The Terminator Filming Locations San Fernando Valley, California / 1984

The iconic 1984 Terminator film, a true classic, captured the essence of the San Fernando Valley, situated north of the vibrant city of Los Angeles. However, the movie’s gripping narrative took us on a thrilling journey beyond the Valley, venturing into other notable locations such as Hollywood and Lancaster, both found within the diverse landscape of California.

If you’re a fan of this cinematic masterpiece or simply fascinated by the magic of film, we invite you to join us at HollywoodFilmingLocations.com. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable walking tour that will unveil the incredible sites scattered throughout the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles. From the iconic streets of Hollywood, where countless movie legends have left their mark, to the picturesque backdrop of Lancaster, where the Terminator’s harrowing chase unfolded, each location holds a story waiting to be discovered.

With the help of numerous tips we will help you visit the very spots where movie history was made, providing fascinating insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that will transport you back in time. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a chance to witness the magic of Hollywood up close, our walking tour is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Terminator First Arrives In 1984

In the thrilling 1984 film, the Terminator made its dramatic arrival in Griffith Park, California. This iconic location, which served as the backdrop for the unforgettable scene where the Terminator materializes naked, is situated at 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027.

As part of our Hollywood Filming Locations tour, we’ll guide you to this historic spot, where you can relive the moment when the Terminator stepped onto the big screen. Imagine the suspense as the time-traveling cyborg emerged in this sprawling park, ready to carry out its mission with ruthless determination.

Griffith Park’s picturesque setting, encompassing rugged hills and breathtaking views of Los Angeles, provided a fitting backdrop for this pivotal scene. Our knowledgeable guides will provide in-depth information about the filming process, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes that offer a unique perspective on the movie-making magic.

Join us at HollywoodFilmingLocations.com and embark on a journey through Griffith Park, retracing the Terminator’s footsteps. As you stand on the very ground where this iconic scene was filmed, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that brought the film to life.

Prepare to be captivated by the allure of Griffith Park, not only as a filming location but also as a beloved recreational space for both locals and visitors. Take in the panoramic vistas, explore its many attractions, and marvel at the convergence of cinematic storytelling and natural beauty.

Book your Hollywood Filming Locations tour now to experience the magic of Griffith Park and other iconic sites that have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. MAP IT!!

Fun Film Fact: It’s fascinating to delve deeper into James Cameron’s creative process for “The Terminator” and his use of Griffith Park, inspired by the iconic film “Rebel Without a Cause.”

Griffith Park, known for its expansive natural beauty and diverse landscapes, served as a fitting backdrop for Cameron’s vision. Drawing inspiration from the scene in “Rebel Without a Cause” where James Dean engages in a knife fight, Cameron chose a similar location within Griffith Park for a pivotal knife fight scene in “The Terminator.” This intentional homage creates a connection between the two films, evoking a sense of shared energy and intensity.

Furthermore, the use of a city view finder in both “Rebel Without a Cause” and “The Terminator” underscores the director’s keen eye for visual storytelling. The view finder serves as a device that frames and captures the urban environment, adding a sense of perspective and context to the unfolding events. This shared motif enhances the thematic resonance between the films, highlighting the characters’ struggles within the urban landscape.

Alamo Sport Shop

As our Hollywood Filming Locations tour continues, we arrive at a particularly memorable spot—the very location where the Terminator acquires his initial arsenal of weapons. Prepare to be immersed in movie history as we visit the Valley Car Planet, a used car lot situated on Victory Blvd in Van Nuys, California.

In the iconic 1984 Terminator film, this unassuming setting was cleverly transformed into the Alamo Sport Shop and guns, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the scene. As you stand on the hallowed ground where Arnold Schwarzenegger’s legendary character made his pivotal armament selection, you’ll feel a palpable connection to the film’s intense atmosphere. MAP IT!!

Cupid’s Hot Dogs

Continuing our journey through iconic Terminator film locations, our next stop brings us to the Alamo Gun Store, where the formidable Terminator pulls up in a striking display of power and determination. As we take in the scene, it’s worth noting that if you keep a keen eye, you can catch a glimpse of the beloved Cupids Hot Dogs, a classic fixture, in the background.

The Alamo Gun Store stands as a symbol of the Terminator’s relentless pursuit, where he meticulously arms himself for the impending battle. This location serves as a pivotal moment in the film, emphasizing the Terminator’s unwavering focus on his mission. As we visualize the scene unfolding, the stoic figure of the Terminator stepping out of his vehicle creates an indelible image, juxtaposed against the vibrant presence of Cupids Hot Dogs in the background.

