Exploring the Filming Locations of Chevy Chase’s Classic Christmas Vacation Movie

Where was Chevy Chase Christmas Vacation filmed? This question often arises among fans of the iconic 1983 comedy film, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” The movie, which follows the misadventures of the Griswold family during the holiday season, captures the essence of American family life and the spirit of the season. The answer to this question lies in a blend of real-life locations and sets meticulously crafted to create the perfect backdrop for the film’s memorable scenes.

The main filming locations for “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” were spread across the United States, with a significant portion taking place in and around the city of Columbus, Ohio. The Griswold family’s home, the iconic blue house, was actually a real residence in the city. Located at 4140 N. High St., the house was transformed into the Griswold residence through a series of creative set designs and decorations. The homeowners, who initially opposed the idea, eventually agreed to allow the film crew to use their home for the movie.

Another key location in Columbus was the Ohio State University campus, which served as the backdrop for many scenes, including Clark Griswold’s workplace and the college football game. The campus’ iconic Ohio Stadium, also known as “The Horseshoe,” was the site of the climactic game where Clark tries to impress his boss with his knowledge of college football.

In addition to Columbus, other filming locations included the city of Columbus, Indiana, where the Griswold family’s Christmas lights were showcased. The town of Columbus, Indiana, is known for its modern architecture and was chosen for its picturesque streets and homes, which added to the film’s charm.

The Griswold family’s road trip to California was also filmed in various locations along the way. The iconic “Christmas Vacation” RV chase scene was shot on the Pacific Coast Highway in California, with the film crew capturing the beautiful coastal scenery and the excitement of the chase.

In conclusion, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” was filmed across multiple locations in the United States, with Columbus, Ohio, and California playing significant roles in bringing the Griswold family’s holiday adventures to life. The blend of real-life locations and meticulously crafted sets made the film a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.