Where was A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood filmed?
2019
City Locations
Pittsburgh, PA; New York City, NY (USA)
Location Types
Apartment, Restaurant, Recording Studio
Location Styles
Building Dated/Retro, Craftsman, Georgian/Southern, Modern Building
About A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Take a journey into the life of television icon Fred Rogers in the heartwarming biographical drama film A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. Directed by the talented Marielle Heller and skilfully written by Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster, this 2019 film is sure to move you in unexpected ways. The film boasts an outstanding ensemble cast that includes Tom Hanks, Susan Kelechi Watson, Matthew Rhys, and Chris Cooper. Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys) is a disturbed journalist who takes on the assignment of writing a biography of the legendary television show Fred Rogers (Tom Hanks). Rogers' charming nature teaches Vogel priceless lessons about compassion and forgiveness despite his first doubts. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood has earned a lot of appreciation for its emotional themes and its actors' exceptional performances, particularly Hanks and Rhys'. Time magazine ranked it among the top 10 films of the year, demonstrating its creative and cultural value. Notable award programs also praised the film for its brilliant storytelling. Emmys, Golden Globes, Critics' Choice, Screen Actors Guild, and British Academy Film Awards were among the many organizations that nominated the legendary Tom Hanks for Best Supporting Actor. Nominations for the picture also came in at the Critics' Choice, Satellite, and BAFTA awards shows. Furthermore, the film received a 95% approval rating on the Rotten Tomatoes review website. Based on 372 reviews, the average rating is 8 out of 10.
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Locations
Explore the picturesque western Pennsylvania locations that served as the backdrop for the classic film A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and immerse yourself in the film's inviting world. Shot primarily over famous Pittsburgh landmarks, the film presents a range of locations. Be enchanted by the magnificent scenes shot in Lawrenceville’s Allegheny Cemetery, a site of historical importance and outstanding beauty, or peruse the picturesque suburban locale of Mt. Lebanon, where the fictional New York apartment of Mr. Rogers was duplicated. Mr. Rogers often hangs out in the diverse and active Squirrel Hill area, where you can find the Greater Pittsburgh Jewish Community Center. Explore the renovated WQED Studios in Oakland, where the first-ever "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" broadcast in 1968 using set designs curated by the show's creators. Picture yourself whisked away to the 31st Street Studios for a filming scene, similar to Rogers' appearances on "The Arsenio Hall Show" and "Oprah." By simulating New York City in Pittsburgh's Golden Triangle area, a fascinating "cityscape within a city" came to light. Pittsburgh provides a real-life backdrop for the film and leaves a lasting impression on visitors with its world-renowned sites, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant neighborhoods This excursion is a must-see for fans of A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and anybody curious about Mr. Rogers' legacy. Explore Pittsburgh's rich history, exciting culture, and welcoming personality while delving further into Fred Rogers's profound influence.
Fun Fact
During the dinner scene, there was a moment of silence to remember Fred Rogers' memory and all of his former coworkers on his show.
The picture of Lloyd Vogel scene in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
WQED Studio, 4802 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA
Warmly greeting the crowd, Fred Rogers (Tom Hanks) sings the timeless song "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood." Finally, he shows us a picture of Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys) after introducing us to his friends through images. According to Rogers, Lloyd is dealing with rage and has to learn forgiveness; the photo shows him distraught and with a bloody nose. This scene was filmed in the original studio where the Mr. Rogers show was shot. Located in Oakland, Pittsburgh, the WQED studio has a rich history as the first community-sponsored television station in the U.S., established on April 1, 1954. This is also where nearly 900 episodes of the educational children's television series were recorded. Getting to this location is straightforward. The WQED studio is situated at 4802 Fifth Avenue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. From the city center, it's a 10-minute drive via Bigelow Blvd. Although the studio is still operational and interiors are off-limits to fans, its exterior offers a glimpse into the setting where the magic of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood unfolded.
The meeting scene in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Hudson Theatre, 141 W 44th St, New York, NY
Mister Rogers (Tom Hanks) converses with a couple of fans. Shortly after this interaction, Mr. Rogers finds himself in New York and invites Lloyd (Matthew Rhys) to spend the entire day with him. During this encounter, Lloyd encounters Mrs. Joanne Rogers (Maryann Plunkett), who assures him that her husband, Mr. Rogers, has no ulterior motives. This memorable encounter occurs at the historic Hudson Theatre, a Broadway theater on 139–141 West 44th Street. Since its grand opening in 1903, the Hudson has been an esteemed theatrical venue. Over the years, it has also served multiple roles as a network radio and television studio, a nightclub, a movie theater, and a corporate event space. The Hudson's exterior showcases the remarkable design work of J. B. McElfatrick & Son, while the interior was meticulously completed under the supervision of Israels & Harder. Both the indoor and outdoor spaces of the Hudson are recognized as New York City landmarks, and it holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The theater initially operated under the stewardship of Henry B. Harris, whose life was sadly cut short in the 1912 Titanic disaster. In the following years, the Hudson served as a network radio studio for CBS from 1934 to 1937 and functioned as an NBC television studio between 1949 and 1960. This iconic location is easily accessible via public transportation or a quick taxi ride from most parts of the city. From City Hall Park, it's a quick 16-minute journey via Hudson St and 8th Ave by car. If you prefer public transportation, the metro or bus ride would take approximately 20 minutes.
