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Home > Films > R > Road Trip

Friday June 14th 2024

Road Trip | 2000

• Locations |
• Atlanta , Georgia ;
• Tennessee ;
• Massachusetts
• Todd Phillips
• Breckin Meyer,
• Seann William Scott,
• Paulo Costanzo,
• Ethan Suplee

Josh Parker ( Breckin Meyer ) and chums undertake a cross-country dash, from ‘Ithaca, New York State’ to ‘Austin, Texas’, to retrieve a compromising videotape posted to his girlfriend in this lacklustre (though hugely successful) addition to the college sexcom genre. The film was shot in the South, mainly around Atlanta , Cumming and Lawrenceville , Georgia , and in Nashville , Tennessee .

The campus of the fictitious ‘Ithaca University’ is the University of Georgia in Athens (though the opening aerial shot is of Harvard University , Cambridge , Massachusetts , later recycled in the same director’s Old School ).

The University of Tennessee in Knoxville is the real thing, but the ‘University of Austin’ is Emory University , Atlanta , and ‘Memphis’ is Broadway , Nashville .

The foursome stop for breakfast in the Gwinnett Diner, Highway 124 at Gwinnett Drive, Lawrenceville , Georgia . You’ve missed your opportunity to sample the French toast – the diner closed in mid-2011.

Visit The Film Locations

Georgia | atlanta.

Visit: Georgia

Visit: Atlanta

Flights: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport , 6000 North Terminal Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30320 ( tel: 800.897.1910 )

Visit: Tennessee

Visit: Memphis

Flights: Memphis International Airport , 2491 Winchester Road, Memphis, TN 38116 ( tel: 901.922.8000 )

Massachusetts | Boston

Visit: Massachusetts

Visit: Boston

Flights: Logan International Airport , 1 Harborside Drive, Boston, MA 02128 ( tel: 800.235.6426 )

Travel around: MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority)

Road Trip (2000)

Four college buddies embark on a road trip to retrieve an illicit tape mistakenly mailed to a female friend.

Filming Locations

Austin, Texas, United States Athens, Georgia, United States Knoxville, Tennessee, United States Lawrenceville, Georgia, United States Nashville, Tennessee, United States Atlanta, Georgia, United States Cumming, Georgia, United States Connecticut, United States Los Angeles, California, United States Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States Memphis, Tennessee, United States Georgia, United States United States

Filming Dates

16 October 1999 - 27 December 1999

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Where to Watch

Edit this movie listing.

Breckin Meyer, Seann William Scott, Amy Smart, Paulo Costanzo, DJ Qualls, Tom Green, Rachel Blanchard, Marla Sucharetza, Anthony Rapp, Andy Dick, Fred Ward, Ethan Suplee, Horatio Sanz, Rhoda Griffis, Jessica Cauffiel, Patricia Gaul, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Jimmy Kimmel, Matt Walsh, Todd Phillips, Mia Amber Davis.

Sheldon Kahn, Peter Teschner

Director of Photography

Original music composer.

Michael Simpson

Nancy Nayor, Ann Goulder

Executive Producers

Ivan Reitman, Tom Pollock

Production Design

Clark Hunter

Screenplays

Todd Phillips, Scot Armstrong

Todd Phillips

Daniel Goldberg, Joe Medjuck

Set Decoration

Traci Kirshbaum

Art Direction

Costume design.

Peggy Stamper

Script Supervisor

Barbara Tuss

Hairstylist

Joani Yarbrough

Makeup Department Head

Harriette Landau

Production Companies

The Montecito Picture Company, DreamWorks Pictures

Exterior scenes of girl on bus

Montage footage as the guys sing along to "i wanna rock", opening aerial shot, exterior bus shots, kyle eats pancakes, are we missing a location.

Maybe you know a location we are currently missing, contribute by adding to our growing database.

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Substance & Meaningful Entertainment

Against gossip & scandal, independent media network, global stories from local perspective, factual culture news, the best usa road trip map of important movie landmarks & filming locations.

David Tsintsadze is a music industry executive, investigative reporter and a film enthusiast. As far back as he remembers, he always wanted to be involved in the entertainment industry. When that started to happen and he began to really understand how it all worked, he found that his love of both the creative arts and the relevant industry allowed him to move between the two worlds and make them relate to each other. David’s belief in meaningful entertainment coincides with Hollywood Insider’s values and in his vision, cultural intermediaries play a crucial role in shaping and exchanging culture, which he firmly believes is one of the main contribution in creation of a free and vibrant society that people want to live in.

Mar 25, 2021

Video Version of this Article

Photo/Video: Movie Filming Locations/Andrea David/ Hollywood Insider  YouTube Channel

  To paraphrase Mark Twain’s famous opening line, there comes a time in every rightly constructed person’s life when they get a raging desire to get in a car and drive through the country. In the strange present days of self-confinement, having “a wheel in your hand and four on the road” is becoming a need. While this is not the best time for road adventures , once the pandemic ends, the influx of people rushing to their cars and heading out on the highway seems inevitable.

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If you enjoy the road and fancy yourself a movie buff, you probably know that when it comes to it, no country has more magic to offer than the USA, and nowhere has the road culture seemed more attractive than in American Cinema. Every US state has its own movie landmarks and locations, some of them have grown into cherished sites of local culture and tourism. So as a fantasy prequel for the future “new normal” and the time when we might actually be able to “put four on the road”, here is a map of a 3,750 mile, 70-hour cross-country road trip, directing you through 14 important landmarks of the American Cinema.

As a forewarning, this East-to-West journey will intentionally skip some of the most beaten paths and locations like in Manhattan, D.C., Vegas, and L.A. – not to be a hipster about it but does anyone really need a separate guide on how to reach the White House or the Griffiths Observatory?      

Important Movie Landmarks and Filming Locations

  Cape Forchu, Nova Scotia – ‘ The Lighthouse ’ 

While not on US territory, the 32-day shoot of the Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson film ‘The Lighthouse’ took place in the southernmost part of Nova Scotia – just a 2-hour sailing distance from the shores of Maine. A full-scale, working lighthouse was built by the crew under circumstances that were no less unforgiving in real life than they appeared in the film – the desolate landscape and relentless wind didn’t make it an easy task to shoot this black & white movie.

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Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA, – ‘ Manchester by the Sea ’ 

This Matt Damon -produced movie was nominated for 5 Golden Globes and although it’s set in a place that is neither spectacular nor glamorous – working-class fishing neighborhoods along Massachusetts’ North Shore – it definitely captured the quaint, close-knit community life of classic New England coastal towns together with their traditions and their accents.

Although the town is only seven square miles, it has more than 10 miles of shore with beaches and spots for commercial fishing. One of the town’s most visited spots is the “ Singing Beach ,” named for the sound the sand makes when people walk across it.

World’s Fair Towers, NY – ‘ Men in Black II ’

One of the most prominent relics of the 1964 World’s Fair were its observation towers, which, while operational, provided a perspective of the Queens borough that remains unmatched to this day. But to NYC millennials, they were just two weird, rusting monuments to the brutalist/modernist architecture of the space age. But after “Men in Black II” it suddenly made total sense to everyone – of course, these couldn’t have been anything but disguised flying saucers because, as Agent K justly notes, “Why else hold it in Queens?”

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Satin Dolls Strip Club, NJ – ‘ The Sopranos ’

“Bada Bing!”, the main headquarters of the Jersey “glorified crew”, really does exist in Jersey, only the name of the original gentlemen’s club is “Satin Dolls”. Occasionally, when watching, you can even see the neon “Satin Dolls” logo on an interior wall of the place. The club boasts that some of the girls that dance at the club are the same girls that were filmed in the series, but there is one major deviation – NJ State Law prohibits nude dancing in establishments that sell alcohol, so the topless dancing, which serves as the background to at least 15 key scenes and happenings, would have been impossible in the real world.

Rocky Steps and Statue, PA – ‘ Rocky ’

The training montage of Rocky where he is running up and down the 72 stone steps in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art has become one of the most celebrated metaphors of resilience and of an underdog rising up to the challenge, but many people do not know that it was also one of the first uses of the Steadicam in a major film, as the operator climbed the steps together with Rocky while filming the sequence.

Nowadays, the steps and the statue have become one of the city’s main attractions, and thousands of tourists recreate the steps every month, as the city was forever immortalized with Sylvester Stallone’s tale of one aspiring boxer.

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Ohio State Reformatory, OH – ‘ Shawshank Redemption ’

“After years of loving it, get busy living it” – reads the Ohio State Reformatory promotional website and it’s hard to say whether that line should excite you or give you the creeps, or both. In any case, “Hollywood’s Favorite Prison” is open for anyone who wants to recreate moments from the iconic film. You can also “do time” in the Shawshank Museum and meet a guide who has actually done time in that very prison. It’s also very possible that, surrounded by the grim prison walls, you’ll discover that hope is a really good thing, maybe the best of things.     

Fort Knox, KY – ‘ Goldfinger ’ 

The 1964 Sean Connery entry “Goldfinger” is, per the critical consensus, the best James Bond film ever made. Some of its crucial scenes where Goldfinger tries to attack the gold reserves and bring chaos to world financial markets while greatly increasing the value of his personal gold supplies (basically making a r/wallstreetbets move of the 60s), is filmed in Kentucky.

The permission to film the scene of Pussy Galore’s Flying Circus flying over Fort Knox and spraying gas over its guards was not easily obtained and, if not for producer Cubby Broccoli’s connections with the Kennedys , the iconic scene wouldn’t have happened at all.

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Various locations in Memphis, TN – ‘ Mystery Train ’

When Jim Jarmusch was driving around without direction in Memphis, scouting for a possible location for the movie, he was instantly fascinated by the intersection of a non-functioning train station, the Arcade Restaurant , and the abandoned Arcade Hotel. The haunted environment of the crossroads added the phantasmal feel common to all three stories presented in the film.

Jarmusch himself once said that above all, the film was about different cultures interacting with each other and about making a pilgrimage to the birthplace of a certain culture. While the Arcade Hotel is no more, the Arcade Restaurant, which is showcased in the middle of the movie, is very much up and running, and could serve as a great stopping point for any movie pilgrim. 

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, LA – ‘ Easy Rider ’

This French Quarter cemetery is owned by the Catholic Church and, needless to say, the scene in which Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper drop acid with two prostitutes, experience a bad trip, and engage in drug-induced sexual activities were filmed without any permission and caused a scandal after the movie got released. Nowadays, the cemetery is a for-profit venture as it gathers mandatory entrance fees from everyone who wants to check it out. Apart from the “Easy Rider” sequence, the cemetery has other great stories to tell and is the final resting place for an array of historical figures. Also, it apparently is the future resting place for Nicholas Cage , who constructed a pyramid crypt for himself, for when the time comes.     

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The Texas Chainsaw House in Kingsland, TX – ‘ The Texas Chainsaw Massacre ’

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is undoubtedly one of the most influential horror movies ever made. Its documentary-like filming style and intense tone make it powerful even today, and no wonder that the house in which Tobe Hooper’s filmed his classic has become one of horror’s most iconic locations.

The white, Victorian house that introduced the world to Leatherface is located in Kingsland, an hour’s drive from Austin. Prior to filming, it was a normal single-family home. Today, it is home to the Grand Central Café , a southern-style restaurant, open to the public – you can actually dine safely there, without having to fear that you yourself might end up on the menu..

White Sands National Park, NM – ‘ Star Wars ’, ‘ Jarhead ’, ‘ The Mule ’ 

Around 25 major movies have been filmed in this New Mexico national park, as its rolling, bright, white sand dunes have set the scene for westerns, science fiction, and apocalyptic films for more than 50 years. This incredible natural wonder creates an otherworldly expanse straight out of Star Wars, some parts of which were also filmed here, as were scenes from “ Book of Eli ”, “ Transformers 2 ”, and many other big-budget films. The location is so out-of-this-world that even David Bowie graced it with his alien presence when filming “ The Man Who Fell to Earth ”. 

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The Pioneer Saloon, NV – ‘ Fallout: New Vegas ’

This world-famous Nevada tavern is a very special place in the surrounding cultural ecosystem. It was here that Clark Gable awaited word of the fate of his beautiful wife, Carole Lombard . The crash site is actually not too far from the bar, located on the nearby Mt. Potosi, where the plane she was in crashed, killing all aboard in January of 1942. Cigarette burns can still be seen on the wood of the bar table at which he awaited the terrible news.

In addition to starring in several movies, the Saloon is of quintessential importance in the cult game Fallout: New Vegas , which starts when you, the protagonist, awaken in the Saloon. Naturally, lots of Fallout memorabilia and souvenirs can be found and bought here and it’s the perfect start for a pilgrimage to the game’s real-life locations in Nevada.

Dunder Mifflin Office, CA – ‘ The Office ’  

Los Angeles has been immortalized so many times in movies and television that there’s always something vaguely familiar when you walk or drive through its neighborhoods. Some of the streets and buildings you pass by have been portrayed in so many movies that it can really feel like you’re on this huge film set, instead of a city.

