“Free Willy” was filmed mainly in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, with some key scenes shot in Mexico City.

Main Filming Locations

  • Astoria, Oregon (USA) – Harbor, marina, and many waterfront scenes, including areas around Hammond Marina used for the big escape ending.
  • Portland, Oregon (USA) – City scenes such as Jesse on his bike, the skate park, and the fictional “Northwest Adventure Park” (actually Oaks Amusement Park).
  • Cannon Beach & Ecola State Park, Oregon (USA) – Coastal shots and scenic backgrounds, including cliffs seen in exterior scenes.
  • San Juan Islands, Washington (USA) – Open‑water and whale capture/escape footage and wildlife scenes.
  • Mexico City, Mexico – The aquarium tank where Willy performs and many close‑up tank scenes were filmed at what is now Six Flags México (formerly Reino Aventura).

If You Just Want One-Line Answer

“Free Willy” was primarily filmed in and around Astoria, Portland, and the Oregon coast in the USA, plus additional scenes in the San Juan Islands (Washington) and at an aquarium park in Mexico City.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.