**Top 5 Cities to Film in Oregon**
Oregon is one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. It’s known for its natural beauty, with mountains, forests, and beaches that attract filmmakers from around the world. But Oregon’s cities also offer unique filming locations, each with its own character. In this article, we’ll explore the top five cities to film in Oregon. Movieinsure.com is a proud provider of short term film production insurance and annual film production insurance for the state of Oregon. These cities have been featured in many movies and TV shows, and they continue to draw filmmakers with their diverse settings and welcoming communities.
1. **Portland**
Portland is the largest city in Oregon, and it’s also one of the most popular filming locations in the state. This vibrant city offers a mix of urban settings, parks, and rivers that provide a wide range of backdrops for filmmakers. Portland is known for its eclectic culture, modern architecture, and artsy neighborhoods, making it an ideal spot for a variety of film projects.
One of the things that makes Portland so appealing to filmmakers is its unique look. The city is famous for its old bridges, such as the Steel Bridge and the Hawthorne Bridge, which give it a distinctive urban charm. Portland’s waterfront, located along the Willamette River, offers stunning views of the city skyline, perfect for dramatic city scenes. In addition, Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., provides filmmakers with lush green spaces and wooded trails.
Many well-known movies and TV shows have been filmed in Portland, including *Grimm*, *Portlandia*, and *The Goonies*. The city’s creative atmosphere and versatile locations make it a top choice for filmmakers. Whether you need a modern cityscape or a quiet, natural setting, Portland has it all.
2. **Eugene**
Eugene is a smaller city, but it has plenty to offer filmmakers. It’s home to the University of Oregon, which provides a classic college-town setting. The campus itself is beautiful, with tree-lined paths, red-brick buildings, and expansive lawns. These features make it an excellent location for films that require a collegiate atmosphere or academic setting.
In addition to the university, Eugene has many parks and natural spaces. Alton Baker Park, located along the Willamette River, is a popular spot for outdoor scenes. The city is surrounded by forests and hills, making it easy to find scenic locations for films that need a rural or wilderness feel. Eugene is also known for its eco-friendly vibe, with many green initiatives and bike-friendly streets, making it an ideal setting for films that focus on environmental themes.
Eugene has been featured in several films, including *Animal House*, which used the University of Oregon’s campus for many of its scenes. The city’s laid-back atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it a great place to film in Oregon.
3. **Bend**
Bend is a growing city located in central Oregon, and it’s a fantastic location for filmmakers who want to capture the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Bend is known for its outdoor lifestyle, with easy access to mountains, rivers, and forests. The city sits at the edge of the Cascade Mountains, so it’s a perfect spot for films that need dramatic mountain views or outdoor adventure scenes.
One of Bend’s most famous landmarks is the Deschutes River, which flows right through the city. The river offers a scenic backdrop for films, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding forested areas. The Old Mill District, a former lumber mill turned shopping and entertainment area, provides a unique urban setting with a historic twist. It’s a great location for films that need a blend of industrial history and modern-day culture.
Bend’s popularity as a filming location has been growing, thanks to its stunning natural scenery. Films like *The Sisters Brothers* have taken advantage of the city’s rugged landscapes. With its combination of outdoor beauty and modern conveniences, Bend is a great place to film.
4. **Astoria**
Astoria is a small coastal city located at the mouth of the Columbia River, and it’s one of Oregon’s most famous filming locations. This historic town is known for its charming Victorian homes and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Astoria’s coastal setting and historic buildings make it perfect for films that need a nostalgic, small-town feel.
One of Astoria’s most iconic filming locations is the house from *The Goonies*, a 1980s classic that was shot in and around the city. Fans of the movie still visit the area to see the famous house and other landmarks from the film. Astoria’s downtown area, with its old-fashioned storefronts and riverfront views, offers a scenic backdrop for films. The Astoria-Megler Bridge, which spans the Columbia River, is another recognizable landmark that has been featured in films.
Astoria has been the setting for several other movies, including *Kindergarten Cop* and *Free Willy*. Its combination of coastal beauty and historical charm makes it one of Oregon’s top cities for filmmakers.
5. **Salem**
Salem is Oregon’s state capital, and it’s a city with a rich history and beautiful architecture. The Oregon State Capitol building, with its distinctive dome and manicured grounds, is a popular location for films that need a stately, government setting. Salem’s downtown area is full of historic buildings and quaint shops, providing a perfect small-town backdrop for films.
In addition to its urban appeal, Salem is surrounded by natural beauty. The Willamette Valley, known for its wineries and rolling hills, is just outside the city. This rural area provides filmmakers with picturesque countryside scenes. Silver Falls State Park, located near Salem, is famous for its waterfalls and forested trails. It’s an ideal spot for nature scenes that require dramatic landscapes.
Salem has been featured in several films and TV shows, including *The Librarians*. The city’s blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty makes it a versatile location for filmmakers.
Why Oregon is a Great Place to Film
Oregon’s appeal to filmmakers goes beyond just its cities. The state’s diverse landscapes provide endless possibilities for different types of films. From rugged mountains to serene beaches, filmmakers can find almost any type of setting in Oregon. The state’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty also ensures that these stunning locations remain accessible for film projects.
Oregon offers tax incentives for filmmakers, making it an attractive option for productions of all sizes. The state’s film office is also known for being helpful and supportive, assisting filmmakers with permits and location scouting. This film-friendly attitude, combined with the state’s natural beauty, makes Oregon a top choice for filmmakers from all over the world.
Oregon is a filmmaker’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city, a quiet coastal town, or a rugged mountain backdrop, Oregon has it all. Portland’s vibrant urban setting, Eugene’s collegiate charm, Bend’s outdoor beauty, Astoria’s coastal allure, and Salem’s historical richness make these five cities the top filming locations in the state.
Each of these cities offers something unique for filmmakers, and they’ve all been featured in famous films. With its mix of natural beauty and urban settings, along with its film-friendly policies, Oregon is one of the best places in the U.S. to bring your story to life. If you’re a filmmaker looking for your next shooting location, Oregon should be at the top of your list.
