Shooting "An Officer And A Gentleman" Took Place In These Locations

Where was “An Officer and a Gentleman” filmed? Stay tuned to find out! “An Officer and a Gentleman” is not just a film, but a cultural phenomenon that swept the nation. The film earned multiple Academy Awards and cementing its place in cinematic history. This 1982 romantic drama, set against the backdrop of the U.S. Navy Aviation Officer Candidate School, follows Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) as he navigates the rigorous demands of military training and an unexpected romance with local factory worker Paula Pokrifki (Debra Winger).

The picturesque Olympic Peninsula of Washington state, particularly Port Townsend and Fort Worden, played a crucial role in bringing the film’s setting to life. These locations provided an authentic military atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery that became integral to the film’s visual appeal and emotional resonance.

For fans of the movie, visiting these filming locations offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of Zack Mayo and relive iconic moments from the film. From the historic buildings of Fort Worden to the charming streets of Port Townsend, each site tells a part of the movie’s story.

This guide will take you through the main filming destinations of “An Officer and a Gentleman,” highlighting key scenes, providing tips for visitors, and suggesting activities to make the most of your trip to this beautiful corner of Washington.

Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall (May to September) for the best weather and longer daylight hours.

Transportation Options: Car rental is the most convenient option. Public transit is limited in this area.

Key Scenes: Fort Worden served as the primary location for the fictional Aviation Officer Candidate School. Many of the training sequences, including the infamous obstacle course scenes and drill exercises, were filmed here.

Fort Worden State Park is located in Port Townsend, Washington, on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula. Fort Worden offers a unique blend of military history and natural beauty. The 434-acre park features over two miles of saltwater shoreline, historic gun batteries, and beautiful Victorian-era officers’ houses. Visitors can explore the same grounds where Richard Gere’s character trained and get a sense of the film’s setting.

The iconic final scene where Richard Gere carries Debra Winger out of the factory was actually filmed at the Bremerton Flour Mill, not at Fort Worden. Louis Gossett Jr., who played drill instructor Foley, actually stayed in character between takes to maintain the intensity of his performance.

Things to Do: Explore the bunkers and artillery batteries, visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, and enjoy beach activities and hiking trails

Where to Eat: Taps at the Guardhouse (located within Fort Worden), Reveille at the Commons (also within Fort Worden), and Sirens Pub in downtown Port Townsend for a local experience

Where to Stay: Fort Worden itself offers various accommodation options, from officers’ houses to dormitories, The Swan Hotel in downtown Port Townsend for a historic experience, and The Bishop Victorian Hotel for elegant, period-appropriate lodging.

Downtown Port Townsend

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for warm weather and numerous festivals, or September for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.

Transportation Options: Walking is the best way to explore downtown. Bicycles are also available for rent in town.

Key Scenes: Several street scenes and exteriors were filmed here, including shots of Paula and her friend Lynette walking through town. The historic architecture of Port Townsend served as a perfect backdrop for the film’s 1980s setting.

Port Townsend is known for its well-preserved late 19th-century buildings and vibrant arts community. The town offers a glimpse into the past while providing modern amenities and cultural experiences. Port Townsend was once expected to become the largest harbor on the West Coast, which explains its grand Victorian architecture. Take a self-guided walking tour of the historic district to see the Victorian buildings up close.

Things to Do: Explore the numerous art galleries and boutique shops, Visit the Jefferson Museum of Art & History, and Take a whale watching tour from the marina

Where to Eat: Waterfront Pizza for casual dining with a view, Alchemy Bistro & Wine Bar for upscale dining, and Finistère for farm-to-table Pacific Northwest cuisine

Where to Stay: Palace Hotel for a historic Victorian experience, Tides Inn & Suites for waterfront views, and Ravenscroft Inn for a cozy bed and breakfast experience

Bremerton Flour Mill

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but summer offers the best weather for exploring the area.

Transportation Options: Car is the most convenient option. The mill is located in Bremerton, about an hour’s drive from Port Townsend.

Key Scenes: This location was used for the film’s iconic final scene, where Zack (Richard Gere) comes to sweep Paula (Debra Winger) off her feet, literally carrying her out of her workplace.

The former Bremerton Flour Mill is located in Bremerton, Washington, across the Puget Sound from Seattle. While the mill itself is no longer operational, the area offers a glimpse into the industrial history of the region and the specific location of one of cinema’s most memorable scenes.

The mill has since been converted into office spaces, but the exterior remains recognizable from the film. The famous line “I’ve got nowhere else to go!” was improvised by Richard Gere during filming. While the interior is not accessible to the public, you can still view the exterior of the building. Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Seattle for a fuller experience of the region.

Things to Do: Visit the Puget Sound Navy Museum, Explore the USS Turner Joy Museum Ship, and Take a ferry to Seattle for a day trip

Where to Eat: Anthony’s at Sinclair Inlet for seafood with a view, Horse and Cow Pub & Grill for casual dining, and Axe & Arrow Gastropub for craft beers and pub fare

Where to Stay: Fairfield Inn & Suites Bremerton for comfortable, modern accommodations, Bremerton Beach House for a unique, waterfront experience, and Hampton Inn & Suites Bremerton for a reliable chain hotel option