Plan Your Trip To These ‘Grown Ups’ Filming Locations In New England

If you’ve ever found yourself laughing at the antics of Adam Sandler and his friends in “Grown Ups,” you probably have also wondered where the 2010 comedy was filmed. The movie depicts a timeless lakeside summer hangout that feels both nostalgic and real. The inviting scenery and classic New England charm left such an impression that many travelers ask this exact question year after year. What fans might not know is that the backgrounds on-screen are no Hollywood trick. They were actually filmed on site, helping to create an idyllic backdrop filled with quiet lakes, seaside towns and plenty of woodland.

The “Grown Ups” filming location provided the perfect setting for a story about old friends reconnecting in a laid back, small-town environment. If you’re eyeing a getaway inspired by the film, here’s a guide for planning your own fun-filled trip.

Where Was ‘Grown Ups’ Filmed?

The majority of the movie was filmed in Essex County, Massachusetts, according to Giggster. This diamond-shaped county in the northeastern corner of the state includes well-known communities like Salem, Gloucester and Beverly, along with smaller towns like Essex itself. The region is part of what’s called the Essex National Heritage Area, which is celebrated for its maritime traditions, colonial era history and scenic New England landscapes.

For “Grown Ups,” Essex County offered exactly what the story needed – a believable retreat where the characters could gather to laugh and reminisce. As Decider reports, the filmmakers used real lakes, restaurants and family attractions instead of soundstages. This gave the movie a more genuine summertime, family-friendly vibe, letting audiences feel like they too, could be a part of the cast’s hometown community and nostalgic getaway. 

Tips For Exploring Beautiful Essex County, Massachusetts

Key Scenes: The heart of “Grown Ups” beats on the fictional Amoskeag Lake. However, according to Decider, the movie’s actual backdrop is Chebacco Lake in Essex, Massachusetts. Other key sites tucked throughout Massachusetts round out the film’s world, per No Film School. The memorable restaurant scenes were filmed at Woodman’s , a century-old seafood staple that was dubbed “Woodman’s Eat in the Rough.” For the energetic water park scenes, filming took place at Water Wizz in East Wareham, Massachusetts. This family-friendly water park features attractions that evoke a splash of nostalgia, capturing the carefree spirit showcased in “Grown Ups.” 

Best Time to Visit: Local residents and travel resources agree that the best time to visit the Essex area and Chebacco Lake  is late spring through early fall, from May to September. In summer, the weather is perfect for lakeside activities like swimming, kayaking and hiking. Additionally, the communities along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway and Essex River buzz with summer events. If you prefer fewer crowds, visiting in early fall offers comfortable temperatures. There’s also the added bonus of early autumn hues and a more relaxed atmosphere. 

Transportation Options: Essex and its surrounding towns can be accessed via the Massachusetts commuter rail and bus systems. However, renting a car is the most efficient way to explore all the filming locations and nearby attractions at your leisure. Parking is generally accessible at key locations such as Woodman’s restaurant and at Chebacco Lake’s public access points. Since Woodman’s can be very busy, especially on summer weekends, arriving early is recommended to avoid long wait times.

There are numerous opportunities to explore the area for fans of the film, especially if travelers are nature enthusiasts. Chebacco Lake is a state-classified “Great Pond” known for its natural beauty. It has recreational opportunities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking and boating. It also features surrounding woodlands and quaint cottages similar to those seen in the film, key to the quiet comfort of a classic New England getaway.

Building a personalized itinerary to relive “Grown Ups” is part of the fun – and the possibilities are endless. Travelers can start with a scenic lakeside stroll around Chebacco Lake. Then they can stop for a classic New England seafood meal at Woodman’s of Essex. This is where visitors can sample the area’s famous fried clams, lobster rolls and other fresh offerings. Then, cap the day with a visit to Water Wizz for some light-hearted, splash-filled fun reminiscent of the on-screen water park scenes.

Things to Do: Visitors can relax and unwind on Chebacco Lake by kayaking or paddleboarding to enjoy the serene environment firsthand. They can also take a day trip to Water Wizz in East Wareham for lively water attractions that the entire family can enjoy. Another option is spending some time exploring the antique shops and art galleries lining Essex and neighboring Gloucester. These are rich with New England heritage and creative culture. Alternatively, take a scenic drive north to Rockport or Newburyport, both classic coastal towns offer quintessential New England seaside charm with scenic harbors, boutiques and dining.

Where to Eat: Although Woodman’s is an essential stop for any “Grown Ups” fan, Essex’s dining scene offers other gems. You might consider Boat House Grille and CK Pearl, both well-regarded for fresh seafood and conveniently located near the harbor. Their menus feature regional specialties and provide perfect spots to relax after a day of exploring.

Where to Stay: There are charming bed and breakfasts in Essex, Gloucester and other coastal towns. For example, there are familiar hotel chains like Marriott and Holiday Inn in nearby Salem or Peabody. For the authentic lakeside experience, vacation rentals and cozy cottages are available right on or near Chebacco Lake. These are ideal for families and groups seeking a private retreat close to filming locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a “Grown Ups 3”?

There is currently no “Grown Ups 3” movie. Adam Sandler and other cast members have repeatedly acknowledged strong fan interest. However, there has been no official confirmation as of July 2025.

Are there any inappropriate scenes in “Grown Ups”?

Yes, “Grown Ups” is rated PG-13 for crude material, suggestive content, language and some male rear nudity, per IMDb’s parental guide. 

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