How Ontario, Canada Was Disguised As Tall Pines, Vermont In Netflix’s ‘Wayward’

When “Wayward” debuted on Netflix on Sept. 25, it already had plenty of anticipation surrounding it. The limited series is anchored by Mae Martin, who not only co-created but also stars in the thriller. They lead this tangled web of mystery alongside Toni Collette, Sarah Gadon and an incredible supporting ensemble. On-screen, the characters reside in a seemingly idyllic town, Tall Pines, which has some secrets buried. It centers on a residential program for troubled teens that follows protocols far more sinister than what’s advertised to overwhelmed parents.

As the tension mounts across eight episodes, “Wayward” teases a creeping sense of dread with shadily lit streets, quiet woodlands and an overall undercurrent of malice. These visuals might make viewers wonder, where was “Wayward” filmed? Here’s what to know about the mystery thriller’s production locations. 

Was ‘Wayward’ Filmed In Canada?

Yes, “Wayward” was actually filmed in Canada, but more specifically in the province of Ontario. As What’s On Netflix reports, this filming was done during the summer and fall of 2024. And although the story is set in Vermont, Canada is actually a great stand in for U.S. settings. This is due to favorable tax incentives, diverse landscapes and experienced, local film crews. Ontario (and Toronto in particular) are often tapped due to their flexibility, since there are many urban hubs, leafy suburbs and small towns around. 

In the case of “Wayward,” production anchored much of its recognizable operations in Toronto, per ScreenRant. But some additional filming was done in communities in northeastern Ontario, like Millbrook. These locations were used to capture some more isolated, rustic exteriors that fit the bill for Tall Pines’ unsettling calm ambiance.

Traverse Through Ontario’s Small Towns And Big Cities

Key Scenes: Some exterior scenes were filmed in Millbrook, but Toronto served as a main filming hub as well. As 4Filming reports, these locations were used to capture the interior and exterior shots for school settings, residential neighborhoods, forested roads and some small town stretches. 

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ontario really depends on a traveler’s priorities, but generally speaking either late spring or early fall is best. This is when the weather is more pleasant and there are fewer crowds. 

Transportation Options: There is local public transit, including buses, subways, light rail trains and streetcars, around Ontario. Then the regional GO transit system has inter-city buses like FlixBus and Coach Canada. Generally, trains and buses are common for longer distances but travelers can also rent a car or go for ride-sharing services. 

As 4Filming reports, Downtown Millbrook was used to depict some rural authenticity. Storefronts, quiet intersections and very intimate streets were utilized for a more lived-in feel. In Toronto, photography started in July 2024 and ended in October 2024, per What’s On Netflix. During that time, many different areas were put to use. For example, The Peddler Bistro and Peddler Pastry Cafe, which are just outside central Toronto, were used to depict the Tall Pines Diner, as Time Out reports. Aside from the few real life filming locations in Ontario, there are plenty of reasons to visit this area. 

Things to Do: The St. Lawrence Market is one of the most popular places to check out while in Toronto. This is where visitors can explore many different local vendors and artisans, so it is a great cultural excursion. Alternatively, the Royal Ontario Museum is a well rated experience which can help visitors to learn more about the province’s history.  

Where to Eat: The Richmond Station is a restaurant with seasonal offerings and some upscale dining options. Alternatively, the Black+Blue is another option, which offers an elevated dining experience and some incredible views. 

Where to Stay: For a higher end experience, the Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown is the place to stay. This hotel is highly rated for its modern, sleek features and it has a price tag to match. Another great affordable option is the Victoria’s Mansion Guest House, which is quite cozy and has a good location.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the plot of “Wayward”?

The plot of this series takes place in Tall Pines, a picture-perfect small town with a residential program for troubled teens called Tall Pines Academy. But when two best friends (Leila and Abbie) are sent there, they soon realize that something is deeply wrong with the place. The academy’s doctrine of self-reflection conceals some manipulation, control and abuse tactics.

Is “Wayward” a true story?

No, it is not a true story in the simplest sense. It is inspired by real-life events since Mae Martin, its creator, has acknowledged how their best friend was once sent to a troubled teen residential program. This experience introduced Martin to stories about trauma, coercion and secrecy, per People. So, although the characters and events are fictional, it does have some grounding in reality. 

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