A recent report by Architectural Digest named Bull Street in Savannah as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Streets in the World’ , but there’s so much more to this iconic location than just beauty!
Where did they film the iconic bench scene in Forrest Gump?
Before Atlanta’s heyday as the Hollywood of the South, very few films were shot in Georgia. But the 1994 film Forrest Gump actually had several scenes filmed in different spots all over the southeast. One of the most iconic, recognizable and famous scenes is, of course, the framing devise of the entire film: Forrest sitting on park bench, telling strangers his life story. He sits with a box of chocolates, which introduces one of the most quoted lines in all of film history: “My mama always said, ‘Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get'” and his suitcase, in a tan suit.
But filmmakers didn’t shoot this scene in a studio in Hollywood or in a garden in L.A. It was shot right here in Georgia, in Chippewa Square in Savannah! And you can actually visit the iconic square… but don’t expect to see the bench! According to the Smithsonian Magazine, the iconic bench was placed on Chippewa Square for filming, and then removed and located to the Savannah History Museum nearby.
We can’t really picture this famous scene anywhere else, with the gorgeous trees full of Spanish moss blowing in the breeze and the lovely criss-crossing sidewalks of the square.
About Chippewa Square in Savannah
Chippewa Square is famous for more than just its role as the filming location for Forrest Gump, though. It’s one of the most famous Squares in Savannah. Chippewa Square is also the location of The Battle of Chippewa, an important battle in the War of 1812. And it’s walking distance from several delicious Savannah staple restaurants and bars.
Oh, and don’t forget! Savannah is has an open container policy, so you can walk around with your drink in your hand! (As long as you’re 21, of course!)