“A Christmas Story,” the beloved holiday classic, wasn’t filmed solely in one location, but rather across two primary sites: Cleveland, Ohio, and Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This blend of American and Canadian settings contributed significantly to the movie’s nostalgic and universally relatable charm, perfectly capturing the essence of a midwestern American childhood in the 1940s.
The Real-Life House and the Department Store Dream
The most iconic location, the Parker family’s house, is situated at 3159 W. 11th Street in Cleveland, Ohio. This house is not merely a facade; it’s a fully preserved piece of cinematic history that fans can visit and even rent for overnight stays. However, not all interior scenes were filmed inside this specific house. Some were shot on soundstages, offering greater control over lighting and camera angles.
Another crucial element of the film is Higgins Department Store, where Ralphie sets his sights on the coveted Red Ryder BB gun. While the exterior shots of the department store were filmed at Higbee’s Department Store in downtown Cleveland, the interior scenes were filmed at a different location. Higbee’s, now a casino called JACK Cleveland Casino, retains the iconic Christmas tree location, allowing visitors to relive that magical moment.
Toronto’s Role in Bringing the Story to Life
While Cleveland provided the external authenticity, Toronto played a significant role in crafting the indoor world of “A Christmas Story.” Many of the interior shots, including the Parker family’s living room, kitchen, and even some school scenes, were filmed at various soundstages in Toronto. This allowed the production team to build and customize sets precisely to their specifications, enhancing the film’s overall visual appeal.
The schoolhouse and the Chinese restaurant where the Parkers dine on Christmas Day were also filmed in Toronto. These locations, while less iconic than the house or the department store, are integral to the movie’s narrative and contributed to the overall sense of realism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “A Christmas Story” Filming Locations
Here are answers to some common questions regarding the filming locations of “A Christmas Story”:
Where is the actual house from “A Christmas Story” located?
The house is located at 3159 W. 11th Street, Cleveland, Ohio, 44109. It is a private residence that has been meticulously restored to its appearance in the film.
Can I visit the house from “A Christmas Story”?
Yes, the house is open to the public for tours. You can even rent the house for an overnight stay, providing the ultimate “A Christmas Story” experience.
Was the entire movie filmed in Cleveland?
No. While Cleveland provided the iconic exterior shots of the house and department store, much of the interior filming, school scenes, and the Chinese restaurant scenes took place in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
What happened to Higbee’s Department Store, the department store featured in the movie?
Higbee’s is now the JACK Cleveland Casino. However, the casino maintains the tradition of displaying a large Christmas tree in the same location as featured in the film.
Where were the interior scenes of Higbee’s Department Store filmed?
The interior scenes of Higbee’s were not filmed inside the actual Higbee’s building. They were filmed at a different location, often cited as a soundstage in Toronto. Specific details on the exact soundstage are less readily available.
Was the school used in the movie a real school?
Yes, the school used for the exterior shots was a real school. However, interior school scenes were filmed on a soundstage in Toronto.
Where was the Chinese restaurant scene filmed?
The memorable Christmas Day Chinese restaurant scene was filmed in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The specific restaurant used in the filming is no longer operating.
Are there any “A Christmas Story” museums or attractions in Cleveland?
Yes, the “A Christmas Story” House, located at 3159 W. 11th Street, includes a museum and a gift shop. You can purchase memorabilia and learn more about the making of the film.
How accurate is the depiction of Cleveland in the movie?
While the movie captures the general atmosphere of a midwestern American town in the 1940s, it’s important to note that it’s a stylized and romanticized portrayal. Some details are exaggerated for comedic effect.
Why were some scenes filmed in Toronto?
Filming in Toronto offered several advantages, including access to soundstages, skilled crew members, and potentially more favorable filming incentives.
Can I take photos at the “A Christmas Story” House?
Yes, you can take photos both inside and outside the “A Christmas Story” House. However, there may be restrictions on flash photography inside the house.
How can I plan a trip to visit the “A Christmas Story” locations?
Start by booking a tour of the “A Christmas Story” House online. Consider staying overnight at the house for a truly immersive experience. While in Cleveland, visit the JACK Cleveland Casino to see the former Higbee’s location. Then, reflect upon the scenes filmed in Toronto, even if the precise locations are no longer accessible to the public.