Ever watched 10 Things I Hate About You and thought, "Wow, I need to go there!"? You're not alone! That movie is pure cinematic sunshine, even with all the teenage angst. Let's dive into where this gem was filmed, shall we?
Padua High: A School That Makes You Wanna Learn (Maybe)
Forget your boring old brick building. 10 Things I Hate About You's Padua High is actually Stadium High School in Tacoma, Washington. Yes, *Washington*! Who knew such gorgeousness existed in a high school?
Seriously, this place looks like a castle. Picture turrets, expansive green lawns, and hallways that probably echo with the whispers of Heath Ledger's swoon-worthy performance.
The exterior shots? All Stadium High! Just try not to get detention trying to recreate Kat Stratford's rebellious vibes on the front steps. Or maybe do. I won't judge.
That Iconic Staircase: A Romantic Pilgrimage
Remember when Patrick Verona, played by the ever-charming Heath Ledger, serenades Kat with "Can't Take My Eyes Off You?" That scene, folks, is legendary.
Those bleachers? They're inside Stadium High School! Sadly, you can't just waltz in and start crooning. It is still an operating school after all.
But imagine standing where Heath Ledger once stood, belting out a Frankie Valli classic. Goosebumps guaranteed.
Julia Stiles' House: A Pad You'd Actually Want to be Grounded In
The Stratford family home, where Kat and Bianca plotted their teenage escapades, is located in Tacoma as well. Get this: it's a real house! And you can see it!
Located at 2715 N Junett Street, this beautiful home is a sight to behold. It's the perfect example of "Pacific Northwest Charm."
Just remember, it's a private residence, so admire from afar. Leave the trespassing to Kat. She'd probably approve.
Other Filming Locations: Seattle's Sweet Spots
While Tacoma hogs the spotlight, Seattle gets its moments too! Remember the paintball scene? Pure chaotic fun!
That paintball park might be harder to pinpoint exactly. Many paintball locations have changed, however, the location is likely near Seattle.
But fear not, the prom scene, with all its awkward slow dancing and teenage drama, was filmed at Seattle's Gas Works Park. Yep, a former gas plant turned park!
Bonus Points: Fremont Troll!
While not directly featured, the characters are probably around Fremont Troll. It is a giant concrete sculpture under a bridge in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle. It’s a fun place to check out!
So there you have it! 10 Things I Hate About You was filmed in and around Seattle and Tacoma, Washington.
So, pack your bags, grab your favorite copy of "The Taming of the Shrew," and prepare to be transported back to the late 90s.
Just maybe, don't try to recreate *everything* you saw in the movie. Especially the roofie incident. Seriously, don't do that.
Happy travels, and may your own romantic comedy adventures be just as charming, but hopefully less angsty, than Kat and Patrick's!
"But mostly I hate the way I don't hate you. Not even close, not even a little bit, not even at all."
