Scenes Of 'My Best Friend's Wedding Planner' Filmed In These Locations

The 1997 romantic comedy 'My Best Friend's Wedding' starring Julia Roberts, Dermot Mulroney, Cameron Diaz, and Rupert Everett was filmed in Chicago, Illinois. The film was shot at various locations in the city, including O'Hare International Airport, Union League Club, Chicago Union Station, and the Fourth Presbyterian Church, where the wedding scene was filmed. The pre-wedding brunch was hosted at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, which is now part of Loyola University. Some scenes were also filmed at the Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California.

Chicago's O'Hare International Airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (IATA: ORD, ICAO: KORD, FAA LID: ORD) is a major international airport serving Chicago, Illinois, United States. Located on the city's Northwest Side, it is approximately 17 miles (27 km) northwest of the Loop business district. O'Hare is considered the world's most connected airport as of summer 2024 and is the fourth busiest airport in the United States.

O'Hare was designed to be the successor to Chicago's Midway International Airport, which was once nicknamed the "busiest square mile in the world." During the jet age, O'Hare became famous for being the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic from 1963 to 1998. The airport still ranks as one of the busiest airports globally, with 919,704 aircraft movements in 2019, averaging 2,520 per day.

The airport covers 7,627 acres (3,087 ha) and offers non-stop flights to 249 destinations across the world. It has four numbered passenger terminals with nine lettered concourses and a total of 213 gates, the most of any airport in the world. Terminal 1 is used for United Airlines, Lufthansa, and All Nippon Airways flights, while Terminal 2 serves most United Express and some mainline United flights, as well as Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, and JetBlue flights. Terminal 3 caters to American Airlines, Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Japan Airlines, and Spirit Airlines flights, and Terminal 5 is used for Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines flights, as well as international airlines.

O'Hare has a rich history, starting as a manufacturing plant for Douglas C-54 Skymasters during World War II. The site was known as Orchard Place, a small German-American farming community. The plant covered 2 million square feet (190,000 m2) and needed easy access to the workforce, railroads, and a location away from enemy threats. After the war, the site was renamed Orchard Field Airport and later, in 1949, it was renamed O'Hare Airport to honour Edward "Butch" O'Hare, the U.S. Navy's first flying ace and Medal of Honor recipient in World War II.

O'Hare's design pioneered several innovative concepts, including concourses, direct highway access to the terminal, jet bridges, and underground refuelling systems. It was the site of the world's first jet bridge in 1958 and successfully adapted slip form paving for seamless concrete runways.

The airport has undergone various developments and expansions over the years, including the construction of new terminals, concourses, and runways. In 2018, a new Terminal Area Plan dubbed O'Hare 21 was announced, aiming to build two new satellite concourses and expand existing terminals with additional gates and improved facilities.

The Drake Hotel

One of the notable scenes involving the Drake Hotel is when Julianne's friend, George Downes (Rupert Everett), arrives at her room in the hotel to offer his assistance in her romantic pursuit. This scene adds a layer of comedy to the film, as George's devilish impersonation of a straight man and his outrageous behaviour captivate the audience. The hotel also serves as a convenient base for Julianne as she navigates the busy streets of Chicago, attending social events and plotting ways to sabotage the impending nuptials.

With its grand ballrooms, lavish guest rooms, and exquisite dining options, the Drake Hotel has become a symbol of sophistication and glamour. Its appearance in My Best Friend's Wedding has further cemented its place in pop culture, attracting guests who wish to relive their favourite scenes from the movie or simply experience the charm and luxury of this historic hotel.

Union Station

Chicago Union Station, located at 210 or 225 South Canal Street, is one of the most important filming locations in "My Best Friend's Wedding". The station, which opened in 1925, serves as the primary terminal for commuter trains in Chicago and is the only remaining intercity rail terminal in the city. Its facilities are mostly underground, buried beneath streets and skyscrapers.

In the film, Union Station is where Julianne (Julia Roberts) tracks down Michael (Dermot Mulroney) after she confesses her love to him and they share a passionate kiss. It is also the place where Michael proposes to his fiancée Kimmy (Cameron Diaz). The Great Hall of the station, with its classical waiting area, has been featured in several other films, including "The Untouchables", "Man of Steel", "The Sting", and "The Package".

The use of Union Station as a filming location contributes to the overall Chicago setting of "My Best Friend's Wedding". The film showcases various well-known spots in Chicago, including O'Hare International Airport, the Drake Hotel, and the Fourth Presbyterian Church, adding a sense of realism and authenticity to the story.

Cuneo Museum & Gardens

The Mediterranean-style mansion features an arcaded central hall, a lavish formal dining room, and a private chapel. The museum's collections include antique furnishings, Renaissance paintings, tapestries, silver and porcelain. The grounds of the mansion, designed by renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen, include 75 acres of lakes, fountains, and botanical gardens.

The Cuneo Museum has been the backdrop for several Hollywood films set in Chicago, including the 1997 romantic comedy "My Best Friend's Wedding", starring Julia Roberts and Cameron Diaz. Many of the outdoor wedding scenes and reception shots for the film were taken at the Cuneo Museum.

The mansion offers a unique setting for corporate events, private dinners, and wedding receptions. It provides a beautiful and private location for large events, with audio/visual equipment available. The mansion also offers interpretive tours conducted by museum guides and staff.

Fourth Presbyterian Church

The Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago, Illinois, was one of the filming locations for the 1997 romantic comedy 'My Best Friend's Wedding', starring Julia Roberts, Dermot Mulroney, Cameron Diaz, and Rupert Everett. The church is located at 126 E Chestnut St, in the Magnificent Mile neighbourhood of Chicago, directly across Michigan Avenue from the John Hancock Center. The church, with its stunning interior and exterior, served as a backdrop for a scene in the movie where Julianna takes George to the wedding rehearsal.

The Fourth Presbyterian Church is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere amidst the bustling city. It was built in 1912 and features a beautiful courtyard that enhances the overall charm of the church. The church is also a popular tourist attraction, with visitors commenting on its architectural beauty, stained glass, and peaceful surroundings.

The church actively serves its congregation and offers various services and programmes. It hosts weddings for both members and non-members, with specific guidelines and requirements for each group. The church provides a wedding coordinator to assist couples in planning their special day, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.

In addition to its architectural and aesthetic appeal, the Fourth Presbyterian Church also boasts a vibrant congregation. Visitors have commented on the welcoming and buzzing atmosphere, with engaging ministers and excellent music. The church offers a range of activities and events, including concerts and premarital workshops, making it a vital part of the community.

The Fourth Presbyterian Church, with its stunning architecture and active congregation, played a memorable role in 'My Best Friend's Wedding', adding to the charm and ambience of the film. Its location in the heart of Chicago, amidst the city's iconic skyscrapers, creates a unique juxtaposition of old and new, making it a treasured landmark.

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