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Twister movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Twister filmed?

1996

City Locations

Oklahoma, California, Iowa (USA)

Location Types

House, Cafe, Riverside, Storefront

Location Styles

Americana, Dilapidated, Dated, Manufactured Home, Rustic

About Twister

The awe-inspiring, crowd-pleasing computer-generated visuals, avant-garde sound, and other innovative special effects in Twister were meticulously designed to immerse viewers right into the roaring core of a gigantic tornado. This high-octane disaster film, which first hit screens in 1996, promises a nail-biting cinematic experience that will keep you gripped. Under the expert direction of Jan de Bont, it boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, Cary Elwes, and the late, great Philip Seymour Hoffman.

The film depicts the intertwined lives of Jo Harding (Helen Hunt) and Bill Harding (Bill Paxton), former storm chasers connected through their invention: the 'Dorothy' - a device created to measure wind speed in tornadoes. In a unique collaboration, they team up with their competitor, Dr. Jonas Miller (Cary Elwes), to enhance their groundbreaking invention. This partnership ignites a high-stakes race against time as they strive to collect data from some of the most treacherous storms ever recorded.

The plot of Twister is filled with equal parts science and suspense as the characters battle each other in an attempt to capture data from the destructive tornadoes that plague much of Oklahoma. Despite being at odds with one another, Jo and Bill must work together to save humanity from devastating natural disasters. With intense action scenes and impressive special effects, Twister is guaranteed to leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

The blockbuster Twister achieved global box office success, raking in a staggering $495 million and securing its rank as the second highest-grossing film of 1996. Critically acclaimed, the movie received predominantly positive reviews and even earned nominations for Academy Awards in categories such as Best Visual Effects and Best Sound. Exciting news awaits fans as a follow-up movie titled Twisters is scheduled to grace the silver screens in July 2024.

Twister Locations

Twister was filmed in a variety of locations across the United States. Most scenes were shot across Oklahoma and nearby areas, taking advantage of the diverse landscapes. Thanks to the production crew's hard work and dedication, viewers are rewarded with mesmerizing views of rolling fields of wheat in Pilot Mound, Ia., mesmerizing picturesque scenes in Kaw City, lush forests in Maysville, and breathtaking sunsets over the Arkansas River Bridge (Belford Bridge) in Wakita.

As if these scenes weren't enough to make Twister unforgettable, the production team also used Warner Brothers Burbank Studios to capture the intense scene between Bill and Jo inside a tornado. Although this studio was demolished in 2003, fans can still appreciate these iconic moments when re-watching the movie.

Twister (1996) is an absolute classic, and taking a trip through Oklahoma to visit all its filming locations would be worthwhile for any fan of this iconic movie. From Guthrie’s drive-in movie theater to Fairfax’s opening scene with Jo and her gang, viewers can truly experience the magic that is Twister 1996 as they explore the various backdrops used for filming this classic disaster film.

Bill confronts Jonas for copying his idea scene in Twister

Hwy. 19 and N3120 Rd. Maysville, Oklahoma

The scene is staged in front of an isolated highway-side diner, where Bill (Bill Paxton) and Jonas (Cary Elwes) are in a tense standoff. Upon observing Jonas during an interview with local media, Bill learns that Jonas has appropriated his innovative concept for the Dorothy weather apparatus and constructed his own model named D.O.T. 3, short for Digital Orphagraphic Telemeter. Bill confronts him for plagiarizing his idea, which Jonas dismisses as an "unrealized idea." Determined to outmaneuver Jonas, Bill resolves to stick with the team for another day.

The location where this scene was filmed can be found at Hwy 19 and N3120 Rd., Maysville, Oklahoma. The cafe building was purpose-built for the film and later dismantled, while the service station across the street still stands. Fans can still visit it, capturing timeless photos as a memento of this iconic movie moment.

To get to this location from Maysville, drive north along Hwy 74 until N3120 Rd., which should take around 10 minutes. Parking spaces should be readily available in that area, ensuring minimal disruption.

The waterspouts scene in Twister

E Ferguson Road Bridge, E. Furguson Ave. Kaw City, Oklahoma

Bill's (Bill Paxton) team sets out again, with him at the helm, accompanied by Jo (Helen Hunt) and Melissa (Jami Gertz) in his truck. Bill believes the tornado's path will shift, leading the team to embark on a detour down a back road. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn when Bill drives onto a bridge, and they find themselves trapped by swirling waterspouts, causing the truck to spin uncontrollably. Despite the harrowing ordeal, the team arrives at their destination shortly after the incident. While Jo jubilantly celebrates with the rest of the group, Melissa becomes emotionally overwhelmed, questioning Bill's past choices.

The setting unfolds on a bridge over Kaw Lake, a reservoir established in 1976, nestled in northern Oklahoma, USA. This bridge is close to Kaw City, a town perched on a hill with a panoramic view of the lake. The lake's dam, authorized in 1962, is a notable feature. In an interesting twist of history, the waters of Kaw Lake engulfed the original Kaw City in 1975. However, the city was reconstructed approximately two miles west of its former location during the late 1960s.

To reach E Ferguson Road Bridge over Kaw Lake, take Highway 11 East from Ponca City or Highway 77 South from Arkansas City until you reach E Ferguson Road (County Line Rd). Once there, turn east onto E Ferguson Rd and follow it for about two miles until you reach a bridge crossing over Kaw Lake.

