For fans of Smokey and The Bandit and fellow Georgians, this unique movie fun fact is just for you! Did you know that this classic film was mostly shot in Georgia? While some scenes were filmed in Los Angeles, the majority were captured right here in the Peach State. This beloved movie showcases the charm and beauty of various locations across Georgia, adding a special touch for local fans and movie enthusiasts alike.
From the bustling streets of Jonesboro to the picturesque Unicoi State Park in Helen, GA, Smokey and The Bandit utilized some of Georgia’s most iconic settings. Main Street in Jonesboro is where Snowman and Bandit load up the beer, and the romantic scene where Bandit kisses Carrie takes place in Unicoi State Park. Additionally, the town of Cumming and locations in McDonough, Atlanta, and Douglas County also contributed to the film’s authentic Southern charm.
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| Lakewood Fairgrounds | 2002 Lakewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA – Scenes of the trucking rodeo. |
| North Avenue, Jonesboro | Scenes where Bandit begins his journey; includes government buildings. |
| Mundy’s Mill Road, Jonesboro | Highway scenes; Bandit and Carrie (Sally Field) meet. |
| Macon Street and Rogers Street | McDonough, GA – Snowman’s gas station and fight with bikers. |
| Highway 54 and Mundy’s Mill Road | Jonesboro, GA – High-speed chase scenes involving Sheriff Branford. |
| McDonough Town Square | Car chase scenes where Bandit hides the Trans Am. |
| Old Hickory House | Forest Park, GA – Diner scene where Bandit meets the sheriff. |
| Highway 166 | Douglas County, GA – Various driving scenes. |
| Phillips Road and Stone Mountain Lithonia Road | Lithonia, GA – Funeral procession scene. |
| Warm Springs Reservation | Key locations for various driving and chase scenes. |
| Georgia State Route 400 | Forsyth County, GA – Interstate scenes filmed before the highway opened. |
Main Settings
Main Street, Jonesboro is where Snowman and Bandit load up the beer. This charming location set the stage for one of the film’s most crucial moments.
Iconic Snippet from Helen
A memorable scene where Bandit kisses Carrie takes place at Unicoi State Park in Helen, GA. This picturesque park provided a romantic backdrop for their onscreen chemistry.
A Cumming Highlight
The town of Cumming, GA, also played a significant role as one of the filming locations. The charm and authenticity of the area made it an ideal choice for the movie’s setting.
McDonough Memories
Macon Street and Highway 81 in McDonough, GA were showcased as another key spot where Bandit hides behind a small brick building.
Truck Rodeo Extravaganza
The lively truck rodeo scenes were filmed at Lakewood Fairgrounds in Atlanta. These shots brought an exciting dynamic to the movie.
Douglas County’s Contribution
Few might not expect it, but even movies like “Smokey and the Bandit” used Douglas County as one of its filming locations.” Douglas County has a rich history in film production dating back nearly half a century.
Here is a table summarizing key information about the film Smokey and the Bandit:
 |
Smokey and the Bandit |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action, Comedy |
| Directed By | Hal Needham |
| Produced By | Mort Engelberg, Robert L. Levy |
| Written By | Hal Needham, Robert L. Levy |
| Where to Watch | Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV |
| Main Cast | Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, Jackie Gleason, Jerry Reed |
| Plot Summary | Bandit and his partner, Cledus, agree to transport a truckload of Coors beer from Texas to Georgia, facing numerous challenges, particularly from Sheriff Buford T. Justice. |
| Release Date | May 27, 1977 |
| Runtime | 96 minutes |
| Box Office | $126.7 million |
| Filming Locations | Jonesboro, GA; Lakewood Fairgrounds, Atlanta, GA; Mundy’s Mill Road, Jonesboro, GA; McDonough, GA; Warm Springs Reservation; Georgia State Route 400 |
| Critical Reception | Generally positive reviews; praised for its humor, action sequences, and performances, particularly those of Reynolds and Gleason. |
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