Where was Driving Miss Daisy filmed?
1989
City Locations
Griffin (USA), Castleberry Hill (USA), Druid Hills (USA), Atlanta (USA), Decatur (USA), Douglas County (USA)
Location Types
Church, Storefront, House, Unique, Unusual, Apartment
Location Styles
Retro, ‘40s, Americana, Classic Car
About Driving Miss Daisy
"Driving Miss Daisy" is a heartwarming American comedy-drama film from 1989. Directed by Bruce Beresford and penned by Alfred Uhry, it was adapted from Uhry's play of the same name. The film tells the story of Daisy Werthan, an elderly Jewish widow residing in Atlanta, who can no longer drive due to an accident. Her son insists she allows him to hire a driver, which in the 1950s meant a black man. Enter Hoke Colburn, a patient and stalwart African-American man, who becomes Miss Daisy's chauffeur against her initial resistance. Through their shared experiences - a trip to the grocery store, a slice of pie, a laugh, or a sigh of consolation — a deep friendship gradually develops between the two, transcending societal norms and racial boundaries of the time. The film is not just about two elderly people, but subtly illustrates the evolving relationships between black and white individuals in the South over the decades. Jessica Tandy got the Academy Award for Best Actress at age 80 for her role as Miss Daisy. She was the oldest person to win the award. Morgan Freeman's powerful performance as Hoke also cemented his reputation as one of the best actors in Hollywood. The script for "Driving Miss Daisy" and the performances by Freeman, Tandy, and Aykroyd were praised. The movie scored 81 on Metacritic and an 85% approval rate on Rotten Tomatoes. It is praised for being heartwarming, even though it uses some old stereotypes. According to CinemaScore, people liked it so much that they gave it a rare "A+" grade.
Driving Miss Daisy Locations
The famous 1989 movie "Driving Miss Daisy" takes place in beautiful Georgian places, especially Atlanta. These Southern settings give the movie depth, realism, and an attractive charm that makes it more real and appealing. Most of the filming happened in the Druid Hills in Atlanta, known for their peaceful forests and old homes. Miss Daisy's house is at 822 Lullwater Road, in a cute, well-established area. Griffin and Senoia were also picked to film several street scenes that made the movie seem more real. The production team filmed the scenes at the Temple, Daisy's synagogue, at 1589 Peachtree Street NE. A bomb attack in October 1958 made this place important in history. The Wertham Bag & Cotton Co. at 342 Nelson Street SW, Atlanta, was another important spot. Visiting these filming sites is a one-of-a-kind way to get into the world of "Driving Miss Daisy." These settings give you a sense of the cinematic setting and the history and culture of the area, from Miss Daisy's house to the busy streets of Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward.
Fun Facts:
The movie borrows from the real-life friendship between Alfred Uhry's grandmother and her driver. This bit of truth gives the movie an extra layer of realism, making "Driving Miss Daisy" a timeless story about friendship, humanity, and getting past societal biases.
Daisy allows Hoke to drive her scene in Driving Miss Daisy
822 Lullwater Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA
Daisy, Jessica Tandy, finally gives in to Hoke's (Morgan Freeman) persistence and allows him to drive her to the grocery store. It is a turning point in their relationship, marking the beginning of Daisy's reluctant acceptance of Hoke's role in her life. As she steps into the car parked in her driveway, it symbolizes the first step towards breaking down the barriers of their employer-employee relationship. Lullwater Road NE, located in Atlanta's prestigious Druid Hills neighborhood, is known for its historic and luxurious homes. The properties, many of which date back to the 1920s, feature sprawling grounds and beautiful architectural designs, such as the iconic Tudor residence at 938 Lullwater Road. These homes face the lush Druid Hills Golf Course, adding to the area's charm. Visiting Lullwater Road offers a glimpse into Atlanta's rich history and the elegance of its past. Take I-85 N toward Greenville to visit Miss Daisy's house at 822 Lullwater Rd NE in Atlanta. Use exit 248C for Freedom Pkwy toward Carter Center. Continue on Freedom Pkwy, then make a left on Ponce De Leon Ave NE. Turn right onto Clifton Rd., follow signs for Druid Hills, then turn left onto Lullwater Rd NE. The house is on the right, surrounded by lush landscapes and historic charm.
Hoke drives Daisy to the Piggly Wiggly scene in Driving Miss Daisy
Rag-o-Rama, 1111 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States
Hoke (Morgan Freeman) drives Miss Deasyssica Tandy) to the Piggly Wiggly grocery store. This scene is significant because it marks a turning point in their relationship. When they arrive at the store, Daisy insists on going in alone, showcasing her independent spirit. While she shops, Hoke calls Boolie (Dan Aykroyd), Daisy's son, from a nearby payphone to tell him that he finally got to drive his mother to the store.
