Welcome to the world of American Wedding, the third installment of the famous American Pie series. The movie brings back all of our favorite characters, including Jim, Michelle, and Stifler, for a hilarious and heartwarming wedding celebration. However, the real star of the show is the stunning filming locations, which transport viewers to the beautiful countryside of Michigan.
The film’s creators spared no expense in creating the perfect setting for Jim and Michelle’s special day. From the historic churches to the charming bed and breakfasts, the locations in the movie are nothing short of breathtaking. Fans of the movie can now follow in the footsteps of their favorite characters and explore the many locations that made the movie so memorable.
Join us as we take a behind-the-scenes look at the gorgeous venues and secret spots that served as the backdrop for American Wedding. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just appreciate beautiful scenery, you won’t want to miss this journey through one of the most iconic wedding films of all time.
Get ready to relive the magic and experience the beauty of American Wedding like never before. So, grab some popcorn and get comfortable as we take you on a tour of the most stunning filming locations from the movie.
The American Wedding Filming Locations You Need to Visit
If you’re a fan of the American Wedding movie, you’ll know that the film was set in various locations across the United States. In this post, we’ll be taking a closer look at the filming locations of American Wedding that you need to visit.
The first filming location on our list is the Michigan Theater in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The theater was used to film the scene where Jim and Michelle watch the adult movie.
The second filming location that you need to visit is the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California. The center was used to film the scene where Jim and Michelle get married.
The third filming location is the Long Beach Airport in Long Beach, California. The airport was used to film the scene where the gang heads to the wedding destination.
The fourth filming location on our list is the Hilton Universal Hotel in Los Angeles, California. The hotel was used to film the scene where Stifler and Finch sneak into the hotel’s spa area.
These filming locations are just a few of the many places that were used in the production of American Wedding. Keep reading to learn more about the other gorgeous locations that were featured in the movie.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
If you are looking for a luxurious filming location, then the Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is perfect for you. It offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs of the Northern California coast.
The hotel has been featured in many films and TV shows, including American Wedding. The elegant decor of the hotel, along with the gorgeous surroundings, makes it a great filming location.
In American Wedding, the Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay was the filming location for the wedding reception. The hotel’s grand ballroom was transformed into an exquisite wedding venue, complete with gorgeous floral arrangements and elegant decor.
If you are a fan of the American Pie franchise or just looking for a stunning filming location, the Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is definitely worth a visit.
Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens
The Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens is an idyllic setting for weddings, with its lush gardens and elegant architecture. The estate spans 30 acres and features seven themed gardens, including a rose garden, an arbor terrace, and a heart-shaped lake.
One of the highlights of the estate is the Orchid Bar, a tropical oasis that serves as a unique and stunning backdrop for wedding receptions. The venue also features a Crystal Ballroom, a grand space that can accommodate up to 300 guests and is adorned with crystal chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows.
For those looking for an outdoor ceremony, the Arbor Terrace provides a romantic setting with its stone pillars, cascading waterfall, and blooming flowers. The venue also has a team of experienced wedding planners who can help create the perfect wedding day.
- The estate spans 30 acres and has seven themed gardens
- The Orchid Bar is a unique and stunning backdrop for receptions
- The Crystal Ballroom can accommodate up to 300 guests
- The Arbor Terrace provides a romantic outdoor ceremony setting
- The venue has experienced wedding planners to help create the perfect day
- Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens is a top-rated wedding venue in Southern California
If you’re looking for a venue that combines natural beauty, elegance, and exceptional service, the Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens is a perfect choice. Whether you dream of a garden wedding or a grand ballroom reception, this venue has everything you need to create an unforgettable wedding day.
Greystone Mansion and Park
History meets luxury at the Greystone Mansion and Park, which is one of the most iconic film locations in Beverly Hills. This historic landmark features over 55 rooms and a sprawling 16-acre park that served as the setting for various scenes in American Wedding.
Visitors can explore the mansion’s lavish interiors, including the grand ballroom, art gallery, and library, which have been preserved in their original condition. The park surrounding the mansion is equally impressive, with manicured lawns, stunning fountains, and a picturesque courtyard.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of American Wedding, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, Greystone Mansion and Park is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.
Explore the Gorgeous Venues in American Wedding
If you’re a fan of the romantic comedy genre, then you’ve likely seen the movie American Wedding. This film is full of beautiful and unique venues that make it a must-see for anyone interested in wedding planning or event venues.
One of the most iconic venues featured in the film is the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort. The stunning ocean views and elegant architecture make it the perfect location for a dream wedding.
