Skip to Content

Memorable Movies That Featured the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon has breathtaking natural beauty, and that beauty has led to it serving as a co-star in numerous memorable films. 

This location has managed to help filmmakers create unforgettable moments on the big screen.

Read on to learn about five memorable movies that featured the Grand Canyon Best Books Set in Arizona and Best Movies Set in Arizona!

Memorable Movies That Featured the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Danny Glover, Kevin Kline, Steve Martin (Actors)

Grand Canyon (1991)

This fittingly titled drama shows the interwoven lives of various people who find their lives changed by serendipity. The film explores complex themes of interconnectedness and chance encounters with the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon as a metaphorical backdrop.

Its contrast of urban chaos with natural serenity makes it a must-watch for movie lovers.

Thelma & Louise
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Harvey Keitel (Actors)

Thelma & Louise (1991)

This classic tale of female empowerment and the unbreakable bond of friendship stars Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis and stages its legendary final scene at the Grand Canyon.

RELATED:  Classic Hollywood Inspired Travel Bucket List

Although Utah acted as a stand-in for the actual Canyon, the involvement of the wonder in the film’s plot remains deeply etched in pop culture history.

Into the Wild
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Emile Hirsch, Marcia Gay Harden, William Hurt (Actors)

Into the Wild (2007)

This memorable movie that featured the Grand Canyon centers around the true story of Christopher McCandless. Sean Penn directed this drama that perfectly captures the beauty and danger of the American wilderness.

The movie features many beautiful locations, including the Grand Canyon. The stunning visuals and poignant narrative make this film a favorite for those seeking adventure and inner growth.

Joe Dirt
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • David Spade, Dennis Miller, Brittany Daniel (Actors)

Joe Dirt (2001)

For a lighter touch, the comedy Joe Dirt sees the title character, Joe, journeying across the United States to find his parents after losing track of them at the Grand Canyon.

Played by David Spade, Joe encounters various eccentric characters and situations.

National Lampoon's Vacation
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Randy Quaid (Actors)

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

In this famous comedy classic, the Griswolds embark on a cross-country road trip to visit the elusive Walley World theme park. Their stop at the Grand Canyon provides a beautiful backdrop for a scene where Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) admires the wonderous location after fleeing the scene of a major crime.

RELATED:  7 Movie Ideas to Watch Before Your Next Road Trip

When you visit the Canyon yourself, make sure that you take more than a second to appreciate its majesty. You should also research ways to make the most of your Canyon trip.

These five memorable movies uniquely incorporate the Grand Canyon while captivating audiences. Movie lovers who haven’t seen these films should undoubtedly add them to their must-watch lists!

Related Posts:

Sharing is caring!