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Mad Men transported viewers to Madison Avenue in the 1960s. Airing from 2007 to 2015, the series followed top Sterling Cooper ad executive Don Draper as he navigated changing societal conventions and personal upheaval.
Blending emotional depth with historical authenticity, the drama was elevated by outstanding performances from Jon Hamm, January Jones, Christina Hendricks, and John Slattery. Though set in New York, Mad Men was primarily filmed in and around Los Angeles, with select scenes shot in New York and other U.S. locations.
Here is a closer view of the main sites bringing the show to life.
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Exploring the filming sites of Mad Men
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LAX Terminal 4—Los Angeles International Airport, California
Don Draper wanders the vibrant hallways of Terminal 4 at Los Angeles International Airport in the opening episode of season 7. Viewers see a symbolic change for Draper—one that mirrors his inner restlessness—as "I'm a Man" by the Spencer Davis Group plays in the backdrop.
The terminal's striking tile mosaics, designed by Janet Bennet and Charles D. Kratka, illustrate a cross-country trip using various shades of blue and green to faithfully depict the landscapes of America. Constructed during the 1961 Jet Age upgrade of the airport, this hallway has also appeared in television shows such as Point Blank, Jackie Brown, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
La Crescenta Motel—La Crescenta, California
After his car breaks down in Fairview, Oklahoma, season 7 also sees Don Draper at the La Crescenta Motel. Despite the story's Midwest setting, this little California motel—built in 1946—served as the actual filming location. The La Crescenta Motel reflects a traditional Americana with its L-shaped form and neon signs shining along Foothill Boulevard.
Its classic appeal has drawn other shows as well, including Beverly Hills, 90210, The X-Files, and Supernatural.
Rod’s Grill—Arcadia, California
In season 5, Rod's Grill set the stage for a tense moment between Don and Megan, who argue over orange sherbet in a booth that doubles as a Howard Johnson's. Located on Route 66, Rod's Grill has been serving patrons since 1946. With its starburst lighting and turquoise booths, the diner still has its mid-century look.
This nostalgic context emphasizes Mad Men's recurring themes of desire and estrangement.
Sweeney Todd’s Barber Shop—Hollywood, California
The show shifts to Sweeney Todd's Barber Shop for a haircut in classic 1960s fashion. Open since 1947, this Hollywood Boulevard barbershop required no set dressing to match the Mad Men universe. Cigarette vending machines and pulp fiction book racks accentuate the authenticity.
More than merely a grooming session, Draper's visit serves as a visual reminder of his attempt to keep control amid the growing chaos of his life.
The Music Center: Mark Taper Forum and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion—Downtown Los Angeles, California
In season 3, Don and Betty share a sweet "Rome" moment in front of the Mark Taper Forum. The meeting place is supposed to be in Italy, but it's actually in downtown Los Angeles. The cylinder-shaped Mark Taper Forum, built in 1967, and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, built in 1962, made for the perfect European image.
In Mad Men, the balcony was even used to represent the outside of the Hilton Hotel, showing how much attention to detail the show paid to the set.
The Dresden Restaurant and Lounge—Hollywood, California
Season 7 takes viewers inside the small, poorly lit Dresden Restaurant and Lounge. Megan and Draper visit a talent agency in a segment highlighting the historic appeal of the venue. The Dresden debuted drinks in leather seats under low lighting and fake rock walls in 1954.
For more than six decades, our main tropical drink—the Blood & Sand—has been a mainstay here. Movies like Swingers and What Women Want also help identify the place.
Bob’s Big Boy Broiler—Downey, California
Bob's Big Boy Broiler takes the stage for a family outing in season 4. Lunch is enjoyed by Draper, Megan, and his kids in one of the Googie-style booths. Originally Harvey's Broiler, the structure debuted in 1958, and with its strong architectural and boomerang-shaped sign, it reflects 1950s drive-in culture.
Burger Chef (now Chris’s Burgers)—Rialto, California
In the season 7 episode The Strategy, Peggy Olson and Annabelle Mathis conduct customer research outside a Burger Chef. The scene is a pivotal turning point in the story that emphasizes Peggy's creative influence.
Although Burger Chef originated in Indiana, the filming of Chris's Burgers took place in Rialto, California. The area along Route 66 features a visual jewel characterized by preserved orange diamond tiles and unusual angular metal construction.
Los Angeles Theatre—Downtown Los Angeles, California
Don and Betty attend a show at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City during season 1—but the scene was actually filmed at the Los Angeles Theatre. Opened in 1931 with help from Charlie Chaplin, the lavish theater features chandeliers, murals, and even an interior fountain.
Its timeless elegance made it a fitting substitute for a Broadway venue. The location has also appeared in Fight Club, Escape from L.A., and Hail, Caesar!.
Clifton’s Republic—Los Angeles, California
In season 3, Draper and Sal Romano enjoy a meal with two flight attendants in what appears to be a Baltimore restaurant. In reality, the whimsical interior belongs to Clifton’s Republic in Los Angeles. Originally opened in the 1930s, Clifton’s was once the largest cafeteria chain in the area.
Today, its 50,000-square-foot wonderland features redwood trees, faux animals, and rock grottos. After a careful renovation in 2010, the location now serves as both a historical site and a nightlife venue.
Canter’s Deli—Fairfax District, Los Angeles, California
Pete Campbell calls Canter’s Deli the best place for pastrami in town during season 7. This 24-hour establishment has been a staple in Los Angeles since 1931. Known for its house-made pickles, freshly baked bread, and retro decor, Canter’s Deli retains much of its original charm.
It has also appeared in Transparent, Entourage, and Be Cool. In Mad Men, the location supports the storyline of Sterling Cooper’s westward expansion, blending old-school tastes with new-coast ambitions.
Studio and On-Site Sets
Beyond these iconic real-world places, Mad Men was extensively filmed at Los Angeles Center Studios, where the main office interiors were constructed. Additionally, a real house at 675 Arden Road in Pasadena portrayed Draper's home in Ossining, New York.
The series also used other California spots like Musso & Frank Grill, Cicada Club, and Quality Cafe to recreate the look and feel of 1960s Manhattan. Key scenes were also shot in New York City, including shots of the Time & Life Building and Madison Avenue.
What is Mad Men all about?
Mad Men is a widely acclaimed drama that delves into the world of 1960s Madison Avenue advertising. At its center is Don Draper (Jon Hamm), a brilliant yet mysterious executive grappling with identity, ambition, and a troubled past.
The show explores shifting cultural norms through a rich ensemble cast: Betty Draper's suburban discontent, Peggy Olson's rise in a male-dominated workplace, Joan Holloway's fight for power and respect, and Roger Sterling's charm and indulgence.
Set against political and social upheaval, Mad Men blends sharp writing, stunning visuals, and layered performances. It captures both the allure and the emptiness of the American Dream.
Mad Men is available for online streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
