Discovering the Top Gun House in Oceanside was an absolute treat. Walking through the charming cottage, surrounded by movie memorabilia, and savoring delicious pies from High-Pie made the visit a memorable and nostalgic experience.
The Top Gun House in Oceanside, California, holds a place in cinematic history as the beachfront residence of Charlie, Maverick’s love interest, in the iconic 1986 film “Top Gun.” In a memorable scene, Maverick, played by Tom Cruise, arrives at the house on his motorcycle, set against the backdrop of the song “Take My Breath Away,” before sharing a dinner with Charlie. Kelly McGillis, who played Charlie, was reportedly enchanted by the quaint property and lived there during the film’s production.
The history of the Top Gun House is as storied as its on-screen fame. Originally known as the Graves House, named after its original owner Dr. Henry Graves, this 500-square-foot cottage was one of several built along Pacific Street in downtown Oceanside during the 1880s. Over time, as Oceanside’s downtown waterfront underwent significant development, the other cottages were demolished. The Graves House, however, was saved from a similar fate when the city purchased it in the 1980s to protect its historic value. Despite this, the house faced relocation in 2020 to make way for a mid-rise beach resort. Rather than being demolished, the house was carefully moved to its current location, becoming part of the Mission Pacific Hotel, where it now offers a picturesque view of the Pacific Ocean.
Today, the Top Gun House has been lovingly restored to its original 1887 design and houses The High Pie, a charming bakery on the hotel grounds. Visitors can still see the refurbished Kawasaki Ninja ZX900 Motorcycle outside, a replica of the one Tom Cruise rode in the film, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. The exterior of the house maintains its original blue color and red door, echoing its appearance in the movie. Inside, efforts have been made to preserve the historical integrity of the house, with the original fireplace mantel and windows still in place. The kitchen, likely remodeled in the 1940s or 1950s, adds to the vintage charm of the interior, which also features military-inspired decor and Top Gun set photos.
Today, The High Pie offers visitors a taste of nostalgia, a chance to step into the world of Maverick and Charlie and enjoy pie.
Click here for directions to the High Pie Top Gun House.
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Top Gun House. You can freely walk around the exterior and take photos. However, if you want to enjoy the desserts inside, you will need to purchase them from the High-Pie dessert bar.
The opening hours of the Top Gun House, particularly the High-Pie dessert bar, may vary, so it’s best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. The High Pie
Yes, there is parking available near the Top Gun House. You can find metered street parking and public parking lots in the vicinity. Since it’s a popular area, especially during weekends and holidays, arriving early can help secure a parking spot.
While there are no official guided tours specifically for the Top Gun House, some local tour companies may include it as a stop in their Oceanside tours. You can also explore the house and its surroundings independently.
For information on booking the Top Gun House for private events or photoshoots, it’s best to contact the management of High-Pie directly. They can provide details on availability, pricing, and any specific guidelines you need to follow.
Oceanside offers a variety of attractions and activities, including the Oceanside Pier, Oceanside Museum of Art, California Surf Museum, and numerous beaches and parks. You can also enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the vibrant downtown area.
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