Where Was Christmas Vacation Filmed in Colorado?

By Robert Palmer

Are you a fan of the classic holiday movie, Christmas Vacation? Did you know that it was filmed partially in Colorado?

In this article, we will explore the various filming locations of this iconic film. So, grab some hot cocoa and let’s get started!

The Rocky Mountains

One of the most memorable scenes in Christmas Vacation is when the Griswold family heads out to find the perfect Christmas tree. This scene was filmed in Breckenridge, Colorado, just outside of the Rocky Mountains. The stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains serves as a picturesque setting for this comedic moment.

The Town of Silverthorne

Another memorable scene in Christmas Vacation is when Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) takes his family ice skating. This scene was filmed in Silverthorne, Colorado at a local outdoor ice rink. In the film, you can see the beautiful snow-covered trees and mountains in the background.

Other Filming Locations

In addition to Breckenridge and Silverthorne, there were other filming locations used throughout Colorado for Christmas Vacation. These included:

  • The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park – This hotel served as inspiration for Stephen King’s novel The Shining and was used as a filming location for Dumb and Dumber.
  • The Arapahoe Basin Ski Area – This ski area has been featured in several films including Aspen Extreme and Out Cold.
  • Route 6 between Keystone and Loveland Pass – This scenic highway was used during filming for some driving scenes.

In Conclusion

Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday classic that has stood the test of time. The beautiful scenery of Colorado serves as a perfect backdrop for this festive film. Whether you are a die-hard fan or just enjoy a good holiday movie, exploring the filming locations of Christmas Vacation in Colorado is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.