected by former Lucasfilm employee, Steve Sansweet. Steve has been collecting the memorabilia and artifacts since 1976, but his vision for each piece went beyond simply entertaining super fans. The museum’s true purpose is to offer free educational tours to school groups and raise money for charities, including organizations that support medical research, people with developmental disabilities, therapy and play centers, schools, food banks, and the arts. Approve Yoda does.

6 OF 8

Hobbit Cafe

WHERE: Houston, Texas

Known for their love of peace, partying, and food, the hairy-footed people of Middle Earth have inspired the creation of the Hobbit Cafe in Houston, Texas. The Tolkien novel came to life in 1972 as a vegetarian, Hobbit-themed café, it has, however, since expanded its menu to include beef burgers, nachos, sandwiches, and seafood. It is also known for its extensive selection of booze, Hobbit decor, and has even hosted a birthday party for Woody Harrelson. If you, like the Hobbit people, enjoy eating, drinking, and socializing, then this cafe is the perfect stop before your next quest.

7 OF 8

Beetle House

WHERE: New York City, New York and Los Angeles, California

If you’ve ever wanted to let your inner goth out, then the Beetle House restaurant is the perfect place. With two locations across the United States, one in New York City and the other in Los Angeles, Beetle House has decorated its space with odes to the cinematic and literary works of Tim Burton and other famous makers of the macabre including Edgar Allen Poe, Alfred Hitchcock, and Bram Stoker. The restaurant treats every day like it’s Halloween and welcomes any guest, including punks, freaks, and those just passing through. Don’t be afraid to show off your unique style and rock out to the ’90s goth-band sure to be performing, or interact with the various characters roaming the restaurant, including Jack Skellington and Beetlejuice himself.

INSIDER TIPCheck out the FreakShow Deluxe at the Beetle House in Los Angeles, which includes a three-course meal and theater show with magic, comedy, and strange acts.

 

8 OF 8

Pandorica Restaurant

WHERE: Beacon, New York

Jump in your Tardis and take a day trip from the city to the Pandorica restaurant in Beacon, New York. The space is decorated with subtle references to the Dr. Who series and invites all Whovians and non-Whovians alike to enjoy the vast selection of eclectic food, beer, wine, and tea. The Pandorica is not only known for its Who culture but also its Who Dunnit Murder Mystery event and unique Dr. Who Convention, Pandoricon.