Let’s be real—sometimes the actual world can be a bit overwhelming. Deadlines, traffic, endless scrolling. You get the idea. That’s when fantasy TV comes to the rescue like a good ol’ gateway to another world, providing you with magic, monsters, and just enough enchantment to make the chaos disappear. Whether you need mystical kingdoms or tales with a mere hint of the supernatural, these programs will enable you to tune out—without tuning out completely. Here are 9 of the greatest fantasy TV shows to get lost in when reality requires a time-out.
9. Once Upon a Time
Ever pictured fairy tale heroes and heroines strolling through your neighborhood? That’s the magic of Once Upon a Time. It takes all of those old characters we knew as kids and plants them in a contemporary town, complete with curses, secret identities, and a whole lot of charm. It’s smart, whimsical, and a wonderful reminder that even the grimmest tales can have a hopeful note. Ideal for those days when you want something cozy and old-school.
8. The Changeling
Directed in New York but painted with myth and mystery, The Changeling walks the line between hard-boiled reality and supernatural fantasy. It’s haunting, atmospheric, and full of surprises that leave you questioning what’s real and what’s not. It’s a slow burn, but when it catches you, you’ll be seeing the city in an entirely new way.
7. Lovecraft Country
Not for the faint of heart, Lovecraft Country mingles horror and fantasy so seamlessly that it’s as disturbing as it is intriguing. With monsters, hexes, and deeply ingrained societal phobias all coalescing into one big mess, it’s a reckless tale that lingers long after the end credits. If you prefer your fantasy with substance—and a dash of fear—this one’s worth it.
6. Shadow and Bone
This one ticks all the boxes: an original magical system, layered world-building, and characters you’ll love (or love to despise). Shadow and Bone brings epic battles, dark magic, and just enough romance to keep things engaging. It’s the type of show that finds you searching for fan theories at 2 a.m. You’ve been warned.
5. House of the Dragon
If palace intrigue and dragon-breathing monsters are up your alley, then House of the Dragon is for you. This prequel explores the Targaryen family before Game of Thrones, and let’s just say there’s drama. There’s struggle for power, betrayal, and dragon-sized drama—what’s not to watch? It’s the sort of show that makes your family drama seem relatively pussycat-like by comparison.
4. Outlander
Part history drama, part time-travel adventure, Outlander is a sweeping epic that whisks you from post-World War II England to the windswept Highlands of Scotland in the 18th century—and beyond. There’s romance, political scandal, and a generous dollop of magic added to the mix. If you’re up for something emotional and transportive, this one‘s a winner.
3. Schitt’s Creek
Alright, so there ain’t no magic in the classical way—but Schitt’s Creek could very possibly be one of the most magical shows on television. It’s a tale of self-discovery, niceness, and finding happiness in the unlikeliest of places. With its offbeat characters and warm, fuzzy feel, it’s just straight-up feel-good TV. Occasionally, the escape we require isn’t into another realm, but into an improved version of our own.
2. Grace & Frankie
Who says fantasy can’t be rooted in reality? Grace & Frankie shows us that it’s possible to reinvent ourselves at any age, and sometimes that’s the most enchanting thing of all. It’s humorous, touching, and perpetually relatable. After all, bolting from reality doesn’t necessarily mean leaving it behind—it can mean discovering delight and excitement in the mundane.
1. Money Heist
Though not technically fantasy, Money Heist contains all the excitement of one. Clever schemes, impenetrable loyalties, and people so intense you’ll be screaming at your TV—compulsive in the best sense. If you need a show that’ll hook you and won’t release you, this is it. Escapism does not always involve magic; sometimes, it’s about being swept up into something larger than life.
At the end of the day, fantasy TV isn’t just about spells and dragons. It’s about what it gives us: a pause, a breath, a little distance from the noise of real life. These shows offer safe spaces to feel big things, explore wild ideas, and process what we’re going through without getting overwhelmed. They remind us that anything is possible—even in a world that doesn’t feel very magical. But as with everything, there is a catch. Watch, enjoy, escape—but not forget to return home. The best stories are the ones that enable us to live our own lives a little bit better.