N
Icon Celebrity Monitor

Hey, Gilmore Girls Fans: Here's What the Real Life Inspiration for Stars Hollow Is Like

Author

Matthew Sanders

Updated on March 29, 2026

Oh My Emily Gilmore! The first ever Gilmore Girls Fan Festival—founded by super fans Jennie and Marcus Whitaker—was such a hot ticket, it sold out in 13 hours. Luckily, my sister, Sandi, and I were able to go and channel the OG GGs: Lorelai and Rory. Even though we were mainly there to watch a dance recital with Miss Patty, visit Gypsy's Craft Corner, adopt a kitten from Kirk, hob nob at the Hep Alien reunion, and join the Knit-a-Thon (actual weekend activities!), we also wanted to explore Washington Depot, the Connecticut town that inspired show creator, Amy Sherman-Palladino, to write Gilmore Girls. And we weren't disappointed: The cozy town and surrounding area are just oozing with Gilmore Girls inspiration. Luke’s Diner! Doose’s Market! Miss Patty’s Dance Studio! It’s all here. Here's what Stars Hollow looks like IRL.