Hulu’s Summer of 69 is a delightful comedy film that has captured audiences with its heartfelt story and hilarious moments. The film, directed by Jillian Bell, follows Abby Flores, a high school senior who is working through self-discovery and friendship. If you’re curious about the filming locations of Summer of 69, we provide all the information you require. At NetFilming, we explore the notable locations of this 2025 hit, spotlighting Syracuse, New York—the epicenter of its production. Let’s visit the locations that helped make this coming-of-age tale ring true.
What is Summer of 69 About?
Summer of 69 is a Hulu comedy film that follows Abby Flores, a shy high school senior eager to win over her longtime crush, Matt, before graduation. Directed by Jillian Bell, the film is a mix of the humorous and the heartfelt, as Abby, performed by Sam Morelos, approaches Chloe, a confident stripper named Santa Monica, played by Chloe Fineman. Over the course of a week, Chloe shows Abby how to stand up for herself and take control of her relationships, leading to unexpected lessons in friendship and self-discovery. Co-starring Matt Cornett, the movie is about growing up and being who you really are and is set against the colorful backdrop of Syracuse, New York. It’s a laugh-filled, relatable story that will appeal to parents and teens alike.
Where was Summer of 69 filmed?
Syracuse, New York, served as the primary filming location for Summer of 69. The entirety of production was centralized in this Central New York city, with principal photography taking place between July and August of 2024. Syracuse’s vivid cinematography potential—from suburban neighborhoods to urban venues—made it ideal for the movie’s high school and strip club sequences. Syracuse’s growing reputation as a filmmaking center, supported by modern studios and scenic locations, makes it an ideal setting for this type of comedy.
Syracuse Studios: A High School Setting Come to Life
The movie was filmed largely at Syracuse Studios, home of American High, at 800 4th St. in Liverpool, a Syracuse suburb. This 100,000-square-foot building, which was previously A.V. Zogg Middle School, was built for teen comedies, with pre-built sets including classrooms, a cafeteria, a basketball gym and a 500-seat auditorium. It’s the kind of setting that could have popped up in scenes depicting Abby’s high school—much of the movie’s drama unfolds there, too. The studio also comes with 20,000 square feet of production offices, wardrobe rooms and prop storage, so it’s a one-stop shop for filmmakers.
Syracuse Studios facilitates most of the filming locations for American High’s other projects and even for other teenage movies, such as Big Time Adolescence and Crush. Their sets are equipped with modern American High School infrastructure and with the help of the Summer of 69 team’s creative spirit, could make high-class, exciting and stunning works viewers would connect with. If you’re watching the movie, keep an eye out for hallways or classrooms that feel like a classic American high school—they were likely shot here.
Diamond Dolls: A Key Setting in the Story
One of the movie’s pivotal locations is Diamond Dolls, the strip club where Abby meets Chloe, a professional dancer played by Chloe Fineman. Diamond Dolls is a real adult entertainment venue located at 6720 Townline Road in Syracuse. The production team may or may not have filmed inside the actual club, but the interior and exterior almost certainly inspired scenes regarding Chloe’s workplace. These moments are crucial for Abby’s transformation because she crafted a deep friendship with Chloe who helped her explore her identity and gain self-confidence.
Using actual buildings, such as the strip club, increases the film’s fidelity since it’s set in Syracuse. The move also demonstrates Syracuse’s cinematic potential, highlighting family-friendly suburbs juxtaposed with urban nightlife.
The Cast and Crew’s Experience in Syracuse
The Summer of 69 team embraced their time in Syracuse, with many sharing their appreciation for the city and its people. Chloe Fineman, who stars as Chloe (aka Santa Monica), posted on social media after wrapping, saying, “I love all these people so much. @jillianbell is a DREAM director.” Her enthusiasm reflects the positive vibe on set, which Bell described as filled with laughter and tears due to the cast’s stellar performances.
Sam Morelos, making her screen debut as Abby, spoke to Collider about working with seasoned actors like Fineman. She felt supported by the cast, especially Fineman, whose funny energy lifted their scenes. “I wanted to see [Chloe] shine and be the funniest person ever,” Morelos said. The relaxed nature of Syracuse established a sense of community that truly added to the genuine friendships and tender moments in the film.
The cast was also spotted on location in Syracuse, local outlets reported. Celebrities such as Charlie Day and Natalie Morales had been spotted at Pastabilities, a popular Armory Square restaurant, providing a brush of star power to the city’s dining scene.
Other Notable Syracuse Filming Details
While Syracuse Studios and Diamond Dolls were central to the production, other Syracuse locations likely appeared in the film’s residential and outdoor scenes. Abby’s home, where personal moments unfold, was probably shot in one of Syracuse’s suburban neighborhoods, known for their classic American houses. The city’s parks or lakesides may have also been used for scenes requiring natural settings, given Bell’s mention of pontoon outings on a lake.
The production wrapped in August 2024, and the film premiered at the 2025 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival before its Hulu release on May 9, 2025. Syracuse’s role in bringing this story to life underscores its growing status as a filmmaking destination.
Summer of 69 Official Trailer
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