In the Waikato farmland in the peaceful countryside of northern New Zealand, travelers can explore a real Hobbit Village. Hobbiton, the enormous set piece of the quaint hobbit town known as The Shire in the Lord of The Rings films is now open to the public.
Tours start in nearby Matamata or Rotorua. From there, visitors are taken by vehicle through the amazing rolling hills of the rustic farms before reaching the site, located just two hours south of Auckland. Upon arrival, tour guides will lead groups through the set and tell some behind-the-scenes anecdotes about the filming of the movies. Then, guests can travel across the 10 acres and enjoy familiar sights like the old mill, the Party Tree and the arched bridge and even sip on homemade cider at the famous Green Dragon Inn. A favorite spot among visitors is the home of Bilbo Baggins himself — Bag End.
For those looking to visit other Lord of The Rings set locations — just two hours away from Hobbiton is Tongariro National Park. Here, travelers can find Mount Ruapehu, or as fans of the film know it, Mount Doom.
Read This Next
Fun Airline Safety Videos
Top Trends
Jan 3, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Nov 9, 2026Attend Second Annual Boston Frostival This Winter
If you missed last year’s inaugural Boston Frostival, good news — the event is back for its second year, with festivities kicking off next month. Once again, the multi-month celebration of all things winter brings tons of fun, with highlights including Saturday drone shows through December (at 6 and 8 p.m.); the Frostival Lodge open on Copley Square throughout January and February (hosted by Wayfair and offering sports broadcasts, culinary demonstrations and full bar services); and the Frostival Ferris Wheel running February–April.
Sponsored Content
An Adults-Only Resort for All the Milestone Moments
On Saturday, Feb.14, Devossion by Live Aqua celebrated its grand opening, marking a significant milestone for Grupo Posadas and the Live Aqua brand. This adults-only resort focuses on celebration, authentic Mexican experiences and elevated hospitality — perfectly situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Destinations / Europe
Nov 6, 2026You Can Now Use Lyft in Europe
If you’re an adamant Lyft user and live in North America, then you may’ve been frustrated trying to use your typical Lyft app while traveling in Europe. However, that will no longer be the case during future trips.
Hotel
Nov 6, 2026Mandarin Oriental Welcomes New Guest Experiences
Rather than focusing on just food and beverage offerings at its on-site restaurant and bars, Mandarin Oriental introduces a new approach to guest dining experiences around the globe.
Sponsored Content
The Province That Surrounds Seoul — And Outshines It
Skip the Seoul Crowds. The Real Korea is in Gyeonggi.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 6, 2026The Ruxton Restaurant Coming to The Rittenhouse Hotel in Spring 2027
A new and dynamic culinary experience arrives at The Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia next spring. The Ruxton steakhouse will debut after a multimillion-dollar renovation at the hotel, marking the second concept from Atlas Restaurant Group in the city and the third location of The Ruxton.
ShareThis