Cinema at the State Presents
Phenomenon
30th Anniversary Screening
Sponsored by Hour in the Tower Escape Room, Old Town Pizza, and City of Auburn
To explore the real-life sets of the 1996 John Travolta film Phenomenon, head to Historic Old Town Auburn. You can easily walk to exact shooting spots like Auburn Alehouse (the former Shanghai Bar), Machado Orchards, and the Placer County Courthouse.
A self-guided tour around town features several specific, hyper-localized spots from the movie:
- Old Town Auburn Streetscape: The main town of "Harmon" is actually Historic Old Town Auburn. The local garage set where Travolta’s character (George Malley) worked was constructed temporarily right in the middle of the street in front of the Old Town Post Office.
- Auburn Alehouse (Formerly Shanghai Bar): Located at 289 Washington St, the interior and exterior of this bar were prominently featured as the watering hole where George celebrated his birthday just before being struck by the mysterious, glowing white lights.
- Placer County Courthouse: Located at 101 Maple St, this prominent local landmark features heavily in the movie's backdrop as George experiences his sudden surge of intelligence and telekinetic powers.
- Machado Orchards: Located at 100 Apple Lane (off Bowman Road), this family-owned orchard is where George uses his mind to help pick apples and demonstrates his abilities.
- Doc's Office: The physician’s office where George's friend Doc (played by Robert Duvall) works was filmed at 107 Sacramento St.
- Sierra Moon Goldsmiths: Located at 204 Washington St, this building served as a jewelry store location in the film.
Running time: 2h 3m
Saturday, September 12, 2026
7:30 PM
Location— Old Town Auburn