Pay Phone / Sarah Connor Address’s

Continuing our exploration of filming locations, another significant site awaits us at 14329 Victory Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91401. Again, here, the Alamo Sport Shop and Gun Store once stood, leaving an enduring mark on cinematic history. Today, it has transformed into the Valley Car Planet, a bustling car dealership that operates in the same space.

In the iconic 1984 film, the Terminator’s relentless pursuit of Sarah Connor led it to this very spot. Displaying its resourcefulness, the Terminator utilized the phone book outside the Alamo Sport Shop and Gun Store to locate its target’s name. This pivotal scene not only propelled the narrative forward but also etched this location into the minds of film enthusiasts. MAP IT!!

Sarah Worked At Big Jeff’s

Our Hollywood Filming Locations tour takes us to yet another significant site—the former Coco’s Restaurant, now known as Carrows Restaurant, located on Fremont Avenue in South Pasadena. This unassuming eatery served as the backdrop for the scene where Sarah Connor, portrayed by the talented Linda Hamilton, toiled as a waitress at ‘Big Jeff’s’ Restaurant.

In this memorable scene from the 1984 Terminator film, Sarah Connor’s monotonous work routine is disrupted when a mischievous little boy playfully puts ice cream into her pocket, further adding to her frustration and dislike for her job. The juxtaposition between Sarah’s mundane existence and the impending danger she faces creates a sense of tension and sets the stage for the thrilling events to come.

South Pasadena’s Fremont Avenue has witnessed the convergence of film and reality, with Carrows Restaurant preserving the legacy of this pivotal moment in cinematic history. From the frustrations of a waitress’s job to the imminent danger lurking just around the corner, this location serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on our perception of everyday places. MAP IT!!

1st Sarah Gets Terminated

In the gripping narrative of the 1984 film, The Terminator, a crucial and chilling scene unfolds at a house located at 14239 Gilmore Street in Van Nuys, California. This location serves as the setting for the tragic moment when the Terminator mistakenly eliminates the wrong Sarah Connor, leading to an intense and heart-wrenching turn of events.

During our Hollywood Filming Locations tour, we will guide you to this significant site, where you can step into the world of the film and witness the impact of this pivotal scene. As you stand outside the old house on Gilmore St, you’ll be transported back to the tense atmosphere of the film, where the Terminator’s relentless pursuit takes a tragic and unexpected turn.

Our knowledgeable guides will provide you with fascinating insights into the making of this scene, shedding light on the intricate details that contributed to its dramatic impact. From the carefully selected location to the nuanced performances, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the artistry and craftsmanship that brought this iconic moment to life.

Join us at HollywoodFilmingLocations.com as we delve into the world of The Terminator, exploring the intersection of fiction and reality. Stand in the footsteps of characters and experience the power of storytelling as we unlock the secrets behind this unforgettable film. MAP IT!!

Update 5-01-1999

Since our last update, an interesting connection to popular culture has emerged in the neighborhood. The house that once belonged to Sarah Connor number 1, located at 14239, has been transformed into an apartment complex. This change not only carries significance for fans of the film but also adds a touch of cinematic history to the area, igniting conversations and drawing curious visitors who wish to glimpse a piece of movie lore.

The “Real” Sarah Connor Apartment

In the gripping and crucial sequence of “The Terminator,” the actual apartment of Sarah Connor becomes a focal point where the relentless Terminator coldly dispatches her roommate and boyfriend. This pivotal location is situated in the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of Korea Town in Los Angeles. Specifically, you can find it at 420 S La Fayette Park Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90057. This address immerses viewers in the heart of the action, adding a tangible sense of realism to the film’s narrative.

The chosen apartment building on South La Fayette Park Place serves as a tangible connection between the fictional world of the movie and the real-life cityscape of Los Angeles. This integration of a recognizable locale not only enhances the film’s authenticity but also offers a relatable touch for audiences familiar with the area.

As viewers witness the tension unfold within Sarah Connor’s apartment, the surroundings of Korea Town add an additional layer of richness to the scene. The bustling streets and diverse culture of the neighborhood subtly influence the atmosphere and dynamics of the story, creating a captivating fusion of fiction and reality. MAP IT!!

Tech Noir Dance Club

Continuing our Hollywood Filming Locations tour, we arrive at a pivotal site in The Terminator—the Tech Noir dance club. Located at 718 Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, this iconic establishment serves as the backdrop for the electrifying scene where Sarah Connor first lays eyes on the relentless Terminator before meeting Kyle Reese.

