Travel Inspired by Your Favorite Holiday Movies
When it comes to movies, location is an important aspect of bringing the story to life. Sure, many popular movies are built on a studio lot and developed with computer-generated imaging (CGI), but filming on location can set the scene for the entire movie and can add a greater sense of realism to a film. Movies are essentially a window that offers us a glimpse into some of the most amazing locations in the world. So, grab the popcorn and some cocoa, we’re taking a look at your favorite holiday movies with fabulous destinations as their backdrop that will surely inspire you to travel.
A Christmas Story (1983)
Cleveland, OH
Filmed in Cleveland, Ohio, “A Christmas Story” follows a young boy, Ralphie, and his quest to convince his parents, teacher and the big man himself, Santa, for a Red Rider Range 200 Shot BB gun. Cleveland is known to get snow – lots of it. For nearly half of winter days, there will be at least an inch of snow on the ground, making this a perfect setting for any holiday movie.
Did you know that you can visit or spend a night in Ralphie’s actual house? The A Christmas Story House has been restored to its movie glory, including the famous Major Award Leg Lamp. Guests can enjoy a private third floor loft for the entirety of their stay and have use of the whole house from one hour after closing to 9 AM the next day. The house can accommodate up to 6 guests per night.
Across the street from Ralphie’s house is the A Christmas Story Museum that features memorabilia, props, and costumes from the movie, including the original Leg Lamp and pink bunny suit. For more details on the A Christmas Story House and Museum, go to AChristmasStoryHouse.com. We triple dog dare you!
Multiple Movies
New York City, NY
Is there any other city that embodies the holidays more than New York? From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, New York City is transformed into the picturesque holiday destination where you can enjoy holiday parades, themed window displays at famous shops, endless twinkling lights, romantic ice skating and one oversized Christmas tree. It’s no surprise that the holidays in New York City create the perfect film location. If you love movies like “Elf” (2003), “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947 and 1994), “Home Alone: Lost in New York” (1992), “Serendipity” (2001) or “Scrooged” (1988), you won’t be disappointed with a trip to the Big Apple during the holidays.
Die Hard (1988)
Yes, you read that correctly. “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie. Yippee-ki-yay! This not-so-typical Christmas and action film is set during a holiday office party in Los Angeles, CA and has a wonderful soundtrack packed with Christmas music. Plus, a Santa hat makes an appearance. It’s a Christmas movie – we’re convinced.
Los Angeles might not be top-of-mind when thinking of a holiday destination, but L.A.’s amazing viewpoints, beaches, luxurious hotels and shopping malls, weather and of course, it’s the home of Hollywood, make it worthy of a visit.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Mid-West USA
While not a Christmas movie, “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is a road-trip comedy that follows Neal Page (Steve Martin), a high-strung marketing executive, and Del Griffith (John Candy), an optimistic shower curtain ring salesman, as they struggle their way across country to get home in time for Thanksgiving with the family. Flying from New York City to Chicago, the unlikely duo finds their plane is diverted to Wichita, KS due to a snowstorm. Their epic journey takes them by train from Wichita to Jefferson City, MO; by bus from Jefferson City to St. Louis, MO; by rental car from St. Louis to an unknown location in Illinois; and finally, by milk truck from somewhere in Illinois to Chicago.
Many people think of the Midwest as vast, flat and boring. However, the Midwest can be quite beautiful and awe-inspiring. Not only are the people known to be some of the nicest, down-to-earth folks you will meet, but you get the best of both worlds: a little bit of country and a little bit of city. The heartland is also home to famous landmarks and national parks: such as Mount Rushmore in South Dakota; St. Louis’ Gateway Arch; the Badlands National Park in South Dakota; or the Willis Tower in Chicago.
The Polar Express (2004)
Alaska
“Why, to the North Pole, of course! This is the Polar Express!” shouts Tom Hanks’ character in “The Polar Express.” While the children on this epic train ride travel to the North Pole, there’s one place the location reminds us of: Alaska. The Northern Lights, snowcapped mountaintops, caribou and amazing wildlife, remind us of the magic you’d find on a journey through the Great Lands.
If you’re looking for a similar adventure, we have just the ticket. The Alaska Railroad, which provides transportation to throughout southcentral and interior Alaska, annually offers a Holiday Train ride that the entire family will enjoy, and is complete with a visit from the rosy-cheeked, jolliest elf, Santa. For details on the Alaska Railroad event trains, go to AlaskaRailroad.com.
What’s your favorite holiday movie? The next time find yourself curled up on the couch watching holiday-themed films, take a look at the location. It just may be the inspiration you need to get out and explore the world.
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