But you also meet several landmarks that you probably wouldn’t even suspect you would find here – Like the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company building, which on the contrary of popular thought, is not located in Scranton, PA but in San Fernando Valley, LA, and that probably gives the idea of how versatile movie and TV industry really is with its locations.

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Mulholland Drive, CA – ‘ Mulholland Drive ’

It was by no accident that David Lynch named his famous seductive and scary vision of Los Angeles after this twisted 40-mile road –  the name alone conjures up images of mansions, celebrities, and stunning views of the city. But besides the glamour and beautiful scenery, driving this road at night can definitely awaken the ominous feeling so familiar from the Lynch masterpiece. With some of LA’s most pricey private properties and futuristic design mansions on one side and the raw wilderness on the other, it can sometimes feel as if you are crossing the border between artificial and natural worlds – a flirtation which is so deeply explored in the movie.  

Mulholland Drive starts in the Hollywood Hills and meanders through the Santa Monica Mountains before turning into Mulholland Highway – which is dubbed as the deadliest road in Southern California being a favorite spot for thrill-seekers looking to race along the winding and twisting road at breakneck speeds. The result has been deadly and the number of car accidents on this section of Mulholland is staggering. It also has been the ultimate spot for drug deals, gang gatherings, graveyard of cars plunged off its steep curves, and wild parties ending in violence and casualties.

Mulholland Drive is a film that thrives on its inability to be completely discovered and for that reason, watching it over and over again still feels like watching a completely different film. Likewise, driving the road can be a different adventure every time, and probably every self-respecting movie buff should engage in that hypnotic trip when in California. 

By  David Tsintsadze

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31 Iconic Filming Locations Around the World You Can Actually Visit

From Walter White's house to the beach from Lost , here's where to find some of Hollywood's most iconic filming locations.

If you could step into the world of your favorite film or television series, would you? Most of us wouldn't hesitate to answer "yes." And while there is, of course, no way to magically transport yourself into the movie of your choice, you can visit the real-life locations where several iconic flicks and series were filmed.

From entire towns to tiny, hidden gems off the beaten path, Hollywood tends to go for unique and extravagant locales when it ventures off the backlots (think ancient Middle Eastern temples, otherworldly terrain, and the glamorous streets of Manhattan ). But that's not the rule. For example, our list includes an unassuming New Mexico gas station and a set of city steps in the Bronx.

So, whether you're dreaming of living out your Lord of the Rings fantasies or you're just dying to get a photo in front of Walter White's Breaking Bad house, the list below will tell you exactly how and where to make that happen. And who knows? Maybe a few of these iconic filming locations are even close enough to inspire a summer road trip!

Hobbiton in Matamata, Waikato, New Zealand — The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

The cozy town of Hobbiton, home to Frodo and Bilbo Baggins, may have been created specifically for The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films , but the storybook-like set remains. If you ever find yourself in the New Zealand town of Matamata, you can book one of several guided tours which takes fans to filming spots like the Green Dragon Inn, Hobbit Holes, and the Mill.

Al Khazneh in Petra, Jordan — "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade"

If you're a fan of the Indiana Jones film series (and let's be honest, who isn't?), you may know this wonder of a structure as the mystical temple of the Holy Grail, which is carved into the side of a canyon. In reality, the Al Khazneh temple exists as an ancient mausoleum in Petra, Jordan . Visitors aren't able to venture inside the temple, but they're not missing much — in contrast to the film's intricate chambers and booby traps, the inside of Al Khazneh is simply a small, stone room.

Mokule’ia Beach in Oahu, Hawaii — Lost

Dreaming of visiting the crash site of Oceanic flight 815 ? Head to Oahu's Mokule'ia Beach , which was used as not only the crash site, but also the location of the survivors' camp in the first season of the mega-popular series. Though the series changed filming locations in the later seasons, fans of the show often stop by Mokule'ia to see where it all began. Book a tour to see more Lost sites, such as the Dharma village, Jacob's lighthouse, and more.

Dubrovnik, Croatia — Game of Thrones

If you were to walk down the streets of coastal city Dubrovnik, Croatia , you'd immediately recognize the cobblestone roads and gothic architecture as King's Landing, aka the capital of the Seven Kingdoms in Game of Thrones . If you want to snap some selfies in particularly iconic spots, head to the Old Town neighborhood or the Walls of Dubrovnik, where members of the Lannister family spent much of the series brooding.

Astoria, Oregon — "The Goonies"

Because the '80s classic was both set and filmed in Astoria, the Oregon port town is filled with "Goonies" relics. While there's no comprehensive tour of all the must-see film sites, fans regularly create their own tours by visiting the home of Mikey (Sean Astin) and Brand (Josh Brolin) on 38th street, Ecola State Park (the former site of the Fratellis' restaurant), Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach, and more.

King’s Cross Station in London — Harry Potter

Even if you've only seen the first Harry Potter film once, you likely remember the iconic scene in which Harry and the Weasley family walk straight through a brick wall at King's Cross Station to reach Platform 9-and-three-quarters. The magical platform to the Hogwarts Express is seen and mentioned again multiple times throughout the film series, and has become so well known that King's Cross Station actually marked the platform between platforms nine and 10. HP fans now regularly stop there for photoshoots.

Oxford University in England — Harry Potter

The famed English university served as the set of numerous scenes throughout the Harry Potter series. From staircases to cloisters to the school's Bodleian Library , so many corners of the university ended up becoming parts of Hogwarts that a visit there may feel like a visit to the actual wizarding world. To top it off, the great hall of Oxford's Christ Church College was the inspiration behind Hogwarts' Great Hall, and the two are nearly identical.

Glenfinnan Viaduct in Inverness-shire, Scotland — Harry Potter

Glenfinnan is a scenic hamlet in the Scottish Highlands , and it also happens to be the home of the Hogwarts Express track, aka the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The elevated track, which was used in the second and third Harry Potter films ("The Chamber of Secrets" and "The Prisoner of Azkaban," respectively), draws fans from all over the world. You can see the viaduct by stopping at the Glenfinnan Visitor Center, or by booking a train ride across it .

Baseball Field in Dyersville, Iowa — "Field of Dreams"

"If you build it, he will come!" The famous line from 1989's "Field of Dreams" must've been somewhat prophetic, because now, people from around the world come to see the Iowa baseball field that was built for the movie. Head to Dyersville on any given summer day and watch hoards of film buffs gather on the diamond to play some ball, tour the site, or even rent out the home from the movie .

Devil’s Tower in Wyoming — "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"

Any "Close Encounters" fan will recognize Devil's Tower as the mysterious mountain at the center of the movie's plot. The otherworldly, flat-topped structure is actually a real mountain (or butte) in the Bear Lodge Ranger District of northeastern Wyoming. It became the first U.S. national monument in 1906, and while you won't find any extraterrestrial beings at its base, you will see plenty of wildlife and awe-striking scenery.

Painted Ladies in San Francisco — Full House

Most '90s babies will remember the scene in the opening credits of Full House in which the Tanner family has a picnic in front of a scenic row of colorful houses. Well, those houses actually exist. If you head to San Francisco's Alamo Square, you can sit on the lawn and take in the sight of those 7 iconic Victorian homes across the street. (Though if you want to see the house used as the Tanners' actual home in the show, you'll have to head a mile northwest to 1709 Broderick Street.)

Apartment Building at 90 Bedford Street in New York City — Friends

Friends has amassed a cult following of sorts over the years, so it's only fitting that the apartment building used for exterior shots of the characters' homes became a major tourist attraction . While the interiors of the two main apartments in the show were actually just Burbank-based sets, the greenish-gray facade used for the exteriors can be found on the corner of Bedford and Grove Streets in Manhattan's Greenwich Village .

Skellig Michael, County of Kerry, Ireland — "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and "Star Wars: The Last Jedi"

Good news, Star Wars fans: You can visit a piece of the film franchise's history IRL if you're willing to travel to a remote part of Ireland . The island of Skellig Michael played the part of Ahch-To, the rocky planet where Luke Skywalker and Rey spent time in "The Force Awakens" and "The Last Jedi." Interestingly, most parts of Skellig Michael that fans see in the movies are actually part of a 1,500-year-old Gaelic monastery.

Hanapepe Valley in Kauai, Hawaii — "Jurassic Park" and "Jurassic World"

Remember that scene in the original "Jurassic Park" film where the cast helicopters down onto Isla Nublar as a giant waterfall cascades behind them? Well, that waterfall really exists — in Hawaii. It's part of Kauai's lush Hanapepe Valley, which is actually the site of several scenes in both "Jurassic Park" and "Jurassic World." Hawaii visitors can even go on guided Jurassic Park -themed tours to see multiple filming locations from the movies.

Albuquerque, New Mexico — Breaking Bad

Any Breaking Bad fan would recognize the house at 3828 Piermont Dr. NE in Albuquerque, New Mexico: It's the home of Walter White. But that's not the only location from the show you can visit around town. Stop by the A1A Car Wash (actually called Mister Car Wash) at 9516 Snow Heights Circle, then head to Mexican restaurant Twisters on Isleta Boulevard, which played the role of the Los Pollos Hermanos fast food joint in the show.

Doune Castle in Doune, Scotland — "Monty Python and the Holy Grail"

Fun fact about Doune Castle: It was used to depict nearly every castle the characters travel to in "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" — the producers simply used different angles to create the illusion that numerous locations were used. Head to the Stirling district of central Scotland if you'd like to visit — and because fans of the film regularly stop by, there should be plenty of people around with whom you can discuss the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow.

Point Dume, Malibu — "Planet of the Apes"

This unassuming beach may not look much different than any other beach along the California coast , but it's actually part of one of the most famous plot twists in cinematic history. At the end of the original "Planet of the Apes" film, the characters walk along this very beach, believing they're on another planet, only to come across the ruins of the Statue of Liberty. Though no props from the movie remain, fans regularly stop by Point Dume for photos.

Skopelos, Greece — "Mamma Mia!"

It's hard to forget the vibrant colors and stunning architecture of the Greek island in "Mamma Mia!" Though the story takes place on a fictional island, fans can visit the real-life island of Skopelos in the western Aegean Sea, where the movie was shot. You can even hop on a bus tour that takes fans to several iconic filming locations, including the Agios Ioannis Chapel and Kastani Beach.

Belvoir Castle, Wilton House, Burghley House, and Hatfield House in England — The Crown

The Crown 's filming locations include towns and palaces all over the United Kingdom , but fans are most likely to recognize England's Belvoir Castle, Wilton House, Burghley House, and Hatfield House — all of which have ties to real royalty. These four estates were used for both exterior and interior shots in the series, and fans may particularly recognize Belvoir Castle and Wilton House as a stand-ins for Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace , respectively.

Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment in New York City — Sex and the City

And I couldn't help but wonder... what ever happened to Carrie Bradshaw's apartment? If you, like many Sex and the City fans, have asked yourself that question in recent years, the answer is right where it's always been: 66 Perry Street in Manhattan's West Village. Though the interior shots of Carrie's famous digs were filmed on sets, you can visit the brownstone used for the exteriors. While you're at it, grab a seat on a SATC hotspot tour to see more famous locales from the show.

Bayon Temple, Cambodia — "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider"

Believe it or not, the ethereal stone palace Angelina Jolie's character travels to in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" was not a set built for the movie. This very real Cambodian structure is known as Bayon Temple, and fans of the franchise can find it in the Jayavarman capital of Angkor Thom. It was originally built as a Buddhist temple, but tourists now visit to see Bayon's hieroglyphic-like art and "face towers," which feature hundreds of carved faces.

Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio — "The Shawshank Redemption"

If you want to get up close and personal with the prison Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) famously escaped from in "The Shawshank Redemption," you can — but you'll have to travel to Ohio rather than Maine, where the film takes place. Ohio State Reformatory lies about halfway between Cleveland and Columbus , and if you stop for a photo or tour (the reformatory hasn't actually been used as a prison since 1990), you'll notice it still looks exactly like Shawshank State Penitentiary.

Cafe des 2 Moulins in Paris — "Amélie"

Whether you sit down and have a meal at Cafe des 2 Moulins or simply stop out front for a photo, this aesthetically pleasing eatery is a must-visit for fans of French rom-com "Amélie." The quintessential Parisian cafe, adorned with bright red awning, is the workplace of the film's title character, and pays homage to its history with paintings of Amélie incorporated into the decor. You can find the cafe at 15 Rue Lepic in Montmartre.

The Harbor Freeway in Los Angeles — "La La Land"

Few films open with as much gusto as "La La Land." The vivacious dance moves, the brightly colored cars and clothes, and downtown Los Angeles glimmering in the distance — it's truly an unforgettable scene, and it all takes place on the Harbor Freeway, one of LA's busiest roadways. Because the road is an elevated highway, there aren't many ways to visit it, per se, but if you're in LA, you can drive across it near the city's center.

Varda Viaduct in Adana, Turkey — "Skyfall"

If you're a James Bond fan, the ominous Varda Viaduct is worth a visit. Originally built as a railway between Europe and the Middle East, the viaduct was featured in the opening chase scene of 2012's "Skyfall" and has become a treasured piece of Bond history. You can visit by riding a train across or by parking at a nearby overlook.

