There are some movies that come and go, and then there are films like The Goonies that stay in our hearts forever. Released in 1985, The Goonies has become a cult classic for fans of adventure, childhood friendship, and treasure hunts. One of the most iconic backdrops from the film is the Goonies House, a charming home perched on a hill in Astoria, Oregon.
For fans of the movie, visiting this house is almost like stepping into a piece of cinematic history. I still remember the first time I saw The Goonies as a kid — the excitement, the imagination, the sense of adventure. Seeing the house years later felt surreal, almost like a childhood dream materializing in front of me.
This article is not just a travel guide but also a celebration of the Goonies House — its history, its place in pop culture, and why fans continue to visit it decades later.
The Location of the Goonies House
The Goonies House is located in Astoria, Oregon, a small coastal town with breathtaking views of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean. Astoria itself has a unique charm — a mix of Victorian houses, fishing industry history, and of course, a reputation as a Hollywood filming hotspot.
The exact address of the Goonies House is 368 38th Street, Astoria, OR. It sits on a quiet residential hilltop that overlooks the city and the river. The location is scenic, which explains why it was chosen for the film.
For years, fans would flock to the house, sometimes in large numbers, to snap pictures and recreate scenes. Today, visitors are still drawn to the neighborhood, though parking can be tricky. If you plan on going, it’s best to park in designated areas or walk up the hill to avoid disturbing residents.
History of the House
The Goonies House was built in the late 19th century, giving it that old-world charm that’s common in Astoria. The house is a two-story Victorian with a large front porch and a sweeping view — perfect for a family home and, as it turned out, perfect for a movie set.
When the filmmakers scouted for locations in Oregon, they instantly knew this house had the right personality. It wasn’t just a house; it looked like a home where a group of kids could dream big, plot adventures, and ultimately set off on a treasure hunt that defined a generation.
The Goonies Movie Connection
In The Goonies, the house belonged to the Walsh family — home to Mikey and his older brother Brand. Some of the most memorable scenes were filmed here, including the kids gathering before embarking on their adventure.
Walking up to the porch feels like déjà vu for fans. You can almost imagine the characters talking about the fate of their home and the possibility of finding treasure to save it.
Interestingly, the filmmakers shot other parts of the movie around Astoria, including the County Jail (now a film museum) and Cannon Beach for the famous Haystack Rock scene. But the Goonies House remains the crown jewel of filming spots.
Tourism and Visitors
After the movie’s release, the Goonies House became a pilgrimage site for fans. People traveled from all over the world just to stand on that porch or snap a photo of the house.
However, this attention was both a blessing and a curse. While the house became famous, the constant foot traffic created challenges for the residents. At one point, the owners had to put up signs restricting visitors.
When I visited, there was a mix of excitement and caution. You could tell fans were thrilled to be there, but there was also a sense of respect — nobody wanted to ruin it for others. If you go, remember it’s still a private home, so treat it with care.
Ownership and Preservation
Over the years, ownership of the Goonies House has changed hands. Some owners embraced the fame, while others struggled with the constant visitors.
In recent years, the property has been restored to preserve its structure and charm. Fans were excited to hear that preservation efforts were underway because the house isn’t just a private residence — it’s a piece of film history.
Fun fact: In late 2022, the house was even put up for sale, and it made headlines worldwide. It eventually found a buyer who promised to preserve its legacy for future generations of fans.
The Goonies House Today
So, what’s the Goonies House like today?
The house still looks very much like it did in the movie. The porch, the view, and the iconic white-and-gray exterior remain intact. The interior, however, is off-limits — fans can’t go inside, and most of the movie’s indoor scenes were filmed on a soundstage anyway.
If you’re planning a trip, check online for updates about accessibility. Sometimes owners allow closer visits, and other times they prefer visitors to admire it from a distance.
Why Fans Still Love It
Why do people care so much about this house?
It’s not just about bricks and wood. The Goonies House represents adventure, nostalgia, and the magic of childhood. For many, it’s a reminder of the days when we believed in hidden treasure maps and pirate ships.
Standing in front of the house brings back those feelings. It connects generations — parents show the movie to their kids, and then they take family trips to see the house together. That’s powerful.
Tips for Visiting Astoria
If you’re planning a trip to see the Goonies House, make it part of a larger Astoria adventure.
-
Other Movie Locations: Visit the Oregon Film Museum (former County Jail), the elementary school from Kindergarten Cop, and the Astoria-Megler Bridge from Free Willy.
-
Restaurants: Try local seafood spots — the clam chowder here is unforgettable.
-
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall are ideal, with clear skies and less rain.
When I visited, I made a weekend trip out of it, exploring the small shops, walking along the waterfront, and soaking in the coastal views. It felt like stepping into a small town that’s frozen in time.
Conclusion
The Goonies House isn’t just a filming location — it’s a cultural landmark. For fans, it’s a place where movie magic meets real life. Visiting it feels like revisiting childhood, reconnecting with the sense of adventure that made The Goonies unforgettable.
If you ever get the chance, make the trip to Astoria. Stand on that hill, look at the view, and remember that sometimes, adventure is closer than you think.
FAQs
1. Where is the Goonies House located?
It’s in Astoria, Oregon, at 368 38th Street.
2. Can you go inside the Goonies House?
No, it’s a private residence, so only the exterior can be viewed.
3. Who owns the Goonies House now?
As of 2023, it was sold to a buyer who promised to preserve its history.
4. Is the Goonies House for sale?
It was listed in 2022 but has since been purchased.
5. What else can you do in Astoria?
You can visit other filming spots, museums, seafood restaurants, and scenic coastal views.
