Where was the movie “Dirty Dancing” filmed? This iconic 1987 romantic drama, directed by Emile Ardolino, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its story of young love and rebellion against the establishment. The film’s stunning locations played a crucial role in creating the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable tale. Let’s explore the various filming locations that brought “Dirty Dancing” to life.
The primary filming location for “Dirty Dancing” was the Catskill Mountains in New York. The picturesque region provided the perfect setting for the Kellerman family’s resort, where the story unfolds. The resort, known as Kellerman’s, was a fictional place, but the actual resort used for filming was the Maxfield House, located in Monticello, New York.
One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is the iconic “Kellerman’s” dance floor, where Baby Houseman (Jennifer Grey) teaches Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze) the dirty dancing moves. This scene was filmed at the Monticello Motor Club, which is a private country club in the Catskill Mountains. The club’s grand ballroom and surrounding gardens provided the perfect setting for this pivotal moment in the film.
Another significant location in “Dirty Dancing” is the resort’s swimming pool, where Baby Houseman first encounters Johnny Castle. The swimming pool scenes were filmed at the Eisenhower Hotel, also located in Monticello. The hotel’s pool area, with its Art Deco architecture and lush gardens, added to the film’s charm and elegance.
The film’s infamous “Staying Alive” dance scene, where Baby Houseman performs her iconic dance in the hotel’s dining room, was also shot at the Eisenhower Hotel. The hotel’s interior, with its grand staircase and ornate decor, provided the perfect setting for this energetic and vibrant scene.
In addition to the Catskill Mountains, some scenes in “Dirty Dancing” were filmed in New York City. The iconic dance scene where Baby and Johnny perform “She’s Like The Wind” was shot at the Empire Plaza, a public space in downtown Syracuse, New York. The scene showcases the city’s architecture and the bustling atmosphere of a summer night.
In conclusion, “Dirty Dancing” was filmed in several locations, with the Catskill Mountains in New York being the primary setting. The combination of these stunning locations, along with the incredible performances by Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze, helped make “Dirty Dancing” an enduring classic that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
