A wealthy San Francisco socialite pursues a potential boyfriend to a small Northern California town that slowly takes a turn for the bizarre when birds of all kinds suddenly begin to attack people.
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California
Hitchcock’s terrifying tale of nature turning on humanity descends on a quiet coastal town – and filmed in the real Bodega Bay, California, whose harbour, schoolhouse and church still draw fans of one of cinema’s great thrillers.
Where was The Birds filmed?
The Birds was filmed in Bodega Bay, California – its harbour, school and church – with some scenes in San Francisco.
Every location in The Birds, explained
1
The town – Bodega Bay
The besieged town is the real Bodega Bay on the Sonoma coast, including the Tides restaurant.
2
The schoolhouse – Bodega
The chilling schoolhouse scene used the old Potter Schoolhouse in nearby Bodega.
3
San Francisco – the opening
The film opens in San Francisco, around Union Square.
4
The studios – Los Angeles
Effects and interiors used studios in Los Angeles.
Planning a visit
Bodega Bay and the village of Bodega – with its famous schoolhouse and church – are real, accessible spots on the Sonoma coast that fans still visit.
The Birds Fun Facts
1
Filmed in Bodega Bay The coastal town is the real Bodega Bay in Sonoma County, California.
2
The schoolhouse survives The Potter Schoolhouse in nearby Bodega still stands.
3
No music score Hitchcock used only bird sounds and silence, with no traditional score.
4
Real and mechanical birds The attacks combined trained birds, mechanical ones and effects.
5
A Hitchcock classic The film is one of the director’s most famous thrillers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was The Birds filmed?
In Bodega Bay, California – its harbour, school and church – with some scenes in San Francisco.
Does the schoolhouse still exist?
Yes – the Potter Schoolhouse in nearby Bodega still stands.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – Bodega Bay and Bodega are accessible and popular with fans.
