Exploring the Amazon Prime Fallout Locations in New York
 |
| A desolate sand swept Fallout Santa Monica Pier. |
Discover the captivating locales of Amazon Prime’s Fallout TV series as Lucy, Maximus, Moldaver, and the dreaded Ghoul vie for the Vault-Tec cold fusion relic. Filmed across various iconic spots in New York and New Jersey, the series brings the post-apocalyptic Los Angeles, California wasteland to life. Here’s a closer look at the real-life locations featured in the show. Let me know in the comments below how much you loved the show. Were you surprised by the New York-centric locations?
Episode 1 (“The End”)
In a gripping and unforgettable episode, we witness Lucy emerging from the subterranean depths of Vault 33 centuries ahead of schedule, driven by an urgent quest to rescue her father, Hank, the Overseer of Vault 33. This dramatic turn of events follows the brutal infiltration of Vault 32 by Moldaver’s raiders, who cunningly disguised themselves as the already deceased rioting inhabitants of the vault.
The story's turmoil begins with Lucy's wedding to one of Vault 32’s designated breeders. The initial joy and celebration of the nuptials are violently interrupted as the raiders launch their savage attack, indiscriminately slaughtering the vault’s residents. The ensuing chaos reveals the raiders' ruse, culminating in the abduction of Lucy’s father, who is forcibly taken to the nuclear-ravaged surface.
Displaying remarkable courage and determination, Lucy ventures out of the vault and finds herself amidst the desolate, sand-swept remnants of what was once the iconic Santa Monica Pier in California. This haunting landscape, a stark contrast to her sheltered life underground, sets the stage for her perilous journey.
In a striking parallel narrative, the episode also takes us to a desolate ammunition depot. This location, characterized by its imposing entrance barriers and other buildings stretching for miles across the wind-swept desert plains, adds to the eerie atmosphere. Although the exact filming location of the Brotherhood of Steel Headquarters is not set in New York, but rather in a place imbued with a sense of abandonment and desolation is the Wendover Air Force Base in Utah.
Wendover, with its storied past dating back to World War II, provides a rich historical backdrop for both reality and fiction. Originally established as a training camp for military bomber crews, Wendover played a crucial role in preparing the brave servicemen who would take to the skies during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century. Following the war, the base ceased its military operations and transitioned into the historic Wendover Airport, now a public museum that preserves its legacy and offers a window into its pivotal role during the war.
The Fallout series, renowned for its intricate world-building and attention to historical detail, required a setting that could encapsulate the rugged, utilitarian aesthetic of the Brotherhood of Steel—a faction known for its paramilitary discipline and advanced technology. The choice of Wendover as a filming location or inspiration within the games is fitting, given its authentic military history and the atmospheric remnants of its past.
Wendover Airport stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of its wartime contributions. The airfield, once bustling with the activity of bomber training missions, now serves as a poignant historical site, open to the public and dedicated to preserving the memory of those who served. The museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time, with exhibits and artifacts that illustrate the daily lives and rigorous training regimens of the bomber crews.
In the Fallout universe, the Brotherhood of Steel is depicted with multiple base camps, each strategically located to enhance their operations and reflect their formidable presence. Wendover’s historical and architectural elements provide a perfect match for the Brotherhood's aesthetic, with its blend of military functionality and post-apocalyptic decay. The abandoned hangars, expansive runways, and utilitarian buildings echo the Brotherhood's own blend of advanced technology and reclaimed, repurposed infrastructure.
Moreover, the desolate beauty of Wendover, with its vast open spaces and stark landscapes, enhances the immersive experience of the Fallout series. It captures the essence of a world that has weathered the storms of war and emerged resilient, albeit scarred. This resonance with the themes of survival and resilience in the Fallout series makes Wendover an ideal location, seamlessly blending the past with a speculative future.
