๐ŸŽฌ Where Was The Hangover Filmed? Complete Las Vegas Location Guide backdrop
ComedyAdventure

๐ŸŽฌ Where Was The Hangover Filmed? Complete Las Vegas Location Guide

2009
Todd Phillips
Added January 15, 2024
5 Locations

Relive The Hangover's wild ride by exploring its iconic Las Vegas filming locations. Get ready for a cinematic adventure in Sin City!

About ๐ŸŽฌ Where Was The Hangover Filmed? Complete Las Vegas Location Guide

๐ŸŽฌ Where Was The Hangover Filmed? Complete Las Vegas Location Guide

Remember that feeling of waking up in Las Vegas with no memory of the night before, your best friend missing, and a tiger in the bathroom? Okay, maybe not personally, but "The Hangover" delivers that chaotic experience like no other! ๐Ÿฏ๐Ÿคฏ

This iconic 2009 comedy redefined the bachelor party movie, taking audiences on a hilariously frantic search through the glittering, grimy, and utterly unbelievable landscape of Las Vegas. The city isn't just a backdrop; it's a character itself, perfectly embodying the film's wild premise.

From the opulent suites of Caesars Palace to the barren Nevada desert, "The Hangover" leveraged its locations to amplify every absurd twist and turn. These spots, drenched in cinematic history, offer fans a chance to step directly into the chaos.

So, grab your sunglasses and your aspirin, because we're taking you on a cinematic tour of the real-world spots where the Wolfpack's epic adventure unfolded. Get ready to explore Sin City through the eyes of Phil, Stu, and Alan! ๐ŸŽฒโœจ

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๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Major Filming Locations

๐ŸŽฌ Caesars Palace - The Infamous Lost Weekend Begins! ๐ŸŒƒ

Scenic view of Caesars Palace showing its iconic Roman-inspired architecture and fountains at dusk ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

Caesars Palace is a legendary luxury hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip, instantly recognizable by its opulent Roman-inspired architecture. It's renowned for its world-class entertainment, fine dining, and elaborate Forum Shops. This grand resort embodies the extravagant spirit of Las Vegas.

๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

Caesars Palace is the primary setting for the beginning of the Wolfpack's misadventures, where they check into their "Villa" suite. Itโ€™s here that they wake up to the infamous chaos: a tiger in the bathroom, a baby in the closet, and a missing groom! The hotel's grand lobby and iconic exteriors feature prominently.

๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: 3570 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Open 24/7
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Free to enter common areas; costs apply for rooms, shows, and amenities
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: www.caesars.com/caesars-palace
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: Don't miss exploring the elaborate Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis, although we highly recommend against recreating any unauthorized dives into the fountains! ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: While the "Villa" suite felt incredibly real, most of its interior scenes were actually shot on a soundstage, meticulously designed to replicate the grandeur of Caesars' high-roller suites.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Jean Dry Lake Bed - Desert Detour & Tiger Troubles! ๐Ÿœ๏ธ

    Vast expanse of Jean Dry Lake Bed with ATV riders kicking up dust under a clear sky ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    Located south of Las Vegas, the Jean Dry Lake Bed is a vast, undeveloped expanse of flat, hard-packed earth. This unique environment is a popular spot for off-roading, land speed records, and, of course, film shoots due to its remote, open landscape.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    This desolate location sets the scene for one of the film's most memorable moments: the Wolfpack's car breaking down in the middle of nowhere. It's here that Alan tries to pet the tiger, leading to the hilarious and ridiculous sight of their car being picked up by a helicopter!

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: Off I-15 near Jean, Nevada, USA (approx. 20 miles south of Las Vegas)
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Always open (public land)
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Free
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: No specific website; managed by Bureau of Land Management
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: If you venture out here, come prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and proper footwear, as the desert conditions can be extreme. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: The tiger used in the film's desert sequence was indeed real! Animal handlers were on set to ensure the safety of the animal and provide expert guidance for the shots, often filming the tiger separately from the actors.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Warner Bros. Studios, Stage 16 - The Magic Behind the Mayhem! โœจ

    Interior view of Warner Bros. Stage 16, a massive soundstage, showcasing its vast, empty space ready for filming ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, is one of the world's most famous and historic film production facilities. Stage 16, specifically, is a massive soundstage known for its towering height and ability to accommodate large, intricate sets. This is where movie magic truly comes to life in controlled environments.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    While the film thrives on its real-world Las Vegas footage, many of the complex interior scenes, especially inside the Caesars Palace suite, were meticulously recreated and filmed on soundstages at Warner Bros. Studios. This allowed for precise control over stunts, lighting, and special effects.

