Hidden Gems: Exploring The Real-Life Locations Of ‘Once Upon A Time’
Have you ever wondered where the magical town of Storybrooke from "Once Upon a Time" is located? Fans of the show might be surprised to learn that the charming streets and cozy shops are not just a product of Hollywood magic. The real-life locations used for filming are just as enchanting and can be found in the quaint town of Steveston, British Columbia. This picturesque fishing village offers visitors a chance to walk through the same streets as their favorite characters. From Mr. Gold's Pawn Shop to Granny's Diner, Steveston provides a unique opportunity to step into the world of Once Upon a Time. Ready to explore? Let's take a closer look at these hidden gems.
Steveston, British Columbia
Steveston, a charming fishing village in Richmond, British Columbia, served as the primary filming location for the fictional town of Storybrooke. Its quaint streets and picturesque harbor made it the perfect backdrop for the magical tales of "Once Upon a Time."
Moncton Street: This bustling street became Storybrooke's Main Street, where many iconic scenes were shot. Fans will recognize Mr. Gold's Pawn Shop and Granny's Diner here.
Garry Point Park: This scenic park often appeared in outdoor scenes. Its stunning views of the Fraser River and the Gulf Islands added a touch of enchantment to the show.
Steveston Coffee Company: Known as "Storybrooke Coffee" in the series, this cozy café became a favorite spot for characters to gather and plot their next moves.
Fort Langley, British Columbia
Fort Langley, another picturesque village in British Columbia, provided additional settings for the series. Its historic charm and lush surroundings made it an ideal location for various scenes.
Fort Langley National Historic Site: This site doubled as the Storybrooke Town Hall and Sheriff’s Station. Its rustic buildings and scenic grounds added authenticity to the show.
Fort Langley Community Hall: This hall served as the exterior of the Storybrooke Library. Its classic architecture and welcoming façade made it a memorable location.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver, a bustling city with diverse landscapes, offered numerous filming locations for "Once Upon a Time." From urban settings to lush forests, Vancouver had it all.
Gastown: This historic neighborhood provided the backdrop for many scenes set in the Enchanted Forest. Its cobblestone streets and vintage buildings added a touch of magic.
Stanley Park: This iconic park's dense forests and scenic trails were perfect for scenes set in the Enchanted Forest. Its natural beauty brought the fairy tale world to life.
Queen Elizabeth Park: This park's stunning gardens and panoramic views made it a favorite for filming. Its lush greenery and vibrant flowers added a touch of whimsy to the show.
Britannia Beach, British Columbia
Britannia Beach, a small community on the Sea-to-Sky Highway, provided a unique setting for some of the series' more dramatic scenes. Its rugged coastline and historic buildings added depth to the story.
Britannia Mine Museum: This museum's industrial setting was used for scenes involving the dwarves' mine. Its historic structures and dramatic landscape made it a standout location.
Britannia Beach Waterfront: The waterfront area provided a stunning backdrop for scenes set by the sea. Its rocky shores and crashing waves added a sense of adventure.
Burnaby, British Columbia
Burnaby, a city just east of Vancouver, offered a variety of locations that brought the magical world of "Once Upon a Time" to life. Its diverse landscapes and urban settings were perfect for the show's needs.
Burnaby Village Museum: This open-air museum's historic buildings and period settings were used for various scenes. Its vintage charm added authenticity to the series.
Deer Lake Park: This park's serene lake and lush surroundings were perfect for scenes set in the Enchanted Forest. Its natural beauty made it a favorite filming location.
New Westminster, British Columbia
New Westminster, a city with a rich history and vibrant culture, provided several key locations for the series. Its historic buildings and scenic views made it an ideal setting.
Irving House: This historic house served as the exterior of Regina's mansion. Its grand architecture and stately presence made it a memorable location.
Queen's Park: This park's beautiful gardens and open spaces were used for various outdoor scenes. Its tranquil atmosphere added a touch of magic to the show.
Victoria, British Columbia
Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, offered a variety of picturesque locations for the series. Its historic charm and stunning landscapes made it a perfect fit for the fairy tale world.
Craigdarroch Castle: This historic castle served as the exterior of Rumplestiltskin's castle. Its grand architecture and dramatic presence made it a standout location.
Hatley Castle: This castle's stunning gardens and stately presence were used for scenes set in the Enchanted Forest. Its historic charm added a touch of magic to the show.
Discovering Storybrooke's Magic in Real Life
Visiting the real-life locations of 'Once Upon a Time' brings the show's magic to life. Steveston Village in Richmond, BC, transforms into Storybrooke, offering fans a chance to walk the same streets as their favorite characters. Gastown and Fort Langley add more layers to the experience, showcasing the diverse settings from the series. Each spot has its own charm, making it easy to see why they were chosen for filming.
Exploring these places, you can almost feel the presence of Emma, Regina, and Hook. It's a unique way to connect with the show beyond the screen. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just love discovering new places, these locations offer a blend of fantasy and reality. So, pack your bags, grab a camera, and step into the world of Storybrooke.