In sum, Wendover’s historical significance and unique atmosphere make it an invaluable asset for storytelling, whether in the context of a historical museum or the vivid world of Fallout. Its legacy as a World War II training camp lends authenticity and depth, enriching the narrative and providing a tangible connection to the past. For visitors and gamers alike, Wendover offers a compelling journey through time, bridging the real and imagined worlds with its evocative landscape and storied past.
This episode stands out not only for its intense action and emotional depth but also for its evocative portrayal of post-apocalyptic landscapes. The stark visuals and harrowing events underscore the resilience and tenacity required to survive in a world where the remnants of civilization are but ghostly echoes of the past. As Lucy braves this new and hostile environment, her journey promises to unfold with even greater challenges and revelations, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Later in the gripping penultimate episode, we are introduced to The Ghoul, a menacing character brought to life by the talented Walton Goggins. The scene unfolds with a hapless group of bounty hunters unearthing The Ghoul from his makeshift grave under the cloak of night. They offer him a tantalizing proposition: join their hunt for the lucrative bounty on Dr. Wilzig. However, The Ghoul has other plans. Seizing the opportunity, he betrays his would-be allies, ensuring his own freedom in a swift and brutal turn of events. This tense and dramatic sequence was filmed at the atmospheric Fort Totten Park in Queens, New York.
 |
| An eerie Fort Totten serving as The Ghoul's lair. |
Fort Totten Park, with its historic military structures and sprawling landscapes, provides an evocative backdrop for this pivotal scene. The park, once a key defense site, now serves as a public space rich with history and natural beauty. Its abandoned fortifications and wooded areas create a perfect setting for the nocturnal grave-digging and the ensuing betrayal. The eerie ambiance of Fort Totten enhances the tension and foreboding of the scene, making it a memorable highlight of the episode.
The choice of Fort Totten Park for filming underscores the series' commitment to finding locations that not only fit the narrative but also enhance the storytelling with their unique atmospheres. The park's mix of historical significance and natural decay mirrors the themes of survival and treachery that permeate the series.
Walton Goggins' portrayal of The Ghoul adds a layer of complexity and menace to the character. Known for his ability to bring intensity and nuance to his roles, Goggins' performance in this episode is no exception. He captures the cunning and ruthlessness of The Ghoul, turning what could have been a simple scene into a masterclass of tension and drama.
As the scene unfolds, the transformation of The Ghoul from a captive to a free agent exemplifies the unpredictable and perilous world the characters inhabit. The bounty hunters' misjudgment and The Ghoul's lethal resourcefulness are played out against the stark, haunting backdrop of Fort Totten, creating a powerful visual and emotional impact.
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Wendover Air Force Base; 345 S. Airport Apron, Wendover, UT 84083-4459, Fort Totten Park; Totten Ave. &, 15th Rd, Fort Totten, NY 11359
 |
| Brooklyn Army Terminal Roof Walk Way |
Episode 2 (“The Target”)
In a heart-pounding escape from the Enclave research facility, Dr. Wilzig and his extraordinarily intelligent dog, CCX40, find themselves on the run after a deadly incident. The tension erupts when CCX40 lethally dispatches an unsuspecting scientist who stumbles upon the secret presence of the unaccounted canine. The ensuing chaos escalates as another scientist triggers the central alert system, plunging the facility into a state of high alert. Alarms blare and guards scramble to secure the building, creating a frantic and dangerous atmosphere.
This scene is set against the backdrop of the Brooklyn Army Terminal's (BAT) Building B’s train atrium, a location that many New Yorkers will recognize. Designed by the acclaimed architect Cass Gilbert in 1918, the Brooklyn Army Terminal stands in stark contrast to his more decorative works such as the Woolworth Building and the US Supreme Court. The BAT is celebrated for its utilitarian design, which was highly praised for its functionality and efficiency.
