If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” then you’re probably familiar with the iconic Griswold family home. But did you know that the Christmas vacation house has been used in other movies as well? Let’s take a closer look at this famous film location.
The History of the Christmas Vacation House
The Christmas vacation house, located in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park, Illinois, was built in 1959 and has become an iconic part of American pop culture. The house was used as the exterior for the Griswold family home in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” in 1989. Since then, it has become a popular tourist destination during the holiday season.
Other Movies Filmed at the Christmas Vacation House
While “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is undoubtedly the most famous movie to feature the Christmas vacation house, it has also been used in other films over the years. Here are a few examples:
“The Ice Harvest” (2005)
This dark comedy starring John Cusack and Billy Bob Thornton was filmed largely in and around Chicago. The Christmas vacation house was used as Thornton’s character’s home.
“Christmas with Cookie” (2016)
This made-for-TV movie starred former NFL player and current television personality Michael Strahan. The plot revolves around Strahan’s character trying to save his family’s failing cookie company. The Christmas vacation house was used as his character’s childhood home.
“Batman Begins” (2005)
While not technically filmed at the Christmas vacation house, this blockbuster superhero movie did feature a scene that takes place nearby. During a car chase through Gotham City, Batman drives past a house that looks suspiciously like the Griswold home.
The Legacy of the Christmas Vacation House
Despite its use in other movies, the Christmas vacation house will forever be associated with “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and the Griswold family. Fans of the movie still flock to the house every holiday season to take pictures and relive their favorite scenes from the film.
In 2019, the owners of the house even recreated one of the movie’s most memorable scenes by installing a giant inflatable decoration of Clark Griswold hanging from the roof. The display quickly went viral on social media.
Conclusion
While it may have been used in other films over the years, there’s no denying that the Christmas vacation house will always be most closely associated with “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Its iconic status is a testament to the enduring popularity of this beloved holiday classic.