Where was Roxanne filmed?
1987
City Locations
Nelson, Vancouver, Anmore (Canada)
Location Types
Diners/Coffee, Clubs/Bars, House, Retail
Location Styles
Victorian, Colonial, Building Dated/Retro, Rustic
About Roxanne
Roxanne, a delightful and humorous film from 1987, remains a memorable classic for its fans. This American romantic comedy, directed by Fred Schepisi, features a star-studded cast including Steve Martin, Daryl Hannah, and Rick Rossovich.
The film is a modernization of Edmond Rostand's play Cyrano de Bergerac, with Martin playing the role of C. D. Bates, the fire chief of a small town in Washington state who is blessed with quick wit but cursed with an abnormally large nose that makes him too insecure to reveal his feelings for Roxanne Kowalski (Hannah). When he discovers that she has feelings for Chris McDonell (Rick Rossovich), a handsome but tongue-tied firefighter, Bates decides to court her vicariously by feeding his rival the correct romantic words and phrases. The film also contains comedic moments like C.D. Bates vanquishing two hooligans with a tennis racket.
Released in June 1987, Roxanne was well received by both critics and audiences alike. Most praised its modernization of Cyrano de Bergerac as well as Martin's performance along with his screenplay credit. Roger Ebert praised the film as a "delicate, fanciful comedy", rating it 3.5 out of 4 stars and remarking that the movie's charm lies not just in its straightforward humor, but also in the unique aura it creates. The film has received several award nominations, including a Golden Globe nomination for Steve Martin for Best Actor in a Motion Picture—Comedy/Musical.
Roxanne Locations
Roxanne, released in 1987, was filmed in and around the beautiful town of Nelson, British Columbia. The backdrop of Nelson lent itself perfectly to the production of Roxanne with its stunning mountain views, heritage homes and businesses, and picturesque streets. During filming, notable locations included Dixie's Cafe (now Jackson’s Hole and Grill) which is still open today for visitors to experience a piece of the movie, as well as a house in Anmore that was used for additional scenes.
The majority of the film was shot in Nelson against a stunning backdrop featuring snow-capped mountains and buzzing downtown streets. It gave an air of authenticity to the movie that helped capture not only the spirit of the characters but also the vibrant energy of this small Canadian town. From historic buildings to walkable downtown streets lined with boutiques, Nelson provided both contrast and connection for Roxanne’s story.
A trip to Nelson would be more than just worthwhile, it would be inspiring! Visitors have a chance to see first-hand what made Roxanne such a hit: from wandering through scenic landscapes to experiencing life in one of Canada’s great towns. Whether you are interested in reliving scenes from the movie or wish to explore everything that this amazing region has to offer, it’s well worth exploring this beautiful part of the world.
Charlie meets Roxanne at the fire station scene in Roxanne
Nelson Fire Department, 919 Ward St, Nelson, BC V1L 1T5, Canada
Charlie "C.D." Bales, serving as the fire chief in a petite town, is celebrated for his intellect, charm, wit, and athleticism. An unforgettable moment from the film features Charlie arriving at the fire station and imparting a significant lesson to his team. This scene, while playful, underscores Charlie's commanding presence, astuteness, humor, and captivating personality. Later, he encounters Roxanne for the first time at that location.
The exterior of the Nelson Fire Department was used in the movie and has barely changed since then. It is located at 919 Ward Street in Nelson. In 1894, Nelson's inaugural fire hall was constructed at the intersection of Josephine and Victoria streets, marking the birth of a central fire station. For nearly two decades, it faithfully served the community until the rapid growth of residential and commercial structures in the vicinity necessitated its relocation to higher ground.
Fans looking to visit this part of Canadian cinematic history can get there by car or public transport. Driving would take approximately seven hours from Vancouver or Calgary.
C.D. opens Roxanne's house scene in Roxanne
1020 Sugar Mountain Way, Anmore, BC V3H 4Y7, Canada
In a memorable scene, C.D. encounters Roxanne when she finds herself naked and locked out. He steps in to aid her in getting back into her house. A fleeting scene captures her using her arm and hand to shield her modesty. In a playful twist, C.D. feigns confusion at Roxanne's sarcastic rejection of a coat, seemingly to extend the duration of her undress, under the guise that the locals aren't well-versed in irony.
