Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, is renowned not only for its breathtaking natural beauty, lush ancient forests, and rugged coastlines but also for being a natural film set favored by Hollywood. With its diverse landscapes ranging from majestic mountains, dramatic waterfalls, rocky beaches to charming towns and vibrant cities, Oregon has become the perfect backdrop for countless movies and TV shows. If you’re a film enthusiast and a travel lover, exploring the famous filming locations in Oregon will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. This guide will help you plan your special trip while discovering the unique charm of this beautiful state through the lens of cinema.
Explore Oregon Through Iconic Movie Scenes
Oregon is more than just a captivating travel destination; it’s an endless source of inspiration for filmmakers. The state’s diverse natural beauty has been vividly brought to life on the big screen, spanning genres from romantic and fantasy films to action and horror masterpieces. Below are some iconic filming locations you can’t miss when visiting Oregon:
Following Twilight’s Legendary Footsteps in Oregon
It’s impossible to talk about Oregon without mentioning the legendary Twilight series, which showcased the mystical and haunting beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Although the film’s main setting is Forks, Washington, many significant interior and exterior scenes were actually filmed in Oregon, especially around the Portland area.
1. Astoria: The charming town of Astoria, located at the mouth of the Columbia River, served as the backdrop for several key scenes in Twilight. Forks High School, the fictional high school in the movie, was actually filmed at Astoria High School. Strolling through this quaint town, you’ll recognize familiar streets and historic buildings featured in the film.
2. Cannon Beach: Cannon Beach, with its majestic Haystack Rock formation, is one of Oregon’s most recognizable natural landmarks and appeared in Twilight. Its romantic coastal scenery played a key role in the movie’s ethereal imagery of Bella and Edward’s love story.
3. Olympic National Forest: While its name suggests Washington territory, parts of the Olympic National Forest extend into Oregon and were used to create the eerie, mysterious forest settings in Twilight. Take a walk through these ancient woods, and you might feel the enigmatic atmosphere and imagine mythical creatures hiding among towering trees.
Oregon forest scenery
Oregon: Hollywood’s Versatile Film Studio
Beyond Twilight, Oregon offers filming locations for a wide range of genres, from comedy and adventure to gripping psychological dramas and thrillers.
1. “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” – Oregon State Hospital: The Oscar-winning classic “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” was entirely filmed at the Oregon State Hospital in Salem. If you’re brave enough, join a tour to explore the hospital’s history and uncover fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from the film.
2. “Free Willy” – Oregon Coast Aquarium: The heartfelt tale of a young boy befriending an orca in “Free Willy” was filmed at the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport. Here, you can marvel at vibrant marine life while encountering creatures reminiscent of Willy himself.
3. “The Goonies” – Astoria: The adventurous classic “The Goonies” prominently showcased Astoria, which again made its mark as a memorable filming location. Mikey Walsh’s house in the movie still stands as a must-visit attraction for fans. Relive the exciting moments of the Goonies as you explore this iconic site.
4. “Point Break” – Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park: The 2015 remake of the action-packed “Point Break” chose Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park for its thrilling surf and skydiving sequences. If you’re into extreme sports, drop by these sites to soak in the adrenaline-fueled atmosphere.
5. “Wild” – Crater Lake National Park and Pacific Crest Trail: Based on Cheryl Strayed’s bestselling memoir, “Wild” was filmed in Oregon at Crater Lake National Park and the Pacific Crest Trail. The stunningly raw and untamed beauty of Oregon perfectly captured Cheryl’s transformative journey of self-discovery. If hiking and nature exploration are your passions, trekking a segment of the Pacific Crest Trail will allow you to relish Oregon’s wild and majestic landscapes.
Wild nature scenery
Tips for Visiting Filming Locations in Oregon
To ensure your trip exploring Oregon’s filming locations is enjoyable and memorable, follow these helpful tips:
1. Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) is ideal for visiting Oregon with warm and dry weather perfect for outdoor activities. However, fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) are excellent options if you’d like to experience cooler temperatures and Twilight-esque romantic vibes.
2. Transportation: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Oregon, especially since filming locations are scattered across the state. Oregon has excellent roads, making traveling easy and pleasant.
3. Accommodations: Oregon offers a wide variety of accommodations, including luxurious hotels, upscale resorts, budget-friendly hostels, and cozy homestays. Cities like Portland, Eugene, or coastal towns like Astoria and Cannon Beach provide diverse lodging options to suit every budget.
4. Itinerary Planning: Planning your detailed itinerary ahead of time ensures you have enough time to visit all desired locations. Spend at least 5-7 days to fully immerse yourself in Oregon’s famous filming spots.
5. Respect the Locations: Be mindful of the environment when visiting filming locations. Avoid littering, keep noise levels low, and adhere to local regulations to preserve these iconic spots.
6. Research Ahead: Before your trip, study the movies and their respective filming locations for a deeper connection. You can gather useful information from online sources, guidebooks, and movie-focused websites.
Conclusion
Oregon is not only a state of extraordinary natural beauty but also a fascinating cinematic destination. Exploring famous filming locations in Oregon offers a one-of-a-kind experience, blending travel with glimpses into Hollywood’s artistry. Plan your trip today and step into the enchanting world of movie magic in Oregon!