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The Waterboy movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was The Waterboy filmed?

1998

City Locations

DeLand (USA), St. Cloud (USA), Lakeland (USA), Orlando (USA), Jacksonville (USA), Clermont (USA), Columbia (USA), Louisiana (USA)

Location Types

House, University, College, Hotel, Unusual

Location Styles

Americana, Modern Building, Modern Car, Sport Moto

About The Waterboy

The Waterboy is a classic sports comedy directed by Frank Coraci and written by Adam Sandler. It stars Sandler as Bobby Boucher, a socially awkward water delivery boy for a college football team. When his anger gets the best of him one day on the field, the coach recognizes Bobby’s strength and passion and gives him an opportunity to play for the team. As Bobby goes from being ridiculed to a beloved member of the team, he helps them succeed while also finding self-confidence along the way. The movie features an all-star cast including Kathy Bates, Henry Winkler, Fairuza Balk, Larry Gilliard Jr., Jerry Reed, Peter Dante, Blake Clark, and Jonathan Loughran. Lynn Swann, Jimmy Johnson, Lawrence Taylor, and Bill Cowher also appear in support roles, while Paul "The Big Show" Wight-Rob Schneider also made an appearance in the film as himself playing alongside Bobby Boucher's ragtag team of misfits. Released in 1998 The Waterboy earned $39.4 million during its opening weekend in the U.S. alone and finished its run with $190 million at the worldwide box office, becoming one of Sandler’s most successful projects to date. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, it remains a classic comedy largely because of its original plot and witty humor that still resonates with viewers today, more than two decades after its release. Sandler expressed in September 2022 that he is willing to create a sequel, but hasn't yet worked out the storyline. Nonetheless, he is excited to reprise his role as the title character in the near future.

The Waterboy Locations

The Waterboy production team set out to a multitude of locations in Central Florida and the Orlando area. While set in Louisiana, most of the scenes were shot on location in Clermont, DeLand, Daytona Beach, and Lakeland. Central Florida is a great starting point for any diehard fan who wants to embark on a filming locations tour inspired by the sports comedy. The backdrop of this region is beautiful and offers plenty of scenic vistas for travelers to explore. From winding rivers and lush green foliage to bright blue skies and picturesque waterfalls, Central Florida provides a little bit of Louisiana charm without having to leave the state. Plus, with its close proximity to popular tourist destinations such as Disney World and Universal Studios, there’s no shortage of activities available around the area.

Fun Fact:

While filming The Waterboy, the team was often seen trying out lines on crew members between takes which resulted in many unscripted moments being included in the final cut!

Bobby working for the University of Louisiana football team scene in The Waterboy

Everbank Field, 1 TIAA Bank Field Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202, United States

Bobby Boucher (Adam Sandler), a socially awkward 31-year-old man who stutters and exhibits some signs of intellectual disabilities, works as the water boy for the University of Louisiana football team. He resides with his overly protective and devoutly religious mother, Helen (Kathy Bates), and holds onto the belief that his father, Robert Sr. (Frank Coraci), passed away from dehydration while on a mission with the Peace Corps in the Sahara during the ‘60s. Originally known as the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium when it opened in 1995, it was renamed to Alltel Stadium in 1997, after Alltel Corporation acquired the naming rights. In 2007, the stadium underwent a $63 million renovation and was renamed Jacksonville Municipal Stadium again. However, in 2010, EverBank Financial Corporation obtained the naming rights, and the stadium was renamed EverBank Field. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates several bus routes that serve the stadium area. Visit the JTA website for more information on schedules and fares.

Bobby talks to Coach Klein scene in The Waterboy

DeLand National Guard Armory, 401 S Alabama Ave, DeLand, FL 32724, USA

Due to relentless bullying from the players, Bobby is terminated from his job by the Cougars' head coach, Red Beaulieu (Jerry Reed), who cites him as a "disruptive" presence in his 18-year tenure. However, this leads Bobby to seek out Coach Klein (Henry Winkler) of the South-Central Louisiana State University Mud Dogs and he is subsequently employed as the team's water boy. The DeLand National Guard Armory, situated in DeLand, Florida, serves as a military base. In the film, Coach Klein's office was constructed within the Florida Army National Guard Armory located in DeLand, and the cast and crew filmed various scenes both inside and outside the facility. Constructed in 1928, the DeLand National Guard Armory has a rich history and has served various purposes over the years. During World War II, it was a training site for troops before they were deployed overseas. In the years that followed, it served as a community center and an events venue for dances, concerts, and political rallies. If driving, take the I-4 and exit at Exit 118 towards DeLand. Continue on US-17 N/Woodland Blvd for approximately 2 miles. Turn right onto W New York Ave and then turn left onto S Alabama Ave. The destination will be on your left.