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: 4000 Warner Blvd, Burbank, California, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Varies by tour schedule; check website for details
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Tour tickets required; prices vary by package
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: www.wbstudiotour.com
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: Take the Warner Bros. Studio Tour! While you might not see the specific "Hangover" sets, you'll gain an incredible appreciation for the scale and artistry behind Hollywood productions. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: Filming key sequences on a soundstage gave director Todd Phillips the flexibility to shoot scenes multiple times without interruption from actual hotel guests, ensuring comedic timing and safety for the more outlandish moments.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Atomic Liquors - Vegas's Oldest Freemont Street Bar! ๐Ÿป

    Impressive facade of Atomic Liquors, Las Vegas's oldest freestanding bar, with its retro neon sign and bustling street scene ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    Dating back to 1952, Atomic Liquors holds the proud title of the oldest freestanding bar in Las Vegas. Located in the vibrant Downtown/Fremont Street area, itโ€™s a beloved local institution known for its retro charm, craft cocktails, and rich history, making it a true Vegas gem.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    Though not central to the main plot's frantic search, Atomic Liquors makes an appearance as part of the initial Las Vegas nightlife montage. It helps establish the authentic, slightly gritty, and endlessly fascinating atmosphere of downtown Vegas, setting the stage for the wild night ahead.

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: 917 Fremont St, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Typically open daily from late afternoon into the late evening/night
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Free to enter; pay for drinks
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: atomicliquors.com
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: Explore the entire Fremont Street Experience while you're there! It's a fantastic, high-energy contrast to the Strip and offers a different side of Vegas history. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: Atomic Liquors earned its name because patrons used to watch atomic bomb test flashes from the Nevada Test Site from its roof in the 1950sโ€”a truly unique piece of Vegas history!

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    ๐ŸŽฌ The former Riviera Hotel & Casino (Riverside Ballroom) - Boxing Ring Brawls & Broken Dreams! ๐ŸฅŠ

    The exterior of the former Riviera Hotel & Casino, a classic Las Vegas landmark, featuring its grand entrance and distinctive architecture ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    The Riviera Hotel & Casino was a legendary part of the Las Vegas Strip from 1955 until its closure and demolition in 2016. Known for its Hollywood connections, classic entertainers, and distinctive architecture, it represented an important era in Las Vegas history.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    The Riviera's "Riverside Ballroom" served as the backdrop for the underground boxing match sequence, where the Wolfpack encounters the eccentric Mr. Chow. This is also where Stu faces off against a taser-wielding character in a truly electric (pun intended) moment.

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: Former site at 2901 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA (now part of the Las Vegas Convention Center's West Hall)
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Note: The Riviera Hotel & Casino was demolished in 2016 and no longer stands.
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: N/A
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: No longer applicable
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: While the Riviera is gone, its legacy lives on! You can visit the modern Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall that stands on its former footprint and imagine the iconic history that once took place there. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: The Riviera was the first high-rise hotel on the Las Vegas Strip and counted Dean Martin and Elvis Presley among its many famous performers who graced its stage and gambling halls.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

    Beyond the unforgettable gags, "The Hangover" was a masterclass in comedic filmmaking. The production team faced unique challenges and created an environment ripe for the hilarious, often improvised, performances that made the film a phenomenon.

    ๐ŸŽญ Director's Vision

  • ๐ŸŽฏ Location Strategy: Todd Phillips blended iconic Las Vegas landmarks with precise soundstage recreations, giving the movie an authentic Vegas feel while allowing for controlled chaos and stunts.
  • ๐ŸŽจ Visual Style: The gritty, unglamorous side of Las Vegas was as important as its glitz. Phillips purposefully showcased both, highlighting the contrast between the city's veneer and the characters' desperate reality.
  • ๐ŸŽช Production Highlights