As we explore the Tech Noir club together, you’ll be transported back to the film’s tense and atmospheric ambiance. Immerse yourself in the pulsating music and flashing lights, just as Sarah did in the film, as the story unfolds in this captivating setting.

Our expert guides will provide you with fascinating insights into the making of this scene, revealing the creative decisions and technical aspects that contributed to its gripping impact. From the carefully chosen location on Hill Street to the intricate set design, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the attention to detail that goes into crafting memorable cinematic moments. MAP IT!!

Reese and Sarah Get Arrested

In the adrenaline-fueled sequence, Reese and Sarah frantically flee from the relentless pursuit of the police. With their hearts pounding and desperation guiding their every move, they commandeer a stolen Cadillac, their only means of escape. The blaring sirens and flashing lights serve as a haunting reminder of their dwindling chances.

Their stolen getaway vehicle races through the labyrinthine streets, swerving and dodging, narrowly avoiding capture at every turn. Tension fills the air as they navigate the urban jungle, their hopes hanging by a thread.

In a heart-stopping moment, the chase reaches its climax as Reese and Sarah find themselves cornered at the entrance of a foreboding tunnel. The cacophony of screeching tires and revving engines fills the dimly lit underpass. With nowhere left to run, the weight of their actions bears down upon them.

As the police close in, the stolen Cadillac screeches to a halt under the looming shadow of the tunnel. Time seems to stand still as the flashing lights paint an eerie tableau of desperation and impending doom. Reese and Sarah exchange a glance, their eyes reflecting a mixture of fear and determination.

In a final act of defiance, they step out of the vehicle, their bodies tense but resolute. The arresting officers converge upon them, their voices barking orders amidst the chaotic scene. Handcuffs click into place, sealing their fate. Lower Grand & West Gen Thad Kosciuszko Way

The Tiki Motel Room #9

Reese and Sarah, exhausted and on the run, seek temporary refuge at the quaint and unassuming Tiki Motel. With the weight of their circumstances pressing upon them, they check into Room #9, a humble sanctuary within the motel’s walls. The neon sign flickers intermittently, casting an atmospheric glow upon the worn-out facade.

Located at Santa Fe Ave in Huntington Park, California, the Tiki Motel stands as a relic of a bygone era. Its retro charm offers a momentary respite from the chaos that surrounds Reese and Sarah. Inside their modest room, the air is thick with a mix of uncertainty and fleeting relief.

The walls bear witness to the motel’s colorful history, adorned with vintage photographs and faded travel posters. The sounds of passing cars outside provide a constant reminder of the world beyond their temporary haven. Reese and Sarah, knowing that time is of the essence, exchange anxious glances as they strategize their next move.

In the confines of Room #9, they find solace, however fleeting it may be. The worn-out bed offers a brief reprieve from their relentless journey, and the flickering television provides a sense of normalcy in an otherwise extraordinary situation. But their minds remain alert, knowing that danger lurks just beyond the motel’s walls. MAP IT!!

Reese Throws Bomb At Terminator

As we proceed with the tour, our next destination takes us to an exciting and iconic location: the entrance to a tunnel that played a pivotal role in the thrilling chase scene where Kyle Reese valiantly threw bombs at the relentless Terminator. This unforgettable scene unfolded in the renowned 2nd Street Tunnel, situated in the heart of Los Angeles.

As we approach this significant landmark, it’s important to recognize the indelible impact of cinema on our collective imagination. The tunnel entrance serves as a gateway to a realm where fiction and reality intertwine, allowing us to step into the shoes of beloved characters and relive their adrenaline-pumping adventures. Standing at this very spot, one can almost hear the echoes of intense footsteps, explosive blasts, and the resounding clash between man and machine.

The 2nd Street Tunnel, with its distinctive architecture and captivating aura, has become an emblem of the city’s cinematic heritage. Countless filmmakers have recognized its cinematic potential, utilizing its unique visual qualities to create memorable moments that have etched themselves into the annals of film history. It stands as a testament to the allure of Los Angeles as a backdrop for storytelling, offering a sense of grandeur and excitement to both visitors and residents.

As we take in the surroundings, the tunnel entrance beckons with its enigmatic charm. The interplay of light and shadow, the echoes bouncing off the walls, and the faint whispers of cinematic dialogue all contribute to an otherworldly experience. It’s as if time itself pauses, allowing us to glimpse the magic of filmmaking and immerse ourselves in the captivating world of the Terminator franchise.

