Where Was National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation Filmed?

By Alice Nichols

National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation is a classic comedy movie that has been entertaining audiences since its release in 1997. The movie follows the Griswold family as they take a trip to Las Vegas, hoping to have an unforgettable vacation filled with fun and excitement.

But have you ever wondered where this hilarious movie was filmed? In this article, we’ll explore the filming locations of National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation.

Las Vegas Strip

The majority of National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation was filmed on location in Las Vegas, particularly on the famous Las Vegas Strip. The opening scene of the movie shows the Griswold family driving down the Strip and passing several iconic landmarks such as the MGM Grand, New York-New York, and Excalibur hotels. The scene was actually filmed during a real parade that took place on the Strip.

Hoover Dam

One of the most memorable scenes in National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation takes place at Hoover Dam. This famous landmark is located on the border between Arizona and Nevada and is a popular tourist destination.

In the movie, the Griswold family takes a tour of Hoover Dam and Clark (Chevy Chase) accidentally floods one of its generators. The scenes were actually shot on location at Hoover Dam.

Mirage Hotel & Casino

The Mirage Hotel & Casino is another iconic Las Vegas landmark that makes an appearance in National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation. The hotel’s iconic volcano erupts during one scene in which Clark tries to win back his lost money at a casino. This scene was also filmed on location at The Mirage.

Other Locations

In addition to these major locations, several other spots around Las Vegas were used as filming locations for National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation. Some scenes were shot at McCarran International Airport, while others were filmed at the Stardust Casino and the Sands Expo and Convention Center.

In Conclusion

National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation is a classic comedy that has become a fan favorite over the years. The movie’s use of iconic Las Vegas locations adds to its charm and humor. From the Las Vegas Strip to Hoover Dam, the filming locations of National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation are as unforgettable as the movie itself.

  • Las Vegas Strip: The majority of the movie was filmed on location on this famous street.
  • Hoover Dam: One of the most memorable scenes in the movie takes place at this famous landmark.
  • Mirage Hotel & Casino: This iconic hotel and casino makes an appearance in one scene.
  • Other Locations: Several other spots around Las Vegas were used as filming locations for National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation.

If you’re a fan of National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation or just love Las Vegas, visiting these filming locations is a must-do. Whether you’re driving down the Strip or taking a tour of Hoover Dam, you’ll be able to relive some of your favorite moments from this classic comedy.