Excitement is soaring for “The Testaments,” Hulu’s highly anticipated follow-up to “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Based on Margaret Atwood’s 2019 Booker Prize-winning novel, this new series picks up more than 15 years after the original story ended, pulling viewers back into the complex world of Gilead. This chapter delivers a fresh perspective on power, identity and resistance through an entirely new cast of characters. For Black audiences in particular, the show’s deep dive into systemic control, survival and cultural resilience carries a unique weight, offering a profound and relatable reflection on endurance.
While the plot and characters are undeniable draws, the show’s physical environment plays just as vital a role in the storytelling. Anyone who watched “The Handmaid’s Tale” knows that the setting functions almost like its own character. In “The Testaments,” the stark, imposing architecture and chilly spatial design are intentionally crafted to amplify the story’s emotional tension, keeping viewers thoroughly hooked from one episode to the next. If you find yourself captivated by these striking backdrops, you are in luck. This guide breaks down the actual filming locations used to bring the dystopian world of “The Testaments” to life.
Is Elisabeth Moss Going To Be In ‘The Testaments’?
One of the biggest questions on every fan’s mind is whether Elisabeth Moss will reprise her iconic role as June Osborne. The short answer is a bit complicated. Because “The Testaments” takes place years after the events of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” June is no longer the central focus of the narrative. However, her powerful legacy and past choices directly shape the world these new characters inhabit, meaning her presence still looms large over the entire series.
According to PrimeTimer, Moss officially returned as June in the premiere episode. Beyond her on-screen appearance, she remains heavily involved behind the scenes as an executive producer. This allows the powerhouse actress to help guide the show’s overall tone and ensure seamless continuity between the original series and this new chapter.
The GTA (Greater Toronto Area) Is The Show’s Primary Filming Location
Key Scenes: Some of the most iconic and pivotal scenes in the series take place in real-world luxury estates just outside the urban core. For example, the grand MacKenzie family home (known to fans as the Escarpment House) was filmed inside a spectacular mansion nestled in Caledon, Ontario. Additionally, a massive portion of the series takes place within an ultra-luxurious estate in Oakville, Ontario, which serves as the elite preparatory school where future Gilead wives are trained.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall is ideal if you want to explore these locations comfortably. Toronto and the surrounding areas can get extremely cold in winter, which is great for filming that bleak atmosphere, but not always ideal for travel. Summer brings festivals, outdoor events and a more vibrant energy that contrasts with the show’s tone.
Transportation Options: Getting around the GTA is relatively easy. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates buses, streetcars and subways across much of Toronto. For areas like Caledon or Oshawa, where some of the show was filmed, renting a car or ordering a rideshare is your best bet.
If you are trying to map out the filming locations for “The Testaments,” all roads lead directly to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This region has become a premier hotspot for dystopian dramas due to its incredible versatility and knack for transforming into almost any environment. Because the GTA played such a massive role in shaping the look of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” returning to Ontario was a natural choice to maintain seamless visual continuity. The area’s older institutional architecture, wide streets, and imposing government-style structures work together beautifully to establish that signature Gilead aesthetic: cold and tightly controlled.
Interestingly, as Cosmopolitan reports, the Canadian landscape is actually doubling as the Gilead-controlled version of Colorado. The production team used a diverse mix of settings across Ontario, drawing on specific vibes from Toronto, Caledon, Hamilton and Oshawa. While Toronto was primarily tapped to bring bustling city and street scenes to life, Hamilton’s distinct architecture provided the perfect backdrop for crucial background sequences that ground the fictional regime.
Things to Do: Start with CN Tower for panoramic views of Toronto, then head to Kensington Market for a mix of global food, vintage shops and cultural energy. For something more nature-focused, Niagara Falls is just a couple of hours away and absolutely worth the trip. And if you’re into arts and culture, check out local galleries and Black cultural events happening throughout the GTA, especially during the summer months. Black Toronto has a strong Caribbean presence, which shows up in festivals, food and music.
Where to Eat: Spots like Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen bring bold Caribbean flavors, while Ethiopian House Restaurant highlights East African cuisine with a modern twist. You’ll also find other Ethiopian, Somali and fusion restaurants across the city, reflecting the diversity of the region.
Where to Stay: Downtown Toronto is your best base for accommodations. Hotels near the Entertainment District keep you close to major filming locations while offering access to nightlife and dining. For example, the Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre by IHG is an affordable option, but there’s also the InterContinental Toronto Centre by IHG for a higher price point. If you prefer something quieter, boutique stays in neighborhoods like Queen Street West or The Annex offer a more relaxed vibe. For those exploring Oshawa or Caledon, smaller inns and short-term rentals provide convenience without the city rush.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Nicole not with June in “The Testaments”?
In “The Testaments,” Nicole’s (who goes by Daisy in Gilead) separation from June is central to the story’s tension. Without giving too much away, her upbringing outside of Gilead plays a major role in shaping her identity and perspective.
Where is the Waterfords’ house in real life?
The Waterfords’ home from “The Handmaid’s Tale” is located in Hamilton, Ontario. The Victorian, ivy-covered property is located in a historic neighborhood known for its stately homes, about 40 minutes away from Toronto, as Houzz reports.