Bobby tackling the quarterback scene in The Waterboy

Spec Martin Municipal Stadium, 260 E Euclid Ave, DeLand, FL 32724, United States

Coach Klein advises Bobby to stand up for himself after the new team makes fun of him. Bobby recalls the years of bullying he has endured and takes down the opposing quarterback. Recognizing Bobby's talent, Klein meets with his mother and attempts to convince her to allow him to play on the team. However, she declines, citing safety concerns. Spec Martin Municipal Stadium is a historic football ground located in DeLand, Florida. The stadium has been in use since 1949 and has undergone several renovations over the years to improve its facilities and amenities. Originally named DeLand Athletic Stadium, the field was renamed to honor Spec Martin, a local World War II veteran and longtime supporter of high school athletics. One of the unique features of the stadium is its location in the heart of downtown DeLand, surrounded by local businesses, restaurants, and shops. This creates a lively atmosphere on game days, with fans and visitors filling the streets and nearby establishments. To reach 260 E Euclid Ave, take the I-4 and exit at Exit 118 towards DeLand. Continue on US-17 N/Woodland Blvd for approximately 3 miles. Turn left onto E Howry Ave, then turn right onto S Hill Ave, and finally, take a left onto E Euclid Ave. The destination will be on your right.

Medulla oblongata scene in The Waterboy

Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland, FL 33801, United States

Although Bobby is enthusiastic about going to college, he is hesitant to join the team. However, Coach Klein persuades him to play by recognizing his desire to go to school. Bobby later attends a lecture on the medulla oblongata. The professor (Clint Howard) explains how the medulla oblongata controls basic bodily functions such as breathing and heart rate. Florida Southern College is a small private learning institution located in Lakeland, Florida. Founded in 1883, it is the oldest private college in Florida. Its collections of buildings were designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The college's president at the time, Ludd Spivey, commissioned Wright to design several buildings on campus in the ‘30s, including the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, the Roux Library, and the Esplanade buildings. These structures are now recognized as some of Wright's most important works and are a major draw for architecture enthusiasts from around the world. Navigate your way to 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr via the Polk Pkwy/SR-570 and exit at Harden Blvd. Continue on Harden Blvd for about 2 miles and turn left onto Lake Hollingsworth Dr. The destination will be on your right.

The fraternity party scene in The Waterboy

The Hunter Arms Hotel, 1029 New York Ave, St Cloud, FL 34769, United States

Bobby Boucher attends a fraternity party with his new friends. At first, he is hesitant to let loose and have a good time. As the night goes on, and with encouragement from his friends, Bobby becomes increasingly intoxicated and starts to show off his dance moves. They cheer him on as he performs an energetic and hilarious dance routine. Nestled in the heart of St. Cloud, Florida, The Hunter Arms Hotel is not only a charming and historic establishment but a bastion of relaxation and tranquility. With its vintage architecture and perfectly appointed rooms, the hotel offers guests the chance to step back in time while still enjoying modern luxuries. And if a peaceful retreat is not what you're after, the hotel’s prime location places you just moments from St. Cloud’s bustling downtown district, where you can indulge in eclectic dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. To reach 1029 New York Ave, take U.S. Route 192 and turn onto Vermont Ave. Continue straight on Vermont Ave and turn right onto New York Ave. The destination will be on your left.

Bourbon Bowl scene in The Waterboy

Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805, United States

Following their triumph, the team is granted a chance to play against the Cougars and Coach Beaulieu (Jerry Reed) at the Bourbon Bowl on New Year's Day. But things take a turn for the worse when Beaulieu and his team barge into the Mud Dogs' pep rally and expose Bobby's past. They disclose that the high school Bobby claims to have attended is non-existent and that he was homeschooled, rendering him ineligible for college and football based on his fraudulent high school transcript. As a result, the team and supporters become hostile toward Bobby, branding him as a deceitful cheat. Camping World Stadium is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue located in Orlando, Florida. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 60,000, making it one of the largest facilities of its kind in the region. It is home to several sports teams, including the Orlando City SC of the Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Citrus Bowl, which hosts one of college football's biggest bowl games, the Citrus Bowl. If you are driving, the stadium is easily accessible from I-4, SR 408, or the Florida Turnpike. From downtown Orlando, take South Orange Avenue southbound and turn right onto West South Street.

Conclusion

The Waterboy demonstrated the impact of football on family, friends, and a small college team. The movie was filmed in various locations throughout Central Florida and the Orlando area, including Clermont, Daytona Beach, DeLand, and Lakeland. This range of locations added a special feeling to the movie that many fans fondly remember. The film follows Bobby Boucher (Adam Sandler) as he goes from being a lowly waterboy for a college football team to become their star player due to his skillful tackling ability. Along the way, he learns important lessons about life, love, and friendship while inspiring those around him with his relentless spirit. Overall, The Waterboy is remembered for its heartwarming story and comedic elements which kept audiences laughing all the way through. With its stunning range of beautiful central Florida scenery, it’s no surprise why this Adam Sandler comedy continues to be a fan favorite today!