The central set of one of America’s most cherished festive season flicks is a major attraction in Cleveland with tours offered of the house where A Christmas Story was filmed.
The chance to visit the house where this early 80s film was shot (and where Ralphie almost shot his eye out) was a highlight of my recent trip to Cleveland.
Impeccably restored to replicate how it looked (inside and out) during filming, the otherwise ordinary and modest home in the leafy and low-key neighbourhood of Tremont served as a sweet reminder of a sweet story that never grows old. To behold that lamp, that bowling ball, that official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200 shot range model air rifle – and so many more #original elements from the film – was such a treat and a wonderful opportunity revel in a few of my own childhood memories.
Visits to A Christmas Story House are by timed guided tour only. The house wasn’t overly busy when I dropped by on a weekday in early October, but there was a steady flow of visitors. I reckon as December 25th draws nearer, interest will increase. Tours include plenty of independent time walking through the house and at the small museum across the street to view photos and displays related to the making of ACS including two antique vehicles (a fire truck and “the old man’s” car) used in the film.
Available for purchase in the gift shop across the street from the house are bars of Lifebuoy soap, pink bunny suits, leg lamps of varying sizes and all sorts of other props made famous by the film alongside practically every sort of ACS themed souvenir and trinket imaginable.
For guests interested in overnight stays, the Bumpus House next door provides accommodations for up to four in its Hound Dog Haven and up to six in the Stolen Turkey Suite.
A word to my British audience (that’s most of you) and other readers outside the US:
You might not be as familiar with this cinematic marvel as most Americans, but you should know that A Christmas Story is a full-blown cultural phenomenon in the States, where watching it multiple times from Thanksgiving until New Years Day is done with ritualistic ardour across the nation. It’s an endearing and relatable little film for all ages and the favourite holiday film for millions of Americans (such as yours truly).
If you’re keen for a family-friendly feel-good film full of warmhearted humour, keep A Christmas Story in mind. And when in Cleveland be sure to add a visit to this house to your itinerary.
A Christmas Story House is located at 3159 West 11th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44109.
During your visit, be careful not to touch anything! There are some very fragilé items from the film placed throughout the house.
Find out more at achristmasstoryhouse.com.
And for tips on having fun around Cleveland go to thisiscleveland.com.
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