Another venue that is worth exploring is the Vibiana in Los Angeles. This historic venue boasts high ceilings, stunning chandeliers, and a grand staircase that will take your breath away.
For a more rustic wedding vibe, consider the Orcutt Ranch Horticulture Center. With its lush gardens, citrus groves, and quaint farmhouse, this venue is the epitome of California charm.
Trump National Golf Club Los Angeles
If you are a fan of gorgeous golf courses, then you will be excited to know that Trump National Golf Club Los Angeles is one of the main locations used in American Wedding. The club is situated on the beautiful California coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views and stunning landscapes.
One of the most memorable scenes in the movie was the wedding ceremony of Jim and Michelle at this venue. With the Pacific Ocean in the background and a beautifully decorated wedding arch, the setting was nothing short of magical.
Aside from its beautiful views, the Trump National Golf Club is also known for its world-class facilities, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a round of golf or a delicious meal at its elegant restaurant.
Whether you are a golfer or simply want to experience the beauty of the California coast, a visit to the Trump National Golf Club Los Angeles is a must-see for any fan of American Wedding.
Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
If you are looking for a venue that offers a stunning combination of art, nature, and history, then the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is the perfect place for your wedding. The 207-acre property features several indoor and outdoor locations that are perfect for intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations.
One of the highlights of this venue is the Japanese Garden, which offers a serene and tranquil backdrop for your wedding photos. The garden features a traditional teahouse, a moon bridge, and a stunning koi pond.
The Rose Garden is another popular location for wedding ceremonies. This garden features over 3,000 rose plants and is at its most beautiful from April to June.
The Desert Garden is a unique location that features a variety of cacti and other desert plants. This garden is perfect for couples who want a more unconventional wedding venue.
Whether you choose to have your wedding ceremony in the gardens or in one of the indoor locations, the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens offers a stunning and unforgettable setting for your special day.
Millennium Biltmore Hotel
If you are looking for a wedding venue that exudes classic Hollywood glamour, look no further than the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. Built in 1923, this historic hotel has played host to numerous celebrities and even several Academy Awards ceremonies.
The hotel’s stunning ballrooms and grand public spaces make it a perfect choice for a lavish wedding celebration. The Biltmore Bowl is a circular ballroom with a soaring ceiling and stunning chandeliers, while the Biltmore Crystal Ballroom is a two-story space with a balcony and intricate Art Deco details.
In addition to the beautiful event spaces, the Millennium Biltmore Hotel also offers luxurious accommodations for you and your guests. The rooms and suites are elegantly appointed with classic furnishings and modern amenities.
Behind the Scenes of American Wedding: Where the Magic Happened
Production Design: The production design team transformed ordinary locations into glamorous wedding venues, such as the backyard of Jim’s family home and the vineyard where the wedding took place. The team also created the iconic flower wall in the reception scene.
Costume Design: The costume design team crafted stunning wedding attire for the main characters and the wedding guests. The bride’s gown, designed by Monique Lhuillier, was a highlight of the film and inspired many real-life wedding dresses.
Cinematography: The cinematography team captured the romance and humor of the film through creative camera work and lighting. The wedding scenes, in particular, were beautifully shot, showcasing the stunning locations and the emotion of the characters.
Music: The music in American Wedding played a crucial role in setting the mood of the film. The soundtrack featured a mix of classic and contemporary songs, including the iconic wedding song “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates.
Long Beach, California
If you’re looking for a beautiful coastal city with a variety of attractions, Long Beach, California, is the perfect destination. This city is known for its stunning beaches, including the popular Belmont Shore and Naples Beach. For those who love art and culture, Long Beach is home to the Long Beach Museum of Art and the Museum of Latin American Art, which boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art from Latin America. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at the Long Beach Arena or take a stroll through the iconic Long Beach Boardwalk. And with a vibrant downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, Long Beach is the perfect destination for any traveler.
Glendale, California
Location: Glendale is a city located in Los Angeles County, California, United States. It is situated at the eastern end of the San Fernando Valley.
Attractions: Glendale offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. One of the most popular destinations is the Glendale Galleria, which is a shopping mall featuring high-end brands and restaurants. Other popular attractions include the Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, the Brand Library & Art Center, and the Autry Museum of the American West.
Events: Glendale hosts many events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Montrose Arts & Crafts Festival, which takes place in July and features over 300 vendors selling handmade crafts and art. The city also hosts the Glendale Cruise Night, a classic car show that takes place on Brand Boulevard on the third Saturday of every month from April through September.
