As a seasoned expert in the tourism and travel industry, I have had the privilege of exploring numerous tourist destinations in western Oregon. While this region is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities, it is also home to several famous movie and TV locations that draw visitors from all corners of the globe.
The Goonies House in Astoria
One of the most iconic movie locations in western Oregon is the Goonies House in Astoria. This charming coastal town served as the backdrop for the 1985 cult classic film, The Goonies. The house, located at 368 38th Street, was the home of the main characters, the Goonies, and has become a must-visit spot for fans of the movie. Although the house is privately owned and not open to the public, visitors can still capture photos from the street and admire its unique architecture.The surrounding neighborhood also offers a glimpse into the movie's setting, with many recognizable landmarks such as the bowling alley and the jailhouse.
The Twilight Saga in St. Helens
The small town of St. Helens, situated about an hour from Portland, gained fame as the filming location for The Twilight Saga. Fans of the popular vampire romance series can visit several movie locations in this charming town, including Bella's house, Forks High School, and the Cullen house. St.Helens has fully embraced its connection to The Twilight Saga and offers guided tours that take visitors to all the major filming locations. The town also hosts an annual Twilight festival, where fans can meet cast members and participate in themed events.
The Simpsons Movie in Springfield
While there are many towns named Springfield in the United States, the one in western Oregon has a special claim to fame. In 2007, the town was chosen as the movie location for The Simpsons Movie, based on creator Matt Groening's hometown. Visitors to Springfield can see the iconic Simpson family's house, located at 712 Red Bark Lane, and take photos with a giant replica of Homer's head at the town's visitor center. The town also hosts an annual Simpsons-themed celebration, complete with a parade and costume contest.The Shining in Timberline Lodge
Situated on the slopes of Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge is a popular ski resort that also happens to be a famous movie location.The exterior of the lodge was used as the setting for the iconic horror film, The Shining, directed by Stanley Kubrick. Visitors can take a tour of the lodge and see the infamous room 237, where many of the movie's terrifying scenes were filmed. The lodge also offers a special package for fans of The Shining, which includes a stay in the room 237 suite and a screening of the movie.
Twin Peaks in Snoqualmie Falls
While not technically in western Oregon, Snoqualmie Falls in Washington state is just a short drive from Portland and is worth mentioning for fans of Twin Peaks. This picturesque waterfall was featured prominently in the cult TV series created by David Lynch. Visitors can take a short hike to view the falls and visit the nearby Salish Lodge, which served as the exterior of the Great Northern Hotel in the show. The lodge also offers a Twin Peaks package, which includes a stay in the room where the show's famous "Red Room" scene was filmed.Conclusion
Western Oregon is not only a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts but also a haven for movie and TV fans.From iconic houses to charming towns, there are plenty of famous movie and TV locations to visit in this region. Whether you're a fan of classic films or modern TV shows, there is something for everyone to explore and discover in western Oregon.