The sprawling five-million-square-foot complex was constructed in an astonishing 17 months and remained operational from 1918 until 1981. During its peak in World War II, the terminal was a bustling hub, employing over 56,000 workers and facilitating the movement of more than 3 million troops. Among these troops was Elvis Presley, who passed through its gates on September 22, 1958. The King of Rock'n'Roll took a moment to sign autographs and hold a press conference where he reassured the New York Times that if rock'n'roll were to fade during his military service, he would pivot to acting. Presley then embarked on his journey to Germany, leaving a memorable mark on the terminal’s storied history.
This gripping episode not only immerses viewers in the intense escape and pursuit but also enriches the narrative with historical context. The Brooklyn Army Terminal's architectural and historical significance provides a rich, atmospheric backdrop that enhances the storytelling, intertwining past and present in a tapestry of suspense and legacy.
In the unassuming town of Filly, where Lucy encounters Maximus, The Ghoul, and Dr. Wilzig, the magic of cinema transforms reality into a vivid tableau. This metamorphosis is achieved at the Pine Barrens automotive graveyard in New Jersey, a site cloaked in rust and nostalgia, not typically accessible to the public. This unique automotive and airplane graveyard, with its stacks of dilapidated car frames, aged yellow school buses, military aircraft, and relics from World War II, crafts an authentic post-apocalyptic atmosphere for Filly. Here, a bustling open-air market thrives amid a small-town charm, where enigmatic characters convene for business and barter.
At the heart of this evocative setting lies Wade’s Salvage, a family-owned scrapyard that has been a staple of New Jersey since 1984. The brainchild of Andrew Wade, who began collecting large metal scraps at the age of 17, Wade’s Salvage boasts an eclectic collection ranging from military aircraft to vintage cars. Over the decades, this scrapyard has become a go-to location for the film and television industry, offering not only a backdrop but also a treasure trove of props that bring stories to life on screen.
Wade’s Salvage is more than just a repository of rusting metal; it’s a living museum of industrial history and a testament to the enduring allure of the past. The yard has contributed to numerous productions, providing the gritty realism that filmmakers seek. Each piece of scrap tells a story, from the retro vehicles that once cruised the highways to the military planes that soared through history. The scrapyard’s ambiance captures the essence of a world reclaimed by nature and time, perfect for depicting dystopian landscapes.
However, Wade’s Salvage remains a private enterprise, and unauthorized access is strictly prohibited. Those wishing to explore its cinematic treasures must seek permission, respecting the boundaries set by the Wade family. As the yard continues to expand its collection and services, it remains a cherished and integral part of the New Jersey film industry’s resource network.
Address: 382 Jackson Rd Atco, NJ 08004; 80 58th St Brooklyn, NY 11220, Kolmanskop, Namibia
 |
| Hollywood Blvd it is not! Welcome to New York Baby! |
Episode 3 (“The Head”)
In the eerie depths of a flooded zone, an encounter with a nightmarish creature pushes the limits of horror and heroism. The creature in question is a radioactive, mutated salamander, a "Gulper," grotesquely adorned with human fingers lining its mouth, pinkish-radiated skin, and bulging human eyes. This monstrosity had previously devoured the decayed head of the former Doctor Siggi Wilzig. In a scene that blends terror and valor, the newly unanointed Knight Maximus and his unsuspecting squire, Thaddeus, confront and slay the creature, reclaiming the lost head for the Brotherhood.
Gulpers, these soft-bodied aquatic horrors, possess long tails and expandable stomachs capable of ingesting large prey. Typically solid black, some Gulpers are bioluminescent and can reach lengths of up to 1.8 meters. Despite their formidable appearance and threat, Gulpers have a significant vulnerability: their soft underbellies, a weak spot reminiscent of the notorious death claws.
The treacherous habitat of this Gulper is Verplanck Quarry, a locale infamous for its perilous allure. Just beyond the imposing silhouette of the Indian Point nuclear plant lies a hidden gem, both alluring and forbidding: a 50-foot cliff overlooking a quarry filled with remarkably clear, turquoise water plunging 300 feet deep. This juxtaposition of pristine natural beauty and industrial remnants creates a surreal landscape, at once part of our world and strangely apart from it.
