The USA has so much to admire, but for radio host and journalist Lucy Grin, the real treasures are the places where her favorite films were shot. From the eerie house in The Sixth Sense in Philadelphia to the firehouse in New York from Ghostbusters, this journey is a true ode to cinema. Let’s explore the iconic movie locations, complete with their addresses, and discover what makes them so special.
1. Prison from The Shawshank Redemption – Ohio
The grim Ohio State Reformatory is a must-visit for fans of The Shawshank Redemption. Walking through its corridors feels like stepping into the film where Andy Dufresne’s incredible story unfolded.
Actors: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman
Interesting Fact: The Ohio State Reformatory served as a functioning prison from 1910 to 1990. The iconic escape tunnel and Andy’s cell were custom-built for the film.
Why Visit: Walking through its corridors feels like stepping into the film, allowing you to relive Andy Dufresne’s journey to freedom. The prison also hosts tours and even Halloween events for a more immersive experience.
- Address: 100 Reformatory Road, Mansfield, OH 44905, USA
2. Las Vegas Casinos
Familiar from films like Casino, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, and Rain Man, the luxurious casinos of Las Vegas transport visitors into the glamorous yet gritty worlds of these iconic movies.
Films:
Rain Man (1988): A heartfelt road movie featuring memorable casino scenes.
Actors: Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci (Casino); Johnny Depp, Benicio Del Toro (Fear and Loathing); Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise (Rain Man)
Interesting Fact: Bellagio’s iconic fountains were prominently featured in Ocean’s Eleven (2001), adding another layer of cinematic history.
Why Visit: The Bellagio and Mirage epitomize Las Vegas luxury and have been immortalized in film. Visitors can soak in the atmosphere, try their luck at the tables, or simply enjoy the cinematic connection.
Casino (1995): A mafia epic exploring the power struggles behind Las Vegas casinos.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998): A wild, surreal adventure through the hedonistic streets of Las Vegas.
- Bellagio: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
- Mirage: 3400 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
3. Endless American Highways
The vast American highways, stretching into the horizon, come alive on screen in films like Thelma & Louise and Natural Born Killers. These roads epitomize freedom and rebellion, making them legendary in film history.
Films:
Natural Born Killers (1994): A controversial satire about media and violence, focusing on a pair of murderous lovers.
Actors: Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis (Thelma & Louise); Woody Harrelson, Juliette Lewis (Natural Born Killers)
Interesting Fact: Route 66 has become synonymous with freedom and adventure, making it one of the most filmed roads in American cinema.
Why Visit: Drive along the open roads for a sense of cinematic freedom. Key spots like Moab, Utah, and Dead Horse Point State Park provide breathtaking landscapes and a connection to the iconic scenes.
Thelma & Louise (1991): A feminist road movie turned crime drama with an iconic final scene.
- Famous Route: Route 66 (various locations)
- Note: Key scenes from Thelma & Louise were filmed in and around Moab, Utah, and Dead Horse Point State Park.
4. Oregon State Hospital from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
Lucy Grin’s top choice is the Oregon State Hospital in Salem, where One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest was filmed.
The History Behind the Location
This hospital inspired Ken Kesey’s novel. Its real-life history is chilling: patients were subjected to lobotomies, electroshock therapy, and even fatal accidents, like the 1942 incident where 47 patients died after a cook confused roach poison for powdered milk.
Actors: Jack Nicholson, Louise Fletcher
Interesting Fact: The hospital’s superintendent allowed filming because he believed it would be therapeutic for real patients. Many extras in the film were actual residents of the hospital.
Why Visit: Fans can explore the hospital grounds, see the infamous window Chief broke in the film, and visit the museum featuring props like the television and mop used in the movie.
Address: 2600 Center Street NE, Salem, OR 97301, USA
5. House from The Sixth Sense – Philadelphia
The spooky house where The Sixth Sense was filmed is a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers.
Actors: Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment
Interesting Fact: The house was chosen for its Gothic architecture, which amplified the film’s eerie atmosphere.
Why Visit: Fans of psychological thrillers can stand outside this iconic house and relive the chilling moments of The Sixth Sense. The surrounding area also has a charming historic vibe.
- Address: 2302 St. Albans Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA
6. Firehouse from Ghostbusters – New York
Hook & Ladder 8 in New York City served as the iconic headquarters for the Ghostbusters team. It’s a favorite stop for fans of the classic film.
Actors: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver
Interesting Fact: Hook & Ladder 8 is a real, functioning firehouse. Inside, there’s a small tribute to the film with memorabilia and decorations.
Why Visit: Take a photo outside the iconic headquarters of the Ghostbusters team, a must-see for fans of the classic comedy.
- Address: 14 North Moore Street, New York, NY 10013, USA
7. Cannon Beach from Point Break – Oregon
This stunning beach stood in for Australia in the final scene of Point Break. Known for its unique rock formations and wild winds, it’s a magical spot to visit.
Actors: Keanu Reeves, Patrick Swayze
Interesting Fact: Although the film’s climax is set in Australia, Cannon Beach stood in for its dramatic scenery. The massive Haystack Rock is a standout feature.
Why Visit: Walk along this stunning, windswept beach and marvel at its unique rock formations. It’s the perfect spot for a cinematic photo-op or quiet reflection.
- Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110, USA
Ready to plan your cinematic road trip? These iconic locations bring beloved films to life and offer a glimpse into movie history. Which one will you visit first?
Check out our Venice movie locations guide here.