Uncover the Secret Spots in American Wedding Movie
If you’re a fan of American Wedding, you’ll love exploring the hidden gems where the movie was filmed. One such spot is the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, where Jim and Michelle’s wedding reception was held.
Another must-visit location is Port Hueneme Beach Park, where the beach scenes were filmed. You can even rent the same beach house that was used in the movie.
For a taste of the nightlife scene, head to West Hollywood, where the infamous bachelor party scene was filmed. Check out popular bars and clubs like The Abbey and Greystone Manor.
If you’re a fan of the restaurant scenes, don’t miss Taix French Restaurant in Echo Park, where Jim and Michelle had their awkward dinner with her parents.
Finally, visit the Pasadena Convention Center to see where Jim and Michelle tied the knot. The venue offers guided tours where you can see the exact locations where the wedding was filmed.
The Long Beach Museum of Art
If you’re a fan of contemporary art, the Long Beach Museum of Art is a must-visit spot. Located on the bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this museum boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
Inside, you’ll find works by local artists as well as internationally renowned names, all housed in a stunning Art Deco building that is itself a work of art.
Be sure to check out the museum’s outdoor sculpture garden, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
- Admission: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, free for members and children under 12.
- Hours: Thursday-Sunday 11am-5pm, closed Monday-Wednesday.
- Parking: Free on-site parking available.
- Location: 2300 East Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, California.
- Contact: (562) 439-2119 or [email protected].
- Website: https://www.lbma.org/
Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Long Beach Museum of Art!
Redondo Beach Pier
If you’re looking for a fun day out by the ocean, the Redondo Beach Pier is the place to go. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions to keep you busy for hours. Take a stroll along the pier and enjoy the fresh sea breeze or try your luck at fishing.
For the thrill-seekers, there’s a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing available. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also sign up for a whale watching tour.
The pier is also home to the Redondo Beach Pier Aquarium, where you can discover the underwater world of Southern California. The aquarium offers educational programs and exhibits featuring local marine life, making it a great spot for families.
Don’t miss out on the Redondo Beach Pier Concerts during the summer months. Enjoy live music from a variety of genres, including rock, jazz, and blues, while watching the sunset over the ocean.
If you’re looking for a relaxing day out by the beach, the Redondo Beach Pier is the perfect destination.
Follow the Footsteps of Your Favorite Characters in American Wedding
If you’re a fan of the American Pie franchise, particularly American Wedding, you’ll be excited to know that you can follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters. The movie was primarily set in Long Beach and Glendale, California, so it’s easy to recreate the scenes and feel like you’re part of the movie.
Start your journey in Long Beach, where you can visit the Long Beach Museum of Art and see the beautiful ocean views that appear in the movie. Take a stroll down the Redondo Beach Pier and see where Stifler and Finch meet the strippers.
Head over to Glendale and visit the Millennium Biltmore Hotel where the wedding reception was held. Afterward, you can head to the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens and see where Jim and Michelle take their engagement photos.
Don’t forget to stop by the Glendale Galleria, where Jim and Michelle register for their wedding gifts. If you’re a fan of the franchise, you won’t want to miss out on this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of American Wedding!
Pasadena City Hall
Pasadena City Hall is one of the iconic locations featured in American Wedding. This stunning building has been a popular filming location for many movies and TV shows, and its unique architecture makes it a must-visit spot for fans of the movie.
Inside, you can find the gorgeous rotunda and grand staircase, which were featured in the movie during Jim and Michelle’s wedding scene. Take a tour of the building and explore the many filming locations, including the council chambers, the rooftop, and the courtyard.
Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the famous City Hall sign, which was featured prominently in the movie. It’s the perfect way to commemorate your visit to this historic location.
L’Orangerie
French Dining Experience: L’Orangerie is a French restaurant that opened in 1978, and it was the perfect location for Jim and Michelle’s rehearsal dinner in American Wedding. The restaurant has a beautiful outdoor patio, elegant decor, and an extensive wine list that will make you feel like you’re dining in the heart of Paris.
Haute Cuisine: The restaurant’s menu features classic French dishes like escargots, foie gras, and coq au vin, as well as seasonal creations. The chef creates a menu that’s both beautiful and delicious, and the staff provides excellent service that complements the elegant dining experience.
Hollywood History: L’Orangerie has been a popular spot for Hollywood celebrities and politicians for decades. The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and delicious cuisine have made it a favorite for power lunches and romantic dinners. It has even been featured in movies like American Wedding and TV shows like Entourage.
