**Top 5 Cities to Film in Pennsylvania**
Pennsylvania is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It offers filmmakers a wide variety of locations, from bustling cities to peaceful countryside. The state’s diverse landscape makes it a popular destination for filmmakers from all over the world. In this article, we’ll explore the top five cities to film in Pennsylvania. Movieinsure.com is a proud provider of short term film production insurance and annual film production insurance for the state of Pennsylvania. Each of these cities has its own unique charm and has been featured in various films and TV shows.
1. **Philadelphia**
Philadelphia is one of the most iconic cities in the United States, and it’s no surprise that it’s a top filming location in Pennsylvania. Known as the “City of Brotherly Love,” Philadelphia is full of history, making it the perfect backdrop for films that require a mix of old and new. The city’s historic landmarks, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, have been featured in many films. These sites give films a sense of history and importance.
One of the most famous movie scenes ever filmed in Philadelphia is from *Rocky*. The steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, often called the “Rocky Steps,” are known worldwide. In fact, many tourists visit just to run up the stairs, just like Rocky Balboa did in the movie. Philadelphia’s urban environment, with its mix of modern and historic architecture, makes it a great choice for action movies, dramas, and historical films.
Many movies have been filmed in Philadelphia, including *The Sixth Sense*, *Silver Linings Playbook*, and *Creed*. The city’s vibrant streets, parks, and neighborhoods offer filmmakers a variety of settings, making it one of the top cities to film in Pennsylvania.
2. **Pittsburgh**
Pittsburgh, often called “The Steel City,” is another top filming location in Pennsylvania. The city is known for its beautiful skyline, which is framed by the meeting of three rivers: the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers. This unique setting provides a dramatic backdrop for films. Pittsburgh’s mix of industrial and modern architecture has made it a popular choice for action films and thrillers.
One of the most famous movies filmed in Pittsburgh is *The Dark Knight Rises*. The city’s streets and bridges were transformed into Gotham City, creating an exciting urban landscape for the movie’s action scenes. In addition, Pittsburgh’s many tunnels and rivers provide filmmakers with a variety of interesting locations.
Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods also offer diverse settings. From the historic architecture of the Mexican War Streets to the trendy vibe of Lawrenceville, there’s something for every type of film. Other movies filmed in Pittsburgh include *Flashdance*, *Jack Reacher*, and *A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood*. Whether you’re filming a gritty action film or a heartwarming drama, Pittsburgh has the locations to make it happen.
3. **Harrisburg**
Harrisburg, the capital of Pennsylvania, is a smaller city, but it’s packed with character. The city is located on the banks of the Susquehanna River, offering stunning river views and peaceful landscapes. Harrisburg’s historic downtown area features beautiful old buildings, including the Pennsylvania State Capitol. The Capitol building, with its grand dome and intricate design, has been featured in several films and adds a sense of gravitas to any scene.
Harrisburg is perfect for filmmakers who need a quieter, more laid-back city setting. The city’s parks, such as Riverfront Park, offer green spaces and scenic views, making them ideal for outdoor scenes. Harrisburg’s mix of urban and natural settings provides filmmakers with plenty of options.
In addition to its urban areas, Harrisburg is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including farmland and rolling hills. This makes it easy for filmmakers to switch between city scenes and rural landscapes without having to travel far. Harrisburg may not be as large as Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, but its charm and variety make it a great place to film in Pennsylvania.
4. **Scranton**
Scranton is a city in northeastern Pennsylvania that has gained fame as the setting of the popular TV show *The Office*. Though the show was not filmed in Scranton, it helped put the city on the map. Scranton’s small-town feel, combined with its industrial history, makes it an interesting filming location. The city is known for its historic buildings, such as the Steamtown National Historic Site, which showcases Scranton’s history as a railroad town.
Scranton’s unique blend of history and small-town charm makes it perfect for films that need a more intimate, less crowded setting. The city’s old factories, rail yards, and historic downtown provide a variety of interesting locations for filmmakers. Scranton’s proximity to the Pocono Mountains also means that filmmakers have access to beautiful natural scenery, just a short drive away.
While Scranton hasn’t been featured in as many films as some of Pennsylvania’s larger cities, it has a lot of potential for filmmakers looking for a different kind of setting. The city’s industrial past and friendly atmosphere make it a hidden gem for film productions.
5. **Lancaster**
Lancaster is located in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Amish Country, and it’s known for its beautiful farmland and peaceful surroundings. The city itself is small, but it offers a unique combination of urban and rural settings. Lancaster’s downtown area features historic buildings, cozy shops, and restaurants, while just outside the city, you’ll find rolling fields and traditional Amish farms.
Lancaster’s rural landscape has been featured in several films, including *Witness*, a thriller that starred Harrison Ford and highlighted the Amish way of life. The area’s quiet, serene environment makes it perfect for films that need a calm, pastoral setting. Filmmakers can capture the beauty of Pennsylvania’s countryside while also taking advantage of Lancaster’s historic urban charm.
In addition to its natural beauty, Lancaster is known for its arts and culture scene. The city hosts several film festivals, making it a welcoming place for filmmakers. Lancaster’s mix of history, culture, and countryside offers a wide range of possibilities for film productions.
Why Pennsylvania is a Great Place to Film
Pennsylvania’s cities offer a fantastic range of settings for filmmakers. From the historic streets of Philadelphia to the peaceful farmland of Lancaster, the state has something for every type of film. In addition to its diverse landscapes, Pennsylvania offers tax incentives for filmmakers, making it an affordable place to shoot. The state also has a supportive film office that helps filmmakers with everything from permits to location scouting.
Pennsylvania’s central location on the East Coast makes it easy to access from other major cities, like New York and Washington, D.C. This makes Pennsylvania a convenient place for film crews to travel to and from.
Pennsylvania is a top destination for filmmakers, thanks to its diverse cities and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re looking for the historic charm of Philadelphia, the urban energy of Pittsburgh, or the peaceful countryside of Lancaster, Pennsylvania has the perfect location for your next film project. With its film-friendly policies and welcoming communities, Pennsylvania is ready to help bring your story to life on the big screen.
