Explore the Real-Life Home of Forrest Gump: A Tourist’s Guide
If you’re a fan of the classic movie “Forrest Gump,” then you’ll be happy to know that you can now explore the actual locations where the film was shot. From the famous bench where Forrest sits and talks to strangers to the shrimp boat where Bubba tells him about his love for shrimping, these historic landmarks are a must-see for any Forrest Gump enthusiast.
1. Walking Tour of Savannah, Georgia
One of the most iconic scenes in the movie is when Forrest Gump runs through the streets of Savannah, Georgia. You can now revisit this scene and more by taking a walking tour of Savannah. During the tour, you will visit 22 different movie locations, including Chippewa Square, the site where Tom Hanks sat on the bench and delivered his famous feather monologue. You will also see the Mercer House, which was the real-life home of Jim Williams, the antique dealer who was tried four times for the murder of Danny Hansford, as portrayed in John Berendt’s book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” If you’re lucky, you may even catch the filming of a movie or TV show.
2. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant in Times Square
Forrest Gump and Bubba bonded over their love of shrimping. Bubba even had a list of all the different ways you could prepare shrimp. If you’re a seafood lover, you should definitely check out the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurant, located in Times Square in New York City. This restaurant is a themed eatery that pays homage to the movie and characters that made it famous. You’ll find all sorts of shrimp dishes, seafood, and drinks named after the movie’s most famous characters.
3. Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco
San Francisco was one of the many locations visited by Forrest Gump during his cross-country run. A must-visit location for fans of the movie is the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. This factory has been producing fortune cookies since 1962, and it is where Forrest met the owner who gave him the idea to start his own shrimping business.
4. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Another iconic scene from the movie is when Forrest experiences a spiritual journey to find himself. This scene was shot in Monument Valley, Arizona. You can visit Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park to experience the breathtaking scenery and to see where this scene was filmed.
5. Hollywood Walk of Fame
Finally, no trip to Hollywood is complete without visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tom Hanks, who played Forrest Gump in the movie, received a star on the Walk of Fame in 1992. You can take a stroll along the Walk of Fame and see the various stars of people who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
FAQs
Q. Can you sit on the bench where Forrest Gump sat?
A. Unfortunately, the bench seen in the movie was just a prop, and it is no longer at Chippewa Square. However, there are several replicas of the bench located around Savannah that you can sit on and take a photo.
Q. Is Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant expensive?
A. Like any themed restaurant, the prices may be slightly higher than average, but they are not unreasonable. Moreover, the restaurant offers a fun atmosphere and excellent service.
Q. Can you take pictures inside the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory?
A. Yes, photography is allowed inside the factory.
Q. How long is the walk tour of Savannah?
A. The walking tour takes approximately two and a half hours, so wear comfortable shoes.
In conclusion, the real-life home of Forrest Gump offers a vast array of iconic locations to visit. From the bench in Savannah to the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurant in Times Square, there are plenty of exciting photo opportunities and unique experiences in store for fans. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the world of Forrest Gump.