PHOTOS: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Set of Parks and Recreation

Dreams do come true—as long as your dreams are relatively modest. I have a bunch, mostly impractical, but I was finally able to cross one item off my bucket list when I visited the set of NBC's Parks and Recreation a couple weeks ago during the Television Critics Association press tour. It was like taking a trip to Pawnee, Indiana itself: As I wandered through City Hall, this world felt tangible and real. And then I had to once again remind myself of the difference between television and reality. Along with several other critics, I joined a tour group led by Amy Poehler (Leslie Knope herself!), Aubrey Plaza (April), and series writer Dan Goor. And like any good tourist visiting City Hall, I took too many photos...

Ron Swanson's Desk

Where all of Ron Swanson's most important decisions are made.

Leslie Knopes's Office

As you can see in the framed photos, Leslie's heroes include Margaret Thatcher and, of course, her mother—Judge Marlene Griggs-Knope.

Leslie Knopes's Bookshelf

Fun fact: The little girl pictured above Nancy Pelosi and Condoleeza Rice on Leslie's office wall is wee Amy Poehler. The bookshelf holds tomes by and about such influential figures as Thomas Jefferson, Gandhi, Joan of Arc, and Jackie O.

The City Hall Shoe-Shine

Aubrey Plaza shows off Andy's shoe-shine station, where Plaza's character April likes to linger.

NEXT: A closer look at the historic murals of Pawnee City Hall >>