Mountain Lake LodgeDirty Dancing-Mountain Lake Lodge
Located in the rolling hills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Mountain Lake Lodge holds a special place in the hearts of many. This historic resort, originally built in the 1850s, found unexpected fame in 1987 when it served as the primary filming location for the iconic movie "Dirty Dancing." The lodge's charming cabins, grand main hall, and scenic surroundings transformed into the fictional Kellerman's Mountain House, the backdrop for a summer of romance, dance, and rebellion. The filming not only propelled the movie to cult status but also breathed new life into the historic lodge, forever linking it with the film's enduring legacy.
While the movie takes place in the Catskills Mountains of New York, Mountain Lake Lodge provides a perfect substitute. The lodge's rustic elegance, with its sprawling lawns, wooden balconies, and grand stone fireplace, perfectly captured the essence of a classic summer resort. The Kellerman's main dining hall, a central location in the film, was meticulously recreated within the lodge's existing ballroom. Other iconic scenes, like Baby and Johnny's practice session in the lake house, were filmed using existing structures on the property. These familiar locations continue to draw fans to the lodge, allowing them to relive their favorite moments from the movie.
The filming of Dirty Dancing wasn't without its challenges. The production team had to work around the lodge's ongoing operations, minimizing disruptions for guests. Additionally, some scenes required alterations to the existing location. For instance, the iconic gazebo overlooking the lake, a pivotal setting for the movie's final dance scene, was constructed specifically for filming. Despite these adjustments, the collaboration between the production crew and the lodge staff resulted in a seamless on-screen representation of Kellerman's.
The movie's success has undeniably boosted tourism for Mountain Lake Lodge. Fans flock to the resort year-round, eager to experience the setting they love on screen. The lodge has embraced this association, offering themed weekends complete with dance lessons, movie screenings, and even the chance to stay in Baby's cabin. These events not only cater to fans' nostalgia but also provide a significant source of revenue for the historic resort.
A visit to Mountain Lake Lodge offers more than just a brush with cinematic history. The resort itself boasts a rich heritage, with its architecture reflecting various historical periods. Guests can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities, ranging from swimming and boating in the summer to hiking and scenic drives in the fall. Whether seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a glimpse into the world of "Dirty Dancing," Mountain Lake Lodge offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Mountain Lake Lodge
Mountain Lake LodgeA 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Dirty Dancing-Mountain Lake Lodge
One of the most intriguing aspects of filming at Mountain Lake Lodge is the lake for which the lodge is named. A central feature of the resort, the lake mysteriously drained in the years following the film's release, leaving behind only a muddy crater. It has since reappeared intermittently due to natural geological processes, but its fluctuating water levels have added to the mystique of the film's legacy.Attraction Advice
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- Sponsored by: Town of Pembroke
- Dirty Dancing-Mountain Lake Lodge
- Pembroke, VA
- 540-626-7121