Movies and Books Set in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, the “Steel City,” is renowned for its sprawling skylines, rich industrial history, and cultural heritage. However, beyond the steel and skyscrapers, Pittsburgh has carved out a niche in the world of cinema. The city has served as the backdrop for numerous films, TV shows, and books, offering a unique blend of urban and suburban landscapes, historical landmarks, and iconic spots. Whether you’re a movie buff, a TV series enthusiast, or a book lover, this guide will take you through the famous films shot in Pittsburgh, the top TV shows set in the city, popular books based here, and more.

Famous Films Shot in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has been the location of choice for many renowned directors, thanks to its diverse architecture and vibrant neighborhoods. Its rich industrial past and cultural vibrancy provide a versatile backdrop, making it a favorite among filmmakers. Here’s a list of some of the most famous films shot in Pittsburgh:

1. “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012): The final installment of Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, this blockbuster featured several Pittsburgh landmarks, including the Heinz Field and the Mellon Institute.
2. “Flashdance” (1983): This iconic dance film featuring Jennifer Beals was predominantly shot in Pittsburgh, showcasing the city’s gritty industrial landscape.
3. “Groundhog Day” (1993): Though the story is set in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, many scenes from this classic Bill Murray film were shot in Pittsburgh.
4. “Silence of the Lambs” (1991): This Academy Award-winning thriller starring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins featured several scenes shot in and around Pittsburgh, including the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall.
5. “Fences” (2016): Directed by and starring Denzel Washington, this film was set in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, reflecting the city’s African-American culture and history.
6. “Adventureland” (2009): Set in the late 1980s, this coming-of-age dramedy starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart was filmed in Kennywood, a popular amusement park in Pittsburgh.
7. “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” (2015): This heartwarming film about high school and friendship was set and filmed in Pittsburgh, featuring various city locales.
8. “Jack Reacher” (2012): This action thriller starring Tom Cruise showcased several Pittsburgh landmarks, including the Fort Duquesne Bridge.
9. “Perks of Being a Wallflower” (2012): This coming-of-age drama, based on the novel of the same name, was set and shot in Pittsburgh, capturing the essence of the city.
10. “Zack and Miri Make a Porno” (2008): This romantic comedy directed by Kevin Smith was set in the Monroeville area of Pittsburgh.

TV Shows Set in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s charm is not limited to the big screen. It has also graced the small screen with several TV shows setting their stories against the city’s backdrop. Here are some popular TV shows set in Pittsburgh:

1. “This Is Us” (2016-present): This hit family drama series is primarily set in Pittsburgh, showcasing various aspects of the city throughout its storyline.
2. “Queer as Folk” (2000-2005): This groundbreaking series about the lives of a group of gay friends was set in Pittsburgh, though it was filmed in Toronto.
3. “Mindhunter” (2017-2019): This Netflix crime thriller was filmed in several Pittsburgh neighborhoods, offering a vintage, 1970s look at the city.
4. “Mr. Robot” (2015-2019): Several scenes from this critically acclaimed series were shot in Pittsburgh, including those featuring the fictional Steel Mountain data facility.
5. “Dance Moms” (2011-2019): This reality TV show about competitive dance and over-the-top moms was set in the Abby Lee Dance Company in Pittsburgh.

Animated Films Set in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s allure extends to the animated realm as well. Its vibrant culture and unique landscape serve as inspiration for animated films. Here are a few to note:

1. “Sita Sings the Blues” (2008): This critically acclaimed animated film by Nina Paley features a parallel narrative where one of the characters resides in Pittsburgh.
2. “The Mysteries of Pittsburgh” (2008): Though not entirely animated, this film based on Michael Chabon’s novel of the same name features several animated sequences set in Pittsburgh.
3. “John Henry” (2000): This Walt Disney’s animated short film, based on the African-American folk hero, features a steel-driving man reminiscent of Pittsburgh’s steel industry era.

Famous Books Set in Pittsburgh

Literature, too, draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Pittsburgh:

Classic Books:

1. “Out of This Furnace” by Thomas Bell: This novel offers an authentic depiction of Pittsburgh’s steel industry and the struggles of immigrant laborers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
2. “The Mysteries of Pittsburgh” by Michael Chabon: Chabon’s debut novel paints a vivid picture of Pittsburgh in the summer of 1983.
3. “An American Childhood” by Annie Dillard: This memoir provides a portrait of Pittsburgh in the 1950s, as seen through the eyes of a young girl growing up in the city.

Contemporary Books:

1. “Mystic River” by Dennis Lehane: Though not entirely set in Pittsburgh, this crime novel features a character who has a change of fortune in the city’s steel industry.
2. “The Memory Police” by Yoko Ogawa: This dystopian novel features a character who hides in a secret room filled with forbidden items, one of which is a Pittsburgh Pirates cap.
3. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky: This coming-of-age novel is set in a Pittsburgh suburb and captures the highs and lows of adolescence.