Staircase at West 167th Street in the Bronx — "Joker"

For years, the set of steps that connect Shakespeare and Anderson Avenues in the Bronx's Highbridge neighborhood were just that: a set of steps. That all changed when Joaquin Phoenix famously danced down them in 2019's "Joker." When the stairs even appeared in the film's poster, fans began flocking to New York City just to take a photo in front of them. The steps are, of course, still there today, but you may have to fight through a crowd of Batman fanatics to get a good look at them.

Tom’s Restaurant in New York City — Seinfeld

While all those famous Monk's Cafe scenes in Seinfeld were filmed on a soundstage, an actual New York diner was used for the exterior shots! Tom's Restaurant in Manhattan's Morningside Heights neighborhood starred as the eatery Jerry and his friends frequented in the sitcom, and the restaurant is still open today. According to reviews, the food there is actually pretty fantastic — and you can head to the corner of Broadway and West 112th Street to try it for yourself.

Apartment Building at 455 Water Street in Brooklyn — Gossip Girl

Whether you're an Upper East Sider, a Brooklynite, or none of the above, you likely remember the brown brick apartment building next to the Manhattan Bridge as the home of Penn Badgley's Gossip Girl character, Dan Humphrey. Well, if you head to Water Street in Brooklyn's glitzy DUMBO neighborhood, you can actually catch a glimpse of the building's interior. While NYC Gossip Girl tours exist, most focus on Manhattan locations and leave the beloved Brooklyn facade off the list.

Pike Place Market in Seattle — "Sleepless in Seattle"

Are you a romantic-comedy superfan? If so, you may want to plan a trip to Seattle for a DIY "Sleepless in Seattle" tour. The city's ever popular Pike Place Market is the setting of multiple scenes, whereas the houseboat used as Sam and Jonah's home in the film can be found on the dock near Westlake Avenue North. And make sure to check out Athenian Seafood Restaurant & Bar, which features a barstool with a plaque reading "Tom Hanks Sat Here," referencing the scene filmed there.

Katz Delicatessen in New York City — "When Harry Met Sally"

Want to have what she's having? Head to 205 East Houston Street on New York City's Lower East Side to find Katz Deli, aka the place where the most iconic scene from "When Harry Met Sally" took place. Aside from its appearance in one of the most well-known rom-coms of all time, Katz Delicatessen has also become famous over the past few decades for serving up enormous pastrami sandwiches (which is just another reason to visit, if you ask us).

Stairs to the Philadelphia Museum of Art — "Rocky"

Cue the "Rocky" theme music! Sylvester Stallone's Rocky Balboa triumphantly running up a city staircase is arguably one of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history. And if you head to Philly , you can not only see those exact stairs, but you can recreate the scene entirely. The staircase actually serves as the entrance to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, but luckily, you can visit the stairs without having a ticket to the museum.

Hillary Maglin is a digital editor who splits most of her time between New York City and Pittsburgh. You can find her on Instagram @hillarymaglin , where her DMs are always open to discuss travel gear, wine bars, and Taylor Swift's latest record.

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Lights, Camera, Action! A Guide to Planning a Movie Location Road Trip

by DriveSafe Online Staff | Aug 31, 2023 | Travel

Planning a driving trip to explore famous movie location sites is a thrilling adventure that allows you to step into the cinematic world and witness the places where your favorite films were brought to life. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these locations hold a special charm for movie enthusiasts. In this article, we will highlight some popular movie location sites and provide valuable tips for planning your own movie-inspired road trip.

Identify Famous Movie Location Sites

To kickstart your movie location road trip, identify specific cities that have served as backdrops for famous films. Some notable examples include:

New York City, NY:

Explore the bustling streets of New York City and visit locations featured in iconic films like “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,” “Ghostbusters,” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”

Los Angeles, CA:

Discover the glamour of Hollywood and explore locations from films such as “La La Land,” “Pretty Woman,” and “The Fast and the Furious” franchise.

Of course, once you select a city to visit, you’ll need to choose specific sites to explore. Here are a few famous options:

Central Park, New York City, New York – Featured in numerous films, including “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” and “When Harry Met Sally.”

Times Square, New York City, New York – A popular filming location seen in movies like “Spider-Man” and “The Avengers.”

The Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, California – Known for its appearances in films like “Rebel Without a Cause” and “La La Land.”

The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California – Featured in movies such as “Vertigo” and “X-Men: The Last Stand.”

The Parker House, Cleveland, Ohio – Featured in the movie “A Christmas Story,” the real house has been transformed into a museum. You can visit the house and explore the iconic sets and memorabilia from the movie.

The Empire State Building, New York City, New York – Iconic landmark seen in films like “King Kong” and “Sleepless in Seattle.”

The Field of Dreams, Dyersville, Iowa – Famous for its role in the film “Field of Dreams,” attracting fans who come to play catch on the field.

The French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana – Featured in films like “Interview with the Vampire” and “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah – Renowned for its appearance in classic Western films such as “Stagecoach” and “Once Upon a Time in the West.”

The USS Midway Museum, San Diego, California – A decommissioned aircraft carrier seen in films like “Top Gun” and “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.”

Rocky Stairs, Philadelphia, PA – The iconic scene of Rocky Balboa running up the steps has become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of determination and triumph. These steps are located at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

These real location sites in the United States have gained popularity among movie fans who are eager to visit the places where their favorite films were shot. Exploring these iconic destinations allows fans to relive memorable movie moments and connect with the magic of cinema.

Research and Plan Your Route

Once you’ve identified the movie location sites you want to visit, it’s time to plan your route. Conduct thorough research on the locations, including their addresses, accessibility, and any restrictions that may be in place. Utilize online resources, travel blogs, and movie location guidebooks to gather valuable information.

Create an Itinerary

To make the most of your movie location road trip, create a detailed itinerary that includes the specific sites you want to visit, the estimated time needed at each location, and nearby attractions or points of interest. Be realistic about the number of sites you can cover in a day to avoid feeling rushed.

Use GPS and Navigation Tool

Ensure you have a reliable GPS or navigation system to help you navigate your way to each movie location. Use smartphone apps or dedicated GPS devices to get accurate directions and real-time traffic updates. Additionally, keep a physical map as a backup in case of any technological glitches.

Consider Time Constraints

Take into account the time required to travel between movie locations, as well as the visiting hours of each site. Some locations may have specific opening hours or limited access, so plan accordingly. It’s also essential to factor in traffic conditions and consider visiting popular sites during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.

Budget for Entrance Fees and Parking

Keep in mind that some movie location sites may charge entrance fees or require paid parking. Research and budget for these additional expenses in advance to avoid any surprises. Consider purchasing any necessary tickets online to save time and ensure availability.

Capture the Magic

As you visit each movie location, don’t forget to capture the magic through photographs and videos. Recreate famous movie scenes, strike a pose, and create your own cinematic memories. Share your experiences on social media using relevant hashtags and connect with fellow movie enthusiasts.

Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture

While visiting movie locations is the primary focus of your trip, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local culture surrounding each site. Try local cuisine, engage with locals, and explore nearby attractions to make your experience even more enriching.

Respect the Locations

When visiting movie location sites, it’s crucial to be respectful of the surroundings. Follow any guidelines or rules set by the location owners or authorities. Avoid littering, defacing property, or disrupting the peace. Remember that these locations are not only movie landmarks but also cherished spaces for locals and other visitors.

Stay Safe and Secure

While on your movie location road trip, prioritize your safety and security. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas. Keep your valuables secure and lock your vehicle when exploring the sites. If you’re visiting remote or secluded locations, inform someone about your itinerary and expected return time.

Connect with Local Film Tourism

Consider connecting with local film tourism organizations or enthusiasts who can provide insider information and recommendations. They may offer guided tours, movie-themed events, or additional insights into the movie locations you’re visiting. Engaging with like-minded individuals can enhance your overall experience.

Enjoy the Journey

Remember that the movie location road trip is not just about reaching the destinations; it’s also about the journey itself. Embrace the adventure, enjoy the scenic drives, and savor the moments along the way. Take breaks, explore charming towns, and be open to unexpected detours or discoveries.

Embarking on a movie location road trip is an exciting way to explore the cinematic world and immerse yourself in the magic of beloved films. By identifying famous movie location sites, planning your route, and creating a well-thought-out itinerary, you can make the most of your trip. Remember to be respectful of the locations, stay safe, and embrace the journey. So buckle up, hit the road, and let the movies inspire your travels as you discover the real-life backdrops that have captivated audiences around the world. Lights, camera, road trip!

Patrick M. is Editorial Director for the always expanding DriveSafe Online library of courses. With over two decades of experience developing award-winning training, he now focuses on innovating online driver safety training. Pulling from his background in journalism, he steers the wheel behind the creation of top-tier content that promotes a better journey—whether on the digital highway of learning or the real roads we travel every day.

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25 Essential Road Trip Movies of the Last 25 Years

We’re looking down the horizon and beyond for some of the best road trip movies that defined the genre over the last 25 years! To rev up this list, we selected American movies movies, journeys that begin in the States (where they actually finish is part of the fun). The movies celebrate the sights and sounds of the country, or at least will inspire you to pull out that camping gear, putting the convertible top down, and hitting the open road. These rides can be cross-county ( Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle ), on the freeway ( Dog , Sideways ), trekking across a few state lines ( Little Miss Sunshine , Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas ), hitting a new time zone ( Road Trip ), or even runnin’ coast-to-coast ( Rat Race , Transamerica ). Even the Academy has felt the need for reasonable speed, awarding Best Picture to both Green Book and Nomadland . Carpool lane? Of course: we’ve got an Oscar strapped in the passenger seat!

So whether you’re looking for a map to a long summer drive or fixing a flat in your life, turn to these essential 25 road trip movies of the last 25 years (in chronological order)!

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) 50%

The Straight Story (1999) 94%

Tumbleweeds (1999) 82%

Almost Famous (2000) 91%

Road Trip (2000) 57%

Rat Race (2001) 45%

Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004) 75%

Sideways (2004) 97%

Transamerica (2005) 77%

Little Miss Sunshine (2006) 91%

Cars (2006) 75%

Zombieland (2009) 89%

Away We Go (2009) 67%

Paul (2011) 70%

We're the Millers (2013) 48%

Chef (2014) 87%

Grandma (2015) 91%

Mississippi Grind (2015) 91%

Pee-wee's Big Holiday (2016) 83%

Green Book (2018) 77%

Nomadland (2020) 93%

The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021) 97%

Bad Trip (2021) 79%

Dog (2022) 77%

Joy Ride (2023) 90%

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Top Road Trips for Movie Buffs

If you love movies and going on a road trip, then the USA is the best place to visit since many famous films have been shot across this beautiful country. To make your trip more memorable, we have created two road trip routes for movie buffs. Book a car rental at VroomVroomVroom, grab your camera, and take a selfie in these popular movie locations.

New York to Washington D.C. Movie Road Trip

The Big Apple is definitely a movie buff paradise. Did you know that Central Park was featured in more than 200 films in the past 20 years? Start your road trip in New York and explore the wonderful movie locations along the way until you reach the film sites in Washington D.C.

Suggested Itinerary:

• If you love classic films, then make sure to visit Tiffany & Co. on Fifth Avenue where a scene from Audrey Hepburn's iconic movie Breakfast at Tiffany's was shot.
• Reenact the giant piano scene that was made famous by Tom Hanks in the 80s film Big with your pal. It took place at the FAO Schwarz toy store on Fifth Avenue.
• The firehouse where the Ghostbusters team was formed is a real firehouse in New York. It is called Hook & Ladder Company 8 located at 14 North Moore Street.

Philadephia

• Listening to "Eye of the Tiger" when you get to Philadelphia Museum of Art would make you feel like Rocky.
• Haley Joel Osment's character first saw dead people at 2302 St. Alban's Place in the supernatural thriller Sixth Sense.

• Ricki Lake who plays Tracy in the 1988 dance comedy film Hairspray studies at Mergenthaler Vocational High School in Baltimore, Maryland.
• Grab your video camera and reenact some scenes from the indie film Blair Witch Project at Seneca Creek State Park in Montgomery County in Maryland.

Washington D.C.

• One of the scariest films of all time, The Exorcist , was set in Georgetown. You can find the home where the demonic possession happened at 3600 Prospect Street Northwest.
• Forrest Gump was filmed in various locations, but there was a scene in the movie wherein the lead character waded into the pool to be with his childhood sweetheart. That pool was the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

Directions: Start your road trip by renting a car in New York or at JFK. You can take the I-95 S route to get to Philadelphia which will only take an hour and a half. From Philly, it will only take less than an hour to reach Baltimore, Maryland. Take a short drive to Montgomery County before wrapping up your movie road trip in Washington D.C.

Los Angeles to Las Vegas Movie Road Trip

Called the City of Stars, L.A. is not only the home of celebrities, it is also a popular filming location because of its glitz and glamour. Another city that has been featured in numerous movies is Las Vegas and this is where all the crazy things happen.