The site, now a 100-acre expanse owned by Con Edison, is encircled by barbed-wire fencing adorned with “No Trespassing” signs, warning off the curious and the adventurous alike. Yet, for decades, this place has whispered tales of mystery and danger, drawing the intrepid and the reckless to its edges.
Originally, this quarry was one of many dotting the Hudson River's industrial landscape in a town once known for its brick-making prowess. It also played a role in a forgotten chapter of American history: the Knickerbocker Ice Company. Before the age of refrigeration, this company harvested 45,000 tons of ice each winter, shipping it downriver to New York City. This bygone era left behind not just memories but physical remnants—most strikingly, the quarry itself.
In 1943, workers struck an unexpected treasure while quarrying: a subterranean stream of crystalline water. Instead of rock, a torrent of pure spring water surged forth, flooding the quarry. This accidental reservoir has since transformed the site into an eerie underwater ruin, where the ghostly remains of old buildings are submerged beneath the calm, clear surface.
Above, two 345,000-volt transmission lines slice through the sky, stark reminders of the area's industrial heritage. Below, the serene waters tell a different story—one of nature reclaiming a man-made scar. This blend of past and present, nature and industry, creates a space that feels both timeless and ephemeral.
For the high school and college students who brave the fences and the risks, the quarry represents a rite of passage—a place where courage and foolhardiness intermingle. They come for the thrill of the jump, the allure of the unknown, and the irresistible pull of the inviting water.
Known for cliff diving, Verplanck Quarry tempts thrill-seekers despite the stringent prohibitions by local law enforcement due to the hazardous and variable water temperatures. Many have narrowly escaped death, and some have perished in these waters. The quarry is secured with fences and gates, deterring unauthorized access under the threat of legal repercussions.
Verplanck Quarry is more than just a hazardous dive spot; it’s a piece of cultural lore, having served as a filming location for the Power Ghost Series, particularly in Book Two, Season 3, on Starz TV. This connection adds a layer of intrigue and familiarity for fans of the show, linking the chilling, fictional encounter with a tangible, albeit equally thrilling, real-world location.
Address: Classified and private property.
 |
| Staten Island gets some love and limelight in Fallout. š |
Episode 4 (“The Ghouls”)
In a starkly converted former ShopRite supermarket on Staten Island, now reimagined as a Super Duper Mart for Amazon's "Fallout" TV series, the story takes a darkly comedic and unsettling turn. The scene is populated by two indifferent slackers and a chipper robot named Snip Snip, creating a bizarre contrast to the grim setting. Amidst this backdrop, poor Lucy finds herself in an increasingly dire predicament, her personal and worldly morals and beliefs under intense scrutiny and transformation.
The Ghoul, desperate to avoid turning feral, has decided to barter Lucy in exchange for a two-month supply of life-preserving vials. The transaction takes a peculiar twist when a surprisingly polite English voice on the other end of the line insists on assessing Lucy's physical condition before agreeing to the exchange. Compliantly, The Ghoul sends Lucy into the Super Duper Mart, whereupon he collapses, leaving her to navigate the horrors within.
Inside the Super Duper Mart, the true extent of the macabre scene unfolds. Captured ghouls are confined in small, repurposed supermarket refrigerated door cabinets, a grim reflection of their dehumanized state. The supermarket freezers, grotesquely stocked with dismembered body parts and drawers filled with severed fingers, add to the unnerving atmosphere. Strangely, these remains show no signs of decay or fly infestation, an oddity that hints at the peculiarities of the post-apocalyptic Fallout universe. One might ponder if the nuclear fallout has indeed eradicated all flies, adding another layer of eerie silence to the already disturbing environment.
