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Cobra Kai movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Cobra Kai filmed?

2018

City Locations

Union City (USA), Marietta (USA), Atlanta (USA), Reseda (USA), Los Angeles (USA), Tarzana (USA), Okinawa (Tokyo)

Location Types

Apartment, School, Storefront, Unusual

Location Styles

Federal Building, School, Modern Building, Modern Car, Office Building Style

About Cobra Kai

The 2018 TV series 'Cobra Kai' is a continuation of the story from the 'Karate Kid' movies by Robert Mark Kamen, combining elements of comedy, drama, and martial arts. Sony Pictures Television distributed the show co-created by Jon Hurwitz, Josh Heald, and Hayden Schlossberg. The series was initially aired on YouTube Premium for its first two seasons but later moved to Netflix, starting with the third season.

The series released its third season in January 2021, followed by the fourth season in December 2021 and the fifth season in September 2022. It was announced in January 2023 that the show was renewed for a sixth and final season.

Ralph Macchio and William Zabka star in the show as their characters from the original 1984 film The Karate Kid, along with its two sequels, The Karate Kid Part 2 (1986) and The Karate Kid Part 3 (1989).

'Cobra Kai' offers a new look at the "Miyagi-verse" story through Johnny's eyes as he reopens the Cobra Kai dojo and reignites his age-old rivalry with Daniel. The cast includes Courtney Henggeler, Peyton List, Tanner Buchanan, Xolo Maridueña, Mary Mouser, Gianni DeCenzo, Jacob Bertrand, Vanessa Rubio, and Dallas Dupree Young, plus Martin Kove and Thomas Ian Griffith, who also make their return from the films.

'Cobra Kai' achieved immense viewership on both YouTube and Netflix, highly acclaimed for its performances, writing, action sequences, character development, humor, and connection to previous films. It has earned multiple awards and nominations, with the third season getting a nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series at the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards.

Cobra Kai Locations

Principal filming for season one of Cobra Kai began in October 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. Filming took place across various locations, including Marietta, the Briarcliff Campus of Emory University, Reseda, and Union City. In November, the shooting activity moved to the Tophat fields of the North Atlanta Soccer Association located in East Cobb. Later that month, the production team moved to Marietta and Conyers.

Several exterior shots were also filmed in Tarzana and Encino, located in Los Angeles. The crew also shot several scenes at Golf N' Stuff in Norwalk and South Seas Apartments in Reseda, which had previously been showcased in the original Karate Kid movie from 1984. Parts of Seasons 3 and 4 were also shot in Okinawa, Japan.

Principal filming for the second installment of Cobra Kai began in September 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia, and continued through October and November around the Marietta area. In December, the shooting moved to Rio Bravo Cantina restaurant in Atlanta, which closed down during the production.

Principal shooting for season four started in February 2021 and wrapped up in April of the same year at various locations around Atlanta.

Filming for the fifth season of Cobra Kai began in September 2021 and wrapped up in December. Like previous seasons, part of the shoot occurred around Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia, while some scenes were filmed in Los Angeles, California.

A two-day filming block was organized in Puerto Rico for the Mexico scenes. The same went for Okinawa, Japan, and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Tokyo, Japan which was included in the third season.

Daniel realizing about the vandalism scene in Cobra Kai

Atlanta Motors Superstore, 6740 Oakley Industrial Blvd, Union City, GA

After Miguel (Xolo Maridueña) gets defeated in a karate tournament, Johnny (William Zabka) concludes that he was not adequately defended and decided to teach him the mantra "the best defense is more offense." Back at LaRusso Auto Group, Anoush (Dan Ahdoot) and Louie (Bret Ernst) inform Daniel (Ralph Macchio) that they have spotted a Cobra Kai flyer on the billboard. This makes it evident to Daniel that it was Johnny's doing.

The Atlanta Motors Superstore, located in Union City, Georgia, is one of the largest automobile dealerships in the state. With a vast selection of new and used vehicles, the Superstore has something for everyone, from sleek sports cars to reliable family sedans. The dealership also prides itself on its customer service, with a team of knowledgeable and friendly staff members ready to assist with every aspect of the car-buying process. Nowadays, unfortunately, Atlanta Motors Superstore is permanently closed. However, visitors can see the site and click pictures.

Getting to the Atlanta Motors Superstore in Union City, Georgia, is easy. If you're driving from downtown Atlanta, head south on I-85 and take exit 50 for Flat Shoals Rd. Turn left onto Flat Shoals Rd/Hwy 138 and continue straight for about 1.8 miles until you reach Union City Hwy. Turn right and follow Union City Hwy to the Superstore, which will be on your right. If you're taking public transportation, take MARTA's red line to the Indian Creek Station, then transfer to a route 21 bus and get off at Jonesboro Rd/Union City Hwy in Union City. From there, it's a 3-minute walk to the Superstore on your left.