Suggested itinerary:

• Put on your dancing shoes, grab your partner, and dance the night away like Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone in La La Land . This romantic scene was filmed at Griffith Park.
• If you want to find your Richard Gere, then strut your stuff at Rodeo Drive like Julia Roberts in the blockbuster movie Pretty Woman .
• They filmed the scene where John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John sang “Summer Lovin'” in the movie Grease at the bleachers and cafeteria of Venice High School.
• Show your cheerleading moves at the San Diego State University where Kristen Dunst's teen flick Bring It On was filmed.
• If you are a fan of Tom Cruise, then make sure to drop by Kansas City Barbeque, which they claim to be the home of Top Gun's bar scenes.

• Star Wars fans should definitely make a stop at the sand dunes around Yuma where Episode VI Return of the Jedi was filmed.
• It is given that Nicholas Cage's Raising Arizona was shot in Arizona and the Short Stop store is still standing but is now called Circle K.
• The 45-mile long lake in Lake Havasu City was the scene of all mayhem in the horror film Piranha 3D.
• Ocean's Eleven , which starred Brad Pitt and George Clooney, was set in Las Vegas. The casino scenes were filmed at the Bellagio, but some movie sets were created, including the vault and suite.
• The comedy flick The Hangover was filmed in Las Vegas, but most scenes were shot at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino since that's where the four buddies stayed during their pal's stag party.

Directions: Start your movie tour in Los Angeles before taking a 2-hour drive to San Diego. From SDSU, take the I-8 route to reach Yuma then go on a 3-hour drive to reach Happy Valley. Go on another 3 and a half drive to reach Lake Havasu City before ending your movie tour in Las Vegas.

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Road Trip (2000)

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Home » Streaming Service » Apple TV+

From Atlanta to Las Vegas, here’s where The Family Plan was filmed

The Family Plan stars Mark Wahlberg as Dan Morgan, a devoted family man working as a car salesman and living his best life. However, the character has a decidedly more intriguing past, involving working as an assassin for the government, taking out some of the world’s deadliest threats. As is often the case when you are an ex-agent, enemies from the past rear their ugly heads and seek revenge, prompting our retired hero to pack his family up and announce he’s taking them off to Vegas on a road trip holiday. Given that premise, fans are interested in where The Family Plan  was filmed as the family moves throughout the U.S. to their eventual destination, so here’s what we’ve dug up, along with some other interesting production details as well.

Where was The Family Plan filmed?

Atlanta, georgia, canton, atlanta.

With a road trip movie, there is always going to be a lot of location work required, and reports indicate that the principal photography started in Atlanta before the family embarked on the road trip to Vegas.

Director Simon Cellan Jones promotes the film on his Instagram page and includes lots of pictures from the shoot, including a few from Atlanta. An article in Holly Buff reveals that the crew was spotted at the Bethany Bridge, situated in Bartow County, that crosses the Allatoona Creek arm of Lake Allatoona.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Simon Cellan Jones (@simon.cellanjones)

Located about forty miles North of downtown Atlanta, the city of Canton was a location used for the shoot, and in particular, a car dealership was used for a few scenes as well as a local ice cream shop that was re-dressed as Lambert’s Diner, a restaurant you will spot when you watch the movie.

Easy to spot during filming, you will notice shots of Buffalo New York, done via helicopter, in the movie, and the crew were on site for filming these scenes in November 2022.

Of course, with the final destination for our cast being Vegas, there was always going to be plenty of action filmed in Sin City. However you will be able to pick out a few iconic locations such as The Bellagio Hotel and The Strat Hotel and Casino Tower, and of course, you will see The Hoover Dam in The Black Canyon of The Colorado River.

RELATED: Is Baby Max in The Family Plan Real or CGI?

Here’s a video from Mark Wahlberg’s Instagram account outside the Strat:

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mark Wahlberg (@markwahlberg)

The Family Plan Production Timeline

Here’s a rough timeline for the production of  The Family Plan :

• In  August 2022 ,  Apple announced the film .
• In October 2022 , cast members were officially added to the film. Principal photography commenced shortly after this.
• Filming ran through all of 2022 and into 2023.  Throughout the process, the project was known as “Holiday Road”.
• The shoot wrapped in  February 2023 ,  with filming finishing in Las Vegas.
• The Family Plan was released on Apple TV+ on December 15, 2023 .

Who produced and directed The Family Plan?

The film was directed by Simon Cellan Jones, who is a British director and also worked with Wahlberg on another film that is yet to be released. He would make his mark in UK TV shows such as The Bill, Medics, Cracker, and Our Friends in the North , and has an impressive list of credentials under his belt. He would go on to work in some other high-profile US shows such as Jessica Jones , Ballers, and Boardwalk Empire .

The film was produced by David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, and Stephen Levinson. Mark Wahlberg is also named as a producer on the movie through his own production company Municipal Pictures.

• The Family Plan Ending Explained
• Will The Family Plan 2 be greenlit?

Article by Louie Fecou

Louie Fecou joined the Ready Steady Cut writing team back in August 2018 as an Entertainment Writer and, since then, has published over 1,000 articles for the site. Louie has proven experience in various publications, print and online. To kickstart his journalism career, in 2013, he was a columnist and writer for The Irvine Herald Newspaper.

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The Goonies Road Trip: Visit These 11 Filming Locations

From the Goonies House to Haystack Rock, and the jail where Jake Fratelli made a break for it, the Oregon coast is steeped in Goonies history.

Heyyy you guys! Avast ye and listen up, for I have a tale to tell ye about the Goonies filming locations. Have ye ever wondered where Mikey, Data, Chunk, Mouth, and Sloth embarked on their booty-busting adventure? Well, shiver me timbers and hoist the Jolly Roger, because we're about to journey to the very spot where this swashbuckling movie was filmed. We're setting our course for Astoria, Oregon , where the Goonies' treasure hunt all began on the Oregon Coast. So come aboard, ye scallywags, and let's set sail on a journey to uncover buried treasure.

Growing up in the eighties was just simply awesome. And while we didn't have a lot of really cool high-tech things to play with, our time was mostly filled with wrecking on our bikes, catching bugs, and of course wishing we were a real life Goonie.

I have another fun fact for all you movie fans out there before we proceed. Kindergarten Cop, was also another great movie filmed in Astoria !

The Goonies, among other great movies like The Ghostbusters, comes from a time when they really made a lot of great kids movies. The movies today for kids aren't bad, but I feel most of them can't even touch the movies we grew up with as they lack the imagination and magic that went into so many great films in those days.

The Goonies was a huge part of my childhood, and to this day remains one of my favorite movies ever made. While my children maybe don't have the same love for it that us eighties babies did, they still appreciate the flick.

RELATED: Fun Things To Do In Astoria Oregon

Personally, I have now made my way to the Goondocks many times. That is, of course, Astoria. As a native Oregonian writing this, I am truly grateful to be so close to the hometown of one of the best movies ever made in the 80s.

Goonies Filming Locations

First on the list of Goonies locations, and probably one of the most popular tourist attractions for Goonies lovers, was The Goonie's House in Astoria. The home is generally better known as Mikey's house. If you’re a true fan, then you know that visiting the infamous Goonie’s house is a must-do on your treasure-hunting adventure.

The iconic two-story Victorian house was famously featured in the 1985 Steven Spielberg classic and has become a popular tourist attraction and local phenomenon over the past four decades. In fact, it was recently sold to Behman Zakeri for $1.65 million, nearly 40 years after the movie first made it famous.

You might be wondering where you can find the iconic two-story Victorian house from the movie. Well, the house is located in Astoria, Oregon, along the picturesque Pacific Coast.

The house, which is better known as Mikey’s house, has been a popular tourist attraction for years, drawing in crowds of devoted fans from all over the world. But what you might not know is that the house has changed hands several times over the years, and the newest owner has recently opened up the Goonies House to the public for tours .

That’s right, you can now walk through the very same halls and climb up the same attic where Mikey and his friends plotted their epic adventure. So come on down and relive your childhood dreams of finding One-Eyed Willie’s treasure!

Address:  304 38th Street, Astoria, Oregon, USA

1. Opening Scene at John Warren Field

One of the film locations is from the beginning credits when the Fratellis are being pursued by the police, and Andy (Kerri Green) is leading cheer practice. Unfortunately, we have learned the football field was torn down in 2015. The site is now home to the Columbia Memorial Hospital, but some of the grassy area from John Warren field is still visible.

The John Warren Field previously was at 20th and Exchange Street in Astoria, Oregon.

RELATED: 17 Great (And Not So Great) Movies Filmed On The Oregon Coast

2. Data's House From The Goonies

In the scene where Brand steals the little girl's bike, he does so in front Of Data's house. You will find Data's house on 304 38th St, in Astoria, Oregon.

Keep in mind just like Mikey's house, this is also a private residence. Parking at the nearby Astor Elementary School and walking to the homes would be the best idea to make sure and not bother the people currently living here. You'll also find a great viewpoint from the waterfront area which is across the highway.

3. Flavel House Museum

Remember where Mikey's dad works? Here's the place. It's known as the Flavel House Museum, and it is absolutely gorgeous. This Queen-Anne style house was built by millionaire Columbia River bar pilot Captain George Flavel, and in fact is now on the National Register of Historic Places. You will find this spot at 441 8th St, in Astoria, Oregon.

4. Lower Columbia Bowl

Remember when Chunk smashes his pizza and milkshake on the window? One of the funniest moments from Chunk of course, during the police car chase in the opening scene. And it was at the Lower Columbia Bowl, which you can find on 826 Marine Dr, again in Astoria, Oregon.

Hell you may even decide to stop in for a game, where they offer state of the art scoring systems, synthetic lanes, dollar off nights, and a bar.

5. The Store in Astoria

When The Goonies went to the store, this is where they went. It's just around the corner from their house in the movie. Signs had been changed to make this building into a grocery store, and the unsightly wires and poles have since been removed.

The sign says 37th Street and Lief Erikson Drive. Leif Erikson Drive is an Extension of Marine Drive and is also Highway 30. It's the main drag through Astoria going along the Columbia River. It's also called East Columbia River Highway on some maps, although I've personally never heard anyone call it by that!

6. Mouth's House

In the early scenes of the movie, Mouth's house serves as a prominent filming location. Located just up the hill from the County Jail, it features the front of the house in one scene, while another captures Mouth in his bedroom with a stunning view of the actual location visible through the window.

Address:  32 Skyline Avenue, Astoria

7. Astoria Coffee Co

Don't forget to make a brief stop at the crosswalk across from Astoria Coffee Co in Astoria. This spot is where you can catch a glimpse of Rosalita crossing the street while the Fratellis speed past in a frantic chase with the police.

Address: 304 37th St, Astoria, OR 97103

8. Ecola State Park

The Fratelli family's hideout, the Lighthouse Lounge, was built at Ecola Point and then unfortunately taken down when the movie wrapped. Today is Ecola State Park is a heavily visited recreation Park on the Oregon Coast.

According to Sean Astin, he was allowed to keep the treasure map used in the film. However, the map was lost forever when his mother discovered it several years later, thought it was just a crinkled piece of paper, and threw it in the trash.  

Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110

9. Oregon Film Museum

Ah yes, we can't forget the exciting jail break scene. Today, the old jail is a museum! In a daring attempt to free his incarcerated brother from Clatsop County Jail, Francis takes matters into his own hands. With a tank of gasoline and a shot from his pistol, he sets the jailhouse ablaze, reveling in his triumph. Seeking refuge at the Lighthouse Lounge, Francis and his family bask in their newfound freedom.

However, the celebrations are cut short when a pair of FBI agents arrive to confront the Fratellis. In the ensuing confrontation, shots are fired and the agents lose their lives, leaving the Fratellis to face the consequences of their actions.

The Oregon Film Museum is a must-visit destination for any film lover. The museum is housed in the historic Clatsop County Jail, which was featured in the opening scene of the 1985 film The Goonies. The museum celebrates the history and art of filmmaking in Oregon, showcasing props, costumes, and memorabilia from some of the state's most iconic movies and TV shows.

Visitors can even step into a replica of the jail cell from The Goonies and explore the interactive exhibits that bring the state's filmmaking legacy to life. Whether you're a fan of The Goonies or simply interested in the history of filmmaking, the Oregon Film Museum is a fascinating and engaging experience that is not to be missed.

Address: 732 Duane St, in Astoria.

10. Cannon Beach

Home to Haystack Rock, which you'll see in the Goonies which they use to navigate. You can't miss Haystack Rock, as it's one of the world's tallest sea stacks.

Take a trip up Ecola Road to Cannon Beach, and you will find this incredible place, where The Goonies was filmed 26 miles south of Astoria, at Ecola State Park's Cannon Beach. Point Break and Twilight were actually filmed here too! (and no, not the silly reboot of Point Break)

RELATED: The 16 Best Oregon Beaches to Dip Your Toes in The Sand

11. Cauldron Point – Goat Rock Beach California

The Goonies movie is packed with breathtaking filming locations that transport you into the captivating world of the adventurous group of misfits. However, there is a common misconception that the iconic final scene featuring One-Eyed Willie's ship sailing into the sunset was filmed at Indian Beach.