The exterior shots for this iconic scene were filmed at a house in Anmore, British Columbia, a short drive from downtown Vancouver. This family home is virtually identical to how it looked in the movie, including an iron bar still attached to one side of the house which Charlie used to swing up onto Roxanne’s balcony to rescue her cat! In addition, this same house was also used as a setting for another movie—The People Across The Lake”—which was a made-for-TV murder mystery released in 1989.
If you're inclined to visit the iconic filming site from Roxanne, your first destination would be Anmore. You’ll need to head east from Vancouver before turning north, and the journey should take around 50 minutes.
Roxanne is noticed by several firefighters at the bar scene in Roxanne
1036 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3E1, Canada
The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as Roxanne notices all of the men in the bar, especially Chris McDonell, who has just arrived. The bar itself is portrayed as lively and electric—it's full of people laughing and talking, and there are drinks flowing from behind the counter. The music playing in the background adds to this atmosphere, with its upbeat tempo making it a memorable part of the scene.
The iconic citation from this scene comes when Roxanne responds to Chuck's (John Kapelos) invitation to go hot-tubbing with her clever comeback: "Well, if I do change my mind, you'll know because my breasts will be heaving and moist with perspiration."
The scenes were filmed at the former Richard's On Richards nightclub and serve as a backdrop for this pivotal moment in Roxanne's story. The venue was once known for being an eclectic hangout with well-to-do Vancouverites lining up outside and punks driving by and swearing at them, adding to its unique charm. Unfortunately, Richard's on Richards closed its doors in 2009.
If you find yourself wanting to visit this location, it's easy to find right in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Dixie's cafe scene in Roxanne
Jackson’s Hole & Grill, 524 Vernon St, Nelson, BC V1L 4E7, Canada
C.D. reveals his feelings of loneliness and insecurity to Dixie (Sandy Dennis) because of his physical appearance. His vulnerability in this moment is moving, and he finds comfort in Dixie's understanding. Sandy (Shandra Bari) comes over to the table with news that Roxanne is in love with C.D. but doesn't know it yet. This pivotal moment sets up the plot for the rest of the movie as we watch their relationship develop. The memorable quote from this iconic scene is “why not me?”, which symbolizes C.D.’s hurt feelings and longing for love.
This particular diner scene was filmed at Dixie's Cafe, now Jackson’s Hole & Grill, located at 517 Vernon Street, Nelson, British Columbia. This American-style grill restaurant no longer resembles its on-screen counterpart, disappointing fans expecting to find familiar surroundings.
There are multiple ways to reach this destination, and it’s a drive of around four hours east of Kelowna.
Chris picks up a book scene in Roxanne
Otter Books Inc, 398 Baker St, Nelson, BC V1L 4H5, Canada
Roxanne turns to C.D. for assistance in dealing with Chris. When she sees Chris purchasing a book by Sartre for a friend, she jumps to the conclusion that he is highly intellectual.
This scene was filmed at a bookstore that is still open today, although it is now known as Otter Books. Located at 398 Baker Street in Nelson, this bookshop is well worth a visit for Roxanne fans. The store offers a variety of new and used books, artwork, cards, and gifts for everyone to enjoy.
If you plan to visit Otter Books in Nelson, you’ll find it on Baker Street in the center of town.
All Things Dead Shop scene in Roxanne
Kootenay Exchange, 348 Baker St, Nelson, BC V1L 4H5, Canada
As Roxanne strolls down Nelson's main street, she peruses the various storefronts. Her interest is piqued by a certain shop named All Things Dead, known for its collection of taxidermy animals. She even engages in a brief conversation with the shop owner, who seems to take a liking to her.
The Kootenay Exchange, now an antique store, was once the taxidermy shop that struck fear in Roxanne in the movie. This shop boasts a vast collection of antique images from the Kootenay area, along with other intriguing items you'd expect to find in a captivating antique store. The exterior of the shop has retained its movie appearance, making it easily recognizable to fans.
The shop is located at 348 Baker Street in central Nelson and can easily be reached by car or walking from one of the two nearby bus terminals.
Conclusion
Roxanne is an enjoyable and lighthearted romantic comedy that has stood the test of time. The movie was directed by Fred Schepisi and had many excellent performances from the cast. The script was written by Martin himself and provides plenty of entertaining moments, while the movie did very well at the box office upon its release in 1987 and has since become a classic beloved by many fans. It’s easy to see why it has had such enduring appeal; it offers a universal message about self-acceptance while still managing to be amusingly funny throughout much of its runtime.
So if you want to check out some of these famous Roxanne filming locations as well as some beautiful Canadian scenery along the way, what are you waiting for?