Philly is home to countless movie landmarks. There are plenty of locations around the city where you can recreate some classic cinema moments, and many of them are just a short walk away. So hit up some movie–watching buddies or your friends from out of town who are dying to see Philly, and head to these sites from your favorite films. After all, with awards season coming up, there's no time like the present to make some movie magic.
The Rocky Steps—Rocky (1976)
What movie–related Philly roundup would be complete without a mention of the Rocky Steps? Head on over to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, blast “Gonna Fly Now” on your phone, run (or walk) up those stairs, and pump your fists in victory. Don’t pass up this opportunity to get a great photo for the ‘gram and get your steps in. Sylvester Stallone would be proud.
Llanerch Diner—Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
In need of a fun date idea? Hit up Llanerch Diner—the scene of Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper’s first date in Silver Linings Playbook—for a hot cup of coffee and some classic diner food. The scene features some of Lawrence's best acting in the movie, which won her an Oscar back in 2013. Fingers crossed that your date doesn’t end with one of you knocking the dishes off of your table, J–Law style.
The Philadelphia Zoo and 30th Street Station—Split (2016)
This one's for all of the psychological thriller/horror fans out there. Director M. Night Shyamalan is known for shooting his movies in and around Philadelphia, so most of his movies are perfect for this list. Stop by the Philadelphia Zoo and see Kevin Wendell Crumb’s place of work before heading over to the concourse of 30th Street Station. There you can buy a nice bouquet of flowers like Dennis, one of Kevin’s alternate personalities, does in Split.
Independence Hall, The Franklin Institute, and Reading Terminal Market—National Treasure (2004)
These three locations featured in National Treasure offer a cinematic trip down memory lane and a history lesson in one fell swoop. Get together with your friends and walk the same path that Benjamin Franklin Gates (Nicolas Cage) did as he decoded the Declaration of Independence on his search for the greatest treasure in the world.
A whole bunch of places—The Sixth Sense (1999)
You may not be able to see dead people, but you can definitely see several locations from M. Night Shyamalan’s The Sixth Sense here in Philly. You can snap a photo in St. Augustine Church, check out the exterior for Malcolm Crowe’s home at 20th and Delancey streets, stop by Cole’s house at 2302 St. Alban’s Place, or visit the location of the film's famous car scene as you drive down 21st and Christian streets.
