Once Upon a Time, the beloved ABC fantasy drama, captivated audiences with its enchanting blend of fairytale characters and modern-day settings. While the fictional town of Storybrooke, Maine, held the narrative’s heart, its true location was nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Vancouver, British Columbia, and its surrounding areas.
The Magic of Vancouver: Storybrooke Brought to Life
Vancouver served as the primary filming location for Once Upon a Time, its diverse environments effortlessly transforming into both the idyllic charm of Storybrooke and the fantastical realms of the Enchanted Forest. The show masterfully utilized various locations throughout the region, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for viewers. The production’s skillful integration of real-world settings and CGI magic allowed audiences to truly believe in the existence of fairytale characters living among us.
The Heart of Storybrooke: Steveston Village
Steveston Village, a historic fishing village in Richmond, British Columbia, stands as the visual representation of Storybrooke. Its quaint storefronts, charming streets, and harbor setting were consistently featured throughout the series. Key locations within Steveston included:
- Storybrooke Post Office: In reality, this is the Steveston Museum and Post Office.
- Mr. Gold’s Pawn Shop: While the interior shots were filmed on a soundstage, the exterior was cleverly incorporated into Steveston’s landscape.
- Cannery Café: This beloved local eatery became a recognizable backdrop for numerous Storybrooke scenes.
Beyond Storybrooke: Exploring the Enchanted Forest and Beyond
Beyond the cozy confines of Storybrooke/Steveston, Once Upon a Time ventured into other areas of Vancouver and its environs to depict the diverse locations of the Enchanted Forest, Camelot, Neverland, and more. These included:
- Whistler: Used for snowy scenes and mountain landscapes.
- Minnekhada Regional Park, Coquitlam: Its wooded trails and scenic views were utilized for Enchanted Forest scenes.
- Burnaby Village Museum: This open-air museum offered authentic period architecture, perfect for creating historical settings.
- Stanley Park: The park’s diverse environments, ranging from forests to beaches, provided a versatile backdrop for various scenes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Your Guide to the World of Once Upon a Time Locations
What specific address is used for the Storybrooke Post Office in Steveston?
The building used for the Storybrooke Post Office is located at 3811 Moncton Street, Richmond, BC V7E 3A7. It currently houses the Steveston Museum and Post Office.
Can I visit the real-life location of Mr. Gold’s Pawn Shop?
While the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, the exterior façade was built and utilized in Steveston Village. You can find the location on Moncton Street, though it’s not an actual pawn shop. The appearance may change over time, but its presence as a recognizable backdrop remains.
Were any scenes filmed outside of British Columbia?
The vast majority of filming took place in British Columbia, primarily around Vancouver. However, some exterior shots were filmed in Nova Scotia for establishing shots, particularly in the initial season.
Was the interior of Granny’s Diner filmed in Steveston?
No, the interior of Granny’s Diner was filmed on a soundstage. Only exterior shots around the building were captured in Steveston, typically utilizing the Cannery Café.
How much CGI was used in Once Upon a Time to create the fantastical elements?
Once Upon a Time relied heavily on CGI to enhance the fantastical elements. While the show incorporated real-world locations, CGI was used extensively to create magical effects, expand sets, and depict the Enchanted Forest and other realms. This allowed the production team to create visually stunning and believable environments.
Are there any guided tours of Once Upon a Time filming locations in Vancouver?
While official, studio-sanctioned tours are not consistently available, local tour companies sometimes offer unofficial tours focusing on various filming locations in Vancouver, including those used in Once Upon a Time. Research online for available options. Be sure to check reviews and confirm the tour’s itinerary before booking.
Which character’s home was the most frequently filmed in a real location, rather than on a set?
Regina Mills, the Evil Queen, had several prominent scenes filmed at Hatley Castle, located in Colwood, British Columbia. This stunning castle served as the exterior for her mansion in Storybrooke. Its grandeur and imposing architecture perfectly suited the character’s regal and often intimidating presence.
What other popular shows have filmed in Steveston Village?
Steveston Village is a popular filming location. Other shows that have used Steveston as a backdrop include The X-Files, The Flash, Supernatural, and Riverdale. Its picturesque charm and proximity to Vancouver studios make it a convenient and appealing choice for filmmakers.
Is it possible to see where the Dwarves mined for diamonds in the show?
While the exact location may not be publicly accessible or marked, areas around Minnekhada Regional Park and other mountainous regions near Vancouver likely served as inspiration and potential filming locations for mining scenes. These areas offered the rugged terrain needed to visually represent the Dwarves’ diamond mines. Keep in mind that these areas are natural parks, and respectful visitation is essential.
How did the production team manage to transform Vancouver into Maine for Once Upon a Time?
The production team utilized several techniques to transform Vancouver into Storybrooke, Maine. These included:
- Set Dressing: Carefully selected props, signage, and color palettes created a New England aesthetic.
- Strategic Camera Angles: Avoiding specific landmarks or geographical features that would betray the location.
- Post-Production Editing: Adding visual effects and adjusting color grading to enhance the Maine atmosphere.
- Location Scouting: Choosing locations that resembled New England towns in terms of architecture and overall atmosphere.
Did the actors ever express a favorite filming location during their time on the show?
Many actors expressed fondness for Steveston Village, citing its charming atmosphere and welcoming community. They appreciated being able to interact with locals and enjoy the village’s unique character during filming. Hatley Castle was also a popular choice, appreciated for its beauty and the royal feeling it inspired.
Is there anything left from the Once Upon a Time set still standing in Steveston today?
While most of the temporary sets have been removed, the overall ambiance of Steveston Village still evokes the spirit of Storybrooke. The buildings used as backdrops, such as the Steveston Museum and Post Office (Storybrooke Post Office), remain, allowing fans to experience a tangible connection to the show. The lasting impression of Once Upon a Time has made Steveston a popular destination for fans.