Movie road trip: A cinematic site per state for all 50 states

(Photo by Dan Callister/Newsmakers).

Massachusetts: Jaws

Sharks are magnificent animals, but the 1975 movie Jaws changed people’s perspectives of these creatures. After seeing this film, many people became afraid of sharks. While a shark attack is relatively unlikely, the movie preyed on many people’s fears.

Jaws was filmed on Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts. While the film took place more than 40 years ago, it is still entrenched into the area. Previously, the area didn’t want to be known as the Jaws location, but now it embraces the Jaws association.

A can’t miss location for Jaws fans is the American Legion Memorial Bridge. Movie fans will recall this bridge from the movie. While signs say don’t jump, many people consider this “jump” a right of passage. But, use caution when jumping. For those not wanting to jump, the bridge is a great area to people watch.

One tour company, Edgartown Tours , offers a 1-hour Amity Tour of Jaws. The walking tour takes guests to famous scene locations, shares production stories, and other Martha’s Vineyard/Jaws facts. The tour costs $25 for adults and is available at various times. Reservations can be made online.

While the movie was shot in Martha’s Vineyard, some of the movie structures were temporary. The restaurant, Sharky’s Edgartown, offers a fun Jaws themed stop.  For a historical journey through Martha’s Vineyard, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum is a good stop. The museum shares the island’s history, offers special exhibits, and lighthouses.

If you want to brave an actual beach where a Jaws “shark” appeared, grab your towel, and head to Joseph Silva State Beach. This state beach is popular with families.