Discovering the Real-Life Schitt's Creek in Ontario
For millions of American fans, the charmingly quirky town of Schitt's Creek, Ontario, feels as real as any small town in the Midwest or New England. The beloved Canadian sitcom, "Schitt's Creek," which garnered a massive following and critical acclaim, captivated audiences with its heartwarming stories, laugh-out-loud humor, and unforgettable characters. But for those of us who've binge-watched every episode, a burning question often arises: Where is Schitt's Creek filmed in Ontario? The good news is, you can actually visit the real-life locations that served as the backdrop for the Rose family's hilarious misadventures!
The magic of "Schitt's Creek" wasn't conjured on a soundstage in Hollywood. Instead, the production team found its perfect setting nestled in the scenic landscapes of Ontario, Canada. While the fictional town's name is a playful pun, the real places are much more down-to-earth and accessible.
The Heart of Schitt's Creek: The Town of Orangeville
The primary filming location for the town of Schitt's Creek itself, including its iconic main street and many of its key buildings, is the picturesque town of Orangeville, Ontario. Located about an hour northwest of Toronto, Orangeville boasts a charming and well-preserved downtown core that was easily transformed into the Rose family's new, albeit unconventional, home.
- The Schitt's Creek Motel: This is perhaps the most recognizable landmark. The exterior shots of the motel were filmed at a building that, in real life, is the Berczy Inn. Located at 17767 Airport Road, near Schomberg (which is close to Orangeville), this historic inn served as the façade of the Rosebud Motel. While the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, the exterior is the genuine article and a must-see for dedicated fans.
- The Rose Apothecary: The beloved and hilariously unsuccessful boutique owned by David Rose found its home in a building on Broadway Avenue in Orangeville. This street is the heart of Orangeville's downtown, and many of the storefronts you see in the show are actual businesses operating there. The specific building that housed the Rose Apothecary has changed hands since filming, but the spirit of that charming shop lives on in the street's vibrant atmosphere.
- Bob's Garage: While the show often depicted Bob's Garage as a rustic, independent workshop, its exterior shots were filmed in and around various industrial areas and garages in the vicinity of Orangeville. The specific locations might have been adaptable, but the overall feel of a working-class garage was captured within the region.
- The Town Hall and Other Businesses: Many of the other businesses and town landmarks seen on Schitt's Creek's main street are actual establishments in Orangeville. The production team masterfully integrated these real locations, adding to the show's authentic feel. Walking down Broadway Avenue, you'll likely recognize buildings that played supporting roles in the Roses' journey.
Exploring Beyond the Main Street
While Orangeville provided the core of Schitt's Creek, other surrounding areas in Ontario were also utilized to bring the show's world to life.
- Caledon, Ontario: The sprawling landscapes and rural settings often seen in the background of the show, particularly during scenes involving driving or exploring the outskirts of town, were filmed in and around Caledon, Ontario. This region offers a more bucolic and expansive backdrop, perfect for showcasing the "middle of nowhere" feel of Schitt's Creek.
- The Show's Production Base: For the most part, interior scenes, including the motel rooms, the diner, and the Roses' mansion (which they lost), were filmed on soundstages at Pinewood Toronto Studios. These studios are located in Toronto, Ontario, and are a hub for Canadian and international film and television productions. This allowed the crew to have more control over the environment and capture the specific look and feel required for each scene.
Making the Pilgrimage to Schitt's Creek
For devoted fans looking to experience the real Schitt's Creek, a road trip to Ontario is highly recommended. Orangeville is a charming town in its own right, with a thriving arts scene, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. You can spend a day or two exploring its streets, imagining the Rose family bustling about, and perhaps even grab a coffee at a café that feels eerily similar to the ones frequented by the town's residents.
The Berczy Inn, while no longer operating as a motel, stands as a testament to the show's enduring legacy. It's a popular spot for fans to take photos and reminisce about the early days of the Roses' stay in Schitt's Creek. Remember to be respectful of private property and the local residents as you explore.
The beauty of "Schitt's Creek" lies in its ability to blend the fictional with the real. By filming in and around Orangeville and other parts of Ontario, the show achieved a grounded authenticity that resonated deeply with viewers. So, if you've ever wondered, "Where is Schitt's Creek filmed in Ontario?", now you have your answer. Pack your bags, and get ready to discover the real-life locations that made this beloved show a global phenomenon!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I visit the real Schitt's Creek locations?
You can visit the real Schitt's Creek locations by traveling to Orangeville, Ontario, Canada, and its surrounding areas like Caledon. The Berczy Inn (exterior of the motel), and the main street of Orangeville (Broadway Avenue) are key spots to explore.
Why did the show choose Ontario for filming?
The show's creators, Dan Levy and Eugene Levy, are Canadian and chose to film in their home province of Ontario for a variety of reasons, including access to diverse landscapes, tax incentives for Canadian productions, and the availability of skilled production crews and facilities like Pinewood Toronto Studios.
Can I stay at the Schitt's Creek motel?
While the exterior of the Schitt's Creek motel was filmed at the Berczy Inn, it is not currently operating as a motel. The interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, so there isn't a real "Rosebud Motel" to book a stay in. However, you can still visit the exterior and imagine the iconic scenes!
Are there any Schitt's Creek-themed tours available?
While there aren't official, regularly scheduled "Schitt's Creek" tours, fans often organize their own self-guided tours. Local tourism boards or fan communities might offer suggestions for visiting key filming sites in and around Orangeville.