This sequence, rich in dark humor and chilling imagery, underscores the shifting dynamics and moral dilemmas faced by Lucy. Her captivity and the grotesque setting of the Super Duper Mart force her to confront and question the essence of humanity and survival in a world turned upside down by nuclear catastrophe. The combination of bleak humor, disturbing visuals, and the unfolding human drama keeps the audience both intrigued and unsettled, ensuring that the "Fallout" series remains a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.
Address: 2424 Hylan Blvd Staten Island, NY 10306
Episode 5 (“The Past”)
In a gripping turn of events, the dynamic between Maximus and his new squire, Thaddeus, takes a dark and dramatic twist. Maximus, hoping Thaddeus would support his ruse to remain the impostor Knight Titus, is met with stark resistance. Thaddeus, ever the realist, recognizes the deadly consequences of not reporting Knight Titus’s death to the Brotherhood and refuses to play along. He knows that Maximus shouldn’t possess the T-60 power armor, which rightfully belonged to the deceased Knight Titus.
Tensions escalate when Thaddeus decides to break away and inform the Brotherhood, prompting a desperate struggle. In the heat of the moment, Maximus crushes Thaddeus’s foot, trying to prevent him from escaping. However, Thaddeus proves that even squires hold significant power over their knights. Utilizing a key from his squire pack, Thaddeus freezes Maximus’s armor, rendering it immobile. He then extracts the T-60’s cold fusion core and takes Dr. Wilzig’s ever-rotting head, leaving with his loyal and cheerful dog, CCX40.
Maximus, now trapped within his power armor with a dwindling air supply, finds himself abandoned in the long-vacant [redacted] station. The scene, shrouded in darkness, is marked by walls once covered in graffiti but now painted over for the show’s aesthetic. As the night drags on, the abandoned station stands silent witness to Maximus’s plight.
In a later, equally compelling daytime scene, the narrative thread weaves back to Lucy, who stumbles upon the trapped Maximus. Miraculously, she manages to liberate him from his suffocating T-60 suit. The background confirms their location as the old [redacted] station, with a small amount of graffiti visible alongside the sloping wall, bridging the night and day sequences seamlessly. Other shows that have also been filmed here are HBO's Succession and CBS Elementary.
This episode not only explores the themes of loyalty and betrayal but also highlights the intricate power dynamics within the Brotherhood. Thaddeus’s decisive actions and Maximus’s desperate struggle create a tense and emotionally charged atmosphere. The scenes at the abandoned station, transformed to fit the narrative, add a layer of authenticity and grit, drawing viewers deeper into the post-apocalyptic world. Lucy’s unexpected rescue of Maximus hints at future alliances and conflicts, ensuring that the story remains compelling and unpredictable.
As Maximus and Lucy traverse the disused train tracks, they encounter the entrance to a dilapidated steel bridge—the Dutch Kills Swing Bridge, also known as the DB Cabin rail bridge. This aged structure becomes the backdrop for a brutal confrontation, where the duo dispatches two assailants, their bodies plunging into the murky waters of Newtown Creek below. The creek, notorious for its heavily polluted waters, serves as a grim stage for this encounter.
Newtown Creek is a historical and environmental landmark, acting as the boundary between northern Brooklyn and western Queens. It is crossed by four bridges, connecting the diverse communities and businesses on either side. However, what once was a pristine, stream-fed creek has long been transformed into an industrial wasteland. The 19th and 20th centuries saw the creek become a receptacle for industrial waste, with one of the most infamous incidents being an oil spill in the 1950s, only discovered in the late 1970s. This catastrophic event released between 17 and 30 million gallons of oil and petroleum products into the surrounding soil and water.
Over the decades, the banks of Newtown Creek became lined with factories, warehouses, petroleum bulk storage facilities, and municipal utility infrastructure. These industrial activities have rendered the creek one of the most polluted waterways in the United States. Designated as a Superfund site, Newtown Creek encompasses a 3.8-mile stretch, including its tributaries: Dutch Kills, Maspeth Creek, Whale Creek, East Branch, and English Kills. This designation aims to address the severe contamination and restore the ecological health of the area.
