If you’re a fan of the National Lampoon’s Vacation series, you might be curious about the hotel that was used in the movie. In the film, Clark Griswold and his family embark on a cross-country road trip to visit the famous Grand Canyon.
Along the way, they stay at various hotels, but one in particular stands out – the one where they have a memorable encounter with actress Christie Brinkley. So, what Grand Canyon hotel was used in National Lampoon’s Vacation? Let’s find out.
The Hotel
The hotel featured in National Lampoon’s Vacation is called The Wigwam Motel. It is located in Holbrook, Arizona, which is about 200 miles east of the Grand Canyon.
The Wigwam Motel is a unique and iconic roadside attraction that has been around since 1950. It’s known for its distinctive teepee-shaped rooms that are made of concrete and decorated with Native American-inspired decor.
The History
The Wigwam Motel was originally part of a chain of seven motels that were built by Frank A. Redford in the 1930s and 1940s. Each motel had teepee-shaped rooms and was designed to appeal to travelers who were interested in experiencing a bit of Native American culture. Today, only three of those motels remain – one in Holbrook, one in Rialto, California, and one in Cave City, Kentucky.
The Movie
In National Lampoon’s Vacation, The Wigwam Motel is where Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) and his family stay on their way to the Grand Canyon. They arrive late at night and are greeted by an eccentric motel owner who assigns them to a teepee-shaped room. It’s there that they have an encounter with Christie Brinkley (playing the role of the “Girl in the Ferrari”) that leads to one of the movie’s most memorable scenes.
The Legacy
The Wigwam Motel has become a popular tourist attraction in its own right, thanks in part to its appearance in National Lampoon’s Vacation. Visitors can still stay in one of the motel’s 15 teepee-shaped rooms and experience a bit of vintage Americana. The motel also features a gift shop that sells Native American crafts and souvenirs.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the Grand Canyon hotel used in National Lampoon’s Vacation was The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just interested in experiencing a unique piece of Americana, The Wigwam Motel is definitely worth a visit.