Where Was Christmas Vacation Made?

By Robert Palmer

If you are a fan of the classic holiday comedy movie, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” you might be wondering where the film was made. This beloved movie, released in 1989, has become a holiday tradition for many families around the world. In this article, we will explore the various locations where the movie was filmed.

The Filming Locations

The majority of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” was filmed on location in California and Colorado. The exterior shots of the Griswold family home were filmed in Burbank, California, at 2316 North Vermont Avenue. The interior shots of the house were filmed on a soundstage in Burbank.

The Department Store Scene

One of the most memorable scenes in the movie takes place at a department store where Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) attempts to buy a gift for his wife. This scene was filmed at the former Bullock’s Wilshire department store in Los Angeles.

The Sledding Scene

The scene where Clark and his son Russ sled down a hill was filmed at Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado. The resort has become a popular tourist destination for fans of the movie who want to recreate this iconic scene.

The Opening Credits

The opening credits feature aerial shots of Chicago during Christmastime. These shots were taken from a helicopter and feature many recognizable landmarks such as Wrigley Field and Lake Shore Drive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” was primarily filmed in California and Colorado with some additional footage shot in Chicago for the opening credits sequence. Fans of this classic holiday film can visit many of these locations to relive their favorite moments from the movie. Whether you’re visiting Burbank or Breckenridge, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” in person.