8 Movies You Didn't Know Were Shot In The Seattle Area

Seattle is an iconic location in America, so it was bound to attract filmmakers to capture scenes for their fictional settings. From landmarks and stadiums to bars and apartments, there have been multiple areas in the Emerald City captured for the big screen. While there is an extensive list of movies that included shots in the Seattle area, here are some flicks who had most of their scenes shot in or near the city.

It Happened at the World’s Fair (1963)

One of the older entries on this list, the flick stars the legend Elvis Presley. The movie features the Space Needle, Monorail and fountains that would become part of the Pacific Pacific Science Center. It also takes place at the Seattle Center, which was built in 1962 for the World's Fair.

The Ring (2002)

This well-known horror movie was shot throughout the rural parts of Washington, including Deception Pass. If you're looking for key areas in the city itself, the main character, Rachel (Naomi Watts), lived in Harbor Steps Apartments near downtown. Thrillist said the Westin Hotel library also made a cameo in the film. Don't worry, you won't find creepy dead girls around the apartments.

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

10 Things I Hate About You is a 90s classic that stars the late Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles. The film is shot all over Seattle, including Stadium High School in Tacoma, where most of the film takes place. Locations include Fremont Troll, Lake Union and Gasworks Park in Wallingford, where the paintball scene happened.

Prefontaine (1997)

One of two feature films about long-distance runner and Olympic hopeful Steve Prefontaine. They shot at multiple sports facilities in Puget Sound, including Husky Stadium at University of Washington, the Buckaroo Tavern and Discovery Park. In fact, Husky Stadium was used as the Olympic stadium in the film.

Rose Red (2002)

Another scary series make it on the list! While this title is a little more obscure, it came from the mind of horror legend Stephen King. A malevolent mansion kills anyone who dares enter it, and its real identity is Thornewood Castle near Tacoma. It's an actual inn you can stay that night in, too!

Little Buddha (1993)

This movie stars Keanu Reeves, who seeks the reincarnation of his Buddhist monk master. If you look closely, you can catch the Seattle Art Museum, Seattle Monorail, and the Sakaya Monastery (108 NW 83rd Street) in scenes.

House of Games (1987)

The wonderful Fairmont Olympic Hotel is featured in this thriller about a psychiatrist (Lindsey Crouse) who enters the world of gambling. According to Thrillist, multiple downtown bars got screen time in the movie, but they've since closed.

21 & Over (2013)

This is the most recent movie on this list. A pair of guys help their friend celebrate his 21st birthday, and it, needless to say, goes awry. The University of Washington had some appearances with Hansee Hall and the Army ROTC building. Bars like Fin MacCool's and Big Time Brewery & Alehouse can be spotted in the college drama, too!

If you want to try and point out these location in these movies, go check them out!

Photos: Getty Images