Where Was Vacation 1983 Filmed?

By Robert Palmer

Are you a fan of the 1983 comedy classic, Vacation? Have you ever wondered where the movie was filmed?

Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the locations used in the making of this iconic film.

The Plot of Vacation

Before diving into the filming locations, let’s take a moment to review the plot of Vacation. The movie follows the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip from their home in Chicago to the fictional amusement park, Walley World in California. Along the way, they encounter a series of hilarious misadventures that will keep you laughing from start to finish.

Where Was Vacation 1983 Filmed?

Vacation was primarily filmed on location in California and Colorado. Some scenes were also shot in Arizona and Utah. Here are some of the key filming locations used in the movie:

  • Walley World – The fictional amusement park that serves as the ultimate destination for the Griswold family was actually filmed at two different locations: Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California and Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California.
  • The Griswold Family Home – The exterior shots of the Griswold family home were filmed at 1234 Kintner Drive in South Pasadena, California.
  • The Grand Canyon – In one memorable scene from the movie, Clark (played by Chevy Chase) and his family visit The Grand Canyon. This scene was actually filmed on location at The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.
  • Wally’s World – In another scene from the movie, Clark and his family stop at “Wally’s World” for directions. This scene was filmed at a gas station in Monument Valley, Utah.
  • The Desert – Several scenes throughout the movie were filmed in the California desert, specifically near the town of Needles.

The Legacy of Vacation

Vacation has become a beloved classic since its release in 1983. The movie spawned several sequels and even a reboot in 2015. It’s widely regarded as one of the funniest movies of all time and has earned a place in pop culture history.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The filming locations for Vacation are just as iconic as the movie itself. Next time you watch the Griswold family’s hilarious road trip, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for the stunning locations that served as the backdrop for this comedy classic.