Introduction
Dirty Dancing is a 1987 classic film starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey as two star-crossed lovers who fall in love while vacationing at a resort in the summer of 1963. The movie has become an iconic part of pop culture, launching the careers of its stars and inspiring generations of fans. But one of the most important aspects of Dirty Dancing is its setting. It’s not just a story of young love, but also a love letter to the beauty of the North Carolina mountains.
The question of “where is Dirty Dancing set” has been asked by fans for decades. In this article, we’ll explore the filming locations of Dirty Dancing, from the mountains and lakes of North Carolina to the real-life mountain resort that inspired it. Let’s take a tour of the magical places where Dirty Dancing was filmed.
Exploring the Filming Locations of Dirty Dancing
Dirty Dancing was filmed on location in North Carolina, primarily in the towns of Lake Lure and Asheville. The opening scenes of the movie were shot at Lake Lure, a picturesque mountain lake surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. This is where Baby, played by Jennifer Grey, first meets Johnny, played by Patrick Swayze, and where they share their iconic dance scene.
The majority of the movie was filmed at the mountain resort of Lake Lure Inn & Spa. The resort doubled as the Kellerman’s resort, where Baby and her family stayed for their summer vacation. The resort served as the backdrop for some of the most memorable scenes in the movie, including the famous lift scene.
The town of Asheville was also used as a filming location for Dirty Dancing. Several scenes were shot in downtown Asheville, including the sequence where Baby and Johnny go shopping for dancing clothes. Other scenes were shot at the Biltmore Estate, a historic mansion built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. The estate was used to represent the country club where Baby and Johnny performed their final dance.
How Dirty Dancing Captured the Beauty of North Carolina
Dirty Dancing was one of the first movies to capture the beauty of North Carolina on film. The movie showcased the stunning landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, from the lush forests to the sparkling lakes. The filmmakers also highlighted the unique culture of the area, from the local music to the charming towns.
According to director Emile Ardolino, the beauty of North Carolina was a major factor in choosing the location for Dirty Dancing. He said, “I wanted to find a place that had both a sense of history and a sense of natural beauty. North Carolina had both of these qualities.”
The Real-life Mountain Resort That Inspired Dirty Dancing
The mountain resort in Dirty Dancing was based on the real-life Lake Lure Inn & Spa. The resort was founded in 1927 and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since. The resort has hosted celebrities such as John Wayne and Bob Hope, and it has been featured in several movies and TV shows.
Today, the Lake Lure Inn & Spa continues to be a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can enjoy the same activities that Baby and Johnny did in the movie, such as swimming in the lake, attending dances, and taking boat rides. There are also plenty of other attractions in the area, such as hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic sites.
The Lake Lure Inn & Spa is also home to several historical landmarks. One of the most notable landmarks is the Old Rock Cafe, which was opened by the original owners of the resort in 1929. The cafe was featured prominently in the movie, and it remains a popular spot for visitors to this day.
Conclusion
Where is Dirty Dancing set? The answer is the beautiful mountains and lakes of North Carolina. From the iconic backdrop of Lake Lure to the real-life mountain resort that inspired it, Dirty Dancing captured the beauty of the region and sparked a love affair with the area that still exists today.
Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just looking for a beautiful place to visit, the filming locations of Dirty Dancing are sure to inspire. So get ready to hit the dance floor and explore the timeless beauty of North Carolina.
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