Where was Funny Farm filmed?
1988
City Locations
Grafton and Townshend, VT; New York, NY
Location Types
House, Apartment
Location Styles
Cape Cod, Retro, Classic Car
About Funny Farm
Funny Farm, released in 1988, is a hilarious film showcasing the comedic brilliance of Chevy Chase and Madolyn Smith. The story revolves around Andy and Elizabeth Farmer, a couple seeking an escape from their hectic city life as they settle in a charming countryside town. However, their idyllic expectations are quickly shattered when they realize that their new hometown holds unexpected surprises.
As Andy, a sportswriter with dreams of becoming a novelist, tries to find the peace and quiet he needs to write his novel, hilarity ensues. From encountering eccentric locals to dealing with a drunken postal delivery person who terrorizes the road, the Farmers find themselves in one comedic situation after another.
The film provides a lighthearted and entertaining look at the challenges and adventures the couple faces as they navigate their new rural life. With Chevy Chase's signature comedic timing, Funny Farm offers plenty of laughs and relatable moments.
Despite Chevy Chase's popularity, Funny Farm failed to meet expectations at the box office in the 1980s. It faced tough competition from blockbuster movies like Big, Crocodile Dundee II, Coming to America, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and Die Hard during a busy summer season. While Funny Farm made $25 million, exceeding its budget, it was overshadowed by the success of other releases, particularly Tom Hanks' comedy Big.
Funny Farm Locations
Funny Farm was primarily filmed on location in Vermont. Specifically, the town of Townshend in Vermont was heavily featured in Funny Farm, showcasing its charming rural landscapes.
One of the notable locations in the film is the house at the center of the Funny Farm story. This real-life house, located at 198 Fire Pond Road in Grafton, Vermont, played a significant role in the movie. The house, surrounded by beautiful scenery, adds to the overall charm of the film.
The town the main characters come to call home in Funny Farm is Rosebud, Vermont. Although Rosebud is a fictional town, the filming took place in various areas in Vermont, capturing the essence of small-town life.
Vermont itself is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, quaint villages, and picturesque landscapes. It offers a perfect backdrop for those who appreciate the tranquility and charm of rural settings. Visitors to Vermont can explore the real-life locations used in the film, such as Townshend or Grafton, and experience the rustic beauty that contributed to the film's visual appeal.
Discover the filming locations of Funny Farm in Vermont for a serene and idyllic getaway. Whether you're a fan or nature lover, these locations offer a delightful journey worth experiencing.
Did you know?
Funny Farm was adapted from a 1985 comedic novel of the same name by Jay Cronley. The film stays true to the humorous tone of the book and brings the story to life with its talented cast and witty dialogue.
New York apartment scene in Funny Farm
Apthorp Sales Office, 2211 Broadway, New York, NY 10024, United States
In the opening scenes of Funny Farm, the film takes us to The Farmers' New York City apartment as Andy and Elizabeth Farmer prepare to leave their city life behind for a quieter existence in the countryside. The apartment, showcasing an urban setting, sets the stage for the contrast that will unfold as the story progresses.
This scene was filmed at the Apthorp building on Broadway in New York. This historic landmark, known for its Italian Renaissance Revival architecture, is located in Manhattan's desirable Upper West Side neighborhood.
2211 Broadway is easily accessible via public transportation or car. If taking the subway, the 1 train to 79th Street Station or the B/C train to 81st Street is your best bet. If driving, keep in mind that finding parking in this area can be challenging, so plan ahead. Once you arrive at 2211 Broadway, you'll find yourself in the heart of a vibrant neighborhood with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore.
Redbud house scene in Funny Farm
198 Fire Pond Rd, Grafton, VT 05146, USA
Marital difficulties quickly emerge due to the eccentricities of Redbud, alongside the added strain caused by Elizabeth's critique of Andy's manuscript and her own pursuit of writing children's books. Complications intensify when Andy's publisher visits the town in person to review his novel manuscript, prompted by unanswered letters regarding his impending deadline.
The house used in the film is located on Fire Pond Road in Grafton. This serene road offers a picturesque landscape, with winding streams, towering trees, and vibrant wildlife. Experience a simpler time as you drive past quaint homes and farms.
Are you excited to explore Fire Pond Road in Grafton? The road itself is nestled amongst the tranquil scenery of Grafton, less than a mile from the center of town. You can find it about 90 miles northeast of Albany, NY.
Redbud scenes in Funny Farm
Townshend, Vermont, USA
Despite the dissatisfaction of the locals who feel cheated out of their expected money, Andy and Elizabeth decide to remain in Redbud together. Andy takes it upon himself to distribute $50 to each person in the town, which positively impacts his reputation in the community. The movie concludes with Andy accepting a position as a sports writer for the Redbud newspaper while Elizabeth, who is expecting their first child, has successfully written several children's stories.
Townshend in Vermont was the location for some Redbud scenes. With a population of just over 1,000 people, it's easy to feel like you've stepped into a simpler, slower-paced way of life. The town boasts an abundance of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to skiing and snowshoeing. Visitors to Townshend will find a variety of historic homes and buildings, including the Townshend Stone Arch Bridge, which dates back to 1902.
The easiest way to get to this charming destination is by car, with plenty of scenic routes available for those who love a good road trip. It’s about a two-hour drive south from the state capital of Montpelier.
Conclusion
Funny Farm takes viewers on a comedic journey through the picturesque landscapes of Vermont. The film utilizes various locations in Vermont to capture the essence of small-town life and the beauty of rural living.
From the charming town of Townshend to the real-life house in Grafton, the film showcases the idyllic scenery and tranquility that Vermont has to offer. The rolling hills, quaint villages, and stunning landscapes provide a visually appealing backdrop for the humorous escapades of Chevy Chase's character.
With its mix of comedy and scenic settings, Funny Farm leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the joy that can be found in unexpected places. So if you're seeking a lighthearted adventure with a touch of Vermont's natural beauty, Funny Farm is a film worth watching.