Have you ever wondered where the eerie and surreal world of Severance is actually filmed? The show’s unique blend of corporate mystery and small-town intrigue has captivated viewers, and the real-world Severance filming locations add an extra layer of fascination. From the iconic Bell Works building in Holmdel, New Jersey, which stands in for the enigmatic Lumon Industries headquarters, to the quiet streets and scenic spots around Nyack and the Hudson Valley in New York, these locations bring the unsettling atmosphere of Severance to life.
The show’s creators carefully chose these sites to reflect the dual realities of the “innie” and “outie” worlds, using real architecture and landscapes to ground the story’s psychological twists. This guide offers a complete look at Severance filming locations, including practical tips for visiting, behind-the-scenes insights, and a detailed map of key spots. Whether you’re a fan planning a tour or simply curious about where the show was made, this post will help you explore the places that shaped Severance’s haunting narrative.
Let’s dive into the heart of Lumon Industries at Bell Works, explore the Kier town filming sites in New York, and uncover the outdoor retreats and hidden gems that make Severance so visually compelling. Ready to step into the world of Severance? Here’s everything you need to know about the filming locations.
Bell Works: Heart of Severance Filming Locations
Bell Works as Lumon Industries
The most recognizable Severance filming location is Bell Works, located at 101 Crawfords Corner Road in Holmdel, New Jersey. This striking building, formerly known as the Bell Labs Holmdel Complex, serves as the exterior and many interior shots of Lumon Industries, the mysterious corporation central to the series. Designed by famed architect Eero Saarinen, Bell Works was once a hub of innovation and research, where Nobel Prize-winning work took place. After being repurposed in the 2010s, it became a mixed-use “metroburb” with offices, shops, and public spaces, perfectly fitting the sterile yet expansive feel of Lumon.
The show uses Bell Works’ vast atrium, endless white corridors, and geometric design to create Lumon’s unsettling environment. Scenes featuring the MDR team’s offices, security checkpoints, and break rooms were filmed here, enhanced by set design and lighting to amplify the eerie corporate atmosphere. Drone footage captures the building’s scale, emphasizing the feeling of isolation and control.
Visiting Bell Works
Bell Works is open to the public, and visitors can take guided tours for around $20 to $30. Fans can explore the atrium, take photos at iconic filming spots, and enjoy the building’s cafes and shops. Weekdays are the best time to visit for a quieter experience. The building’s management embraces its Severance fame, occasionally hosting themed events and photo opportunities.
Filming Trivia
- Many of the show’s most surreal scenes were filmed in Bell Works’ real corridors with minimal CGI.
- Additional sets were built inside Bell Works to extend the illusion of infinite office space.
- Director Ben Stiller chose Bell Works for its “otherworldly” feel, blending mid-century optimism with corporate coldness.
York Studios Bronx Sets
While Bell Works provides the backbone for Lumon’s look, some interiors were filmed at York Studios in the Bronx, New York. These soundstages allowed the crew to build perpetual office floors, break rooms, and wellness centers with full control over lighting and layout. The proximity to New Jersey made it easy to maintain visual continuity between real locations and studio sets.
Kier Town & Residential Spots
Nyack, NY: Baird Creek Manor and Village Gate
The fictional town of Kier, representing the “outie” world in Severance, was filmed primarily in Nyack, New York. The Village Gate Way and Village Gate Townhouses serve as Mark’s home, Mrs. Selvig’s residence, and subsidized Lumon housing. Located about 30 miles north of New York City, Nyack’s quiet streets and mid-century architecture perfectly capture Kier’s suburban vibe.
Mark’s house and Mrs. Selvig’s home are both in the Village Gate complex. While interiors were filmed on set, the exteriors are viewable from public streets. Visitors should respect residents’ privacy and avoid trespassing.
Hudson Valley Exteriors
Several outdoor scenes were filmed throughout the Hudson Valley, including bridges, diners, and scenic roads that evoke Kier’s small-town isolation.
- Wurts Street Bridge and Port Ewen Suspension Bridge: Featured in driving scenes symbolizing the boundary between Lumon and the outside world.
- Phoenicia Diner: A retro diner used in a key clue scene.
- Hudson House (Nyack): A riverside restaurant featured as a date spot for Mark and Alexa, open to the public.
| Severance Filming Locations | Real Site | Key Scenes | Visitor Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baird Creek Manor | Village Gate, Nyack NY | Mark/Selvig homes | Exterior view |
| Kier Bridges | Wurts St/Port Ewen | Drives, tension | Public roads |
| Date Spot | Hudson House, Nyack | Mark/Alexa | Restaurant open |
Outdoor & Retreat Locations
Woe’s Hallow: Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Season 2’s team-building retreat scenes were filmed at Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Ulster County, New York. The park’s cliffs, forests, and trails provide the perfect eerie backdrop for Woe’s Hallow.
Visitors can hike 2-3 hour loops for about $10 per car. The production used drones to capture the park’s vastness and isolation, enhancing the show’s mood. Many trails seen on screen are open to the public, though some areas may be restricted during filming.
Newfoundland, Labrador & Other Canada Shots
Remote exterior shots for Lumon’s outskirts were filmed in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. These locations provide vast, windswept landscapes that emphasize Lumon’s isolation. While these areas are generally not open to the public, similar scenic spots can be found nearby.
Behind-the-Scenes & Production Facts
Filming Timeline and Challenges
Season 1 was filmed mainly in 2021-22, focusing on New Jersey and New York. Season 2 expanded to include more Hudson Valley and Canadian locations. The production faced challenges such as COVID-19 restrictions and weather, while maintaining secrecy around plot details.
Director and Cast Insights
Director Ben Stiller personally selected Bell Works for its unique atmosphere. Cast members described filming there as “surreal,” with the building’s endless corridors influencing their performances. The location team worked closely with local authorities to minimize disruption.
Set Design and Visual Effects
The show blends real locations with detailed sets and subtle CGI to create Lumon’s vast, labyrinthine feel. Practical effects and creative camera work make Bell Works appear even more expansive on screen.
Visiting Severance Filming Locations: Practical Guide
Self-Tour Itinerary
A two-day self-guided tour covers the main Severance filming locations:
- Day 1: Bell Works in Holmdel, NJ. Take a guided tour, explore the atrium, and enjoy local cafes.
- Day 2: Nyack, NY, to see Mark’s house and Village Gate exteriors, then visit Hudson Valley spots like the Kier bridges and Hudson House.
Travel and Costs
Bell Works is about an hour from Manhattan by car; Nyack is roughly 45 minutes north. Public transit is available but less convenient. Bell Works tours cost $20-30; Minnewaska State Park charges $10 per car.
Tips for Visitors
Respect private property, avoid peak hours for photos, and check local tourism sites for updates. Several companies offer Severance-themed tours with expert guides and exclusive experiences.
Conclusion & Fan Tips
Severance filming locations offer fans a unique way to experience the show’s haunting world. From Bell Works’ iconic architecture to Nyack’s quiet streets and the wild Hudson Valley, each site adds depth to the series’ atmosphere. Planning a visit? Share your photos and stories, and subscribe for more film location guides.
FAQ: Can I tour Bell Works? Yes, it’s open to the public with guided tours available.
Related Reads:
- Ultimate Guide to Film Tourism in New Jersey
- Apple TV+ Filming Locations: Top Picks for 2026
- How to Plan a TV Show Road Trip
