Netflix’s latest hit, the sci-fi mystery series ‘The Boroughs,’ is captivating audiences worldwide not just with its intriguing plot, but with its breathtaking scenery. For travelers and fans alike, the backdrop is as much a character as the cast, and it was filmed almost entirely on location in New Mexico, The Land of Enchantment.
The Making of ‘The Boroughs’ in New Mexico
Capturing Authentic Beauty
Showrunner Jeffrey Addiss made a conscious decision to anchor the series in the unique environment of New Mexico. He emphasized the production’s desire to capture the state’s “big open skies” and profound “sense of beauty,” which are integral to the show’s atmosphere.
While the central retirement community was a purpose-built set at Netflix Studios Albuquerque, the production ventured far beyond the studio gates. Over 20 real-world locations across the state were utilized to bring the story to life. Viewers with a keen eye can spot prominent Albuquerque landmarks such as the Albuquerque Convention Center, the downtown First Plaza Galleria, and the Expo New Mexico Fine Arts Gallery, alongside various local businesses that lend an authentic feel to the series.
A Significant Economic Impact
The decision to film in New Mexico was not just an artistic one; it also provided a substantial boost to the local economy. The production’s 100-day shoot was a major undertaking, employing hundreds of local cast members, crew professionals, and vendors. This direct investment highlights the significant and positive relationship between the film industry and the state.
The Bigger Picture: New Mexico’s Rise as a Filming Hub
New Mexico’s starring role in ‘The Boroughs’ is part of a much larger trend. The state has firmly established itself as a premier destination for film and television production, often dubbed “Tamalewood.”
A History of Hollywood in the High Desert
This is not the first time New Mexico’s distinct landscapes have captured the imagination of Hollywood. The state served as the iconic backdrop for the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad and its prequel Better Call Saul, which turned many Albuquerque locations into international tourist attractions. More recently, the Academy Award-winning film Oppenheimer showcased the state’s dramatic vistas to a global audience.
This boom is fueled by attractive film tax incentives and a robust infrastructure, which includes Netflix’s own major production facility, Netflix Studios Albuquerque, which the company purchased in 2018. This long-term investment signals a deep commitment to filming in the state.
The Future: Film Tourism and the ‘Boroughs’ Effect
The “Set-Jetting” Phenomenon
The global success of ‘The Boroughs’ is predicted to have a tangible impact on tourism in New Mexico. The phenomenon of “set-jetting”—where fans travel to visit the filming locations of their favorite shows and movies—is a powerful driver of tourism. Just as fans flocked to see Walter White’s house from Breaking Bad, a new wave of travelers is expected to seek out the real-life settings of ‘The Boroughs.’
What This Means for Travelers
For visitors, this offers a unique way to experience New Mexico. You can now walk the same streets as the characters, visit the public spaces featured on screen, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere that defines the series. Beyond the specific locations, the show serves as a global advertisement for the state’s unparalleled natural beauty, from its vast deserts to its vibrant cityscapes. A trip inspired by ‘The Boroughs’ is an opportunity to discover not only the show’s locations but also the rich culture, art, and history that make New Mexico a truly enchanting destination.
