Almost Nobody Knows That Parts Of The Iconic Movie Benny & Joon Were Filmed In This Washington City
By Sherri Adams|Updated on April 16, 2024(Originally published March 21, 2023)
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Sherri Adams
Author
Sherri Adams is a writer, photographer, and travel enthusiast from the Pacific Northwest. She has always been passionate about writing and the opportunities for connection through the written word. When she’s not writing, you can often find her at the seashore with her toes in the sand and her nose in a book.
One of the top states to visit on my bucket list, Washington State is the backdrop for many memorable movies. For example, the very real town of Forks, Washington served as the main setting for the Twilight movies and Coupeville is proud to be known as the small-town location for the 1998 film, Practical Magic. And if you ever wanted to know where was Benny and Joon filmed, know that it was right here in Spokane. The beauty of the Evergreen State and the diversity of landscapes make Washington an ideal choice for movies of all genres. Let’s take a closer look at some of the Benny and Joon filming locations.
As the credits roll on the opening scenes of Benny and Joon, a train chugs through the Pend Oreille River Valley near Spokane.
Another one of the most interesting Benny and Joon film locations, the home shared by the film's main characters, brother and sister Benny and Joon, sits nestled in the Peaceful Valley neighborhood of Spokane.
Lower South Hill is the home of Ruthie, the lovable waitress and love interest of Benny. Even though the movie was filmed 30 years ago, the building remains relatively unchanged.
Riverside Place is now a wedding and event venue yet the exterior still looks the same as it did in the movie. For those people who have had wedding here, the answer to "where was Benny and Joon filmed", where I got married!
Through the magic of Hollywood, the diner depicted in the movie was actually two different restaurants.
Mary Lou's Milk Bottle, 802 W Garland Ave, Spokane, WA 99205, USA
Mary Lou's Milk Bottle is a whimsically unique café that has been a Spokane landmark since 1935. You can see exterior shots of Mary Lou's throughout Benny and Joon.
The 1974 World's Fair took place in Spokane with many attractions centered on what is now this park, a beautiful gathering spot downtown.
Built in 1904, and once known as the Transient Hotel, you might recognize Spokane's Minnesota Building as one of the Benny and Joon filming locations. This was the video rental store.
Depp's character Sam, and Joon, played by Mary Stuart Masterson, another member of the Benny and Joon cast, can be seen riding a bus over the Maple Street Bridge.
Maple Street Bridge, N Maple St, Spokane, WA 99205, USA
