10 Best Christmas Movies and Their Filming Locations

1. Home Alone (1990)

Why it’s famous: The ultimate holiday comedy about a boy defending his house from two bumbling burglars.

Filming location: Winnetka, Illinois, USA. The iconic McCallister house is a real private residence.

What to see today: While the house is still privately owned, the neighborhood streets give you a perfect feel of the movie. In nearby Chicago, you can explore Christkindlmarket, a German-style Christmas market that adds to the festive vibe.

Mini-tip: Take a winter stroll through tree-lined streets and imagine running through the snow, just like Kevin!

2. Elf (2003)

Why it’s famous: A comedy about Buddy the Elf discovering New York City.

Filming location: New York City, USA, including Rockefeller Center and Gimbels department store (now closed).

What to see today: You can still visit Rockefeller Center to see the giant Christmas tree and ice-skating rink. Times Square and Central Park are also full of holiday charm in winter.

Mini-tip: Ice skate at Rockefeller Center or grab a hot chocolate nearby to feel just like Buddy.

3. Love Actually (2003)

Why it’s famous: A heartwarming ensemble film following different love stories during Christmas.

Filming location: London, England, including Heathrow Airport, 10 Downing Street, and various streets around the city.

What to see today: Walk around South Bank or visit the festive Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Heathrow even has some spots used in filming visible from the terminal.

Mini-tip: Take a winter river cruise along the Thames to see the city sparkle in the holiday lights.

4. The Polar Express (2004)

Why it’s famous: A magical journey to the North Pole, brought to life through stunning animation and motion capture. Filming location: Although mostly animated, the inspiration came from various US train routes, including the North Pole scenes inspired by Colorado winter landscapes.

What to see today: Visit Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Colorado for a similar snowy train experience. Some cities also host Polar Express-themed train rides during December.

Mini-tip: Sip hot chocolate on a winter train ride to recreate that movie feeling.

5. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

Why it’s famous: A classic story about the value of life and community, centered around Bedford Falls.

Filming location: Originally filmed in California studios, but the inspiration came from Seneca Falls, New York.

What to see today: Seneca Falls celebrates the movie with a charming “It’s a Wonderful Life” museum and Christmas decorations in December.

Mini-tip: Walk along Main Street with its historic architecture and imagine George Bailey walking past.

6. The Holiday (2006)

Why it’s famous: A romantic comedy where two women swap homes for Christmas.

Filming location: Surrey, England (Cameron Diaz’s cottage) and Los Angeles, California (Kate Winslet’s home).

What to see today: Visit the English countryside in Surrey for cozy cottages and quaint villages. Los Angeles offers Christmas events and festive neighborhoods.

Mini-tip: Rent a charming countryside cottage for the weekend and decorate it like the movie!

7. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 / 1994 remake)

Why it’s famous: A story that reminds everyone that Christmas magic is real.

Filming location: New York City, USA, including Macy’s department store on 34th Street.

What to see today: Macy’s still hosts its famous Christmas window displays and the Santaland attraction. Walking around the city streets in December gives you the same festive feeling.

Mini-tip: Take a walking tour of NYC’s holiday decorations, from Fifth Avenue to Bryant Park’s Winter Village.

8. The Grinch (2000 / 2018 animated version)

Why it’s famous: The story of the grumpy Grinch who tries to steal Christmas from Whoville.

Filming location: The live-action movie was filmed in the Universal Studios backlot, California, while the animation was inspired by snowy towns in the Pacific Northwest.

What to see today: Universal Studios transforms into a Christmas wonderland in December with festive shows and decorations. Nearby mountain towns in Washington or Oregon resemble Whoville’s snowy streets.

Mini-tip: Visit a themed holiday park or take a drive through a decorated small town to feel the Grinch magic.

9. Jingle All the Way (1996)

Why it’s famous: A comedy about a father racing to get the hottest toy before Christmas.

Filming location: Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.

What to see today: Mall of America is nearby, offering festive decorations and holiday events every December. You can even relive some shopping chaos scenes!

Mini-tip: Explore local Christmas markets or go ice skating to recreate the family holiday adventure vibe.

10. White Christmas (1954)

Why it’s famous: A classic musical full of songs, dancing, and holiday romance.

Filming location: The film was mostly shot on sound stages in California, but Vermont’s snowy landscapes inspired the setting.

What to see today: Visit Vermont for picturesque winter scenery, ski resorts, and cozy inns. The scenery captures the feeling of the movie perfectly.

Mini-tip: Stay in a traditional inn, sip cocoa by the fire, and enjoy winter sports for a full White Christmas experience.

Conclusion

Visiting these locations lets you experience the holiday spirit firsthand. Whether it’s strolling snowy streets, skating at an iconic rink, or enjoying a hot chocolate in a cozy town, the magic of Christmas movies can come alive outside the screen.

Pack your winter coat, map your route with a local guide from FindGuide, and start your own festive movie adventure!