Contrary to popular belief, the final scene was shot at Goat Rock Beach in California, where the crew created a stunning visual spectacle that has stayed with fans for decades. The natural beauty of Goat Rock Beach, with its picturesque scenery and rugged coastline, provided the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable cinematic moment.

It's interesting to note that despite not being filmed in Oregon, the final scene's seamless integration into the rest of the movie is a testament to the dedication and skill of the filmmakers. Additionally, visiting Goat Rock Beach allows fans to relive this magical moment and experience the awe-inspiring location that played a vital role in the film's unforgettable finale.

Overall, although the final scene in The Goonies was not shot at Indian Beach, its unique charm and appeal continue to captivate audiences and remind us of the magic that can be created on film. And, for those who want to explore this iconic filming location, Goat Rock Beach is a must-visit destination for any true Goonies fan.

We covered quite a bit of filming locations in the Goonies here, although we may have missed some. Do you know any other spots we missed? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below. The movie was filmed on location in California, and of course Oregon. Locations included were Goat Rock State Beach, California, Astoria as we've mentioned, and of course Cannon Beach.

And never forget, Goonies Never Say Die. 🏴‍☠️

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Plan a Road Trip to See These Alberta Movie Locations

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Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on January 6, 2024

The diversity of Alberta’s towns and landscapes is not only enjoyable to locals and tourists alike, but Hollywood has been paying attention as well. Increasingly, both movie and TV producers are choosing Alberta filming locations to include in their lineup and have brought big names up here with them. Think Leonardo DiCaprio, Anne Hathaway, Kirsten Dunst, Brad Pitt, and People Magazine’s most recently anointed sexiest man alive , Paul Rudd.

While the Rocky Mountains are a big draw, so are the beautiful Canadian Badlands that stretch on the eastern side of the province. You can also often spot towns like Ford Macleod, Longview, High River, and more. We can’t think of any better reason to plan a road trip than to recreate some scenes from these Alberta movie locations (and TV, too)!

Alberta Movie Locations

Ghostbusters: afterlife.

Perhaps one of the newest films on this list, Ghostbusters: Afterlife , starring everybody’s favourite Paul Rudd was actually filmed in Calgary, Turner Valley, Drumheller, and Fort Macleod ! Also starring Finn Wolfhard and McKenna Grace, the supernatural comedy takes place in Oklahoma… but don’t be fooled, it is indeed filmed in Alberta.

While you might be distracted by keeping an eye out for the original cast – hello, Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd – also try to spot the Alberta movie locations throughout the film, including the historic Lougheed House in Calgary, the Bleriot Ferry on Red Deer River, Turner Valley Gas Plant, downtown Drumheller , the Empress Theatre in Fort Macleod, and Horsethief Canyon near Drumheller.

Brokeback Mountain

Ang Lee’s beautiful love story starring Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal is set in Wyoming… but it was actually filmed in the Canadian Rockies! Fortress Mountain, Moose Mountain, and Mount Lougheed are all featured heavily in the movie, while a lot of the camping scenes were filmed around Elbow Falls, Goat Creek, and other Kananaskis Country locations.

There were also a few spots in Fort Macleod and Calgary where filming took place, including the now-closed Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dancehall. But if you’re looking for beautiful movie locations in Alberta, you can’t forget to include Brokeback Mountain .

Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending thriller Inception is still beloved by many, and part of its appeal is its amazing filming locations around the world. While Leonardo DiCaprio, Elliot Page, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ken Watanabe, and Tom Hardy make their way through Tokyo, Paris, Los Angeles, London, Tangier, and more, they also have an incredible winter scene in Alberta!

The movie was filmed around Fortress Mountain in Kananaskis Country and has been one of the more popular Alberta movie locations. The famous Fortress Mountain Resort was also featured.

Interstellar

Another Christopher Nolan film to make the list, Interstellar is a fascinating science-fiction drama with a legendary cast that includes Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Ellen Burstyn, Wes Bentley, and Michael Caine. And while we’re sure the wormholes were all CGI, much of the film was actually shot in Alberta, featuring Nanton, Longview, Okotoks, Canmore, Fort Macleod, and Lethbridge throughout the movie.

The town of Longview took the place of the family’s ranch (although the house was built specifically for the movie), while the school is actually Longview School. Eagle-eyed viewers will also spot the Spray Lakes Road / Three Sisters Parkway at one point in the film!

Legends of the Fall

This sweeping epic from 1994 has an incredibly stacked cast… think Anthony Hopkins, Brad Pitt, Julia Ormond, and Aidan Quinn. But arguably one of the most notable main characters in Legends of the Fall is the landscape the story takes place on; although the story apparently takes place in Montana, the movie was actually filmed in Alberta.

Gorgeous shots of the Ludlow family ranch are actually from the Ghost River Wilderness Area near Canmore and Banff, while there was additional filming in the Bow Valley. And the World War I battlefield scenes? That was actually shot in the community of Morley.

The Revenant

The Revenant is the true story of Hugh Glass (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), a fur trapper left for dead after a bear attack who manages to survive the winter wilderness and make his way to civilization. Filmed completely in natural light, the movie features the beautiful Kananaskis region in Alberta, even though the real story took place in present-day Montana and South Dakota.

Although director Alejandro González Iñárritu wanted to film the movie chronologically, weather conditions in Alberta proved his mission too difficult to follow through! You can spot Fortress Mountain in the film, as well as the Badlands of Drumheller and Castle Rock near Canmore.

Togo is a Disney film about the true story of sled dog trainer Leonhard Seppala and his heroic dog that gives the movie its name. Seppala and Togo led a team of sled dogs across the deadly Alaska landscape in the middle of winter in order to bring much-needed medicine to a small town. But that Alaskan terrain? It’s actually Alberta!

The film was shot entirely in the province, specifically in and around Kananaskis Country, the town of Cochrane, and Abraham Lake in Western Alberta (known for its frozen methane bubbles every winter).

Cold Pursuit

Liam Neeson’s action film Cold Pursuit is set in Kehoe, Colorado… but it definitely wasn’t filmed there! There are two reasons for this. Firstly, and most importantly… Kehoe is a fictional town. Secondly, as we’re sure you can guess given the title of this article, the movie was actually filmed in Alberta and BC! Look for Albertan locations such as Spray Valley Provincial Park, Kananaskis Village, and Gusty Peak.

Unforgiven is a Western film set in the fictional town of Big Whiskey, Wyoming, and is still heralded as one of the best modern Westerns to come out of Hollywood. Starring, produced by, and directed by Clint Eastwood, the 1992 film was actually shot at Alberta movie locations, mostly near the town of Longview near Calgary .

While most of that set was constructed specifically for the movie, you can also try to spot other Albertan locations in the film, namely Brooks, High River, Calgary, and Drumheller.

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford , starring Brad Pitt, tells the tale of the relationship between Jesse James and Robert Ford in the late 19th century. But that Missouri landscape? It’s actually Alberta, of course!

The movie was filmed all over Alberta, but Fort Edmonton Park is a good place to start if you’re interested in spotting some of the sets from the film. You can also spot Heritage Park Historical Village, numerous locations in Kananaskis Country, and even the Hotel Fairmont Palliser in Calgary in the movie.

Cool Runnings

Is there anyone who doesn’t love this feel-good movie about the 1988 Jamaican bobsled team?! Cool Runnings is a movie about the real-life team who competed in the Calgary Olympics in the late 80s. And, naturally, the movie was indeed filmed in Calgary! Follow Leon Robinson, Doug E. Doug, Rawle D. Lewis, Malik Yoba, and John Candy as they make their way from the Caribbean to Calgary in their bobsledding debut.

Filming locations around Calgary include the Olympic Oval, while you can find out more about the movie (and the true story of the team) at Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and WinSport, both in Calgary as well.

Land , Robin Wright’s directorial debut which was released in 2021, was filmed over a month in Alberta, and the film employed over 100 local crew members. One of the main filming locations was Kananaskis Country, specifically Moose Mountain.

A movie about a woman’s struggle to face her past as she battles the wilderness on her own, the stunning film showcases Alberta’s beauty in all its glory, even in the thick of winter. The movie’s cinematography and emphasis on the natural settings highlight just how gorgeous this province really is.

Alberta TV locations

If you’ve watched any of the beloved series Heartland , you know just how beautiful the setting is. But you’ve probably also thought, where is Heartland filmed? Ponder no more… because we’re here to tell you that the series is filmed in and around Millarville and High River, Alberta, as well as the occasional filming location in Calgary!

The family horse ranch in the series is actually located just southwest of Calgary on an actual working cattle ranch in Millarville. While the ranch is closed to the public, there are various spots around the hamlet as well as in High River that are accessible to fans, including the Millarville Anglican Church, the Millarville Farmers’ Market and Race Track, and the real-life Maggie’s Diner, Tack and Feed, in High River. Here’s a fun fact for you: Heartland is the longest-running one-hour drama series in Canadian television history.

Fargo (series)

Despite the name, the dark comedy series Fargo is not actually shot in the North Dakota city! In fact, seasons one, two, and three were filmed almost entirely in Calgary and Southern Alberta. Season one was filmed all over Calgary, including locations on 9 Avenue SE, 11 Avenue SE, and more. Stavros Milos’ house? That’s on Morgans Way in Calgary.

Season two was filmed all over Calgary as well, but also features locations in Fort Macleod; the Waffle Hut and Gerhardt family ranch were built on a private ranch in Calgary. And St. Cloud, Minnesota in Season three? Yep, that’s all Calgary, too! Try to spot the neighbourhood of Inglewood throughout the series. And now Fargo, Season Five, starring Jon Hamm, Juno Temple, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Dave Foley, was filmed in Calgary and surrounding locations.

The Last of Us

The Last of Us is a new HBO series starring Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, and Gabriel Luna. Based on a video game – yep, that’s right – the post-apocalyptic series is meant to take place in the US, but it was actually filmed primarily in Alberta. Said to be the largest production in Canadian history, the series premiered in January of 2023 and was an instant megahit!

If you’re a fan, then you may want to follow our curated road trip of The Last of Us filming locations to spot all of the iconic Alberta sights included. And while it has been announced that season two is in the works, it has not been disclosed if the show will return to Alberta (fingers crossed).

Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans will know that the series was filmed all over the world, including in Northern Ireland, Croatia, Spain, and Iceland. But serious fans will know that there were also a few filming locations right here in Alberta! Maisie Williams, who plays Arya Stark in the series, filmed with wolves near Calgary and Banff for the show, while Jon Snow’s dire wolf Ghost is actually Alberta’s Arctic wolf Quigley, who lives near Calgary. Banff National Park was also featured briefly in the series.

Looking for some more road trip ideas?

— Check out these top road trips in Alberta

— Head to the Hoodoos with these 6 Alberta Badlands Road Trips

— Take this 2-3 day southwest Alberta road trip to see the best of Waterton Lakes National Park, Crowsnest Pass, Castle Provincial Park, and more!

Dalene Heck is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. She was born in Edmonton, grew up in the Peace Country, and has ventured to almost every corner of Alberta and the world (she’s travelled to 60 countries)! She is a serial blogger, the CEO of HMI Marketing , co-creator of the Trip Chaser card game, a leukemia-slayer, and cat whisperer.

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This is the Ultimate United States Road Trip for Western Movie Fans

Western movies have surged in popularity over the past century, but they really never go out of style. Whether it's a classic old western about gunslinging cowboys or a modern story about folks living on a Montana ranch , there's just something about that walk of life that will always be fascinating to fans. If you love western movies, have you considered visiting some of the places they were actually filmed? Many notable westerns are filmed up in Canada, but there are a ton of quality classics shot right here in the United States. Consider visiting some of the spots included on this epic road trip around the country to revisit some of the most notable filming locations from old and new western classics.

Pierre/Rapid City, South Dakota ( Dances With Wolves )

Tig Productions/Getty Images

You can't really mention a list of western movie locations without including Dances With Wolves . It's always on the list of best western movies, but for good reason. Kevin Costner still maintains the most Oscar nominations in history for a western film from his directorial debut back in 1990. The majority of this epic film was shot on private ranches in Pierre and Rapid City, including all of the memorable buffalo hunting scenes. Just driving around the area will make you instantly feel like you're standing right where Lt. Dunbar did when he befriended the local Lakota tribe.

Kootenai Falls, Montana ( The Revenant )

Kimberly French/ 20th Century Fox

Livingston, Montana ( The Horse Whisperer )

John Kelly/Getty Images

Lone Pine (Alabama Hills), California ( How the West Was Won )

FilmPublicityArchive/United Archives via Getty Images

If you've seen the western classic  How the West Was Won you've seen California's beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains. Henry Fonda stars in this epic that is widely believed to be one of the best westerns ever made. Three different directors, including John Ford , directed the five chapters of this impressive story that took advantage of the Alabama Hills to bring to life the vast forests explored in the 1963 film.