Daniel remembers his life in the South Seas apartment complex scene in Cobra Kai

19223 Saticoy St, Reseda, CA

Johnny (William Zabka) chose a 2009 Challenger car at the lot but wanted to test drive it. Since Robby (Tanner Buchanan) was off-duty and Louie (Bret Ernst) got fired, Daniel (Ralph Macchio) had to accompany Johnny on the test drive. While driving, Daniel turns on the radio, and both men sing along to "Take It on the Run" by REO Speedwagon. They pause at the old South Seas apartment complex, where Daniel once lived, and investigate the premises. Realizing they have more similarities than he predicted, Johnny invites Daniel for a drink.

The apartment complex scene was filmed in Reseda, California. It is a vibrant city located in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles County. With its great weather, proximity to many popular attractions, and ample selection of restaurants and entertainment venues, Reseda is a beautiful place to call home. The city is renowned for its excellent parks, including the Reseda Park & Recreation Center, which features amenities such as lighted baseball fields, basketball courts, swimming pool, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Other outdoor activities include golfing at the Balboa Golf Course or biking around Lake Balboa - a beautiful lake with an adjoining 54-acre park.

If you’re coming from the 101 Freeway, take the Saticoy Street exit and turn left onto Saticoy St. The address will be on your right side after about 1 mile. Alternatively, if you’re driving from downtown Los Angeles take I-405 N and exit at Sherman Way. Merge onto Sherman Way and then turn right onto Corbin Avenue. Turn left onto Reseda Blvd and continue straight until you reach Saticoy Street, where you should turn right. The address will be on your left side after 0.5 miles.

Fight at the West Valley High School scene in Cobra Kai

C.T. Martin Natatorium and Recreation Center, 3201 M.L.K. Jr Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA

In the scene, Tory (Peyton List) trespasses into the announcer's room and takes control of the microphone to send a message to Sam (Mary Mouser) about her intentions to confront her. Later, the two girls encounter each other in the hallway, and a physical altercation starts. During the scuffle, Robby (Tanner Buchanan) intervenes to stop the fight, and Miguel (Xolo Maridueña) sees him grabbing Tory. After harboring intense jealousy and anger for months, Miguel attacks Robby. This triggers a brawl involving several members from both dojos as their emotions are already running high. Aisha (Nichole Brown) attempts to intervene and end the fight, but a student from Miyagi-Do pushes her, and she retaliates by punching him.

The C.T. Martin Natatorium and Recreation Center is a must-visit for anyone in Marietta, Georgia. The facility offers various activities to visitors of all ages, from lap swimming and water aerobics to basketball and game rooms. The centerpiece of the C.T. Martin Natatorium is its Olympic-sized pool, heated year-round to provide an ideal environment for swimmers of every experience level. Visitors can take advantage of private and group lessons with expert instructors or enjoy recreational swimming in the pool’s refreshing waters. Kids love the water slides too.

If driving from downtown Atlanta, head north on I-75 and take exit 263B for GA-120. Turn right onto Powder Springs Rd NW/Powder Springs St SW, and after 0.3 miles, turn left onto South Marietta Pkwy SE/Marietta Blvd SE. Continue for about 2 miles until you reach North Marietta Pkwy NE/Kennesaw Due West Rd NW. Turn left onto North Marietta Pkwy NE, and after 0.7 miles, turn right onto Fletcher St NW. In 0.2 miles, turn left onto Lawrence St NW, and the C.T Martin Natatorium will be on your right side after about 0.4 miles.

Robby brings Sam to Johnny's apartment scene in Cobra Kai

18555 Burbank Blvd, Tarzana, CA

After returning home from his date, Johnny (William Zabka) hears a knock on his door. Initially, he assumes it's Carmen (Vanessa Rubio). However, he is surprised to discover that it's Robby (Tanner Buchanan) and an intoxicated Sam (Mary Mouser). After allowing them to spend the night, he informs Robby the following day that he must tell Daniel (Ralph Macchio) about the incident. However, Robby begs him not to do so and offers to take the blame.

Tarzana, California, is an affluent Los Angeles County San Fernando Valley neighborhood. It's known for its tree-lined streets and suburban feel and for being one of the most desirable places to live in the area. The area has a great selection of shopping outlets, fitness centers, entertainment venues, restaurants, and natural attractions like Lake Balboa Park, Woodley Park, and Sherman Oaks Park. Residents also enjoy Tarzana's proximity to nearby attractions, such as Universal Studios Hollywood, Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Griffith Park.

