Where Did They Film Schitt's Creek and Why Does It Feel Like a Parallel Universe?

Schitt’s Creek, the beloved Canadian sitcom, has captured the hearts of millions with its quirky characters, heartfelt storytelling, and the fictional town that feels both absurdly unreal and oddly familiar. But where exactly was this whimsical world brought to life? The answer lies in the charming town of Goodwood, Ontario, which served as the primary filming location for the show. However, the question of “where” is just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s dive deeper into the fascinating world of Schitt’s Creek, exploring its filming locations, the creative decisions behind them, and why the show feels like a parallel universe where humor and humanity collide.

The Real-Life Schitt’s Creek: Goodwood, Ontario

Goodwood, a small hamlet located about an hour northeast of Toronto, is the real-life backdrop for the fictional town of Schitt’s Creek. The show’s creators, Dan and Eugene Levy, chose this location for its quaint, small-town vibe, which perfectly encapsulated the essence of the Rose family’s fall from grace. The town’s unassuming charm and picturesque landscapes provided the ideal setting for a story about wealth, loss, and rediscovery.

The iconic Schitt’s Creek motel, where the Rose family reluctantly takes up residence, is actually the Hockley Motel in Mono, Ontario. Its slightly rundown appearance and retro aesthetic added to the show’s comedic yet endearing tone. The motel became a symbol of the Roses’ journey—starting as a place of despair and eventually transforming into a home filled with love and growth.

The Magic of Set Design: Creating a Parallel Universe

While Goodwood and the Hockley Motel provided the foundation, the show’s production team worked tirelessly to create a world that felt both real and surreal. The town’s main street, featuring businesses like Rose Apothecary and Café Tropical, was meticulously designed to reflect the quirky, offbeat nature of Schitt’s Creek. The attention to detail in the set design is one of the reasons the show feels like a parallel universe—a place where the absurd and the ordinary coexist seamlessly.

For instance, Rose Apothecary, with its minimalist aesthetic and artisanal products, is a stark contrast to the town’s otherwise rustic vibe. This juxtaposition highlights the Roses’ struggle to adapt to their new surroundings while also showcasing their unique personalities. The café, on the other hand, with its mismatched furniture and eclectic decor, feels like a place where the town’s eccentric residents would naturally gather.

Why Schitt’s Creek Feels Like a Parallel Universe

Schitt’s Creek isn’t just a show about a wealthy family losing everything; it’s a show about finding beauty in the unexpected. The town itself plays a central role in this narrative, serving as a microcosm of the world at large. Its exaggerated quirks and larger-than-life characters make it feel like a parallel universe—one where kindness triumphs over cynicism, and love knows no bounds.

The absence of homophobia and prejudice in Schitt’s Creek is another reason it feels like a utopia. David Rose’s pansexuality is never questioned or ridiculed; it’s simply accepted as part of who he is. This intentional creative decision by the Levys sets the show apart from others and reinforces the idea that Schitt’s Creek exists in a world where acceptance is the norm.

The Role of Filming Locations in Storytelling

The choice of filming locations is crucial to any show’s success, and Schitt’s Creek is no exception. The real-life settings not only provide a visual backdrop but also contribute to the show’s emotional depth. The motel, the town, and the surrounding landscapes all serve as metaphors for the Roses’ journey—from isolation and despair to connection and hope.

For example, the motel’s transformation over the seasons mirrors the Roses’ personal growth. What starts as a run-down, depressing space becomes a place of warmth and community. Similarly, the town itself evolves from a place the Roses initially despise to a home they cherish. This evolution is made possible by the authenticity of the filming locations, which ground the show’s fantastical elements in reality.

The Legacy of Schitt’s Creek

Schitt’s Creek may have ended in 2020, but its impact continues to resonate with fans around the world. The show’s unique blend of humor, heart, and humanity has cemented its place in television history. Its filming locations, particularly Goodwood and the Hockley Motel, have become pilgrimage sites for fans eager to experience the magic of Schitt’s Creek for themselves.

In many ways, Schitt’s Creek is more than just a show; it’s a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, we can find love, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. The parallel universe it creates is one we all wish we could live in—a world where kindness reigns supreme, and everyone is free to be their authentic selves.

Related Q&A

Q: Why was Goodwood chosen as the filming location for Schitt’s Creek?
A: Goodwood was chosen for its small-town charm and picturesque landscapes, which perfectly captured the essence of the fictional town of Schitt’s Creek.

Q: Is the Schitt’s Creek motel a real place?
A: Yes, the motel is the Hockley Motel in Mono, Ontario. Its retro aesthetic and slightly rundown appearance made it the perfect setting for the show.

Q: How did the set design contribute to the show’s unique vibe?
A: The set design, particularly for Rose Apothecary and Café Tropical, added to the show’s quirky, offbeat tone. The attention to detail helped create a world that felt both real and surreal.

Q: Why does Schitt’s Creek feel like a parallel universe?
A: The show’s exaggerated quirks, larger-than-life characters, and absence of prejudice make it feel like a utopia where kindness and acceptance are the norm.

Q: What is the legacy of Schitt’s Creek?
A: Schitt’s Creek has left a lasting impact on fans worldwide, thanks to its unique blend of humor, heart, and humanity. Its filming locations have become iconic symbols of the show’s enduring appeal.