Introduction
The 1987 coming-of-age film Dirty Dancing is one of the most popular movies of all time. Starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, the story follows a young woman on vacation with her family who falls in love with a dance instructor at a nearby resort. The film has become an iconic part of pop culture and its soundtrack is still played regularly. But what many people don’t know is that much of the movie was filmed in North Carolina.
The importance of exploring the North Carolina locations used in the film can’t be underestimated. Not only does it provide some insight into the filming process of the movie, but it also allows fans to experience the scenery that made the movie so special. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the North Carolina sites used to film Dirty Dancing, why North Carolina is the perfect place for the movie, and how fans can visit these iconic locations.
A Guide to the North Carolina Filming Locations of Dirty Dancing
The majority of the movie was filmed in three locations in North Carolina: Lake Lure, Chimney Rock Park, and other nearby sites. Let’s take a look at each location in more detail.
Lake Lure
Lake Lure is a 7,500 acre lake located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. It was here that the Kellerman’s Resort – the fictional resort where much of the action of Dirty Dancing takes place – was built. The main lodge and cabins were constructed solely for the movie, while the surrounding area was used for various outdoor scenes. The lake itself was used for the iconic water-lifting sequence.
Chimney Rock Park
Chimney Rock Park is a 535-acre park located just outside of Lake Lure. It was used for several outdoor scenes in the movie, including the memorable picnic scene. The park also has a number of hiking trails and stunning views of the mountains, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Other Locations
In addition to Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Park, the crew of Dirty Dancing also filmed at a number of other locations in North Carolina. These include Grandfather Mountain, Mount Mitchell State Park, and Linville Falls. All of these locations provided the perfect backdrop for the movie.
Exploring the North Carolina Mountains Through the Eyes of Dirty Dancing
Visiting the sites used to film Dirty Dancing in North Carolina is a great way to explore the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re taking a guided tour or going on a self-guided adventure, there are plenty of ways to appreciate the stunning scenery.
Taking in the Natural Beauty
The natural beauty of the North Carolina mountains is one of the reasons why the filmmakers chose to shoot the movie here. From the lush forests to the majestic lakes and waterfalls, the landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the movie. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and appreciate the rugged beauty of the region.
Re-creating Iconic Dance Scenes
For fans of the movie, visiting the sites used to film Dirty Dancing in North Carolina is a chance to re-create some of the most iconic scenes from the movie. Whether it’s the water-lifting scene at Lake Lure or the picnic scene at Chimney Rock Park, visitors can take a step back in time and relive the magic of the movie.
Why North Carolina is the Perfect Place for Dirty Dancing
When the filmmakers of Dirty Dancing decided to shoot the movie in North Carolina, they had a few reasons. Let’s take a look at why the state was chosen as the setting for the film.
Unique Terrain
North Carolina is known for its unique terrain, which includes rolling hills, thick forests, and pristine lakes. This type of landscape is perfect for outdoor scenes, as it provides a variety of different settings for the crew to work with. The varied terrain also allowed the filmmakers to capture different types of shots, from sweeping vistas to intimate close-ups.
Historical Significance
The state of North Carolina also has deep historical significance, particularly in regard to the Civil War. This history was used to inform the story of Dirty Dancing, adding an extra layer of depth to the characters and their relationships. By shooting the movie in North Carolina, the filmmakers were able to capture the spirit of the region and bring it to life on screen.
Revisiting the Iconic Locations of Dirty Dancing in North Carolina
If you’re looking to revisit the iconic locations of Dirty Dancing in North Carolina, there are a few places you should check out. Here are some of the most important sites from the movie.
Lake Lure Inn
The Lake Lure Inn was used as the main lodge for the Kellerman’s Resort in the movie. Today, the inn is a popular destination for tourists, offering a range of amenities and activities, including a spa, golf course, and lake cruises.
The Mountain Lake Lodge
The Mountain Lake Lodge was used as the cabin where Baby and her family stayed in the movie. Today, the lodge is a popular destination for weddings, corporate retreats, and other events. The lodge also offers a range of activities, such as kayaking, fly fishing, and horseback riding.
The Log Cabin
The log cabin featured in the movie is located in the town of Black Mountain, North Carolina. The cabin is privately owned and not open to the public, but it is still worth a visit for those interested in seeing where some of the movie’s most iconic scenes were shot.
Taking a Tour of the North Carolina Sites Used to Film Dirty Dancing
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive experience, you can take a guided or self-guided tour of the North Carolina sites used to film Dirty Dancing. Guided tours offer an in-depth look at the locations used in the movie and allow visitors to get a behind-the-scenes look at the filming process. Self-guided tours are also available, allowing visitors to explore the sites at their own pace.
Conclusion
Dirty Dancing is one of the most beloved films of all time and its North Carolina locations help to make it so special. From Lake Lure to Chimney Rock Park, the stunning scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains serves as the perfect backdrop for the movie. Whether you’re looking to re-create iconic dance scenes or simply take in the natural beauty of the region, exploring the North Carolina sites used to film Dirty Dancing is a must for any fan of the movie.
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