  • ๐ŸŽฌ Real Tiger, Real Trouble: Using a genuine tiger added significant logistical hurdles and safety protocols, making those scenes incredibly complex to capture.
  • ๐ŸŽญ Stu's Missing Tooth: Ed Helms' missing incisor was not a special effect; he genuinely had an adult tooth that never grew and had the implant removed for authenticity!
  • ๐ŸŽจ Budget Brilliance: Despite its relatively modest budget, "The Hangover" looks incredibly rich and immersive thanks to smart set design and effective use of real locations.
  • ๐ŸŽฏ Improvisational Genius: Many of the film's funniest lines and moments, especially from Zach Galifianakis, were unscripted, born from the actors' chemistry.
  • ๐ŸŒŸ Cast & Crew Stories

  • ๐Ÿ˜„ Hangover "Boot Camp": Before filming, the main cast reportedly spent time together in Las Vegas to build rapport and get a feel for the city's unique energy.
  • ๐Ÿ˜ฎ Crash Course in Comedy: Bradley Cooper recalled the intense pace on set, with Phillips encouraging quick, often spontaneous, comedic reactions from the cast.
  • ๐ŸŽ‰ Surprise Guest: Mike Tyson's appearance was a last-minute addition, with Phillips personally convincing him to join the cast, much to everyone's delight.
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    ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Plan Your Visit

    Ready to follow in the Wolfpack's footsteps (hopefully without the catastrophic hangover)? Las Vegas is incredibly accessible and offers a range of options for your cinematic adventure.

    ๐Ÿจ Where to Stay

  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Budget: The LINQ Hotel + Experience - $80-$150/night - Centrally located on the Strip, a fun, lively atmosphere, and close to the action without breaking the bank.
  • ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Mid-Range: Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino - $150-$300/night - Offers a taste of European charm with great Strip views, themed restaurants, and a bustling casino floor.
  • โœจ Luxury: Bellagio Hotel & Casino - $300-$1000+/night - Experience world-class luxury with iconic fountains, refined dining, and exquisite rooms, just a stone's throw from Caesars Palace.
  • ๐Ÿš— Getting Around

  • ๐Ÿš‡ Metro: The Las Vegas Monorail runs along the east side of the Strip, connecting several major hotels. It's great for moving between resorts directly.
  • ๐Ÿš— Car: Renting a car offers flexibility, especially for visiting the Jean Dry Lake Bed or exploring beyond the Strip. Parking is available at most hotels, though often for a fee.
  • ๐Ÿšถ Walking: The Las Vegas Strip is very walkable for many locations, but it's longer than it looks! Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for plenty of steps. Taxis and ride-shares are readily available for longer distances.
  • ๐Ÿ“ธ Photo Tips

  • ๐ŸŒ… Best Times: Early morning or late evening/night are best for photos on the Strip to avoid harsh daylight and capture the iconic neon glow.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Instagram Spots: Don't miss the Caesars Palace fountains, the iconic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign (south Strip), and the vibrant lights of Fremont Street.
  • ๐ŸŽฌ Movie Moments: Recreate the Wolfpack's check-in pose outside Caesars Palace, or capture the vastness of the desert in the Jean Dry Lake Bed (safely!).
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    โ“ Quick Answers

    ๐ŸŽฌ Is this based on a true story?

    While "The Hangover" is fictional, the screenwriter did draw inspiration from a real bachelor party incident where a friend of a friend went missing after a wild night in Las Vegas.

    ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Can I visit all locations in one day?

    Visiting Caesars Palace, Atomic Liquors, and the former Riviera site (now LVCC) are feasible in one day due to their proximity. However, the Jean Dry Lake Bed is a significant drive away. Warner Bros. Studios is in California.

    ๐Ÿ’ฐ How much should I budget?

    A realistic budget for a "Hangover" inspired trip to Vegas (excluding airfare) for 2-3 days could range from $500-$1500+, depending on hotel choice, dining, and activities.

    ๐Ÿ“ฑ Are there guided tours?

    While there isn't a specific "Hangover" filming locations tour, many general Las Vegas tours cover places like the Strip, Caesars Palace, and Fremont Street.

    ๐ŸŽญ When was this filmed?

    "The Hangover" was primarily filmed in Las Vegas during the summer of 2008, capturing the intense heat and vibrant energy of the city.

    ๐ŸŒ Is Las Vegas safe for tourists?