Beyond its cinematic significance, the tunnel entrance is also a physical testament to the city’s architectural prowess. The intricate design, the robust infrastructure, and the seamless integration into the urban landscape all serve as a reminder of the ingenuity and craftsmanship that shapes our built environment. It stands as a symbol of human achievement and creativity, captivating the imaginations of both cinephiles and urban enthusiasts alike.

As our tour continues, we invite you to step into the 2nd Street Tunnel, where fiction becomes reality, and the spirit of cinema comes alive. Allow yourself to be transported to a realm where the boundaries between the imagined and the tangible blur, and where the heroic struggles of characters like Kyle Reese against the Terminator resonate with the energy and excitement of Los Angeles itself. MAP IT!! 2nd Street Tunnel, Los Angeles

Cyborg Crashes His Motorcycle

Continuing our tour, our next stop takes us to an exhilarating sequence from The Terminator, where the relentless cyborg crashes his motorcycle and subsequently hijacks a massive semi-truck. This action-packed scene unfolded on the vibrant stretch of S. Grand Avenue, nestled between 2nd Street and 3rd Street in the dynamic city of Los Angeles.

As we arrive at this iconic location, it’s essential to acknowledge the profound impact of this particular scene on cinematic history. The heart-pounding chase, the screeching of tires, and the electrifying energy that fills the air still resonate with fans of the film. Standing here, we can almost envision the intense pursuit as the Terminator fearlessly navigated the streets, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. MAP IT!! S. Grand Avenue Between 2nd St. & 3rd St. Los Angeles

Semi Blows Up

Our next stop on the tour takes us to the spot where the explosive climax of The Terminator unfolded—the location where the semi-truck met its fiery demise. This significant scene occurred at 795 Keller Street, situated in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California, with the zip code 90012. MAP IT!! 795 Keller St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Terminator Gets Terminated

Our tour now takes us to an unforgettable location where The Terminator met its dramatic end—the site where the relentless cyborg was crushed. This momentous scene unfolded at Kern’s of California, precisely located at 13010 East Temple Avenue in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California. MAP IT!!

A Storm is Coming

In the iconic finale of the movie “The Terminator,” Sarah Connor finds herself seeking refuge and a momentary respite from the relentless pursuit of the cyborg assassin. As her nerves are frazzled and her determination hardened, she pulls into the “PRMEX” Gas Station, a seemingly ordinary oasis in the vastness of the Californian landscape.

With a sense of foreboding, Sarah Connor steps out of her vehicle and gazes upon her surroundings. The air is heavy with an eerie silence, as if nature itself holds its breath, anticipating an impending storm. Her eyes dart from one corner to another, instinctively searching for any sign of danger. It is in this charged atmosphere that she utters those haunting words that would forever resonate: “A Storm is Coming.”

Amidst the tension, a young boy, intrigued by the enigmatic presence of Sarah Connor, approaches her cautiously, clutching a Polaroid camera in his small hands. Captivated by her aura, he captures a fleeting moment of her existence, freezing it in time. The shutter clicks, immortalizing her image and the weight of her destiny.

This unforgettable scene, with its gripping atmosphere and profound dialogue, was meticulously crafted in the town of Littlerock, specifically at 37202 90th St E, Littlerock, California. In this unassuming location, the filmmakers masterfully brought together the elements of anticipation, vulnerability, and impending doom to create a cinematic moment etched indelibly into the memories of viewers worldwide. MAP IT!!

About Terminator

A 2029 assassin Terminator is sent back in time to 1984 with the mission of killing Sarah Connor. This aligns with the premise of the original “Terminator” film directed by James Cameron in 1984.

The Terminator series depicts a future where artificially intelligent machines, known as Terminators, dominate the world and seek to eradicate humanity. In order to prevent this future, the human resistance sends back a protector, usually a reprogrammed Terminator, to safeguard key individuals who are crucial in the fight against the machines.

Sarah Connor is one such important individual, as she becomes the mother of John Connor, the future leader of the human resistance. The assassin Terminator sent back to 1984 aims to eliminate her before she can give birth to John Connor, thereby altering the timeline and preventing the rise of the resistance.

Throughout the Terminator franchise, this basic premise is explored and expanded upon in various sequels and spin-offs. It often involves intense action sequences, time travel paradoxes, and the ongoing battle between humans and machines.

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‘Terminator’

When: 10/26/1984, Orion Pictures

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Michael Biehn

Directed By: James Cameron

Written By: James Cameron, Gale Anne Hurd

First Published May 10, 2017, 9:55am