The “My Girl” House in Bartow, Florida: A Hidden Piece of 90s Movie History
If you grew up in the 90s, there’s a good chance My Girl left an impression on you.
Whether you remember it for its coming-of-age story, its emotional ending, or just the nostalgia of that era, it’s a film that stuck with a lot of people. What many don’t realize, though, is that part of this iconic movie was filmed right here in Polk County.
A Filming Location in Bartow, Florida
Located in Bartow, Florida, this historic Victorian-style home was used as the Sultenfuss family residence and funeral home in the film. It plays a central role throughout the story, serving as the backdrop to many of the movie’s most memorable moments.
Today, the home still stands as a quiet piece of movie history tucked into a residential neighborhood. If you didn’t know what you were looking at, you could easily drive right past it.
Not All of “My Girl” Was Filmed in Bartow
While the house itself is in Bartow, not all of the movie was filmed in Polk County. Many of the downtown scenes that viewers associate with the film were actually shot in Sanford, Florida.
That combination of locations helped create the small-town feel of the fictional setting, but it also means Central Florida played a larger role in the film than most people realize.
Why This Location Still Matters
Filming locations like this resonate because they connect real places to shared memories. For many, My Girl represents a specific moment in childhood—one that blends nostalgia with emotion.
Seeing the house in person adds a different layer to that experience. It takes something that once felt distant and fictional and places it right here in a familiar setting.
A Unique Part of Polk County’s Story
Polk County continues to grow and change, but locations like this are reminders of its quieter, more historic side. They also show how Central Florida has long been a backdrop for film and storytelling, even if it doesn’t always get the recognition.
If you’re exploring the area or looking for something a little different, this is one of those spots that’s worth knowing about—even if it’s just a quick drive-by.
