Discover the Movie Magic in Lake Lure, North Carolina

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting the place where Dirty Dancing was filmed, look no further than Lake Lure, North Carolina. While the 1987 classic was set in the Catskills, much of the movie’s most iconic scenes—including the famous lake lift—were filmed right here in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. From romantic lakefront views to annual fan festivals, Lake Lure is a must-visit for movie buffs, couples, and anyone looking for a nostalgic summer getaway.

The History Behind Dirty Dancing in Lake Lure

When producers were scouting for filming locations for Dirty Dancing, they needed a setting that captured the essence of a 1960s summer resort. Lake Lure's natural beauty, mountain backdrop, and vintage charm made it the perfect choice. In 1986, key scenes from the movie were filmed in and around Lake Lure and nearby Chimney Rock.

Although the fictional “Kellerman’s Resort” was inspired by Catskills resorts, Lake Lure provided the unforgettable lake scenes, outdoor dance rehearsals, and mountain magic that made the film legendary.

Iconic Dirty Dancing Filming Locations in Lake Lure

Want to walk in Baby and Johnny’s footsteps? Here are a few Dirty Dancing filming locations to visit in Lake Lure:

• Firefly Cove – Used for scenes near Baby’s cabin and the lakeside moments with Johnny.
• Lake Lure – Home of the iconic “lake lift” scene, although the water was freezing during filming!
• Chimney Rock State Park – Featured in the log-dancing scene, just a short drive from downtown Lake Lure.
• The 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa – Where many cast and crew stayed during production.

While the interior resort scenes were filmed at Mountain Lake Lodge in Virginia, Lake Lure captured most of the film’s iconic outdoor shots, including those sweeping lake views.

Visit During the Annual Dirty Dancing Festival

Every summer, Lake Lure celebrates its Hollywood connection with the Dirty Dancing Festival, one of the top things to do in Lake Lure for fans of the film. This popular event includes:

• A screening of the movie under the stars
• Lake lift competitions where fans re-create the iconic moment
• Live music and dance lessons
• Local food, crafts, and more

It’s the perfect blend of film nostalgia and small-town charm.

Things to Do in Lake Lure Beyond Dirty Dancing

Even if you're not a superfan, Lake Lure offers plenty of unforgettable experiences:

• Take a boat tour to see filming locations from the water
• Visit Chimney Rock State Park for hiking and panoramic views
• Walk the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
• Enjoy lakefront dining, kayaking, and romantic sunset views

Plan Your Visit to Dirty Dancing’s Lake Lure

Whether you're reliving your favorite movie moments or simply looking for a peaceful mountain-lake retreat, Lake Lure delivers nostalgia, natural beauty, and a dash of cinematic magic. It’s one of the top travel destinations in North Carolina for couples, families, and pop culture lovers alike.