What Amusement Park Was National Lampoon’s Vacation Filmed At?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of the classic 80s comedy movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” you might be curious about where the iconic amusement park scenes were filmed. Clark Griswold and his family embarked on a wild road trip from their home in Chicago to the fictional Walley World in California, which was actually filmed at a real-life amusement park.

Which Amusement Park Was Used?

The amusement park featured in “National Lampoon’s Vacation” is called Six Flags Magic Mountain. This theme park is located in Valencia, California, and has been a popular destination for thrill-seekers since it first opened its doors in 1971.

The Legacy of Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain is known for its impressive collection of roller coasters, which includes some of the fastest and tallest rides in the world. The park has also been featured in many other movies and TV shows over the years, including “The A-Team,” “Transformers,” and “Modern Family.”

The Making of National Lampoon’s Vacation

“National Lampoon’s Vacation” was directed by Harold Ramis and written by John Hughes. The film tells the story of Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) as he takes his family on a cross-country road trip to reach Walley World, an amusement park that he promised his wife Ellen (Beverly D’Angelo) they would visit.

The movie was released in 1983 and quickly became a classic comedy that is still beloved today. The film was so popular that it spawned several sequels, including “European Vacation,” “Christmas Vacation,” and “Vegas Vacation.”

Visiting Six Flags Magic Mountain Today

If you’re a fan of “National Lampoon’s Vacation” or just love amusement parks, Six Flags Magic Mountain is definitely worth a visit. With over 100 rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Some of the park’s most popular roller coasters include X2, Tatsu, and Twisted Colossus. There are also plenty of family-friendly rides and attractions for younger visitors.

If you’re planning a trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain, be sure to check the park’s website for current hours, ticket prices, and COVID-19 safety protocols.

Conclusion

“National Lampoon’s Vacation” is a classic comedy that has stood the test of time. The amusement park scenes were filmed at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California, which remains a popular destination for thrill-seekers today. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just love roller coasters, Six Flags Magic Mountain is definitely worth checking out.