Where was Benny & Joon filmed?

The opening credits unfold over a series of beautiful shots of a train journeying near a river. This memorable scene features Sam (Johnny Depp) engrossed in reading "The Look of Buster Keaton," while in another shot, Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson) is seen painting a picture. The tranquil setting and the characters' activities set the tone for the rest of the movie, hinting at the eccentricities and complexities that define them. The train scene was filmed in the picturesque surroundings of the Pend Oreille River Valley near Spokane. The stunning landscape, with its sprawling river and lush greenery, is a captivating backdrop to this opening sequence, adding a sense of authenticity and charm to the narrative. Cinema enthusiasts keen on experiencing this location can journey through The Pend Oreille River Trail. This picturesque route follows the course of the Pend Oreille River, beginning in Oldtown. The trail meanders northward through Pend Oreille County in Northeastern Washington, extending all the way to the Boundary Dam, located just a short distance from Southeastern British Columbia. Take in the stunning scenery and relive the charm of the movie's backdrop firsthand. From Spokane, fans can travel to Cusick and then take LeClerc Rd N to reach the picturesque Pend Oreille River Valley. However, it is important to note that public transportation options are currently unavailable.

A poignant moment unfolds when Benjamin "Benny" Pearl (Aidan Quinn) returns home to find Mrs. Smail (Eileen Ryan Penn), who had been looking after his mentally ill sister, Juniper "Joon" (Mary Stuart Masterson), fleeing from their house. She informs Benny that she will no longer serve as Joon's caretaker. This memorable scene takes place at the house shared by Benny & Joon, located in the serene Peaceful Valley neighborhood of Spokane, Washington, specifically at 301 N Cedar St. This house serves as a significant location in the film, as it is where much of the story unfolds. It's worth noting that while the house's exterior remained unchanged since the filming, it is now privately owned. Fans are therefore advised to respect the residents' privacy and limit their visit to observing the property's exterior. Fans can travel from Seattle to Spokane by car, and the journey typically takes around 4 hours. Once in Spokane, reaching the house is just a short 5-minute drive. However, please respect the privacy of the house's current occupants and avoid causing any disturbance.

Fans can remember a scene where Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), who suffers from mental illness, is seen wearing a diving mask and carrying a ping pong paddle. She uses these items to amusingly direct traffic while her brother Ben (Aidan Quinn) is at her psychiatrist's office. The situation escalates when the police intervene, but Joon calmly hands them her medical card. This iconic scene was filmed just outside Riverside Place in Spokane, Washington. A historically and architecturally significant building, Riverside Place is renowned for its rich history and the contributions of many influential Spokane citizens during its construction and development. Completed originally in 1905 and expanded in 1925, the building was designed by two prominent Spokane architects, John K. Dow and Loren L. Rand. Today, Riverside Place functions as a wedding and event venue, but its exterior remains unchanged, maintaining the same appearance it had in the movie. Situated near the city's heart, Riverside Place won't take long to reach from the previous location. Please remember that as a functioning venue, visitors should respect any events taking place and limit their exploration to permissible areas.

One of the most memorable scenes features Sam (Johnny Depp) creating a spectacle in a diner. In a charming act, he skewers two dinner rolls with a fork, mimicking a little foot dance. His playful display wins over Ruthie, the waitress (Julianne Moore), especially when he recognizes her from a horror movie. Interestingly, this scene was filmed across two separate locations. Exterior shots were captured at Mary Lou's Milk Bottle, a unique café that has been a beloved Spokane landmark since 1935. For the interior shots, including the iconic dancing rolls scene, filming occurred inside Ferguson's Fountain Cafe in Spokane's historic Garland District, right next to Mary Lou's Milk Bottle. To visit these filming locations, you can hire a car in Spokane or drive from Seattle to Spokane (as the movie was entirely shot here). From downtown Spokane, you can easily reach two iconic locations by taking N Monroe St. The journey should take approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for bus #4 from the city center. Given their proximity, we recommend visiting both sites simultaneously for a complete cinematic experience.

Benny (Aidan Quinn), Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), and Sam (Johnny Depp) visit a park. Here, Sam captivates an audience with his delightful hat tricks. Afterward, Benny spends some time in quiet reflection at the park while Joon and Sam return home together. This charming sequence was filmed at Riverfront Park in Spokane, Washington. The park holds historical significance as it was the center of attractions for the 1974 World's Fair. Today, it is considered downtown Spokane's crown jewel, featuring the largest urban waterfall in the country as the Spokane River courses through it over basalt rock and two dams. The park also offers an array of attractions and a rich history for visitors to explore. Riverfront Park is located near downtown Spokane, so you can take a short walk from Riverside Place; it will take only 10 minutes. Also, you can hire a car and start your road from Seattle, which will take around 4 hours. Be sure to allow plenty of time to fully appreciate its natural beauty and various offerings.

In the emotional climax, Benny (Aidan Quinn), burdened with guilt, finds Sam (Johny Depp). Together, they visit Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson) in the hospital. In a heartfelt moment, Benny apologizes to Joon, encouraging her to consider moving to her apartment and revealing that Sam has returned for her. Joon expresses to her doctor her desire to live independently, leading to a touching reconciliation between the siblings and a reunion with Sam. This poignant scene was filmed at The Academy at 1216 N Superior St, Spokane. Despite its portrayal as Emma Sherman Memorial Hospital in the movie, The Academy is a historic building housing luxury apartments near Gonzaga University. Built in 1891, it is a testament to Spokane's educational history. The property features several community amenities, including a coffee bar, a fitness center, and multiple gathering spaces. Fans of Benny & Joon can visit The Academy and even stay there, as the exterior remains unchanged from its appearance in the film. You can take I-90 E from the city center to reach your destination. It's just an 8-minute car ride away. Alternatively, you can opt for the bus option. Simply get off at the Mission, Columbus stop, and you'll arrive at your destination. Enjoy exploring this cinematic history within Spokane's educational past.