Aunt Meg's house scene in Twister

Meg's House Site, 316 Elm St, Wakita, Oklahoma

The team decides to drop by the house of Jo's (Helen Hunt) aunt, Meg Greene (Lois Smith), located in the neighboring town of Wakita, Oklahoma, for some relaxation and food. In a private conversation, Meg confides in Jo that her marriage with Bill (Bill Paxton) collapsed because he "failed to uphold his end of the agreement."

The house portrayed as Meg Greene's was genuinely demolished during the movie's filming. Warner Brothers discovered the town of Wakita following its application for a demolition grant, a recovery effort from a severe hail storm two years earlier. With its vintage homes and charming red picket fences, Wakita served as the perfect backdrop for filming scenes for Twister, propelling the small town into global recognition.

Visiting Wakita today can offer a unique experience compared to what most people experience when watching Twister. Wakita's "Twister Walking Tour" includes authentic homemade red stands. Additionally, the town boasts the Twister Movie Museum, situated at 101 W. Main St. This unique attraction showcases a wide array of memorabilia from the movie, including props, costumes, photos, and much more.

To get to Wakita from other parts of Oklahoma or nearby states like Texas or Kansas, take US Highway 44 eastbound or Interstate 35 north if you are coming from Dallas. Public transport may not provide a comfortable experience, as you may encounter numerous transfers.

Heart-to-heart conversation between Bill and Jo scene in Twister

Twister Hill (Movie Site), 130th St, Boone, Iowa

Jo (Helen Hunt) leaps from the truck, once again trying to collect the strewn sensors. She becomes frustrated with Bill's (Bill Paxton) efforts to hinder her, but Bill tells Jo that her obsession with Dorothy's success is a way to avoid reliving her family's past tragedies. He also confesses that he continues to harbor feelings for her. Their conversation is inadvertently broadcast over the CB radio, and Melissa (Jami Gertz) and Jo's entire team become privy to their exchange.

This scene was set up in Twister Hill, located at 130th Street, Boone, near the Des Moines River. The bridge seen in the film crosses over the Des Moines River and is located near scenic riverside parks. Fans can enjoy some time nearby, including Ledges State Park or Don Williams Recreation Area. The view from the bridge and its surrounding area makes it a great place to take pictures with its rustic beauty.

Getting to Twister Hill is relatively simple. It's only ten miles from Boone city center. To get there by car, you can travel via Nature Rd until you reach 130th St, and follow it until you reach Twister Hill.

Tornado at the drive-in theater scene in Twister

Beacon Drive-In Theatre, 2404 S Division St, Guthrie, Oklahoma

In the climax of the movie Twister, Bill (Bill Paxton) and Jo (Helen Hunt) rush to Beacon Drive-In Theatre to get everyone to safety before a tornado touches down. As they emerge from the shelter after the tornado hits, they are blown away by the destruction that it has caused. The drive-in is plunged into darkness, with pieces of the movie screen scattered around them like confetti. It's an agitated moment showcasing how powerful and destructive tornados can be.

The drive-in movie scene was filmed at Beacon Drive-In Theatre at 2404 S Division St., Guthrie, Oklahoma. This retro 1950s drive-in theatre features a snack bar where you can get classic snack bar items like popcorn and candy bars and freshly made burgers. Additionally, there is plenty of parking for 120 cars and a massive area up front for viewers to set out chairs and blankets for optimal viewing experience.

To reach Beacons Drive-In Theatre, follow N Division Street from the center of Guthrie. If you're coming from Oklahoma, take the relatively straight road via Interstate 35 N, which will take about 30 minutes. The theatre continues to screen movies, providing a perfect opportunity for a pleasant time.

Bill and Jo appeared in the core of the tornado scene in Twister

Twister House, 26302 Y Ave, Eldora, Iowa

Bill (Bill Paxton) and Jo (Helen Hunt) spot the tornado and seek refuge at a nearby farm. The tornado wreaks havoc on the building, and they find themselves lifted off the ground, tethered only by the pipes. As the F5 tornado moves directly over them, they glimpse its core, filled with lightning and a more miniature tornado within. Moments later, the entire storm vanishes. The farm family then emerges from their underground storm shelter to survey the damage inflicted upon their property.

The iconic scene was filmed at the renowned Twister house, which has since become a cherished historical landmark. This two-story wood frame home not only braved the elements on the silver screen but also underwent a remarkable transformation through a whirlwind of renovations. Now, it values privacy while leaving its days of movie fandom behind.

The site is conveniently situated just an hour's drive from Des Moines via IA-330 N. For those who prefer not to drive, shuttle services are available from neighboring towns like Enid or Cherokee, providing transportation to the nearby cities.

Conclusion

The filming locations for Twister were indispensable in bringing the heart-pounding storm-chasing adventure to life. From the rugged plains of Oklahoma, where the film's tornado-ravaged landscapes were authentically recreated, to the stunning backdrop of Iowa, each location seamlessly contributed to the film's intense atmosphere.

The small town of Wakita, Oklahoma, stood as a testament to the film's commitment to realism, serving as the scene for the tornado destruction. These locations enabled the talented cast and crew to capture tornadoes' raw intensity, breathtaking beauty, and the resilience of those who dared to study and confront them.

The combination of these meticulously selected filming locations allowed Twister to become an immersive experience that took audiences on a thrilling journey into the heart of one of nature's most powerful phenomena.