For many, the holiday season isn’t complete without watching the timeless classic, A Christmas Story. The film, with its heartwarming humor and nostalgic charm, has become a staple in households across the United States and beyond. One question that often arises among viewers, especially those captivated by its authentic feel, is: where does A Christmas Story take place? Let’s delve into the real and fictional locations that brought this beloved movie to life.
The Fictional Setting: Hohman, Indiana
A Christmas Story is set in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, during the 1940 Christmas season. This charming, snow-covered town is actually a nostalgic representation of author Jean Shepherd’s childhood home of Hammond, Indiana, located just outside of Chicago. Shepherd’s semi-autobiographical stories from “In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash” provided the source material for the movie, lending a genuine Midwestern feel to the narrative. While Hohman is fictional, it embodies the spirit of many small American towns during that era, filled with relatable family dynamics and childhood adventures.
The Real Filming Locations: Cleveland and Toronto
While the story is set in Indiana, much of A Christmas Story was filmed in Cleveland, Ohio. Director Bob Clark chose Cleveland primarily because of Higbee’s department store in downtown Cleveland, which served as the location for the Santa Claus scene and the iconic department store window displays. After scouting over 20 cities, Higbee’s willingness to participate was a major draw for choosing Cleveland.
The exterior shots of the Parker family house, along with several neighborhood scenes, were filmed in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. Specifically, the house itself is located at 3159 W. 11th Street, Cleveland, OH 44109. This unassuming house has since become a landmark for fans of the movie.
Interestingly, not all of the movie was filmed in Cleveland. Some school scenes and exterior shots were also filmed in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. However, Cleveland remains the most recognizable and significant filming location for A Christmas Story.
Visiting A Christmas Story House in Cleveland
Today, the iconic Parker family house is open to the public for tours. Purchased on eBay in 2004 by a dedicated fan, Brian Jones, the house has been meticulously restored to its movie appearance. Visiting A Christmas Story House offers fans a unique opportunity to step directly into the world of Ralphie Parker and his family.
The tour experience extends beyond just the house. Across the street, a museum houses original props, costumes, and behind-the-scenes memorabilia from the film. And of course, no visit is complete without a stop at the gift shop, where you can purchase your own leg lamp or pink bunny suit.
Planning Your Tour
- Location: 3159 W. 11th Street, Cleveland, OH 44109, in the Tremont neighborhood.
- Tour Details: Guided tours take visitors through the first and second floors of the house, filled with props and details from the movie.
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased in the gift shop or online at the official A Christmas Story House website. Expect to pay around $18 for adults, with discounted rates for seniors and children.
- Hours: Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except for major holidays. Closed for maintenance for approximately two weeks in February.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Christmas time is the busiest period.
- Tour Duration: The guided tour lasts about one hour, but allow extra time for the museum and gift shop.
Exploring Beyond the House: Museum, Gift Shop, and Rowley Inn
The A Christmas Story experience in Cleveland extends beyond the Parker family home. The museum across the street is a treasure trove of movie artifacts, including the original Golden Age sign, Randy’s snowsuit, and even a 1938 Oldsmobile Touring Sedan similar to the Parker family car.
The gift shop offers a wide array of A Christmas Story merchandise, from leg lamps in various sizes to pink bunny slippers and bunny suits. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir to remember your visit.
For a bite to eat after your tour, consider visiting The Rowley Inn, located directly across the street from the museum. This historic bar and restaurant was a popular hangout for the cast and crew during filming and has even been featured on television. It offers classic Cleveland comfort food and local beers.
Staying Overnight: Immerse Yourself in the Movie Magic
For the ultimate A Christmas Story immersion, you can even stay overnight in the house! The second floor has been converted into a suite that sleeps up to six people and offers access to the entire house outside of tour hours. While it comes at a premium, especially during the Christmas season, staying in A Christmas Story House is a truly unique experience for die-hard fans.
Next door, the Bumpus House, home to the Parker family’s dog-loving neighbors, also offers overnight accommodations in two separate suites.
10 Fun Facts About A Christmas Story
- The movie is based on Jean Shepherd’s short stories from “In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash.”
- Jean Shepherd and director Bob Clark both make cameo appearances in the film.
- Filming took place in Cleveland, Ohio, and Toronto, Ontario.
- Three leg lamps were created for the movie, and all were broken during filming.
- The film is set in 1940 in fictional Hohman, Indiana, based on Hammond, Illinois.
- Higbee’s department store in Cleveland was chosen as a filming location after scouting over 20 locations.
- 8,000 children auditioned for the role of Ralphie Parker.
- The house was purchased on eBay in 2004 for $100,000 and restored by a fan.
- The movie had a low budget of $3 million and was not initially a box office success.
- A Christmas Story is now a holiday television marathon staple each year.
Conclusion
So, while A Christmas Story is set in the fictional Hohman, Indiana, its heart and soul are firmly rooted in Cleveland, Ohio. Visiting A Christmas Story House is more than just a tour; it’s a nostalgic journey into a beloved film and a chance to experience a slice of cinematic history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the movie’s charm, a trip to Cleveland to see the iconic house is a worthwhile pilgrimage for anyone who cherishes the holiday spirit. Plan your visit and step into the world of Ralphie Parker – just watch out for those Bumpus hounds!
