The sleepy village of East Corinth, Vermont, has turned into a worldwide attraction for fans of Beetlejuice. Once a quiet filming location, it’s now a vibrant tourist destination where visitors can walk through iconic movie scenes and celebrate the enduring legacy of Tim Burton’s gothic classic.
When people think of Beetlejuice, they often picture the quirky, gothic small town of Winter River, Connecticut. But the truth is, that magical world came alive in the quiet hills of East Corinth, Vermont. Decades after the film’s release, this picturesque town has become a pilgrimage site for fans of the horror-comedy classic.
Now, thanks to renewed interest sparked by Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (the 2024 sequel), East Corinth is buzzing once again — proving that movie magic never truly fades.
The Origins: How Tim Burton Discovered East Corinth
In 1987, director Tim Burton and his production team scouted for a location that embodied small-town America with a haunting yet charming aesthetic. They found their perfect backdrop in East Corinth, a village of about 1,500 residents nestled in Orange County, Vermont.
Burton was drawn to its rolling hills, rustic homes, and picturesque covered bridge — all of which perfectly fit the movie’s eerie-meets-whimsical tone. To bring the fictional town of Winter River, Connecticut to life, the production built and modified several set pieces around the area, most notably the Maitland house on a hill overlooking the valley.
Though the house was a temporary set dismantled after filming, the location remains a must-see landmark for fans who visit every year.
The Iconic Beetlejuice Filming Locations in East Corinth
Even though most of the original set no longer exists, there are several locations fans can still visit to relive their favorite scenes:
1. The Famous Covered Bridge
This red wooden bridge, seen in the movie’s tragic car scene, is perhaps the most recognizable landmark from Beetlejuice. Fans from around the world stop to take photos at the same spot where Adam and Barbara Maitland met their spooky fate.
2. Main Street & General Store
The town’s quaint main street features a collection of wooden buildings that were used for the fictional Winter River shops. Many of these buildings are still standing, preserving that small-town feel that made the film so memorable.
3. Miss Shannon’s School for Girls
Used as Lydia Deetz’s school in the movie, this historic building has become a fan-favorite photo stop. Its aged architecture perfectly embodies the gothic tone of Burton’s vision.
4. Hilltop Filming Site (The Maitland House Location)
Although the house was only a prop, visitors can hike up the hill where it once stood. Local signs now help tourists identify the exact filming spot, offering panoramic views of the valley below — a scene straight out of the movie.
A Small Town with a Big Legacy
What started as a filming location has turned into a tourism phenomenon. For decades, Beetlejuice fans have trickled into East Corinth to connect with their favorite movie, but the release of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice reignited global interest.
During the 2023 filming of the sequel, local businesses saw a surge in visitors — some reporting more than a thousand tourists in a single weekend.
Residents, initially surprised by the attention, now embrace their town’s spooky fame. Cafes offer Beetlejuice-themed drinks, local artists sell film-inspired souvenirs, and community groups organize informal tours during Halloween season.
The Return: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Revives the Town’s Fame
When Warner Bros. announced Beetlejuice Beetlejuice in 2023, it wasn’t just a big deal for movie fans — it was life-changing for East Corinth. Burton’s team rebuilt the iconic hilltop house, recreated several set locations, and filmed new scenes across the town, drawing hundreds of spectators.
The production boosted local businesses and tourism, with fans traveling from as far as Germany, Japan, and the UK just to glimpse the set.
Now, with the sequel’s release, East Corinth has cemented itself as one of America’s most beloved “movie towns.”
Community Pride and Local Stories
The people of East Corinth have grown fond of their connection to Beetlejuice. Many locals recall being extras in the 1988 film or helping the production crew during filming.
Residents like Sarah Polli, who lives near the covered bridge, have welcomed visitors for years — often sharing behind-the-scenes stories passed down from family and friends.
Instead of being overwhelmed by tourism, the community has embraced it with pride and creativity. Plans are reportedly underway to establish a small museum dedicated to the film’s Vermont legacy, including memorabilia and photos from both productions.
Tourism Tips for Visiting East Corinth
If you’re planning your own Beetlejuice adventure, here are a few tips for making the most of your trip:
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn is ideal — the fall foliage creates the same enchanting atmosphere seen in the movie.
- Self-Guided Tour: Fans can easily explore the major filming sites using online maps and local guide signs posted around town.
- Respect Private Property: Some filming sites are near residential areas, so always be mindful of local homes and privacy.
- Local Stops: Don’t miss small-town gems like cafés, antique stores, and local art galleries that celebrate the movie’s influence.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine your trip with visits to nearby Vermont landmarks for a full New England experience
The Cultural Impact of Beetlejuice on East Corinth
For East Corinth, Beetlejuice isn’t just a movie — it’s part of the town’s identity. Each year, especially around Halloween, fans gather to celebrate the film’s legacy, take photos, and immerse themselves in its gothic charm.
The Beetlejuice phenomenon has also inspired a growing number of film enthusiasts to explore other Vermont filming sites, further boosting the state’s tourism industry.
What’s remarkable is that despite its fame, East Corinth remains humble — a small, peaceful village that invites visitors to step into a piece of cinematic history.
Why Fans Keep Coming Back
The enduring appeal of Beetlejuice lies in its combination of humor, heart, and haunting visuals. For many, visiting East Corinth is more than a sightseeing trip — it’s a nostalgic journey.
Fans often describe their experience as “walking through a dream” — where the real and the imaginary blend seamlessly. The connection between film and place has made East Corinth one of the most beloved cinematic destinations in America.
Final Thoughts
East Corinth, Vermont, is proof that a great movie can transform even the smallest town into a cultural landmark. With its gothic beauty, welcoming locals, and timeless connection to Beetlejuice, the town continues to attract fans from all over the world.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Tim Burton’s universe, a trip to East Corinth offers the chance to relive the magic of one of cinema’s most iconic films — up close and personal.
So pack your camera, wear your stripes, and don’t forget the golden rule: say his name three times…
Also Read : Morgan Freeman Reveals His Favorite Movie of All Time – A Deep Dive into the Film
FAQs
1. Where is the real Beetlejuice town located?
The fictional Winter River, Connecticut, was actually filmed in East Corinth, Vermont.
2. Can visitors see the original Beetlejuice house?
The house was a temporary set built for filming and later removed, but visitors can still visit the hill where it once stood.
3. Is East Corinth open to tourists?
Yes, East Corinth welcomes visitors year-round. Most fans visit during fall for the full Halloween experience.
4. Are there official Beetlejuice tours available?
Currently, tours are self-guided, but local residents often share stories and directions to key locations.
5. Did the sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice film in the same town?
Yes, Tim Burton returned to East Corinth in 2023 to film parts of the highly anticipated sequel.
6. Why do so many fans visit East Corinth?
Fans come to experience the filming locations, relive movie scenes, and celebrate the creativity that made Beetlejuice a timeless classic.
Join our WhatsApp channel for more updates and information about celebrities and entertainment
Discover more from Cine Storytellers
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.