Mr. Roger's apartment scene in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Shady Dr E, Mt Lebanon, PA
Within the confines of Mr. Rogers' (Tom Hanks) apartment, Lloyd (Matthew Rhys) persists in probing him with challenging questions, aiming to uncover his hidden depths. However, Mr. Rogers skillfully diverts the conversation, bringing out his puppets. In this unexpected turn of events, Lloyd's childhood is revealed instead – the premature loss of his mother and his cherished toy, "Old Rabbit." Mr. Rogers's apartment scene was filmed at an apartment along Shady Drive East in Mt. Lebanon, which stood in for Mr. Rogers' former New York residence. It's worth noting that a tragic incident occurred during the filming at this location: a crew member fell from a second-floor balcony due to a medical emergency and subsequently passed away. While the house's exact location remains undisclosed, fans can still glimpse the exterior by taking a leisurely stroll down Shady Drive East. Please remember that the house is now privately owned, so respect for the occupants' privacy is essential. For those interested in visiting Mt. Lebanon, it's a suburb nestled just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. You can easily get there by using public transit or driving. If you're coming from Pittsburgh, it's a mere 15-minute car ride via W Liberty Ave. However, the journey may take up to 30 minutes if you prefer the bus. Though you won't be able to tour the interiors, the nostalgia evoked by seeing the exterior of this iconic filming location is a unique experience for movie fans.
Fred goes for a swim scene in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh, 5738 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA
There's a memorable scene where Fred (Tom Hanks) goes for his routine swim. This simple act of self-care is one of the many ways Rogers endeared himself to audiences, portraying his commitment to health and well-being. This particular scene was filmed at the local community center, where Rogers was known to work out regularly. The center is conveniently located a few blocks away from his home. As one of the region's most prominent social service, recreational, and educational organizations, the community center has been enhancing the community's vitality for more than 128 years. Rooted in Jewish values, the center promotes individuals' and families' physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being. If you're interested in visiting this historical location, contacting the administration in advance is essential. The center is in Pittsburgh and easily accessible via public transportation or by car from downtown Pittsburgh. From Mr. Roger's apartment, it's a 20-minute drive via I-376 E.
The moment of silence scene in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Mandarin Gourmet, 305 Wood St, Pittsburgh, PA
Fred Rogers (Tom Hanks) invites Lloyd (Matthew Rhys) to lunch. In their conversation, Rogers prompts Lloyd to take a silent moment to remember all those who have "loved him into being," a moment that extends beyond the screen to the audience as well. This impactful scene was filmed at the Mandarin Gourmet in Pittsburgh. Mandarin Gourmet, a staple of Wood Street in Downtown Pittsburgh, served Chinese food for over 40 years and was located on the first floor of the YWCA building. The restaurant was a favorite among Point Park University students due to its proximity – less than a block from the campus – and its generous servings of traditional Chinese-American dishes. Unfortunately, Mandarin Gourmet has since closed its doors. Fans can only appreciate the outside of what was once a bustling dining spot. It's in the heart of the city, just a 10-minute stroll from Mellon Green Park or a quick 5-minute walk from Market Square.
Conclusion
Generations of kids and grownups alike have been touched by Fred Rogers's A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. A touching story about the transformative power of vulnerability and kindness is deftly woven throughout the film's nostalgic undercurrents. Tom Hanks' performance as Rogers is superb; he perfectly captures this adored character's friendliness, warmth, and profundity. His ability to portray such a well-known figure with genuineness and warmth makes this film stand out. Viewers are treated to a visual feast as the film highlights a range of Pittsburgh filming locations. The film takes viewers to various places, including Lawrenceville's ancient and beautiful Allegheny Cemetery and the charming suburban background of Mt. Lebanon, the scene of Mr. Rogers' made-up New York apartment. Written by Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster, the narrative deftly blends real-life occurrences with fictional touches. An overwhelming feeling of comfort and familiarity is generated by the painstaking effort put into restoring the aesthetic of the original program. Viewers of A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood are left deeply contemplating the importance of kindness, relationships, and emotional development. This story shows how important it is to listen to and learn from everyone, even the plain old people we would pass by. Additionally, fans should visit these filming places because they contribute to the cinematic adventure, which enhances the film.