Vacation Movies in Order: The Classic Series
The «Vacation» movie series, created by John Hughes and directed by various filmmakers, is a beloved collection of comedies that follow the misadventures of the Griswold family. The series began with «National Lampoon’s Vacation» in 1983, which set the tone for the chaotic family road trips that would become a hallmark of the franchise. This film introduces us to the hapless but well-meaning Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, as he embarks on a cross-country trip to the fictional Walley World amusement park with his wife and children.
National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
The original «National Lampoon’s Vacation» is a quintessential 80s comedy that captures the essence of family vacations gone wrong. The film’s humor is derived from the Griswold family’s relentless optimism in the face of disaster, making it a relatable and timeless classic. From car troubles to unexpected detours, this movie showcases the chaos that often accompanies family trips, setting the stage for future installments.
European Vacation (1985)
Following the success of the first film, «European Vacation» was released in 1985, taking the Griswold family across the Atlantic for a series of misadventures in Europe. This sequel features the same cast, with a few new faces, and highlights the cultural differences and comedic misunderstandings that arise when an American family travels abroad. The film is filled with hilarious moments, including a memorable scene where the Griswolds win a trip to Europe on a game show.
Christmas Vacation (1989)
«National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,» released in 1989, is often regarded as one of the best holiday films of all time. In this installment, Clark Griswold is determined to create the perfect Christmas for his family, but his plans quickly spiral out of control. The film is packed with iconic moments, from the infamous lighting display to the arrival of eccentric relatives, making it a staple during the holiday season and a must-watch for fans of vacation movies in order.
Vegas Vacation (1997)
In 1997, the Griswold family returned for «Vegas Vacation,» where they head to Las Vegas for a wild getaway. This film introduces new characters and showcases the glitz and glamour of Sin City, all while maintaining the franchise’s signature humor. Clark’s attempts to win big at the casino and the family’s various escapades in Vegas provide plenty of laughs, solidifying the Griswolds’ status as a comedic family unit.
Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure (2003)
While not a direct sequel featuring the entire Griswold family, «Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure» focuses on the beloved character Cousin Eddie, played by Randy Quaid. This film follows Eddie as he embarks on a vacation to a tropical island, bringing his unique brand of humor to a new setting. Although it diverges from the main series, it still captures the spirit of vacation movies in order.
Vacation (2015)
The franchise was revived in 2015 with «Vacation,» a sequel and reboot that follows a now-adult Rusty Griswold as he takes his own family on a road trip to Walley World. This film pays homage to the original while introducing a new generation to the Griswold family’s antics. With a mix of nostalgia and modern humor, «Vacation» successfully captures the essence of the series, making it a worthy addition to the list of vacation movies in order.
Vacation Friends (2021)
In 2021, «Vacation Friends» was released, featuring a different take on the vacation movie genre. While not directly related to the Griswold series, it follows a couple who befriends a wild pair during their vacation in Mexico. The film explores themes of friendship and spontaneity, showcasing the unpredictable nature of vacations. Although it diverges from the traditional Griswold narrative, it resonates with fans of vacation-themed comedies.
Legacy of the Vacation Movies
The legacy of the «Vacation» movies continues to influence the comedy genre, with their unique blend of family dynamics, humor, and relatable mishaps. Each film in the series offers a different perspective on the vacation experience, making them timeless classics that resonate with audiences of all ages. As new generations discover these films, the Griswold family’s misadventures remain a cherished part of cinematic history, ensuring that vacation movies in order will always have a special place in our hearts.
