Unveiling the Filming Secrets- Discovering the Locations of the Classic Christmas Vacation Movie
Where did they film Christmas Vacation?
Christmas Vacation, a beloved American comedy film released in 1989, has left many movie enthusiasts curious about the locations where it was filmed. Directed by John R. Hunt and starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, and Bud Yorkin, this film has become a staple of the holiday season. In this article, we will explore the various filming locations that contributed to the movie’s charm and authenticity.
The main setting of Christmas Vacation is the fictional town of Clarksville, Indiana. However, the actual filming took place in several locations across the United States. One of the primary locations was the small town of Lake Placid, New York. The picturesque town provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s snowy scenes and the Griswold family’s vacation adventures.
Another significant filming location was the town of St. Cloud, Minnesota. The film’s producers chose this town for its charming streets and historic architecture, which added to the authenticity of the small town atmosphere. The Griswold family’s home, the Griswold house, was actually a combination of several homes in St. Cloud, with the exterior shots filmed at the historic Lakeview Inn and the interior shots taking place at the St. Cloud State University’s Performing Arts Center.
Additionally, the film’s iconic “Christmas tree farm” scene was shot at the now-defunct Lake George Ski Area in Lake George, New York. The area’s natural beauty and the presence of a large, decorated tree made it the perfect spot for the film’s memorable Christmas tree hunt.
Other notable locations include the Griswold family’s Christmas dinner at the Lake Placid Lodge, which was filmed at the Lake Placid Lodge in Lake Placid, New York. The film’s producers also utilized the Adirondack region’s stunning landscapes for various scenes, including the family’s snowy hike and the final Christmas Eve celebration.
In conclusion, Christmas Vacation’s success can be attributed to the careful selection of filming locations that captured the essence of the small town atmosphere and the holiday spirit. The combination of Lake Placid, St. Cloud, and the Adirondack region provided the perfect backdrop for the Griswold family’s adventures, making the film a timeless classic that continues to bring joy to audiences around the world.
