Where Cartoon Characters Would Live in Real Life

Shrek — Inverness & Glencoe, Scotland

Shrek pretends he wants to be left alone, but he’s a loyal friend who secretly enjoys good company. He likes nature on its own terms — a little wild, a little rough, and not too polished.

Scotland’s Highlands would suit him perfectly. The mist, the lakes, and the endless stretches of green feel like a real-life version of his swamp, only with more bagpipes.

Top things to see:

• Loch Ness — Shrek would grumble about all the tourist shops selling Nessie toys, but secretly, he’d enjoy the quiet lake. If the monster showed up, they’d probably sit in silence, both happy to be left alone.

• Glencoe Valley — with its wide trails and cliffs, it would remind Shrek of home. Donkey, of course, would complain the entire way, but Shrek would finally find the peace and quiet he craves.

• Eilean Donan Castle — Shrek would call it “too fancy,” but Fiona would love it. In the end, even he would admit the castle’s view over the water is something special.

Elsa — Tromsø, Norway

Elsa carries herself like a queen but still craves a place where she can simply be herself. She’s drawn to snow and ice, but also to the freedom of wide, open spaces.

Tromsø, often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” could be her real-world Arendelle. Surrounded by fjords and snow-covered peaks, it’s a place where winter isn’t just weather — it’s an experience.

Top things to see:

• The Northern Lights — Elsa wouldn’t just admire the aurora; she’d raise her hands and weave the colors brighter. People would leave wondering if they’d just witnessed nature, magic, or both.

• The Polar Museum — wandering through the stories of Arctic explorers, Elsa would quietly nod at the familiar struggle of facing the cold and finding strength in solitude.

• Fjellheisen Cable Car — at the top, she’d stand in the snow with the city below her and the fjords stretching into the distance. It would feel like looking out from her own icy balcony.

Snoopy — Tokyo, Japan

Snoopy thrives in places full of creativity and fun. One day he’s a pilot, the next a writer, and always a dreamer with a taste for life’s simple pleasures, especially dessert.

Tokyo matches that spirit. The city is full of playful culture, from themed cafés to shops dedicated to sweets, and has just the kind of atmosphere where Snoopy’s imagination would never run out of fuel.

Top things to see:

• Snoopy Museum Tokyo — Snoopy would walk through the museum proudly, as if every drawing and comic strip on the wall was a page from his own life story. Fans could easily imagine him stopping for photos next to his favorite moments.

• Harajuku — in this neighborhood full of bright fashion and quirky shops, Snoopy would fit right in. He’d probably peek into every café, where Snoopy’s sweet tooth would get the best of him. He wouldn’t be able to resist the cotton candy bigger than his head.

• Ueno Park — Snoopy would find a spot under the cherry blossoms, lying on his back and daydreaming about new adventures. Woodstock would likely perch on a branch above, keeping him company.

Mickey Mouse — Orlando, Florida, USA

Mickey is cheerful, curious, and thrives in the spotlight. He’s happiest in places buzzing with energy, where every day feels like a celebration.

Orlando is practically built for him. With the world’s biggest theme parks, it’s a city where fun isn’t just entertainment but a way of life.

Top things to see:

• Walt Disney World Resort — Mickey would be everywhere at once: waving on Main Street, riding roller coasters, and greeting kids who see him as the star of the show. It would feel like he truly ran the place.

• Universal Studios Orlando — Mickey would sneak in wearing a hat and sunglasses, curious about the rides. He’d enjoy them just as much as anyone else, even if he’d never admit it publicly.

• Florida’s lakes and parks — when the spotlight gets too bright, Mickey would pack a picnic with Minnie and spend the day by the water. Goofy would probably capsize the canoe, but Mickey wouldn’t mind.

SpongeBob SquarePants — Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

SpongeBob is all energy and enthusiasm. He’s happiest near the water, always up for an adventure, and never says no to a laugh with friends. It’s not hard to picture him swapping Bikini Bottom for a Hawaiian paradise.

Honolulu makes sense for him. The Pacific Ocean is right there, the city is alive with food and music, and adventure is always a short drive away.

Top things to see:

• Waikiki Beach — SpongeBob would jump straight into the waves, trying to surf with the same excitement he has for jellyfishing. He’d probably wipe out a hundred times but laugh so hard he’d make friends with everyone on the beach.

• Waikīkī Aquarium — he’d press his face to the glass, waving at the tropical fish as if they were old neighbors. SpongeBob would probably lean and gesture toward the sea creatures, trying to “join” them, while the staff gently guides him back to the path.

• Kīlauea Volcano and natural parks — hiking the trails would feel like a new kind of underwater adventure. He’d marvel at the steam vents and lava flows as if they were another kind of ocean magic.

Conclusion

If these characters stepped off the screen, they’d blend right into the places that reflect who they are. And while we can’t promise to bump into them in real life, we can travel a little more like them: curious, playful, and open to the unexpected.

Apps like FindGuide bring travel to life, connecting you with local guides who share the stories, places, and experiences that make a destination truly yours. So wherever your next adventure takes you, go with someone who truly knows the way.