Where was Rushmore filmed?

Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman) is a 15-year-old attending the prestigious Rushmore Academy. He is a unique character with an eccentric personality, more devoted to his numerous extracurricular activities than his regular schoolwork. This devotion leads him into conflict with the academy's headmaster, Dr. Guggenheim, who places him on "sudden death academic probation."

One of the most iconic locations in the film is the 'Rushmore Academy,' which is actually St John’s School, located at 2401 Claremont Lane, north of Westheimer Road. Interestingly, this was director Wes Anderson's own school. The school was founded in 1946, and its 41-acre grounds span the Upper Kirby district and the residential neighborhood of River Oaks in Houston.

Several scenes in the movie were filmed on these grounds, including the circle driveway and the North Campus's Quadrangle, the Upper School library, and the chapel service at the Church of St. John the Divine. Anderson even used several students and alumni as extras in the film, adding an authentic touch to the scenes.

To reach St John’s School, you would need to head west from downtown Houston. Depending on your starting location, you might take Interstate 69, exiting onto Kirby Drive. From there, head north until you reach Westheimer Road, then turn west until you reach Claremont Lane.

Max (Jason Schwartzman) and Herman Blume (Bill Murray) cross paths for the first time at a chapel

assembly. Herman Blume is a local industrialist who delivers a short but impactful speech; his words resonate with Max, especially when he says that the rich kids "can't buy backbone." Despite his wealth, Blume is painted as a disillusioned man, yet he is intrigued by Max's enthusiasm and confidence.

This memorable scene was filmed at The Church of St. John the Divine in Houston. Founded in 1939, this vibrant congregation is dedicated to "Changing Lives for God in Christ". The church's interior is a perfect backdrop for the assembly scene, adding grandeur and authenticity to the setting.

Today, the church remains precisely as it appeared in the film and is open to everyone. If you want to visit this filming location, the Church of St. John the Divine is situated 2450 River Oaks Blvd, Houston. There are two ways to reach it from downtown Houston. Fans can take the bus #82 from the stop at Milam St and get off at the stop on Westheimer Rd @ River Oaks Blvd. Alternatively, there is also a taxi option available, which would take around 10 minutes to reach from downtown Houston.

Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman) visits his father, Bert (Seymour Cassel), at his workplace, a barber shop. Bert, a blue-collar barber and a loving, wise father to his only child, tries to lighten the mood by pointing out that Max "almost got an A". Despite this, Max appears saddened by his academic performance.

This scene was filmed at Doug and Don’s Barber Shop at 219 East Eleventh Street at Harvard Street. This barbershop is in Houston Heights and has been a community staple for over 13 years. Known for its experienced barbers and its heavily decorated walls filled with Americana, the shop exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It's nestled among the Houston Heights lofts, adding to its charm. Even today, the barbershop remains open and retains much of its appearance from the film, making it a must-visit spot for fans of Rushmore.

To reach this location from downtown Houston, take Interstate 10 West. The journey by car or taxi typically takes around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the public bus, which will arrive in approximately 40 minutes.

After a long day at work, they return to their modest home, situated alongside a cemetery. Here, Bert (Seymour Cassel) reassures Max (Jason Schwartzman) about his school grades, telling him not to worry. This scene is crucial as it offers insight into their relationship and establishes a tender connection between the two characters.

This scene was filmed at a house located at 108 Emerald Court in the Northside Village area, north of Houston. Nestled on a quiet street, this quaint residence served as the backdrop for Max and Bert's home. Since filming Rushmore, the house has been spruced up quite a bit, and its exterior looks to be remodeled.

Fans of the film should note that while the house is open for visitors, it's important not to disturb its residents. Despite the changes, the nearby area retains some of the movie's atmosphere, making it a worthwhile visit for those looking to relive moments from the film.

To reach this location from downtown Houston, take Interstate 45 North towards Dallas. Exit at Quitman Street/Liberty Road and turn left onto Quitman Street. Continue until you reach Fulton Street and turn right. Proceed on Fulton Street until you reach Emerald Court and turn left and the house will be on your right. Please remember to respect the privacy of the current residents when visiting.

Blume (Bill Murray) confesses his love for Ms. Cross (Olivia Williams) to Max (Jason Schwartzman). Despite their attempts to spare Max's feelings, Max retaliates by revealing Blume's affair to Mrs. Blume (Kim Terry), leading to a divorce and causing Blume to reside in a hotel. In an act of revenge, Max infiltrates Blume's hotel suite disguised as a waiter and unleashes a swarm of bees.

This scene was filmed at what was once the classy Warwick Hotel, now known as Hotel ZaZa Houston, located at 5701 Main Street in Houston's Museum District. Hotel ZaZa Houston, a boutique hotel in the city center, offers business and leisure travelers a sensory feast. Nestled between the renowned Texas Medical Center and the bustling downtown area, it features luxurious rooms and suites, including concept suites, pool villas, and the magnificent seven suites. It's a haven of luxury with award-winning dining at Monarch Bistro and an onsite spa.

To reach Hotel ZaZa from downtown Houston, head south on Fannin Street, then turn right onto Bissonnet Street. After a short distance, turn left onto Main Street, and the hotel will be on your right. Moreover, it is conveniently located near the city center, allowing fans to reach it on foot easily.

Max (Jason Schwartzman) takes to the skies with Dirk (Mason Gamble) as they soar on a kite. During their adventure, they cross paths with Margaret Yang (Sara Tanaka), who confronts Max about his unkind behavior towards her. As a symbol of her independent nature, Margaret then takes flight with her remote control airplane.

The scene was shot in the parking lot of Delmar Stadium, located in Houston's northwest region. Built in 1959, the stadium is mainly utilized for American football matches of schools within the Houston Independent School District. In 2008, it temporarily became the home field for the Texas Southern University Tigers football team in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. Although the parking lot's appearance might have evolved over time, it remains a thrilling spot to explore and pinpoint the precise filming location.

To reach Delmar Stadium from downtown Houston by car, head west on I-10 W. If you're taking public transportation, catch bus 85 from Travis St @ Congress St heading towards Antoine TC. Get off at Antoine Dr @ Hempstead Rd, then walk for about 10 minutes to the stadium.