    Yes, like any major tourist destination, Las Vegas is generally safe for tourists. However, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and take precautions like securing your valuables.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

    "The Hangover" didn't just entertain; it etched itself into the pop culture zeitgeist, becoming synonymous with epic, unforgettable (or forgotten) bachelor parties. Its filming locations are more than just backdrops; they're integral to the film's chaotic charm and comedic genius.

    By visiting these iconic spots, you're not just seeing where a movie was made; you're immersing yourself in the very essence of Las Vegas, a city of endless possibilitiesโ€”and, sometimes, wild consequences!

    So, channel your inner Phil, Stu, or Alan (just maybe leave the tiger at home!) and plan your ultimate "Hangover" location tour. Share your travel pics with us, and who knows, maybe your Vegas story will be the next legend!

    Year Released

    2009

    Director

    Todd Phillips

    Filming Locations

    5 locations

    Behind the Scenes

    Director Todd Phillips aimed to create a visceral, chaotic comedy that felt authentic despite its outlandish premise. He insisted on blending real Las Vegas locations with meticulously crafted soundstage sets to give the audience a genuine sense of the city's unique energy while maintaining control over the insane stunts and sequences. The goal was to make viewers feel like they were right there with the Wolfpack, experiencing every shocking discovery.

    • Zach Galifianakis famously took his 'I'm a one-man wolfpack' photo shoot at the actual Caesars Palace.
    • The original script was based on a real-life bachelor party incident involving a friend of the writers.
    • Mike Tyson's cameo was a last-minute addition, brought in by Todd Phillips after a chance encounter.
    • The baby seen in the film was played by a set of crying triplets, ensuring a fresh baby for every take.
    • The movie's budget was a modest $35 million, but it grossed over $469 million worldwide, becoming a massive hit.
    • A real tiger was used for the desert and hotel scenes, albeit with extreme safety precautions and expert handlers.
    • Bradley Cooper improvised several lines, including the famous 'Paging Dr. Faggot' during the car ride.
    • Ed Helms' missing tooth was real! He had an adult implant removed for the role, as he never had an adult incisor.
    • Finding a monkey that could smoke cigarettes on cue proved to be a peculiar casting challenge for the production.
    • The cast's undeniable chemistry was key to the film's success, with many scenes fostering genuine reactions.
    • The movie deliberately avoided CGI for many stunts to keep the comedy grounded and the reactions authentic.
    • The filmmakers had to get special permission to jump a Mercedes over the Las Vegas Strip, adding to the realism.

    Location Gallery

    Caesars Palace

    Caesars Palace

    Jean Dry Lake Bed

    Jean Dry Lake Bed

    Warner Bros. Studios, Stage 16

    Warner Bros. Studios, Stage 16

    Atomic Liquors

    Atomic Liquors

    The former Riviera Hotel & Casino

    The former Riviera Hotel & Casino

    Travel Tips

    • Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.

    • Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.

    • Guided tours are available that cover Caesars Palace, Jean Dry Lake Bed, Warner Bros. Studios, Stage 16 in one day.

    Filming Locations

    Discover all 5 locations where ๐ŸŽฌ Where Was The Hangover Filmed? Complete Las Vegas Location Guide was filmed

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    Interactive Location Map

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    Explore all 5 filming locations on the interactive map above. Click on markers for details.

    Filming Locations

    Map of Caesars Palace
    1

    Caesars Palace

    Iconic luxury resort on the Las Vegas Strip.

    LAT 36.11620, LNG -115.17450
    Directions
    Map of Jean Dry Lake Bed
    2

    Jean Dry Lake Bed

    Vast, flat dry lake bed south of Las Vegas, used for outdoor and off-roading scenes.

    LAT 35.83640, LNG -115.34210
    Directions
    Map of Warner Bros. Studios, Stage 16
    3

    Warner Bros. Studios, Stage 16

    Historic film studio in Burbank, California, where interior scenes were shot.

    LAT 34.14810, LNG -118.33770
    Directions
    Map of Atomic Liquors
    4

    Atomic Liquors

    Oldest freestanding bar in Las Vegas, located on Fremont Street.

    LAT 36.16850, LNG -115.13780
    Directions
    Map of The former Riviera Hotel & Casino
    5

    The former Riviera Hotel & Casino

    A historic Las Vegas hotel, now demolished (site part of LVCC).

    LAT 36.13600, LNG -115.15570
    Directions

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