Tucson, Arizona ( Tombstone )

Hollywood Pictures/Cinergi Pictures Fair Use

There's a reason Tombstone is still popular today. Kurt Russell, Sam Elliot, Bill Paxton and Val Kilmer made this easily one of the best westerns of the '90s. The cast masterfully brought to life the historic shootout at the O.K. Corral, with legendary lawman Wyatt Earp, his brothers and Doc Holliday bringing justice to the town of Tombstone. Though you technically can film things in the real Tombstone, which is now a western tourist attraction, this film was mostly all filmed in Tucson at the Old Tucson Studios, another Old West set turned tourist attraction you can visit.

Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah ( The Searchers )

Warner Brothers/Getty Images

John Wayne and director John Ford were the ultimate western movie duo back in the day, filming nine westerns together that still stand the test of time as some of the greatest ever made. One of their most notable achievements though was The Searchers . Wayne stars as a Civil War veteran who returns home to Texas to discover that his family has been attacked by Commanches. He sets out on a perilous journey to save his niece Debbie, who is still alive and living with the Commanches. It's an absolute classic, but it wasn't actually filmed where it takes place. The vast landscapes of Monument Valley, which straddles the state line of Arizona and Utah, served as the backdrop for Wayne's journey in this memorable film.

Zion National Park, Utah ( Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid )

There probably will never be a better duo to play Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid than Robert Redford and Paul Newman. The two beloved actors were the ideal choice to bring to life two of the most infamous criminals of the Wild West. If you love the film, the stunning red cliffs and vast landscapes of Utah's Zion National Park will undoubtedly look familiar. You can spend days out there camping and exploring and taking in all of the views. Make sure to also check out the nearby Grafton ghost town which was also used for filming.

Kanab, Utah ( The Outlaw Josey Wales )

Photo by FilmPublicityArchive/United Archives via Getty Images

Ouray County, Colorado ( True Grit )

Screen Archives/Getty Images

While the entire cast makes the 2010 remake outstanding, John Wayne landed his only Oscar in 1969 for playing Rooster Cogburn, a gruff U.S. Marshal helping a young girl hunt down her father's killer. It remains one of the most memorable western films ever made thanks to Wayne, one of the most iconic western stars of all time. Ouray County served as the primary filming location for the movie with multiple sets built up throughout the area. You can actually take a True Grit Walking Tour to see some of the most memorable filming locations around town and there's even a local True Grit Cafe.

Telluride, Colorado ( The Hateful Eight )

The Weinstein Company

Clovis, New Mexico ( Hell Or High Water )

Hell or High Water/ Lorey Sebastian

Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan earned an Oscar nomination for his Hell or High Water screenplay. Starring Chris Pine, Ben Foster and Jeff Bridges, the story follows two brothers robbing banks to save their families with a pair of Texas Rangers on their trail. It's a really strong modern western that will have you laughing, crying and constantly on the edge of your seat. Despite taking place in the Lone Star State, the majority of this film was captured in New Mexico. Clovis was where the majority of filming took place, transformed to look like a desolate West Texas town. A couple of the main buildings in town ended up being banks that the brothers rob in the film.

Santa Fe, New Mexico ( True Grit , 2010)

Paramount Pictures

It makes sense that New Mexico is a hot spot for westerns. The combination of sweeping plains and mountains on the horizon is perfect to bring the Wild West to life. One of the many films to take advantage of the stunning Santa Fe landscape is the Coen Brothers' 2010 film  True Grit.  Starring Jeff Bridges in the role of Rooster Cogburn, it might just go down in history as one of the best remakes of all time. Though filming took place in New Mexico as well as Texas, the majority of the outdoor scenes were all captured in Santa Fe. The Buena Vista Ranch northeast of Santa Fe was one of the main filming locations.

Marfa, Texas ( No Country For Old Men )

Miramax Filmes

The tiny and quiet town of Marfa really is an ideal place to shoot a movie. Far out in West Texas, the entire town is just a few blocks, with a population under 2,000. Similar to New Mexico, it is a high desert landscape with surrounding mountains out in Big Bend National Park. So it was an ideal spot to shoot the modern western, No Country for Old Men . Another strong western from the Coen Brothers, this thriller starred Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin and Javier Barden, in an exciting tale of a hunter stumbling upon millions in drug money, a ruthless killer who's on his tail, and the local sheriff trying to save the day. The majority of the movie was filmed in Marfa as well as some of the small surrounding towns like Valentine.

Marfa was also where one of the most memorable Texas films of all time was captured — Giant . Starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean, the emotional film follows a ranching family and their dramatic family dynamics.

Austin, Texas ( The Alamo )

Potentially one of the most pivotal moments in Texas state history is the story of The Alamo down in San Antonio. Gen. Sam Houston famously fought for Texas' freedom from ruthless Mexican dictator General Santa Anna in what is now a legendary standoff at the old mission, The Alamo. The film brought to life this historic event with Dennis Quaid starring as Houston, Billy Bob Thornton as Davy Crockett and Jason Patric as Jim Bowie. Despite taking place in San Antonio, the movie wasn't actually filmed at the real Alamo. Instead, it was shot just up the road outside of Austin. The 2004 film was primarily captured on Reimer's Ranch in Dripping Springs on a 50-acre movie set. Though it was abandoned after filming, soon after becoming a tourist destination, a fire destroyed it back in 2011. You can still drive around the area in the Texas Hill Country, just 30 min outside of Austin, to see the beautiful landscapes used to bring 1836 Texas to life.

Houston, Texas ( Urban Cowboy )

Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Not all westerns are riding horses on the range and slinging guns. Sometimes, there's a mechanical bull. John Travolta's Urban Cowboy was responsible for reinvigorating a love of western line dancing and the honky tonk back in 1980 and is still beloved as one of his most iconic roles. He starred as Bud, a country boy who falls for a cowgirl he meets at the honky tonk Gilley's and his experience competing in a mechanical bull contest. Lots of memorable dancing scenes are involved — would you expect anything less from Travolta? Though Houston is the big city, you'll almost forget where you are when you visit Gilley's store in the suburb of Pasadena. The original bar that inspired the film is no longer in operation but you can visit the Dallas location just a few hours away if you're looking for the full experience.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana ( The Magnificent Seven )

Louisiana has become another hot spot for Hollywood and was notably used as the backdrop for the remake of The Magnificent Seven starring Denzel Washington and Chris Pratt. The original was filmed in Mexico back in 1960, but the remake from 2016 tells a similar story of a group of men coming together to protect a town overun by outlaws. A massive set was built to bring the onscreen town of Rose Creek to life outside of Baton Rouge.

READ MORE:  The 20 Best Western Movies of the Last 20 Years

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Twilight Movie Road Trip – Quest for Filming Locations in the Northwest

My daughter’s 13th birthday was marked by a “Twilight Movie Road Trip” that was all about finding Twilight movie filming locations. It was so much fun that even my husband had a good time, but don’t let that get out.  I’ve received a lot of questions about our itinerary, so here it is.  Have fun!

Twilight movie filming locations Day 1: Port Angeles, Bella’s house and the exterior School of Dance and Forks High School

We left the Seattle-area Friday afternoon, our first stop was Bella’s house located in St. Helens, Oregon , about 2 hours 45 minutes from Seattle and 40 minutes from Portland. In addition to Bella’s house, the “Port Angeles” scenes were filmed here, which included “Petite Jolie,” the shop where Bella helps Jessica and Angela find their prom dresses, the parking lot where Edward rescued Bella from a group of boys, the Bloated Toad restaurant where Edward revealed his mind-reading abilities, and Thunderbird & Whale bookstore.

As we turned the corner toward Bella’s house , we strained to look up the road, not knowing what to expect. We drove past the house and turned around at the end of the road, then snapped a few photos drive-by style, never getting out of our car. It looked just like it did in the movie, with the exception of a friendly note on the tree in front of the house, reminding us that it is a private residence, not to peek in windows. Visiting a film location like this is a lot different than visiting a studio set; people actually live here, which kind of made us feel like the paparazzi. At first this made us all a little uneasy, but honestly it didn’t take long for us to all really get in to it.

After seeing the Twilight sites in St. Helens, Oregon we retraced our path up to the Lewis and Clark Bridge and crossed back into Washington. Bridges across the Columbia are few and far between, and after doing some research I found that is was indeed faster to double back 30-ish minutes to cross the Columbia River the same way we came to continue to Portland. An added bonus, Kalama High School, used for the outside scenes of Forks High School , was an easy stop right on the way.

With the sun beginning to set, we headed into Portland for our final stop of the day, the site of Mimi’s School of Dance . The scene in Twilight with the final confrontation between Edward and James takes place at the ballet studio from Bella’s childhood.

A few short minutes later we pulled up the Portland Hotel Monaco , our accommodations for the night. The Hotel Monaco is a luxury hotel with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor.  The Monaco is kid-friendly, pet-friendly, and located in the center of Downtown Portland. We found out that the cast of “Twilight” stayed there during the filming of the movie.

Twilight movie filming locations Day 2: Café, prom and Cullen’s house

After a restful night of sleep and a relaxing morning, we were back on the road to our next stop: the Carver Café, where Bella and her dad ate dinner a couple of times. It looked exactly like it did in the movie, but don’t expect to order Charlie’s favorites, those items aren’t on the menu.

Back on the road, we were headed to the View Point Inn, the scene of Bella and Edward’s prom. Unfortunately the View Point Inn had a fire last year, but the stunning views of the Columbia Gorge remain.

After exploring the View Point Inn and some of the Columbia Scenic Highway, we made our way back to Portland to see the Cullen’s house , home to Edward and his vampire family. Driving through the idyllic hillside neighborhood consisting primarily of Craftsman and Old Portland-style homes, the Cullen’s house was a stark contrast with its sleek, modern design. There is a family that lives here, they welcome Twilight fans to take photos, but ask that you stay at the end of their drive way.

Now mid-afternoon, we had enjoyed seeing the sites, but were ready to head to the last destination on our list, and one of our favorite places to visit: Cannon Beach. Located an hour and a half from Portland, Canon Beach is beautiful, relaxing and a welcome way to wrap up our Twilight Road Trip. We pulled up next to the lovely Ocean Lodge at Cannon Beach where we were staying and soaked in the fresh salt air, warm sunshine and incredible views.

Twilight movie filming locations Day 3: La Push surfing and beach scene

Another surprise when doing my research for our “Twilight” movie filming locations road trip – the La Push beach scenes were actually filmed over 200 miles away at Indian Beach just north of Cannon Beach.

After a late lunch and a little shopping in Cannon Beach, we stopped by Bruce’s Candy Shop for road trip sustenance – our family tradition. Then we headed back home, full of conversation for a memorable 13th road trip birthday finding Twilight movie filming locations.

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I am SOOOOOOOO jelly but i am trying to save up to do the same

Wow that’s awesome! I am interested in the movies but more interested in the places where the movies were filmed!!! Ahhh they all are beyond beautiful and magical!!!!! Thanks for the mini tour. I totally want to live in one of these areas someday!

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Waah!! Thanks for posting this and I feel jelous like a freak fan of Twilight!! I wish someday I could also make a Twilight Road Trip. I’m really amazed on the places that Twilight shooted their scenes. ❤❤❤

Loved reading this! We are looking at doing a roadtrip next summer from Seattle to San Francisco (with my husband and two kids) and I’m going to have to put some Twilight visits on our itinerary!!

Thank you SO much for this blog! My husband and I are traveling this year to do the Twilight Tour. We recently retired and this is on my bucket list. Thanks, thanks, thanks!!

Thanks – have fun!

I wish my parent did this for me, the problem is I don’t live in America and my parents are divorces. *sigh* But dang that road trip is goals!

i wanna know the exact adress of the of the cullen house, pleaseee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It’s in my post on this page -> http://www.specialneedstravelmom.com/northwest-road-trips/twilight-movie-road-trip-the-cullens-house/ Have fun!

SAMEEEEEEEEEE BRO SAME I WANNA GO THERE IT SOOOOOOOOOOO CUTE I WOULD LIVE THERE WIT ME BFF JAZZY WE R TWILIGHT FREAKS!!!!!!!!

Yeaaah!! I feel the same!! Geez..

hi first i want to thank you for sharing your experience and more twilight locations which i had no clue. i am planning a trip with my daughter however we are from Texas so a road trip would be out of the question. Do you have any suggestions as to what would be the best airport to fly in and rent a car to get in as many twilight locations we can. i appreciate whatever suggestions you may have. thank you

Hi…I would like to do the twilight movie road trip but just don’t know where to start on booking it. would like to do the same trip you did pretty much. can you help with any advice, where to book it etc? thankyou

hi i am planning a trip to oregon to see twilight can you help me out where did you stay .ty

Hi Shirley! We stayed at the Hotel Monaco, which is also where the cast from Twilight stayed while filming, and a pretty awesome place to stay. Have fun!

I am planning a surprise for my daughter and would like to ask if you could send me the address for the Cullens house?? I show its in West Vancouver??? Did I read it wrong?? Thanks Debbie Robinson

Hi Debbie! The first movie “Twilight” was filmed in the Northwest Oregon/Southwest Washington area, the Cullens’ house is in Portland – I have more info here: http://www.specialneedstravelmom.com/northwest-road-trips/twilight-movie-road-trip-the-cullens-house/ . The set was then recreated in British Columbia, where the subsequent films were shot. Have fun!

