Top Gun House

While traveling along the sunny coast of the USA, it's impossible to miss one of the region's most cinematic landmarks. The "Top Gun" House, officially known as the Graves House, is a charming Victorian cottage built in 1888. This historic site is a striking example of Folk Victorian architecture and is considered one of the oldest surviving buildings near the city of Carlsbad.

The house earned its legendary status thanks to the iconic 1986 film starring Tom Cruise. This very sky-blue house by the ocean served as the backdrop for the film's romantic scenes. Today, the building has been meticulously restored and moved to a new location, while retaining its historic appearance and the unique atmosphere of the era.

Currently, the house functions as a themed space where historical heritage intertwines with pop culture. Visitors can not only admire the elegant details of the facade but also dive into 80s movie nostalgia while enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean.

For the most up-to-date information about visiting this historic site, you can contact the local tourist information center or get in touch with the staff at the hotel where it is located.

The main highlight for guests is visiting the High-Pie Shop—a cozy pie shop located right inside the historic building. The interior is filled with memorabilia and artifacts from the "Top Gun" set, creating a unique atmosphere for every fan of the film. Be sure to try their signature hand pies, which have become a true hallmark of this location.

On the front porch, you can take some impressive photos, recreating famous scenes from the movie. A particular draw for tourists is the exact replica of the Kawasaki 900 motorcycle parked nearby, the same model ridden by Tom Cruise's character. It's the perfect photo op to feel like part of the iconic story.

Beyond the cinematic appeal, it's worth taking some time to examine the architectural details of the cottage itself. By looking at the decorative carvings and restored 19th-century elements, you can appreciate the craftsmanship of Victorian-era builders. A walk around the house with a view of the ocean pier is a great way to wrap up your visit.

Getting here is quite simple, especially if you are traveling along the coast by car. The famous house is located in the beach area, right on the corner of Pacific Street and Mission Avenue. If you are driving from San Diego, the trip takes about 45–60 minutes via the I-5 North. Your main landmark will be the Mission Pacific Hotel, as the historic building is now situated within its courtyard area.

For those who prefer public transport, you can take a commuter train to the Oceanside station. From the station, it is just a 10–15 minute walk to the coast, or you can take a quick taxi ride. Thanks to its bright sky-blue color and proximity to the pier, the building is very easy to spot from a distance.

The history of this building began long before its Hollywood fame. Graves House was built in 1888 for Dr. Henry Graves, who purchased the plot of land for just $1,050. The building is a rare and valuable example of Folk Victorian architecture that has been preserved in San Diego County since the late 19th century.

The house gained worldwide fame in 1985 when Paramount Pictures chose it as a filming location for the movie "Top Gun." For two weeks, scenes were filmed here featuring Kelly McGillis, whose character, Charlie Blackwood, lived in this cozy cottage according to the plot. Since then, fans of the movie from all over the world have traveled here to see the site with their own eyes.

In 2020, the building underwent a major restoration. It was carefully moved one block north to be integrated into a new hotel complex. Restorers performed a monumental task: they restored the original wood siding, the front facade, and even the historic chimney using authentic bricks, all while preserving the true spirit of the Victorian era.

A visit to this site won't take much time, so it's easy to include in a general walk around Carlsbad and the surrounding area. Usually, 30–60 minutes is enough for tourists to leisurely admire the facade, step inside, and take a few atmospheric photos.

If you plan to do more than just snap a photo and want to stop by the local shop for a famous pie, you should allow a little extra time in case of queues, especially on weekends. It is the perfect spot for a brief, themed stop during a trip along the ocean.

Since the building houses a pie shop and a themed exhibit, its accessibility depends on the operating hours of the commercial establishment. Official opening hours may change depending on the season and public holidays.

Before your visit, it is recommended to check the current schedule on the High-Pie shop website or the city's official tourism portal to plan your visit as conveniently as possible.

Its location in a resort area allows you to combine a visit to the historic house with many other interesting local attractions. A stroll along the waterfront offers plenty of sights, while the abundance of entertainment centers nearby ensures a full and memorable day.