Page 20 - Explore Your AAA – AAA Southern Pennsylvania – Winter 2022

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EXPLORE | DESTINATIONS WINTER/HOLIDAY EDITION 2022
Travel Inspired by Your Favorite Holiday Movies
When it comes to movies, location is an important aspect of bringing the story to life. Sure, many popular movies are built on a studio lot and developed with computer-generated imaging, but filming on location can set the scene for the entire movie and can add a greater sense of realism to a film. Movies are essentially a window that offers us a glimpse into some of the most amazing locations in the world. So, grab the popcorn and some cocoa, we’re taking a look at your favorite holiday movies with fabulous destinations as their backdrop that will surely inspire you to travel.
A Christmas Story (1983)
Cleveland, Ohio
Filmed in Cleveland, Ohio, “A Christmas Story” follows a young boy, Ralphie, and his quest to convince his parents, teacher and the big man himself, Santa, for a “Red Ryder Carbine-action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle.” Cleveland is known to get snow – lots of it. For nearly half of winter days, there will be at least an inch of snow on the ground, making this a perfect setting for any holiday movie.
Did you know that you can visit or spend a night in Ralphie’s actual house? The A Christmas Story House has been restored to its movie glory, including the famous “Major Award” Leg Lamp. Guests can enjoy a private third-floor loft for the entirety of their stay and have use of the whole house from one hour after closing to 9 a.m. the next day. The house can accommodate up to six guests per night.
Across the street from Ralphie’s house is the A Christmas Story Museum which features memorabilia, props and costumes from the movie, including the original Leg Lamp
Iazyllama | Shutterstock
and pink bunny suit. For more details on the A Christmas Story House and Museum, visit AChristmasStoryHouse.com. We triple-dog-dare you.
Multiple Movies
New York, New York
Is there any other city that embodies the holidays more than New York? From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, New York City is transformed into a picturesque holiday destination where you can enjoy holiday parades, themed window displays at famous shops, endless twinkling lights, romantic ice skating and one oversized Christmas tree. It’s no surprise that the holidays in New York City create the perfect film location. If you love movies like “Elf” (2003), “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947 and 1994), “Home Alone: Lost in New York” (1992), “Serendipity” (2001) or “Scrooged” (1988), you won’t be disappointed with a trip to the Big Apple during the holidays.
Die Hard (1988)
Los Angeles, California
Yes, you read that correctly: “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie. Yippee-ki-yay! This not-so-typical Christmas and action film is set during a holiday office party in Los Angeles, California, and has a wonderful soundtrack packed with Christmas music. Plus, a Santa hat makes an appearance. It’s a Christmas movie – we’re convinced.
Los Angeles might not be top-of-mind when thinking of a holiday destination, but L.A.’s amazing viewpoints, beaches, luxurious hotels and shopping malls, weather and, of course, the home of Hollywood, make it worthy of a visit.
Juli Scalzi | Shutterstock