Me an my friends did this and there is a book I got off of Amazon called Experience Twilight. It gives you a lot of info. ALSO about 5 min. from Carver Cafe is Stone Cliff Inn, it is where they filmed a lot of the scenes. Lion and the lamb, the skin reveal, the tree where he tells her she is his own brand….there is a sign there to let you know. I have seen so many people miss that. You should really get the book. It is all possible. We did over 1000 miles in 2 1/2 days. Hope you have an amazing trip. If you would like I can send you our Itenerary with all the addresses. My email address I’d [email protected]

hello me and my friends are planning a trip in two years time want to visit bellas house Edwards house the café prom store where thy filmed the prom the field they played baseball the café the forest where Edward and bella had their moments the beachand the highschool does anyone have any advice for us and how much is accomadation and how much was thatbook of amazon???

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With four kids in an old studebaker, amor towles takes readers on a real joyride.

Heller McAlpin

The Lincoln Highway is a joyride. Amor Towles ' new Great American Road Novel tails four boys — three 18-year-olds who met in a juvenile reformatory, plus a brainy 8-year-old — as they set out from Nebraska in June, 1954, in an old Studebaker in pursuit of a better future. If this book were set today, their constant detours and U-turns would send GPS into paroxysms of navigational recalculations. But hitch onto this delightful tour de force and you'll be pulled straight through to the end, helpless against the inventive exuberance of Towles' storytelling.

Like his first two novels, The Lincoln Highway is elegantly constructed and compulsively readable. Again, one of the ideas Towles explores is how evil can be offset by decency and kindness on any rung of the socio-economic ladder. His first novel, Rules of Civility (2011), set among social strivers in New York City in 1936, took its inspiration from F. Scott Fitzgerald and its title from George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation . His much-loved second novel, A Gentleman in Moscow (2016), incorporated nods toward the great Russian writers and shades of Eloise at the Plaza and Wes Anderson's The Grand Budapest Hotel . Mostly confined to a single setting — Moscow's luxurious Metropol Hotel — it spanned 32 years under Stalin's grim rule.

Towles' new novel ranges further geographically — from Nebraska's farmland to New York's Adirondacks by way of some of New York City's iconic sites — but its action-packed plot is compressed into just 10 days. The Lincoln Highway, which owes a debt to Huckleberry Finn, revisits American myths with a mix of warm-hearted humor and occasional outbursts of physical violence and malevolence that recall E.L. Doctorow's work, including Ragtime .

The novel begins on June 12, 1954 and ends on the same date, clearly not coincidentally, as A Gentleman in Moscow . When we meet him, Towles' latest hero, Emmett Watson, has been released a few months early from detention in consideration of his father's death, the foreclosure of the family farm, and his responsibility for his 8-year-old brother, Billy. (Billy has been ably taken care of by a neighbor's hard-working daughter, Sally, during Emmett's absence; she's another terrific character.) The kindly warden who drives Emmett home reminds him that what sent him to the Kansas reformatory was "the ugly side of chance," but now he's paid his debt to society and has his whole life ahead of him.

Shortly after the warden drives off, two fellow inmates turn up, stowaways from the warden's trunk — trouble-maker Duchess and his hapless but sweet protegé, Woolly. (In another fun connection for Towles nerds, naïve trust funder Wallace "Woolly" Wolcott Martin is the nephew of Wallace Wolcott from Rules of Civility. )

Eagerness to discover what landed these three disparate musketeers in custody is one of many things that keeps us turning pages. Expectations are repeatedly upended. One takeaway is that a single wrong turn can set you off course for years — though not necessarily irrevocably.

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The Lincoln Highway is, among other things, about the act of storytelling and mythmaking. The novel probes questions about how to structure a narrative and where to start; its chapters count down from Ten to One as they build to a knockout climax. Towles' intricately plotted tale is underpinned by young Billy's obsession with a big red alphabetical compendium of 26 heroes and adventurers — both mythical and real — from Achilles to Zorro, though the letter Y is left blank for You (the reader) to record your own intrepid quest.

Billy is determined to follow the Lincoln Highway west to San Francisco, where he hopes to find his mother, who abandoned her family when he was a baby and Emmett was 8. (The number 8 figures repeatedly, a reflection of the travelers' — and life's — roundabout, recursive route.) Whether riding boxcars or "borrowed" cars, Towles' characters are constantly diverted by one life-threatening adventure after another — offering Billy plenty of material for a rousing Chapter Y, once he figures out where to begin. One thing smart Billy comes to realize: He belongs to a long tradition of sidekicks who come to save the day.

"Most of us shell our days like peanuts. One in a thousand can look at the world with amazement," Towles wrote in his first novel. Of course, Towles is drawn to that one in a thousand. His interest is in those whose zeal has not yet been tamped down by what Duchess (the only first-person narrator) describes, with improbable flair for a poorly-educated 18-year-old, as "the thumb of reality on that spot in the soul from which youthful enthusiasm springs." With the exception of Woolly, the teenagers in this novel are remarkably mature by today's standards, and burdened by cares. But at any age, it's the young-at-heart who are most open to amazement — people like Woolly, who may not be cut out for this world but who can appreciate what he calls a "one-of-a-kind of day."

There's so much to enjoy in this generous novel packed with fantastic characters — male and female, black and white, rich and poor — and filled with digressions, magic tricks, sorry sagas, retributions, and the messy business of balancing accounts. "How easily we forget — we in the business of storytelling — that life was the point all along," Towles' oldest character comments as he heads off on an unexpected adventure. It's something Towles never forgets.

6 road-trip movies to watch for travel inspiration

T he joy of traveling is not limited to the end destination but is also very much about the journey, and that is the essence that makes road-trip movies so special. Different filmmakers tend to approach the concept in their own way, so there are a variety of road-trip movies that focus on different aspects of the journey.

Some movies focus on bonding and exploration, while others showcase it as a more cathartic experience linked to self-realization and healing. Most of these films also incorporate an element of comedy that makes for a fun watch.

No matter what the approach is, road-trip movies in general tend to encourage viewers to embark on their own adventure. Viewers who are looking for a sign from the universe to push them to plan a trip of their own will find at least one reason, if not multiple, after watching a good road-trip movie.

Of course, many road-trip movies have been released to date, but the best ones combine derisable dream destinations with interesting narratives and heartfelt performances to leave a lasting impression.

The best road-trip movies that celebrate the joy of travelling and exploration

1) heartlands (2002).

Directed by Damien O'Donnell, this road-trip movie focuses on an amicable newsagent named Colin, played by Michael Sheen . He finds out that his wife is cheating on him with the captain of the darts team he plays for. After he is cut from the team, he resolves to travel to Blackpool with the hope that he will be able to win back his wife.

Sheen does a wonderful job portraying Colin. It is interesting to see how the character changes after his interactions and experiences on the road. The movie is not exactly fast-paced, but it is still witty and enjoyable all the same.

2) Into the Wild (2007)

This popular movie is based on the life of Christopher McCandless. Emile Hirsch plays the role of Christopher in this movie directed by Sean Penn . It gives viewers an insight into the experiences and challenges that Christopher faced as he hitchhiked his way all the way to Alaska.

Hirsch skillfully captures the emotions and mannerisms of Christopher who was fascinated with the nomadic lifestyle. More than anything else, this is one of those movies that makes viewers want to be more spontaneous and adventurous.

3) The Bucket List (2007)

Two experienced actors, Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman , come together in this movie directed by Rob Reiner. The story focuses on Edward Perriman Cole (Nicholson) and Carter Chambers (Freeman), both of whom are terminally ill patients. They take a road trip wherein they try and do things from a wishlist before the Grim Reaper comes calling.

The best thing about this movie is the chemistry between the leads. Their characters are endearing, funny, and most of all, relatable. It is heart-warming to watch them bond and support each other during their trip.

4) Land Ho! (2014)

This road-trip movie is about two ex-brothers-in-laws, played by Paul Eenhoorn and Earl Lynn Nelson, who take a trip to Iceland together and try all the hip things that all the young people rave about.

Directed by Martha Stephens and Aaron Katz, this movie focuses on healing and friendship. It is funny and realistic, and the effortless candor between Eenhoorn and Nelson adds to the narrative.

5) The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)

This movie marks the directorial debut of both Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz. The story is centered around Zak (Zack Gottsagen) who has Down syndrome. He runs away from a state-run care facility to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. On his journey, he meets up with an outlaw named Tyler ( Shia LaBeouf ) who ends up becoming his friend.

This movie shines thanks to its strong narrative and spectacular performance by Gottsagen and LaBeouf's. The movie as a whole is bound to leave an impact on the viewer.

6) Nomadland (2020)

In this road-trip movie directed by Chloé Zhao, Frances McDormand plays the role of the protagonist. She is Fern who embraces a life on the road after she loses her job. As she travels, she grows as a person and gains a new perspective on life from her interactions with other nomads she meets on the road.

Even when she isn't saying anything, McDormand has a commanding aura, making it difficult for the viewer to look away. Her emotions and body language are always on-point, and she effortlessly carries the narrative. Quiet but thought-provoking, this one is a must-watch road-trip movie.

These road-trip movies will not only entertain movie lovers but will encourage them to pack their bags and set out on the next adventure. They are heartfelt and beautiful stories that inspire one to live life to the fullest.

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5 most interesting routes for a road trip in Russia

1. The ‘Golden Ring’

One of the most famous and popular tourist routes among foreigners was created back in the 1960s by journalist Yuri Bychkov. He was first to come up with the idea that a journey through ancient cities to the northeast of Moscow could be looped. Thus the ‘Golden Ring’ appeared. The original route included eight cities: 

• Sergiev Posad
• Pereslavl-Zalessky
• Rostov the Great

Each of the cities has preserved its historic center, ancient churches (starting from the 12th century) and the incredible authentic charm of old Russia. 

Today, the ‘Golden Ring of Russia’ has become so popular that many cities strive to join it and become part of the main cultural heritage of the middle zone. Among the worthy ones, we will mention Plyos, Rybinsk, Kalyazin, Murom and Myshkin. In any case, in the dozens of settlements along the way, you will see stunning temples and museums of folk crafts and, of course, great restaurants with Russian cuisine. 

Read our full guide to Russia’s ‘Golden Ring’ here .

You can start the trip from St. Petersburg and drive around Lake Ladoga to the town of Sortavala. After spending the night there, early in the morning, go to the Ruskeala Nature Park to enjoy all the variety of Karelian nature (and traditional cuisine) at once (read more about Ruskeala here ). 

Ruskeala park

After that, go to Petrozavodsk, the capital of the republic, which is on Lake Onega. Straight from there, you can take a boat or a ferry to Kizhi Island, where the unique wooden churches of the 18th century are located (or you can take a small detour by car, approaching as close as possible, but you still have to take a boat to the island). Petrozavodsk is roughly five hours drive from  St. Petersburg.

Find out about other beautiful places worth visiting in Karelia here . 

3. The Russian North

Right from Karelia, intrepid travelers can go even farther, to the “true north”. Having driven all over the country, Andrey Artyukhov, president of Russia’s League of Caravaners, advises to choose one of two routes, both very beautiful and informative, from the point of view of nature and cultural heritage.

The first route runs through all of Karelia and up to the Kola Peninsula and Murmansk Region. “The way from Murmansk to Zapolyarny is the most beautiful road through our northern Arctic tundra,” Andrey says and also advises visiting the famous Teriberka, a village on the White Sea where Andrey Zvyagintsev filmed the movie ‘Leviathan’. “The route turns out to be circular and, on the way back, you can see Karelia from the other side.”

The second route is going to Arkhangelsk. “This is a completely different direction, although it’s also the Arctic zone, but it is the place to enjoy the true ‘Russian North’,” Artyukhov explains. The route runs through ancient cities such as Vologda, Vytegra and Medvezhyegorsk. Along the way, you may see ancient churches and monasteries and also village houses with carved platbands and, of course, the most beautiful northern nature - coniferous forests and lakes. 

4. The Altai

A place of the Chuya and Katun rivers confluence

The Altai Mountains are a real place of strength and the ‘Chuisky Tract’ highway is considered to be, perhaps, the most scenic road in Russia. You can start your journey from another region, the very heart of Siberia - Novosibirsk - and end up driving almost a thousand kilometers to the border with Mongolia. On the way, you will pass such major cities as Barnaul (the capital of the Altai Territory), beautiful Biysk and, finally, Gorno-Altaisk, the capital of the Altai Republic.

This historic trade road, also called the ‘Siberian Silk Road’, begins in the steppe, runs along the banks of the Ob River and the mountainous Katun River and then crosses the Cherginsky Ridge, leading right into the Altai Mountains.

Watch our adventure on the Chuisky Tract here .

