If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” you might be wondering where exactly the movie was filmed. The truth is, many of the filming locations were scattered throughout California and Colorado, giving the movie a diverse range of landscapes and settings. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most iconic filming locations from “Christmas Vacation.”
Clark Griswold’s House
Perhaps one of the most memorable locations from “Christmas Vacation” is Clark Griswold’s house. Located in Los Angeles, California, this house has become an iconic symbol of the movie and is even visited by tourists during the holiday season. While the exterior shots were filmed at this location, most interior scenes were actually shot on a set in Burbank.
The Department Store
The department store scenes in “Christmas Vacation” were actually filmed at two separate locations. The first location was located in Century City, California, where exterior shots were taken. The second location was located in Pasadena, where interior shots were filmed.
The Griswold Family Home
While Clark Griswold’s house may be the most famous filming location from “Christmas Vacation,” the Griswold family home is also a notable location. This home is located in Breckenridge, Colorado and served as a backdrop for some of the more scenic outdoor shots in the movie.
The Sleigh Ride
One of the more memorable scenes in “Christmas Vacation” involves Clark taking his family on a sleigh ride through the snow-covered countryside. This scene was actually filmed at Warner Bros. Ranch in Burbank using fake snow and elaborate sets to create an authentic winter wonderland.
The Pool Scene
The pool scene in “Christmas Vacation” features Clark dreaming about his perfect swimming pool while lounging in his chair. This scene was actually filmed at the River Country Water Park in Florida, which has since been closed down.
Conclusion
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is a beloved holiday classic that has endured for decades. While the movie was filmed in several different locations throughout California and Colorado, each location added to the overall charm and magic of the film. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to learn more about the movie, these iconic filming locations are definitely worth checking out.