If you’re a fan of the classic holiday film Christmas Vacation, you may be wondering where it was filmed. The movie, which stars Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, was primarily shot in and around the state of Colorado. Here’s a closer look at some of the locations that were used.
The Griswold House
The exterior shots of the Griswold family home were filmed in a neighborhood called Deerfield, located in the city of Arvada. The house itself is still standing today and remains a popular spot for fans to visit during the holiday season. It’s located at 2504 20th Street.
The Department Store
One of the most memorable scenes in Christmas Vacation takes place at a department store where Clark tries to pick up his Christmas bonus. This scene was actually filmed inside a Macy’s store located in downtown Denver. While the store has since closed down, you can still visit the building it was housed in at 1601 Arapahoe Street.
The Rocky Mountains
Several scenes throughout the movie feature stunning views of snow-covered mountains in the background. These scenes were shot in various locations throughout Colorado, including Vail, Breckenridge, and Frisco. If you’re planning a trip to Colorado during the winter months, these areas are definitely worth checking out for their beautiful scenery.
The Tree Lot
Another memorable scene from Christmas Vacation takes place at a Christmas tree lot where Clark and his family go to pick out their tree. This scene was filmed at a lot located near South Kipling Parkway and West Bowles Avenue in Littleton.
The Pool Scene
One of the funniest scenes in Christmas Vacation features Clark daydreaming about swimming with a beautiful woman while he’s stuck cleaning out his family’s pool. This scene was actually shot in Burbank, California, but the pool used in the scene was modeled after a pool at a private residence in Castle Rock, Colorado.
The Bottom Line
While Christmas Vacation wasn’t entirely filmed in Colorado, the state played a significant role in bringing the movie to life. From the Griswold family home to the snowy mountain vistas, there are plenty of locations to check out if you’re a fan of the film. So why not plan a trip to Colorado this holiday season and see some of these iconic spots for yourself?