The Dutch Kills Swing Bridge itself is a relic of a bygone era, a testament to the industrial history that both sustained and scarred the region. In the late 1980s, an attempt to reopen the bridge failed due to its unbalanced center pier. Emergency repairs were made, and the single track was repositioned to the center, but the bridge has remained in a closed position ever since. Today, the New York and Atlantic Railway, which took over the Long Island Rail Road's freight operations in 1997, continues to run freight trains over this route, maintaining a link to the area’s industrial past.
Address: Classified
Address: 15 Horseshoe Rd, Old Westbury, NY 11568
Episode 7 (“The Radio”)
In this gripping episode, Thaddeus confronts the grim reality of his leg injury, revealing a sight both grotesque and alarming. It is nothing short of a marvel that he can still walk, let alone avoid slipping into septic shock, as he trudges for miles in search of a broadcasting radio station. The sight of his mangled foot adds a visceral intensity to his journey, illustrating the sheer willpower driving him forward.
Amidst his quest, Thaddeus stumbles upon a dilapidated Red Rocket gas station. This familiar landmark, instantly recognizable to fans of the Fallout series, mirrors the iconic station near Sanctuary Hills from Fallout 4. However, this particular Red Rocket, located in Nyack, NY, has long since fallen into disuse, now serving a more urgent, survivalist purpose.
With a strategic mind honed by desperation, Thaddeus secures his squire bag in the trunk of a rusted car and stashes CCX40, the dog, inside a red cooler. These calculated moves are made to streamline his next mission: locating a nearby radio station capable of connecting him with the Brotherhood.
As Thaddeus navigates this treacherous landscape, the narrative seamlessly shifts focus to the dog, a steadfast companion who becomes a pivotal character. The Ghoul, relentless in his pursuit, encounters the dog once again while tracking Lucy and Maximus, adding layers of tension and complexity to the storyline.
The Red Rocket station serves as a tangible link between the game and the show, providing a sense of continuity and nostalgia for dedicated gamers. This defunct station, reimagined for the series, embodies the post-apocalyptic ambiance that fans have come to love, while also symbolizing the intersection of past comforts and present survival.
Address: 501 N Highland Ave, Nyack, NY 10960
Episode 8 (“The Beginning”)
The season finale reaches a dramatic climax at the abandoned Griffith Observatory, where the Brotherhood and Moldaver’s raiders engage in a fierce battle over a coveted Vault-Tec cold fusion core relic. This setting, steeped in post-apocalyptic intrigue, provides a stunning backdrop for the conflict that defines the closing chapter of the opening season. Without revealing too much and spoiling the surprises that await viewers, it’s safe to say this confrontation sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated second season.
In the context of the show, Griffith Observatory is depicted as a desolate and forsaken site, a stark contrast to its real-life status as a vibrant hub of scientific exploration and public engagement. In reality, the Griffith Observatory is far from abandoned. It stands proudly as an active observatory, open to the public for stargazing and educational programs, and remains one of California’s most beloved and frequented landmarks. This juxtaposition between its fictional desolation and actual vibrancy adds a layer of depth to the show's world-building, blending the familiar with the fantastical.
The choice of Griffith Observatory as a key location in the finale is a masterstroke, seamlessly integrating a recognizable and iconic site into the narrative tapestry of the Fallout universe. This creative decision not only grounds the story in a real-world landmark but also amplifies the dramatic stakes of the season's conclusion. The clash over the Vault-Tec relic within this storied venue encapsulates the series' ability to blend history, science fiction, and action into a compelling and immersive experience.
As we bid farewell to the inaugural season, the anticipation for the next chapter grows. The final scenes at Griffith Observatory leave viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to see how the fallout from this epic confrontation will shape the adventures to come. The meticulous attention to detail, combined with a deep respect for the source material, ensures that fans are left both satisfied with the season’s conclusion and hungry for more.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA
Comments
Post a Comment