Some of the most legendary album covers have transformed ordinary places into must-visit destinations for music lovers. Whether it’s a London crosswalk, a New York street corner, or a California desert, these locations have become pilgrimage sites for fans eager to walk in the footsteps of their favourite artists.
So, grab your headphones and cue up your playlist—because in this guide to iconic album cover locations you can visit right now, we’ll take you from The Beatles’ Abbey Road to U2’s The Joshua Tree, exploring the real-world settings that gained worldwide fame simply by gracing the cover of a classic album.
1. Abbey Road – The Beatles (1969)
Abbey Road, London, UK – No album cover in history is as instantly recognizable as Abbey Road. The iconic image of John, Paul, George, and Ringo walking across a zebra crossing outside Abbey Road Studios in St. John’s Wood, London, has turned this unassuming crosswalk into a global landmark.
Why This Location?
- Abbey Road Studios was where The Beatles recorded most of their later albums.
- The crossing was chosen on a whim—the band simply walked outside the studio to shoot the cover.
- Paul McCartney came up with the idea to have them walk across it in a single-file line.
Travel Tip:
- Watch the Abbey Road live cam online to see real-time visitors recreating the famous pose.
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid traffic and crowds.
- Visit Abbey Road Studios’ gift shop for Beatles memorabilia.
2. The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan – Bob Dylan (1963)
Jones Street & West 4th Street, New York City, USA -This cover captures a young Bob Dylan and his then-girlfriend, Suze Rotolo, strolling through Greenwich Village on a snowy day. The image perfectly embodies the bohemian, folk music revolution happening in New York in the 1960s.
Why This Location?
- Greenwich Village was the epicenter of the folk music revival and Dylan’s artistic awakening.
- Dylan lived nearby, frequenting venues like Café Wha?, where he first performed.
- Photographer Don Hunstein shot the cover outside Dylan’s apartment at 161 West 4th Street.
Travel Tip:
- Visit in winter to capture the snowy aesthetic of the album.
- Explore Washington Square Park, a hub for musicians and street performers.
3. Physical Graffiti – Led Zeppelin (1975)
96-98 St. Mark’s Place, New York City, USA – The two brownstone buildings featured on Physical Graffiti still stand in Manhattan’s East Village, making it a popular stop for Zeppelin fans.
Why This Location?
- The East Village was a major cultural hotspot in the 1970s.
- Designer Peter Corriston used this building because it fit the “gritty, urban” vibe Led Zeppelin wanted.
- The image was altered—some windows were removed to fit the album title perfectly.
Travel Tip:
- Visit Café Mogador, a legendary Moroccan spot just steps from the album cover site.
4. Paul’s Boutique – Beastie Boys (1989)
Corner of Ludlow & Rivington, New York City, USA – This Lower East Side street corner once housed Paul’s Boutique, a thrift store that lent its name to the Beastie Boys’ album.
Why This Location?
- The Lower East Side was the birthplace of NYC’s hip-hop and punk scene.
- The store was known for its quirky vintage finds before closing in the late ’80s.
Travel Tip:
- A Beastie Boys mural now stands in the area, commemorating the group’s legacy.
5. Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd (1975)
Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank, California, USA – The surreal cover of Wish You Were Here shows two businessmen shaking hands—one of them on fire. It was shot at Warner Bros. Studios, symbolizing Floyd’s disillusionment with the music industry.
Why This Location?
- The burning man represents artists getting “burned” by record labels.
- The shoot required 16 takes, with the stuntman actually set on fire!
Travel Tip:
- While Warner Bros. Studios isn’t open to the public, you can take a studio tour to see famous Hollywood sets.
6. Hotel California – Eagles (1976)
Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles, USA – The Beverly Hills Hotel is widely recognized as the inspiration for Hotel California.
Why This Location?
- The album critiques the decadence of the LA lifestyle in the ’70s.
- The Eagles never explicitly confirmed the hotel, but its distinct architecture matches the album artwork.
Travel Tip:
- Have a drink at The Polo Lounge, a favorite of Hollywood legends.
7. (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? – Oasis (1995)
Berwick Street, London, UK – This cover, featuring two men walking past each other, was shot on Berwick Street, a famous hub for record shops.
Why This Location?
- Oasis loved record stores, and Berwick Street was filled with them in the ’90s.
- The blurred figures represent the fast-moving Britpop era.
Travel Tip:
- Visit Sister Ray Records, one of London’s best vinyl stores.
8. Ziggy Stardust – David Bowie (1972)
Heddon Street, London, UK – Bowie’s alien alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, posed on this street, now marked with a commemorative plaque.
Why This Location?
- Heddon Street had a futuristic feel, perfect for Ziggy’s character.
- Bowie often hung out at nearby clubs.
Travel Tip:
- Visit at night for a true Ziggy Stardust vibe.
9. The Joshua Tree – U2 (1987)
Death Valley, California, USA – This desert landscape defined the album’s theme of isolation and soul-searching.
Why This Location?
- The Joshua tree symbolized spiritual resilience.
- Sadly, the original tree has since collapsed.
Travel Tip:
- Visit Zabriskie Point for stunning desert views.
These locations have become sacred spaces for music lovers, blending travel and pop culture history. Whether you’re a rock enthusiast, a folk fan, or a Britpop devotee, these sites offer a chance to step inside music history. Would you visit – or have you visited – any of these legendary album cover locations? Let us know in the comments!
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and traveling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet. Safe and mindful travels!