Introduction
Since its release in 1985, The Goonies has become an iconic favorite of generations of movie fans. The beloved adventure comedy follows the story of a group of misfit kids who go on a wild quest to find treasure in order to save their neighborhood from demolition. From its memorable characters to its thrilling plot, it’s easy to see why this movie has become such a classic.
But what makes The Goonies so special isn’t just its storyline – it’s also the real-life places where the movie was filmed. In this article, we’ll explore the iconic filming locations of The Goonies and provide information on how to visit these sites.
Exploring the Real-Life Settings of The Goonies
The Goonies was filmed in several real-life settings in Oregon, including Astoria, Ecola State Park, the Flavel House, and Cape Disappointment. Let’s take a closer look at each of these locations.
Astoria, Oregon
Astoria is a small port city located in northwestern Oregon. It’s been featured in films such as The Goonies, Kindergarten Cop, and Free Willy. Astoria is full of charming attractions, from its waterfront restaurants to its historic landmarks.
Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park is located on the northern Oregon Coast, just south of Astoria. This park is known for its stunning views of the ocean, as well as its hiking trails and tidepools. It’s also where some of the most iconic scenes from The Goonies were filmed, including the famous truffle shuffle scene.
The Flavel House
The Flavel House is a historic mansion located in Astoria. Built in 1885, it was once the home of George Flavel, one of Astoria’s most prominent citizens. Today, it serves as a museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was used as the setting for Chunk’s mansion in The Goonies.
Cape Disappointment
Cape Disappointment is located on the southwestern tip of Washington state. This area is known for its rugged coastline, lighthouses, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. It was used as the setting for the climax of The Goonies, when the kids face off against the Fratellis.
On Location: A Look at Where The Goonies Was Filmed
Now that we’ve explored the real-life settings of The Goonies, let’s take a look at some of the specific places where the movie was filmed.
Movie Magic in Astoria
The crew of The Goonies spent several months filming in Astoria, using various locations around the city as backdrops for the movie. Some of the most notable filming sites in Astoria include:
- Chunk’s Mansion – The exterior of Chunk’s mansion was filmed at the Flavel House.
- The Jailhouse – The jailhouse scene was shot at the Clatsop County Jail.
- Mikey’s Basement – The interior of Mikey’s basement was filmed at the American Legion Hall.
Visiting the Iconic Film Sites of The Goonies
If you’re a fan of The Goonies, you can still visit many of the movie’s iconic filming sites. Here are some of the most popular places to check out:
Astoria Column
The Astoria Column is a 125-foot-tall tower located on Coxcomb Hill. It provides sweeping views of the Columbia River and the surrounding area. This site was used for the opening shot of The Goonies, and today it’s a popular tourist attraction.
Haystack Rock
Haystack Rock is a 235-foot-tall sea stack located in Cannon Beach. It’s a popular spot for beachcombing, tidepooling, and birdwatching. This rock formation was featured in the movie, and it’s now a protected marine reserve.
Ecola State Park
As mentioned before, Ecola State Park was used as the setting for some of the most iconic scenes in The Goonies. You can still visit this park today and explore its stunning beaches, tidepools, and hiking trails.
The Flavel House
The Flavel House is still standing today and open to the public. You can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its history and its role in The Goonies. There’s also a gift shop on-site, where you can purchase Goonies memorabilia.
Reliving the Adventure of The Goonies Through Its Filming Locations
By visiting the various filming locations of The Goonies, you can relive the movie’s thrilling adventure. Here are some tips for making the most of your trip:
Touring the Movie Set
When visiting the filming sites of The Goonies, it’s a good idea to take a guided tour. These tours will give you an inside look at the making of the movie and provide interesting trivia about the film. You may even get to meet some of the cast and crew members.
Seeing the Sites
Most of the filming sites of The Goonies are open to the public. Be sure to take lots of photos and enjoy the breathtaking scenery! You may even be able to spot some of the locations used in the movie.
Exploring the Local Culture and History
In addition to visiting the filming sites, you should also make time to explore the local culture and history. Astoria and the surrounding areas have a rich history, and there’s plenty to discover. Be sure to stop by some of the area’s museums, galleries, and historic sites.
Conclusion
From Astoria to Cape Disappointment, The Goonies was filmed in some of the most beautiful places in Oregon. By visiting these iconic filming sites, you can experience the movie’s exciting adventure for yourself. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just looking for a unique travel destination, the filming locations of The Goonies are sure to be a memorable experience.
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