Exploring Pittsburgh Filming Locations – Where to Go

To truly immerse yourself in Pittsburgh’s cinematic history, there are several key locations you must visit. Here are some must-see spots:

1. The Mellon Institute: This iconic building was featured in “The Dark Knight Rises” as the exterior of Wayne Enterprises.
2. Kennywood Park: This historic amusement park was the main filming location for “Adventureland.”
3. Carnegie Mellon University: Several scenes from “Smart People” were filmed on this campus.
4. The Hill District: Explore the neighborhood featured prominently in “Fences,” offering a glimpse into Pittsburgh’s African-American history and culture.
5. Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall: This grand building served as the setting for the climactic scene in “The Silence of the Lambs.”
6. Heinz Field: Visit the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers, which became the fictional Gotham Rogues’ football field in “The Dark Knight Rises.”
7. Fort Pitt Museum: This historic site appeared in “Hoffa,” providing a backdrop for the film’s union scenes.
8. Braddock: The city of Braddock, just outside Pittsburgh, was used extensively in “Out of the Furnace.”
9. Monroeville Mall: This shopping mall is a must-visit for horror fans – it was the main filming location for George Romero’s “Dawn of the Dead.”
10. West End Overlook: Offering one of the best views of Pittsburgh’s skyline, this location was featured in “Jack Reacher.”

Where to Sleep in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury options:

Budget:

1. The Priory Hotel: A historic boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms at reasonable rates.
2. Hampton Inn Pittsburgh University/Medical Center: Affordable and well-located, this hotel offers easy access to various filming locations.
3. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pittsburgh North Shore: Located close to Heinz Field, this budget-friendly hotel is a great choice for film buffs.

Luxury:

1. Omni William Penn Hotel: An upscale hotel with a rich history, featured in several films, including “The Next Three Days.”
2. Fairmont Pittsburgh: Offers luxury accommodations with beautiful views of the city.
3. The Westin Pittsburgh: A contemporary hotel located in the city center, offering spacious rooms and excellent services.

Where to Eat in Pittsburgh

Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, Pittsburgh has a plethora of dining options. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury dining options:

Budget:

1. Primanti Bros: Known for their famous sandwiches stuffed with fries and coleslaw, this is a must-visit.
2. Pamela’s Diner: Famous for its pancakes, this diner is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
3. Church Brew Works: A unique restaurant located in a restored church, offering delicious food and house-brewed beers.

Luxury:

1. Monterey Bay Fish Grotto: Offers excellent seafood with stunning views of Pittsburgh’s skyline.
2. Altius: A fine dining restaurant located on Mount Washington, known for its contemporary American cuisine and beautiful city views.
3. Eleven: Located in the Strip District, this upscale restaurant offers a seasonal menu and an extensive wine list.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

Here is a suggested itinerary to explore Pittsburgh’s filming locations:

Day 1 – Downtown Pittsburgh:

Start your day downtown with a visit to the Mellon Institute, featured in “The Dark Knight Rises.” From there, head to the Omni William Penn Hotel, which has been a filming location for several movies. After lunch, visit Heinz Field, featured in the same film. Wrap up your day with dinner at the Monterey Bay Fish Grotto, offering stunning views of the city.

Day 2 – East of Pittsburgh:

Kick off your day with a trip to Kennywood Park, the primary filming location for “Adventureland.” After lunch at the park, head over to the Monroeville Mall, the main filming location for “Dawn of the Dead.” Round off the day with dinner at Primanti Bros, a Pittsburgh classic.

Day 3 – West and North of Pittsburgh:

Start your day at the West End Overlook, which offers one of the best views of Pittsburgh’s skyline and featured in “Jack Reacher.” Next, head north to visit the Carnegie Science Center, another filming location for “The Dark Knight Rises.” Finish your adventure with dinner at Eleven in the Strip District.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Every city has its urban legends and Pittsburgh is no different. The city has its own cryptid, the “Green Man,” or “Charlie No-Face.” This ghostly figure was often sighted along a stretch of road in South Pittsburgh. The Green Man was actually Raymond Robinson, a man who suffered severe injuries during a childhood accident that disfigured his face.

Another urban legend is the “Congelier House.” Located in the Manchester neighborhood of Pittsburgh, it was considered “the most haunted house in America.” Many ghostly sightings and strange occurrences have been reported, adding to the city’s cryptid legends.

Hidden Gems in Pittsburgh

While Pittsburgh’s famous landmarks often steal the show, the city is also home to several lesser-known places worth visiting. One of these is Randyland, a colorful public art installation created by local artist Randy Gilson. Another hidden gem is The Bayernhof Museum, which houses a unique collection of antique music machines.

What to Pack for a Trip to Pittsburgh

When packing for Pittsburgh, consider the city’s variable weather. For spring and summer, pack light clothing, a good hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. For autumn and winter, warm clothing and good boots are a must. Regardless of the season, always pack an umbrella or raincoat for unexpected showers, and don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Pittsburgh is fairly easy, thanks to its extensive public transportation system known as the Port Authority. Options include buses, light rail (known as the “T”), and the Monongahela Incline. For convenience, consider getting a ConnectCard for unlimited travel. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For those who prefer driving, car rental services are available, but keep in mind that Pittsburgh is known for its unique layout and numerous bridges.

Travel Documents Needed

For domestic travelers, a government-issued ID like a driver’s license is sufficient. For international travelers, a valid passport is necessary. As of October 1, 2021, if you’re flying within the United States, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID, like a valid passport.

In conclusion, Pittsburgh is more than just a former steel town; it’s a city with a vibrant culture, rich history, and a surprising connection to the world of cinema, TV, and literature. So, why not take a trip to the ‘Burgh? You never know—you just might walk in the footsteps of Batman, dance in the same spots as Jennifer Beals, or even find yourself standing in the locations of your favorite books and TV shows.