Where Was “Grown Ups” Filmed (Lake)? The Definitive Guide

The heartwarming and hilarious film “Grown Ups,” starring Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, and Rob Schneider, transports us to an idyllic lakeside setting. The primary lake location where the movie was filmed is Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire. Specifically, much of the action takes place around the town of Meredith, New Hampshire, situated on the shores of this beautiful lake.

Diving Deeper: The Filming Locations of “Grown Ups”

While the comedic chemistry of the cast is undeniable, the backdrop of “Grown Ups” significantly contributes to its summery, nostalgic feel. It’s a quintessential New England summer vacation brought to life on the big screen. Let’s dissect the key locations used during filming.

Meredith, New Hampshire: The Heart of the Action

Meredith served as the primary base for the production. Its charming town square, local businesses, and surrounding areas were extensively featured. The town fully embraced the film crew, and many locals even appeared as extras, adding an authentic touch to the scenes.

Lake Winnipesaukee: The Sparkling Star

As mentioned, Lake Winnipesaukee is the star of the show. Its sprawling waters, dotted with islands and lined with picturesque homes, offer a stunning visual representation of the summer getaway. Various scenes, including water skiing, swimming, and boat rides, were filmed directly on the lake.

Other Notable Locations

Beyond Meredith and Lake Winnipesaukee, several other nearby locations contributed to the film’s aesthetic:

• Squam Lake: While Lake Winnipesaukee gets top billing, some scenes were also shot on Squam Lake, another stunning lake in New Hampshire. It’s possible to spot differences in the shoreline and island configurations if you’re a keen observer.
• Various Private Residences: Several private homes located on or near Lake Winnipesaukee were used to depict the lake house where the main characters and their families stayed. These luxurious properties added to the film’s aspirational atmosphere.

“Grown Ups” FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

To further enrich your understanding of the filming locations and production details of “Grown Ups”, here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

1. Why was “Grown Ups” filmed in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire offered the perfect combination of scenic beauty, accessibility, and a welcoming local community. The producers sought a location that could authentically portray a New England summer vacation spot, and Lake Winnipesaukee fit the bill perfectly. The state also provided tax incentives that made filming more economically viable.

2. Was the lake house in “Grown Ups” a real house, or was it built for the movie?

The lake house featured prominently in “Grown Ups” was a real house, not a set built for the film. It’s a private residence located on Lake Winnipesaukee. While some minor alterations might have been made for specific scenes, the house itself was an existing structure.

3. Can you visit the filming locations from “Grown Ups”?

Yes! You can visit many of the public locations used in “Grown Ups,” particularly in Meredith, New Hampshire. You can stroll through the town square, visit the lakefront, and even take a boat tour on Lake Winnipesaukee. Respect private property, however, as some locations, like the lake house, are private residences.

4. Did the “Grown Ups” cast enjoy filming in New Hampshire?

Reports indicate that the cast thoroughly enjoyed filming in New Hampshire. They were often spotted around Meredith, interacting with locals and participating in community events. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery contributed to a positive filming experience.

5. Were any locals involved in the filming of “Grown Ups”?

Absolutely! The production team actively sought out local residents to work as extras and provide support services. This helped create a sense of authenticity and allowed the community to feel involved in the filmmaking process.

6. Is there a “Grown Ups” tour in Meredith, New Hampshire?

While there isn’t an officially designated “Grown Ups” tour, you can easily create your own. Simply explore Meredith and Lake Winnipesaukee, visiting the publicly accessible locations featured in the film. Many local businesses are happy to point out specific spots where scenes were shot.

7. How did the filming of “Grown Ups” impact the local economy?

The filming of “Grown Ups” provided a significant boost to the local economy in Meredith and the surrounding areas. The production crew hired local workers, rented accommodations, purchased supplies from local businesses, and attracted tourists eager to see the filming locations.

8. Are there any noticeable differences in the filming locations between “Grown Ups” and “Grown Ups 2”?

While “Grown Ups” was primarily filmed in New Hampshire, “Grown Ups 2” shifted its filming location to Massachusetts. This means the lake and surrounding scenery are noticeably different between the two films. “Grown Ups 2” aims for a more suburban feel, whereas “Grown Ups” has a distinct New England lakeside charm.

9. What other movies or TV shows have been filmed in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire’s scenic landscapes have attracted numerous film and television productions over the years. Notable examples include “Jumanji” (1995), “On Golden Pond”, “The Sinner” (TV Series), and parts of “What About Bob?”.

10. How can I find the exact locations where specific scenes were filmed?

Numerous online resources and fan communities are dedicated to identifying specific filming locations. Websites like Movie-Locations.com and IMDb often provide detailed information and user contributions about filming locations. A little online sleuthing will reward you with precise details.

11. Did the weather conditions impact the filming schedule?

Given that filming took place during the summer months, the weather generally cooperated. However, unpredictable weather is always a factor in outdoor filming. Adjustments to the schedule were likely made on occasion due to rain or other inclement weather.

12. Has the popularity of “Grown Ups” led to an increase in tourism to Lake Winnipesaukee and Meredith?

Absolutely! The film’s popularity undoubtedly contributed to an increase in tourism to Lake Winnipesaukee and Meredith. Fans of the movie are drawn to the area to experience the beauty and charm depicted on screen, boosting local businesses and showcasing the region’s appeal as a vacation destination. Many people have cited the film as the main reason why they picked New Hampshire for their vacation.