5. To the sea! 

Balaklava, Crimea

Thousands of caravans with Russians travel south every summer, enjoying the sun and the warm sea (mostly the Black Sea, but also the Azov and Caspian seas). For avid travelers, this road already seems well traveled, but, for the first time, the way to the south leaves an indelible impression. Behind the window, the scenery changes: rivers, forests and steppes, rye fields and sunflower plantations. 

And then, right on the Black Sea coast, you can turn in the direction of Sochi and the Caucasus or, vice versa, rush to the Taman Peninsula and enter Crimea via the newly built bridge. Snaking along its southern coast will give tourists stunning views - mountain and sea landscapes, as well as royal palaces and villas of artists and writers. 

7 fun ways to spend Father’s Day with your dad

• By Mr. Digital Fingers
• Jun 12, 2024

Father’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the fathers and father figures who have played significant roles in our lives. Finding the perfect way to spend this day can sometimes be challenging, but with a bit of creativity and planning, you can make it a memorable experience for your dad. Here are seven fun ways to spend Father’s Day with your dad that are sure to create lasting memories.

1. Plan a backyard barbecue

A backyard barbecue is a classic and enjoyable way to spend Father’s Day. Gather the family, fire up the grill and prepare your dad’s favorite foods. Whether it’s juicy burgers, marinated steaks or delicious vegetarian options, a barbecue provides a relaxed and fun atmosphere for everyone. Don’t forget to set up some lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes or badminton to keep the fun going.

2. Go on a fishing trip

If your dad loves the outdoors, a fishing trip could be the perfect Father’s Day activity. Find a local lake or river, pack some fishing gear and spend the day enjoying the peacefulness of nature. Whether you’re seasoned anglers or just beginners, fishing offers a great opportunity to bond, share stories and maybe even catch dinner.

3. Take a road trip

A spontaneous road trip can be an exciting adventure for Father’s Day. Plan a route to a nearby town or scenic location that your dad has always wanted to visit. Along the way, stop at interesting landmarks, try local foods and take plenty of photos. The journey itself can be just as enjoyable as the destination.

4. Host a movie marathon

For dads who love movies, hosting a movie marathon is an excellent way to spend Father’s Day. Choose a theme or a series of your dad’s favorite films, make some popcorn and settle in for a day of cinematic fun. Whether it’s action-packed thrillers, classic comedies or heartwarming dramas, a movie marathon allows for relaxation and shared enjoyment.

5. Enjoy a sports game

If your dad is a sports fan, attending a live game or watching one on TV can be a thrilling way to spend the day. Check if any local games or matches are happening on Father’s Day. If not, create a mini sports event at home by playing your dad’s favorite sports in the backyard or at a nearby park. This is a great way to combine physical activity with some friendly competition.

6. Explore nature with a hike

Exploring nature with a hike is a fantastic way to spend quality time together. Choose a trail that matches your dad’s fitness level and interests, whether it’s a challenging mountain hike or a gentle walk through a nature reserve. Pack some snacks, bring plenty of water and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Hiking provides a wonderful opportunity for conversation and reflection.

7. Cook a special meal together

If your dad enjoys cooking or trying new foods, spending the day in the kitchen together can be a lot of fun. Plan a menu of dishes that you both love or try cooking something entirely new. Collaborate on preparing the ingredients, cooking the meal, and, of course, enjoying the delicious results. This activity not only satisfies your taste buds but also strengthens your bond through teamwork and shared experiences.

Making the most of Father’s Day

Father’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate and honor the important role that fathers play in our lives. By choosing activities that reflect your dad’s interests and preferences, you can make this day truly special. Whether it’s through a fun-filled barbecue, an adventurous road trip or a relaxing movie marathon, spending time together is the best gift you can give. Take the time to plan and prepare, and you’ll create a Father’s Day that your dad will cherish forever.

These seven fun ways to spend Father’s Day with your dad are just a starting point. Tailor these ideas to suit your dad’s personality and enjoy the day celebrating the wonderful father that he is .

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• backyard barbecue , celebration , cooking together , digital , father figures , fathers , fathers day , fishing trip , movie marathon , road trip , sports game

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Ukraine-Russia war: Putin to deliver speech after US and Ukraine agree major 10-year security agreement - and Russia suffers 'astronomical' losses

Vladimir Putin will make a speech at Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs meeting today after the US and Ukraine signed a 10-year security deal. Meanwhile, a NATO official has told European Pravda Russia likely suffered losses of almost 1,000 people a day in May.

Friday 14 June 2024 10:05, UK

• Putin due to deliver speech after US and Ukraine agree security deal
• Russia suffered 'astronomical' losses during Kharkiv offensive - report
• Big picture: Everything you need to know about the war right now
• Your questions answered:  Are there any signs of an underground resistance in Russia?
• Live reporting by Bhvishya Patel

Vladimir Putin is a "clever political operator", Nigel Farage has said, before adding that he "does not like him as a human being in any way at all".

Challenged on BBC Radio 5 Live today about his previous remarks praising the Russian president as an operator, the Reform leader said: "Yeah, but not as a human being."

Asked why, Mr Farage replied: "How many years has he been in power? He's gone from prime minister, to president, he's a clever political operator. He kills journalists, I don't like him as a human being in any way at all.

"You can recognise the fact that some people are good at what they do even if they have evil intent."

Asked if Adolf Hitler was good at what he did, Mr Farage replied: "What, as a public speaker? What do you think? Clearly, hypnotic in a very dangerous way."

For context : In 2014, Mr Farage named Mr Putin as the leader he most admired, calling his handling of the Syria crisis "brilliant".

He said he liked the Russian president for the way he worked rather than for his political and personal approach.

Asked which current world leader he most admired, Mr Farage told GQ magazine at the time: "As an operator, but not as a human being, I would say Putin.

"The way he played the whole Syria thing. Brilliant. Not that I approve of him politically. How many journalists in jail now?"

Russia has added the Georgian National Legion to its list of terrorist organisations, Russia's state media TASS reports.

"Based on the evidence collected by the FSB, the southern district military court recognised the paramilitary formation Georgian National Legion as a terrorist organisation," Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) was quoted as saying by TASS.

The FSB also noted that members of the legion "participate in hostilities" on the side of the armed forces of Ukraine and are also "involved in organising sabotage and terrorist acts on Russian territory".

The Georgian National Legion is a military volunteer group created in 2014 at the beginning of Russian aggression in eastern Ukraine.

On its website, it states its "main goal" is to "help our Ukrainian brothers and sisters with the defence of their independence and territorial integrity from Russian occupiers".

An explosion has been heard in the region outside the capital of Kyiv during an air raid alert to warn of a possible Russian air attack, according to Reuters witnesses.

It is unclear if the explosion was the sound of air defences engaging a target. 

Public broadcaster Suspilne also cited local residents saying they had heard explosions in the western region of Khmelnytskyi.

Since the beginning of the year, airstrikes between Ukraine and Russia have increased with both sides trying to push through a reported stalemate.

We brought you reports yesterday that US  journalist Evan Gershkovich, who has been jailed for over a year in Russia on espionage charges, will stand trial.

Here is what we know right now...

The Wall Street Journal reporter will have his trial in the Ural Mountains city of Yekaterinburg, according to the authorities.

An indictment of reporter has been finalised and his case was filed to the Sverdlovsky Regional Court in the city, about 870 miles east of Moscow, according to Russia's prosecutor general's office.

There is still no word on when the trial will begin.

What happened to Evan Gershkovich?

Mr Gershkovich, 32, is accused of "gathering secret information" on orders from the CIA.

He was detained while on a reporting trip to Yekaterinburg in March 2023 and accused of spying for the US. The reporter, his employer and the US government denied the allegations, and Washington designated him as wrongfully detained.

Russia's Federal Security Service, or FSB, alleged after arresting Mr Gershkovich that he was acting on US orders to collect state secrets but provided no evidence to back up the accusations.

The US state department spokesman Matthew Miller slammed the development, saying there was "absolutely zero credibility to those charges" and adding that the US government would continue to work to bring Mr Gershkovich home.

The Ukrainian military has said it downed seven of 14 missiles and all 17 drones launched by Russia in an overnight attack.

The Ukrainian military shot down the targets over seven regions.

The governor of the Zaporizhzhia region said a missile struck an open area, with no damage and casualties immediately reported.

The air force also destroyed five drones over the Dnipro region, its governor said, with no reports of damage or casualties.

Hundreds of Cubans and tourists boarded the Russian frigate Gorshkov, part of the war fleet that carried out military manoeuvres in the Atlantic yesterday.

Cuban and Russian authorities agreed to allow citizens access to this flagship, which arrived the day before accompanied by nuclear-powered submarine Kazan and two logistic ships, the oil tanker Pashin and the salvage tug Nikolai Chiker.

The chance to board ships of different nationalities arriving in the Bay of Havana is quite usual.

Last week Cuba's government announced that a royal Canadian navy ship was also set to arrive soon.

As for the Russian fleet, Cuban authorities confirmed that it would be docked in Havana until Monday.

The Russian defence ministry reported that the exercises conducted by its fleet were aimed at simulating missile attacks against other ships.

US officials downplayed the danger of the visit but said they would closely follow every move of the Russian military vessels - while the Kremlin yesterday insisted the West should not "worry" about the move.

Debris from a downed Ukrainian drone damaged an unused reservoir at a fuel depot in Russia's southwestern Voronezh region today, regional governor Alexander Gusev has said.

In a statement on Telegram , Mr Gusev said "an attempt was made to attack an oil depot with Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles from an ultra-low altitude".

There were no casualties or fire, and the drone was one of six downed by air defences over the region, he added.

Separately, the RIA news agency cited Russia's defence ministry as saying that 70 Ukrainian drones had been downed overnight over the southwestern Rostov region, and 17 over other regions.

Vladimir Putin will make a speech at Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs meeting this morning– the first time he has appeared at the meeting in three years.

The Russian leader's speech - which is due to take place at around 9am UK time - comes after it was announced last night that the US and Ukraine have signed a major 10-year security agreement (see our 18.35 post from yesterday).

It also follows an emergency phone call that was held yesterday by senior officials of South Korea and the US over a possible impending visit by Mr Putin to North Korea in the coming weeks.

To add to the backdrop to his speech, a series of Western nations have recently agreed that their weapons can be used to launch strikes inside Russia - provoking angry responses in Moscow.

And it comes ahead of a Ukraine summit that will be held over the weekend. 

Around 90 states and organisations have confirmed their participation for the conference in Switzerland on 15 and 16 June that aims to create a pathway for peace in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will use the talks to build support for Ukraine's position on three key themes: food security, nuclear safety and the release of all prisoners and deportees.

Welcome to our live coverage of the war in Ukraine. 

Yesterday was a major day for diplomacy as a G7 summit in Italy focused on how to intensify financial pressure on Russia. 

G7 leaders announced a $50bn support package for Ukraine which will use frozen Russian assets as collateral.

But perhaps the bigger news was the signing of a 10-year security agreement between the US and Ukraine. 

It establishes that the two governments will meet within 24 hours at senior levels to discuss any response in the event of an armed attack against Ukraine.

The deal is also thought to be a precursor to Ukraine's eventual membership of NATO. 

Speaking at a joint news conference with Volodymyr Zelenskyy afterwards, Joe Biden said it was a "reminder" to Vladimir Putin that the US is not backing down. 

Here are more updates from the last 24 hours... 

• Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the Chinese president had told him Beijing would not sell weapons to Russia;
• Ukraine and Japan signed a security agreement worth £3.5bn;
• Germany said Mr Putin's plan to wait for the world's support to stop has failed;
• Russia suffered "astronomical" losses during its Kharkiv offensive, an anonymous NATO official told European Pravda;
• Moscow was accused of a plot to influence the election in Moldova this coming October;
• American journalist Evan Gershkovich will stand trial in Russia after being accused of spying for the CIA;
• The Kremlin insisted that Russian warships which have arrived in Cuba for an exercise are no threat.

The map below shows the territorial picture in Ukraine...

By Nicole Johnston, Asia correspondent

Alongside who is attending the Switzerland summit, keep an eye out for who is not.

Russia won’t be there (it's not invited) and China has taken a controversial wide pass. Pressure to urge China to attend only seems to have driven it deeper into the arms of Russia.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue on 2 June, Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, accused China of "working hard" to prevent countries from participating in the Switzerland summit.

China pushed back. Its foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning told reporters: "Not attending it does not mean not supporting peace."

Ukraine believes China has leverage over Russia and could impose conditions to force Vladimir Putin to end the war. But for China this expectation is too much, it has not bought-into the Zelenskyy-led peace formula, so China has walked away.

The country was already facing stinging criticism from the West for backing Russia. Without China's booming trade with Russia, it grew by 60% last year to $240bn, President Putin would not be able to continue his war in Ukraine.

There are reports of Russian elite arranging Mandarin lessons for their children, turning to the East while Western sanctions turn Russia into a fortress.

With two wars to deal with in Ukraine and Gaza, the US is bogged down and unable to focus on Asia. That plays to China’s advantage.

It is forging new friendships with countries in the Global South and many of them see the world differently.

As India's external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, said two years ago: "Europe has to grow out of the mindset that its problems are (the) world’s problems." 

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