Rag-O-Rama, located at 1111 Euclid Ave NE in Atlanta, is a popular resale store known for its extensive collection of gently used clothing and accessories. The store has earned recognition as one of the best in Atlanta, receiving accolades from My Intown Atlanta and INsite Atlanta. It is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Five Points, making it a go-to spot for fashion enthusiasts seeking unique, vintage-style pieces.
Start on I-75/I-85 N to visit 1111 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta. Take exit 248C for GA-10 E toward Freedom Pkwy/Carter Center. Merge onto Freedom Pkwy. Turn left onto Moreland Ave NE. Continue on Moreland, then make a right onto McLendon Ave NE. Take a left onto Euclid Ave NE.
Idella's funeral scene in Driving Miss Daisy
Little Friendship Baptist Church, 315 5th Ave, Decatur, GA 30030, United States
Idella (Esther Rolle), Miss Daisy's housekeeper, dies while preparing dinner. Miss Daisy (Jessica Tandy), her son Boolie (Dan Aykroyd), and his wife (Patti LuPone) attend the service. The audience is treated to a moving performance of "What a friend we have in Jesus" by renowned soprano Indra Thomas. This scene is significant as it marks the first time Miss Daisy attends a service in an African-American church. Little Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia, is a beacon of hope and acceptance. Under the leadership of Dr. Robert S. Welch since 1993, the church provides spiritual guidance to its congregation. Offering regular Sunday services, which are also accessible on their YouTube channel, the church is a vibrant community hub radiating peace and joy. Located at 315 5th Avenue, the church is in the heart of Oakhurst Village. Navigating unfamiliar cities can be daunting, but finding your way to 315 5th Ave in Decatur can be easy. Research public transportation routes and schedules beforehand. If driving, check traffic conditions, and available parking options in the area.
Boolie displays himself as a responsible manager scene in Driving Miss Daisy
Fulton Supply Lofts, 342 Nelson St SW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States
We see Boolie (Dan Aykroyd) perfomring his duties as a capable and responsible manager, dealing with a crisis where one of the workers is stuck in the freight elevator. He promptly instructs his secretary to call the elevator repair company, showcasing his problem-solving skills and leadership. This scene also subtly underlines the economic dynamics of the time and the place of his family in society. Through the lens of these workplace moments that we gain an understanding of Boolie's pragmatism and his balance between running a successful business and caring for his strong-willed mother, Daisy (Jessica Tandy). Fulton Supply Lofts, located at 342 Nelson St SW in Atlanta, GA, is a restored historic apartment complex. The building features original hardwoods, brick accent walls, and other beautiful historic details that add to their charm. The community is pet-friendly and is situated in downtown Atlanta, providing an unparalleled location for its residents. Start on I-75/I-85 N/S to reach 342 Nelson St SW in Atlanta, Georgia. Take the exit for Mitchell St toward U.S. 29/Downtown. Merge onto Ted Turner Dr. SW. Turn left onto Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SW, then a right onto Forsyth St SW.
Daisy and Hoke driving to the synagogue scene in Driving Miss Daisy
The Temple, 1589 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States
Hoke (Morgan Freeman) drives Miss Daisy (Jessica Tandy) to the synagogue. This scene is notable because it depicts racial and religious tensions at the time. While stalled in traffic, Hoke and Daisy learn about the synagogue bombing. Daisy, a congregation member, is extremely distressed by the news. This scene highlights the discrimination experienced by both African Americans and Jews during this period. The Temple is a well-known Reform Jewish community and synagogue in Atlanta. It can be found at 1589 Peachtree Street NE. It is Atlanta's oldest Jewish group, having been around since 1867. People know that the Temple cares about education, social activity, and welcoming everyone. Its peaceful buildings and grounds make it a place that many people find relaxing. The Temple is a crucial part of the Atlanta community because it has a long past and works for social justice. Take I-75/I-85 to The Temple at 1589 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. To get to Midtown, take exit 251A for 17th St. and get on 17th St NW.
Conclusion
The Academy Award-winning film "Driving Miss Daisy" perfectly portrayed the essence of Atlanta, Georgia. The film used various setting in and around Atlanta to add authenticity to its 1948 setting. Miss Daisy's home, a primary setting in the film, came to life at 822 Lullwater Road in Druid Hills, a lovely neighborhood famed for its ancient residences. The Temple at 1589 Peachtree Street NE, a real synagogue, provided more dimension and historical background to the story. Street scenes were filmed in Griffin and Senoia, highlighting the charm of these little communities. The film also included scenes from the Old Fourth Ward area, which added to the visual tapestry. Finally, the Wertham Bag & Cotton Co. at 342 Nelson Street SW acted as an additional backdrop. These different settings offered a vibrant backdrop for this heartfelt story of friendship and cultural change in the mid-twentieth-century American South.