Introduction: Hollywood’s Favorite Steel City Backdrop
Pittsburgh’s iconic bridges, gritty industrial charm, and historic architecture have quietly made it one of Hollywood’s favorite filming locations. Over the decades, Pittsburgh has starred in blockbuster films, indie hits, and Oscar-winning classics — often doubling as New York, Chicago, or even post-apocalyptic cities.
The best part? Many of these filming locations are right here and open for you to visit. Whether you’re a movie buff, a local explorer, or a traveler looking for something unique, this guide takes you through the most famous movies filmed in Pittsburgh — and exactly where to find them.
1. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Director: Christopher Nolan
Starring: Christian Bale, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway
Filming Location: Heinz Field, North Shore
One of the most iconic scenes — the destruction of Gotham’s football stadium — was filmed at Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium), home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Local Steelers players even appeared as Gotham Rogues.
Visit Tip: Heinz Field offers tours or catch a Steelers game to stand where Bane gave his infamous speech.
2. Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Director: Jonathan Demme
Starring: Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins
Filming Locations: Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall, Oakland / Allegheny County Courthouse
Pittsburgh doubled for several cities in this Oscar-winning thriller. The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall served as the FBI Academy, while the courthouse was used for Hannibal Lecter’s chilling escape scene.
Visit Tip: Soldiers & Sailors operates as a museum honoring veterans and is open for tours.
3. Flashdance (1983)
Director: Adrian Lyne
Starring: Jennifer Beals
Filming Locations: South Side, Strip District, Carnegie Museums
This 80s classic, centered on Pittsburgh’s steel mill and dance scenes, filmed all over the city — including the Duquesne Incline, the Monongahela River bridges, and dance scenes at the now-demolished Sheraden Dance Club.
Visit Tip: Ride the Duquesne Incline for the same skyline views featured in the film.
4. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019)
Director: Marielle Heller
Starring: Tom Hanks as Fred Rogers
Filming Locations: Fred Rogers Studio / WQED, Oakland
Tom Hanks filmed Mr. Rogers’ iconic intro at WQED studios, where the original “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood”was produced.
Visit Tip: While WQED doesn’t offer regular tours, the nearby Fred Rogers statue on the North Shore is a great photo stop.
5. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Director: Stephen Chbosky
Starring: Emma Watson, Logan Lerman
Filming Locations: Fort Pitt Tunnel / Peters Township High School
The famous scene where Emma Watson’s character stands in the back of a truck while “Heroes” plays was filmed in the Fort Pitt Tunnel.
Visit Tip: Drive through the tunnel for your own “infinite” moment with the Pittsburgh skyline reveal.
6. Adventureland (2009)
Director: Greg Mottola
Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart
Filming Location: Kennywood Park, West Mifflin
Though set in suburban Pennsylvania, this coming-of-age film was shot at Kennywood, Pittsburgh’s beloved historic amusement park.
Visit Tip: Kennywood still features many of the rides and locations used in the film — perfect for nostalgia.
7. Jack Reacher (2012)
Director: Christopher McQuarrie
Starring: Tom Cruise
Filming Locations: North Shore, Downtown, Strip District
This action thriller showcases Pittsburgh’s skyline, bridges, and gritty side streets. The climactic car chase barrels through the Strip District and across the Fort Duquesne Bridge.
Visit Tip: Explore the Strip District’s markets and grab local eats where the chase was filmed.
8. Fences (2016)
Director: Denzel Washington
Starring: Denzel Washington, Viola Davis
Filming Location: Hill District
Based on August Wilson’s Pittsburgh Cycle, Fences was filmed entirely in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, where the play was originally set.
Visit Tip: Walk through the Hill District to connect with the city’s rich African-American history.
9. Concussion (2015)
Director: Peter Landesman
Starring: Will Smith
Filming Locations: UPMC facilities, North Shore
This drama about the NFL and CTE research was filmed at various Pittsburgh medical centers, including UPMCfacilities and downtown locations.
Visit Tip: Stroll the North Shore, where many scenes were shot against the backdrop of the stadiums.
10. Sudden Death (1995)
Director: Peter Hyams
Starring: Jean-Claude Van Damme
Filming Location: Civic Arena (Demolished)
This 90s action flick takes place during a hockey game at Pittsburgh’s Civic Arena (The Igloo). While the arena is gone, the site now hosts PPG Paints Arena.
Visit Tip: Catch a Penguins game at PPG Paints Arena, a nod to the city’s hockey legacy.
Conclusion: See Pittsburgh Through a Hollywood Lens
Pittsburgh’s diverse neighborhoods, stunning bridges, and unique industrial heritage make it a movie-maker’s dream city — and a playground for fans.
From superhero showdowns at Heinz Field to coming-of-age moments in Fort Pitt Tunnel, these filming locations are ready for your own cinematic tour.
Grab your camera, queue up your favorite films, and hit the streets — because in Pittsburgh, you’re always just a few steps away from the movies.
