If you are a fan of the classic comedy movie, National Lampoon’s Vacation, you might be wondering where exactly the film was shot. This hilarious movie follows the Griswold family on a cross-country road trip to the fictional amusement park, Walley World.
While the movie is set in various locations across America, it was actually filmed in several different states. Let’s take a closer look at where National Lampoon’s Vacation was filmed.
Los Angeles, California
The opening scene of National Lampoon’s Vacation was filmed in Los Angeles, California. The exterior shots of the Griswold family home were filmed in the suburban neighborhood of Woodland Hills.
Colorado
The majority of National Lampoon’s Vacation takes place on the road trip from Chicago to Walley World. The scenes that are supposed to be set in Colorado were actually filmed in several different locations across the state.
The scene where Clark Griswold accidentally drives off the road and into a small town was shot in Durango, Colorado. The scene with Aunt Edna’s death and subsequent dog leash incident was also filmed in Durango.
Monument Valley
While not located in Colorado, Monument Valley on the border of Arizona and Utah is another location featured prominently throughout National Lampoon’s Vacation. The iconic shot of the Griswold family station wagon driving through Monument Valley can be seen as they make their way to Walley World.
Arizona and Missouri
Other scenes from National Lampoon’s Vacation were filmed in both Arizona and Missouri. The scene where Ellen Griswold goes skinny dipping with Cousin Vicki was shot at Lake Powell on the border between Arizona and Utah. Additional scenes were also filmed at Six Flags Magic Mountain amusement park in Valencia, California and at Six Flags St. Louis amusement park in Eureka, Missouri.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Lampoon’s Vacation was filmed in several different locations across the United States. From California to Colorado and even Arizona and Missouri, the movie takes viewers on a wild ride through some of the most iconic landmarks and locations in America. So next time you watch this classic comedy, you can impress your friends by telling them exactly where each scene was filmed.