Private Dining: L’Orangerie has private dining rooms available for intimate events like rehearsal dinners and business meetings. The rooms are beautifully decorated and offer an exclusive dining experience that will make any event memorable.
Whiskey Blue Los Angeles
If you’re looking for a swanky rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, look no further than Whiskey Blue Los Angeles. With a sleek, modern design and a menu of creative cocktails, this is the perfect spot to impress a date or catch up with friends.
The bar’s extensive whiskey selection is a major draw, with options ranging from classic bourbons to rare Japanese single malts. And if you’re feeling peckish, the small plates menu features tasty bites like truffle fries and lobster sliders.
But the real standout feature of Whiskey Blue is the panoramic views of downtown LA. Whether you’re gazing out at the skyline from a cozy indoor table or taking in the sunset from the outdoor patio, this bar offers a stunning backdrop for any occasion.
Be sure to dress to impress, as the dress code is upscale and stylish. And keep in mind that the rooftop bar is only open in the evenings, so plan your visit accordingly.
Experience the Best of American Wedding’s Film Locations
If you are a fan of the movie American Wedding, you can experience some of the iconic locations featured in the film. From the Pasadena City Hall where the wedding ceremony took place, to Whiskey Blue Los Angeles where the guys had their bachelor party, there are plenty of places to visit that will make you feel like you are part of the movie.
You can also visit L’Orangerie, the upscale French restaurant where the guys had their rehearsal dinner. This charming restaurant offers a wide range of classic French dishes that will satisfy your taste buds.
If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, head to the Redondo Beach Pier, where Jim and Michelle took a romantic walk on the beach. You can also try your hand at fishing or rent a bike to explore the surrounding area.
Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
If you’re a fan of the natural beauty of American Wedding’s film locations, then the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a must-see. This 127-acre garden boasts a variety of different landscapes, including waterfalls, ponds, and forests. Visitors can explore the gardens on foot or take a tram tour for a more in-depth experience.
Some of the notable spots in the garden include the Queen Anne Cottage, which was used as the exterior of Jim’s home in the film, and the peacock garden, where Kevin and Finch had a memorable encounter with a feathered friend.
The arboretum is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibits, and seasonal celebrations. Check their calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
The Athenaeum
The Athenaeum is a historic landmark in Pasadena that offers a unique experience for visitors. The venue is known for its elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and exceptional cuisine. It’s a popular spot for weddings, special events, and fine dining.
One of the highlights of the Athenaeum is the extensive art collection, featuring works by prominent California artists. Guests can enjoy a self-guided tour of the collection, or take part in a docent-led tour.
The Athenaeum also hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, lectures, and exhibitions. With its rich history and diverse offerings, the Athenaeum is a must-visit destination for art and culture lovers.
Millennium Biltmore Hotel
The Millennium Biltmore Hotel is one of the most iconic and historical landmarks in Los Angeles. Built in 1923, this hotel has been a popular filming location for many movies, including American Wedding. It is located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and features stunning architecture and luxurious amenities.
The hotel has been featured in several scenes from American Wedding, including the scene where Jim and Michelle attend a wedding in the hotel’s grand ballroom. The ballroom is known for its stunning chandeliers and ornate decorations, making it the perfect setting for a grand wedding.
In addition to its appearance in American Wedding, the Millennium Biltmore Hotel has also been featured in many other movies and TV shows, including Ghostbusters, Spider-Man, and Mad Men.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable locations where American Wedding was filmed?
American Wedding was filmed in various locations in Los Angeles, California, including the Pasadena City Hall, L’Orangerie, and Whiskey Blue Los Angeles. Other notable locations include the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden and The Athenaeum.
Did the cast and crew travel outside of California to film American Wedding?
No, the entire movie was filmed in Los Angeles, California, with various locations throughout the city used as filming locations.
How did the filmmakers choose the filming locations for American Wedding?
The filmmakers of American Wedding chose filming locations based on the specific scenes and settings needed for the movie. For example, they chose the Pasadena City Hall for the wedding scene, and L’Orangerie for the rehearsal dinner scene.
Were any of the filming locations used in American Wedding chosen for their historical significance?
Yes, some of the filming locations used in American Wedding have historical significance. For example, the Pasadena City Hall is a historic building that was built in 1927 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Are any of the filming locations used in American Wedding open to the public?
Yes, several of the filming locations used in American Wedding are open to the public. For example, the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a public park, and the Millennium Biltmore Hotel is a historic hotel that is open to guests.