Introduction
Since its release in 1987, the romantic drama Dirty Dancing has become one of the most beloved films of all time. Starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, the movie follows the story of Baby and Johnny, two young lovers who meet at a summer resort in the Catskill Mountains of New York. Today, it is still celebrated for its memorable soundtrack and captivating dance sequences.
The purpose of this article is to explore the places in North Carolina where Dirty Dancing was filmed. We’ll take a look back at the iconic film locations and revisit the historic sites where the movie was shot. We’ll also examine the town that made the film possible and take a tour of the scenic spots featured in the movie.
Exploring the Locations Where Dirty Dancing Was Filmed in North Carolina
Though set in the Catskills of New York, much of Dirty Dancing was actually filmed in North Carolina. Locations in three cities were used for the production: Lake Lure, Asheville, and Charlotte.
Lake Lure, NC
The majority of the movie was shot in Lake Lure, a small mountain town located about 40 miles southeast of Asheville. The town’s picturesque lake and surrounding mountains provided a perfect backdrop for the film.
Asheville, NC
A few scenes in Dirty Dancing were also filmed in Asheville, a city located in western North Carolina. Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene and unique architecture, making it an ideal location for the movie.
Charlotte, NC
Several scenes in Dirty Dancing were filmed in Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina. The city’s downtown area served as the setting for some of the movie’s key scenes, including the climactic dance sequence.
A Look Back at the Iconic Film Locations of Dirty Dancing
Though much of Dirty Dancing was filmed in North Carolina, the movie’s primary setting was the fictional Kellerman’s Resort in the Catskills of New York. To create this iconic setting, producers chose three real-life locations in North Carolina: Mountain Lake Lodge, The Orchard, and Kellerman’s Resort.
Mountain Lake Lodge
The exterior shots of Kellerman’s Resort in Dirty Dancing were filmed at Mountain Lake Lodge, a hotel located in Lake Lure, North Carolina. According to director Emile Ardolino, the lodge was chosen because of its “spectacular location and beautiful buildings.”
The Orchard
The interior shots of Kellerman’s Resort were filmed at The Orchard, a private estate located in Asheville, North Carolina. The home was chosen for its rustic charm and old-world feel.
Kellerman’s Resort
The final location used for Dirty Dancing was a replica of Kellerman’s Resort, which was built in Charlotte, North Carolina. Constructed with careful attention to detail, the replica was designed to replicate the look and feel of the fictional resort.
Revisiting the Historic Sites Where Dirty Dancing Was Filmed in NC
In addition to the three primary filming locations, Dirty Dancing also featured several notable outdoor scenes shot in North Carolina. These locations included Chimney Rock State Park, Grandfather Mountain, and Linville Gorge.
Chimney Rock State Park
One of the most memorable scenes in Dirty Dancing was the lakeside picnic between Baby and Johnny. This scene was filmed at Chimney Rock State Park, a park located near Lake Lure, North Carolina.
Grandfather Mountain
The iconic lift scene in Dirty Dancing was filmed at Grandfather Mountain, a mountain located near Linville, North Carolina. The mountain’s spectacular views provided the perfect backdrop for this iconic moment.
Linville Gorge
The final outdoor scene in Dirty Dancing was filmed at Linville Gorge, a gorge located near Morganton, North Carolina. The gorge’s stunning landscape was the perfect setting for the movie’s dramatic ending.
The North Carolina Town That Made Dirty Dancing Possible
Though many of the outdoor scenes in Dirty Dancing were filmed in North Carolina, the majority of the movie was shot in Hendersonville, a small town located about 30 miles south of Asheville.
Hendersonville, NC
According to locals, the town of Hendersonville was chosen for its “small-town charm and friendly people.” The town provided the perfect backdrop for the movie, and many of its residents served as extras in the film.
The town’s role in the film
The town of Hendersonville played an important role in the making of Dirty Dancing. Its picturesque streets and friendly people provided the perfect setting for the movie, and its residents welcomed the cast and crew with open arms. As one resident recalled, “We had a lot of fun watching them film the movie, and it was great to be part of something so special.”
A Tour of the Scenic Spots Featured in Dirty Dancing
In addition to the locations mentioned above, Dirty Dancing also featured several scenic spots in North Carolina. These locations included Lake Lure Beach, Looking Glass Falls, and Crabtree Falls.
Lake Lure Beach
One of the most memorable scenes in Dirty Dancing was the lakefront dance sequence between Baby and Johnny. This scene was filmed at Lake Lure Beach, a beach located on the shores of Lake Lure, North Carolina.
Looking Glass Falls
The movie’s opening sequence was filmed at Looking Glass Falls, a waterfall located near Brevard, North Carolina. The falls’ spectacular views provided the perfect backdrop for the iconic scene.
Crabtree Falls
The final outdoor scene in Dirty Dancing was filmed at Crabtree Falls, a waterfall located near Marion, North Carolina. The falls’ breathtaking beauty provided the perfect setting for the movie’s climactic moment.
Taking a Trip Down Memory Lane to the Places Where Dirty Dancing Was Filmed in North Carolina
For fans of Dirty Dancing, revisiting the filming locations in North Carolina can be a nostalgic experience. From the majestic mountain peaks to the charming small towns, these locations evoke memories of the beloved movie.
Reflections on the filming locations
As one fan of the movie noted, “Visiting the places where Dirty Dancing was filmed in North Carolina is like taking a trip down memory lane. You can almost feel the energy from the movie as you walk through the locations.”
How the film has impacted the area
The filming of Dirty Dancing in North Carolina had a lasting impact on the area. According to one local resident, “The movie put our small town on the map and attracted thousands of tourists each year. It’s amazing to think that this little movie had such a big impact on our community.”
Conclusion
From the majestic mountain peaks to the charming small towns, the filming locations of Dirty Dancing in North Carolina provide a glimpse into the world of the beloved movie. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply looking for a unique travel experience, exploring the places where Dirty Dancing was filmed in North Carolina is sure to be a memorable experience.
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