Fans of classic television will be delighted to learn that several of the most recognizable homes from beloved series are open to the public for short‑term rentals. While many shows filmed on sound stages, a few iconic exteriors still exist and can be experienced in person.
The Fresh Prince of Bel‑Air House – Brentwood, California
Although the series title suggests a luxurious Bel‑Air mansion, the exterior that appears in the opening credits is actually located in Brentwood, California. The house appears for only a brief moment in the opening, but its image has been etched into viewers’ memories. In 2020, Will Smith partnered with Airbnb to offer a limited number of $30‑per‑night stays, allowing fans to walk through the famous front yard. The promotion was short‑lived, but the home remains a pilgrimage site for fans traveling to Southern California.
The Mary Tyler Moore Show House – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Another beloved set piece is the apartment building featured in the opening of The Mary Tyler Moore Show. The building still stands in downtown Minneapolis, and the interior has been recreated as The Moore House Minneapolis, a short‑term rental that lets guests stay in a space reminiscent of the iconic living‑room window scene. While the rental does not provide a signature beret, it offers a nostalgic glimpse into 1970s television culture.
Other Notable TV Homes
Beyond these two examples, a handful of other series have homes that are either preserved as museums or available for rent. Fans of shows such as ALF and other sitcoms from the pre‑2000 era can often find tours or photo‑op opportunities at the original locations, though many were built on studio lots and no longer exist.
Visiting these homes provides a tangible connection to the shows that shaped a generation’s pop‑culture memory. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious traveler, staying in an iconic TV residence offers a unique way to relive classic moments while supporting local tourism.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
