Bodega Bay is the home to many things— delicious clam chowder, homemade saltwater taffy, and glorious coastal views— but nothing screams: "Our town Bodega Bay! Yay!", then referencing Alfred Hitchcock's 1963 film The Birds around a local. They adore the movie, and that love is on full display at the infamous Birds Museum within the Bodega country store.
And why did this seemingly innocent country mart become ground zero for an entire museum dedicated to the cause? Well, as most cinephiles know, the iconic movie— and second best flick involving birds killing unsuspecting townsfolk— was filmed in and around the area. And they're damned proud of it.
It's also directly across the street from the famous church. Double score for lazy Birds fans who don't want to travel far!
But back to the museum, a deformed Alfred Hitchcock mannequin welcomes you, which seems fitting. He looks wrinkly, waxy, and appears to be melting in the sun, all characteristics that don't seem too far off from the real man himself.
Once inside, you'll realize the space is tucked away in a corner and features a collection of paintings, photos, memorabilia, and other oddities related to the 1963 classic. It's small in stature but pretty filled to the brim with all things Birds.
They've got used props, scripts, postcards, shot glasses, autographs, books, posters and tons of other merchandise. And you better get used to Uncle Alfred's face as you browse around because you're going to see it plastered on just about everything, a nightmare in its own right.
Just look at him, staring at you with those beady little eyes. Looking at Hitch in caricature form (or worse yet, as a terrifying plastic mask) is certainly a sight for sore eyes.
But creep factor aside, what I liked most about the museum is the abundance of the real unique gems on display, some of which are pretty above and beyond the usual museum fare. You've got Birds wine, high heel shoes, and a Tippi Hedren mannequin that features a deliciously bad pun.
Wait for it...
Boom!
I also have to salute the great city of Bodega Bay for embracing all of this, and keeping their landmarks so tourist friendly. Some towns aren't so proud of their cinematic history, especially if that history involved birds murdering innocent woman and children. You've made old Hitch (this one, not this one) from beyond the grave very proud.
As a bonus, the other local areas of interest for the Birds super fan include: The Tides restaurant, schoolhouse, and many others.
