Have you ever been watching a movie and thought to yourself, “Wow, what a great scene! Where on earth was that filmed?” Chances are, your favorite movie was shot right here in the United States.
Cinematography has evolved since its early days and movie producers continue to diversify their filming locations. For movie buffs, this means you no longer have to access Hollywood Studios to gain a sneak peak at the next blockbuster film. From the Grand Canyon to the Big Apple, here are 4 Famous American Film Locations that Movie-Buffs Will Love:
Dead Horse Point State Park: Thelma & Louise (1991)
Our favorite female adventurers Thelma and Louise captured our hearts in their 1991 blockbuster film when the iconic duo became fed up with their lives and courageously planned the ultimate road trip. When they infamously took their final leap of faith and plunged to their death over a cliff (spoiler alert!), the audience was made to believe the final scene took place in the Grand Canyon. In all actuality, the scene was filmed in Dead Horse Point State Park, near the Moab region of Utah.
The Steps in Front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Rocky (1976)
One of the most iconic movie scenes of all time took place outside of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. As Rocky Balboa prepared for his big fight, his morning training regimen led him to the 72-steps leading up to the museum, where he triumphantly reached the top and raised his arms in the air. Today, tourists from all over the world visit the museum to take pictures in front of what’s now been affectionately dubbed the “Rocky Steps.”
The Bench in Chippewa Square: Forrest Gump (1994)
“My momma always said, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get,’” said the wise Forrest Gump as he spoke to the woman sitting on the bench next to him. Since its debut in the 1994 film, the bench has since become one of the most famous props in movie history. Forrest fans and tourists now venture to Chippewa Square in Savannah, Georgia, to see the iconic bench in real life.
Tiffany & Co.: Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Who knew a window could become so recognizable? Made famous in the opening scene of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the granite exterior of Tiffany & Co. is now a favorite tourist stop for movie buffs. Audrey Hepburn’s window-shopping scene may have made the location famous, but the filming spot has also been used in other famous movies, like Sweet Home Alabama and Sleepless In Seattle.
Have you been to one of these film locations or do you have a favorite of your own? Tag #DrivetheNation on Twitter or Instagram and share your photos with us!