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Bodega, California: Potter Schoolhouse from The Birds

The site of the famous scene where the birds roost on the playground equipment and attack the kids. The playground equipment is gone, but the distinctive building remains.

Address:
17110 Bodega Lane, Bodega, CA
Directions:
From Hwy 1 turn east onto Bodega Hwy, drive a half-mile, then turn right onto Bodega Lane. You'll see the schoolhouse ahead, on the right, at the top of the hill. Private property; visible from the street.
Admission:
Free
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School house.

Potter Schoolhouse from The Birds

Potter Schoolhouse is one of the area's filming locations for Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds." It was here that the birds gathered on the playground. The children then marched out of the schoolhouse, only to run in terror down the street from the bird attack. Although this is the actual schoolhouse from the film, the children actually ran down the street into a restaurant in nearby Bodega Bay. Bodega is about a ten minute drive inland. The schoolhouse is in great condition, but is now a private residence. Although you can't go inside, there's a small parking lot in front where you can get out of your car, take pictures, and re-create your own bird attack. The monkey bars and the next-door home of school teacher Annie Hayworth are no longer here. We had read about portions of the schoolhouse being open for tours and even housing a "Birds" gift shop and museum. Nothing like that exists today. But the photo-ops are priceless!

[Craig & Katelyn Wingerson, 07/09/2013]

Nearby Offbeat Places

Hitchcock's The Birds Shot HereHitchcock's The Birds Shot Here, Bodega, CA - < 1 mi.
Children's Bell TowerChildren's Bell Tower, Bodega Bay, CA - 4 mi.
"The Birds" Movie Restaurant, Bodega Bay, CA - 4 mi.
In the region:
Jelly Belly Factory Tour and Museum, Fairfield, CA - 49 mi.

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