Exploring the Filming Locations of the Classic Christmas Movie ‘A Christmas Story’
Where was the movie “A Christmas Story” filmed? This beloved classic, released in 1983, captures the heartwarming story of a young boy named Ralphie and his quest for the Red Ryder BB gun. The film’s production team meticulously chose locations to capture the essence of the story, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that has resonated with audiences for decades.
The primary filming location for “A Christmas Story” was in and around the city of Cleveland, Ohio. The iconic house where Ralphie lives with his family was actually a real home in the suburb of Cleveland Heights. The exterior of the house, known as the “Bumpas House,” is still standing and has become a popular tourist attraction for fans of the movie.
Inside the Bumpas House, the production team transformed the interior to match the 1940s setting of the story. The living room, kitchen, and bedrooms were meticulously decorated to reflect the period’s style, with vintage furniture, knick-knacks, and everyday items that would have been found in a typical American home of that era.
Another significant location in the film is the Higbee’s Department Store, which served as the backdrop for Ralphie’s quest for the Red Ryder BB gun. Higbee’s was a well-known department store in downtown Cleveland that closed its doors in 1996. The interior of the store was recreated on a soundstage to capture the grandeur and excitement of the scene.
Several other locations in Cleveland contributed to the film’s authenticity. The scene where Ralphie’s father, Randy, has his leg amputated is set in the hospital, which was filmed at the Cleveland Clinic. The famous leg-waxing scene took place at the local drugstore, which has since been replaced by a modern-day CVS pharmacy.
While much of the film was shot in Cleveland, the production team also ventured to other locations in Ohio to capture the story’s rural setting. The opening scene, where Ralphie’s family is seen driving through a snowy landscape, was filmed in the town of Amherst, Ohio. Additionally, the school scenes were filmed at the former Cleveland Heights High School, which has since been renamed as Cleveland Heights High School.
In conclusion, “A Christmas Story” was filmed in various locations across the Cleveland area, with the Bumpas House and Higbee’s Department Store standing out as iconic spots. The attention to detail and choice of locations helped to create a timeless film that has become a cherished holiday classic for generations.