If you’re coming from the 101 Freeway, take the Tampa Avenue exit and turn right onto Tampa Ave. Turn left onto Reseda Blvd and continue straight until you reach Burbank Blvd, where you should turn left. The address will be on your right side after about 1 mile. Alternatively, if you’re driving from downtown Los Angeles take I-405 N and exit at Sherman Way. Merge onto Sherman Way and then turn left onto Corbin Avenue. After turning right onto Reseda Blvd, continue until you reach Burbank Blvd. Once you reach Burbank Blvd, turn left and keep going. The address will be on your right side after approximately 0.5 miles.

Fight at the LaRusso house scene in Cobra Kai

130 Woodlawn Dr. NE, Marietta, GA

Samantha LaRusso (Mary Mouser) and Miguel Diaz (Xolo Maridueña) collaborate to bring together the pupils of Eagle Fang Karate and Miyagi-Do Karate in an attempt to set aside their divergences and focus on their mutual adversary - Cobra Kai. They use a "parent trap" technique during Christmas week to make both dojos come together at the LaRusso family home. Demetri (Gianni DeCenzo) gives a speech to Mitch (Aedin Mincks) and Bert (Owen Morgan) when they try to leave, persuading them to stay and work together to stand up against Cobra Kai. During their attempts to achieve peace, the Cobra Kai dojo, headed by Tory (Peyton List) and Kyler (Joe Seo), unexpectedly attacks and throws Bert through the window of the LaRusso house. This happens after they are fooled into thinking the LaRusso family cat is outside.

Marietta, Georgia, is a lively and vibrant city just north of Atlanta. Marietta is home to over 60,000 residents and offers a unique mix of suburban charm and urban energy, making it an ideal place to live, work, and play. The town was founded in 1824 and is a tribute to the General who helped lead the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain during the Civil War. The historical charm is alive in Marietta today with its tree-lined streets, antebellum homes, and bustling downtown area.

Getting to 130 Woodlawn Dr. NE, Marietta, Georgia, is easy. If driving from downtown Atlanta, head north on I-75 and take exit 263B for GA-120. Turn left onto GA-120 W/US-41 and continue straight for about 7.2 miles until you reach South Marietta Pkwy SE/Marietta Blvd SE. Turn right onto South Marietta Pkwy SE/Marietta Blvd SE, and after 1.3 miles, take a slight left onto North Marietta Pkwy NE. Continue straight for about 800 feet until you reach Woodlawn Dr. NE. Take a left onto Woodlawn Dr. NE; the destination will be on your right after 0.2 miles.

Dojo's new student scene in Cobra Kai

Crossroads Shopping Center, Metropolitan Pkwy SW & Lakewood Ave SW, Atlanta, GA

Kenny Payne (Dallas Dupree Young) has joined the dojo but is being bullied by Anthony LaRusso (Griffin Santopietro) and his friends. His brother Shawn (Okea Eme-Akwari) suggests he seek help from Robby (Tanner Buchanan) to deal with the situation. At first, Kenny struggled to stay in a fight without getting scared or fleeing. However, he listened to Robby's suggestion and used his attack speed. He punched Kyler Park (Joe Seo) while the latter's attention was diverted.

This scene is filmed at Crossroads Shopping Center in Atlanta, GA. It is a great place to find all your shopping needs in one convenient location. Located just south of downtown Atlanta off I-85, the center features over 100 stores and restaurants ranging from national chains such as Macy’s and Kohls to smaller local boutiques and eateries. Other attractions at Crossroads include a state-of-the-art movie theater with 16 screens playing both blockbuster hits and independent films. It also includes an outdoor seasonal ice skating rink and a free play area with slides, swings, and sand pits. Additionally, there are several special events throughout the year, including a weekly farmers market during the summer months.

Getting to the Crossroads Shopping Center in Atlanta, GA, is easy. From downtown Atlanta, the I-95 and the US-29 will take you in the right direction. Alternatively, if you’re taking MARTA's blue line to Lindbergh Station, transfer to a route 46 bus towards Tucker. A short walk puts you at the shopping center.

Conclusion

The Netflix series Cobra Kai brought to life the long-awaited epic rivalry between Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence. This action-packed show was taken across the United States while filming, shooting scenes in Union City, Marietta, the Briarcliff Campus of Emory University, Tarzana, and Encino. Whether it be the iconic All Valley Karate Tournament or a dramatic plot twist in the later seasons, viewers could experience these thrilling moments in familiar locations.

The Bronx Dojo set is located inside a real Karate studio in Georgia, and much of season 2 was filmed around this area. Encino provided many of Daniel's home and business scenes at LaRusso Auto Group, while Tarzana doubled as Reseda for some flashback moments.

Fans of Cobra Kai have been especially appreciative of its attention to detail regarding location choice and authenticity. This has resulted in an immersive series with plenty of realism despite existing within an 80s universe. Overall, Cobra Kai captured diverse settings from different parts of the US that worked together to craft this unique TV drama.