Where was School Ties filmed?

The opening scene is a symbolic journey that introduces the character of David Greene (Brendan Fraser). A working-class Jewish teenager from Scranton, David embarks on a drive through his city, leading him to a diner where he meets his friends before going to St. Matthew's.

Main Street in Northampton, Pennsylvania, a location rich in history and charm, was the backdrop for the opening scene. Landmarks like the Mobile Station, Chip's Diner, and the Roxy Theatre are prominently featured, adding to the scene's authenticity. The Roxy Theatre opened in 1921 and is particularly noteworthy as it continues to operate as the only commercial theatre in Northampton, allowing film fans to visit and experience a piece of cinema history.

Main Street in Northampton offers a unique blend of architectural styles dominated by 19th-century buildings that coexist harmoniously with modern boutiques, galleries, coffee houses, and restaurants. This eclectic mix creates a visually intriguing environment that invites exploration and interaction. Public and civic structures are placed strategically in visually prominent locations, dominating the skyline due to zoning restrictions prohibiting taller structures.

The town is approximately 66.5 miles north of Philadelphia and reachable via Interstate 476. Once in Northampton, Main Street and its featured landmarks, including the Roxy Theatre, are easily accessible on foot, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the ambiance of this historic location.

David (Brendan Fraser) meets the other influential figures on campus - Jack Connors (Cole Hauser), Charlie Dillon (Matt Damon), Rip Van Kelt (Randall Batinkoff), and his roommate Chris Reece (Chris O'Donnell). The conversation that ensues exposes their anti-Semitic sentiments as they discuss McGivern's (Andrew Lowrey) new hi-fi, which he "Jewed down" from forty to thirty dollars. This interaction is a potent revelation of the prejudice David will face at the school.

The Middlesex School in Concord, MA, was the backdrop for the campus scene. Middlesex School, founded in 1901 by Frederick Winsor, an alumnus of Roxbury Latin School, is an independent secondary institution that provides coeducational, non-sectarian day and boarding school facilities for grades 9-12. Initially established as an all-boys institution, it welcomed female students in 1974. The school is a member of the Independent School League and included in the five schools group commonly referred to as St. Grottlesex.

The Olmsted Brothers architectural firm designed the picturesque campus, while Peabody and Stearns designed the main buildings. This location provides a quintessential backdrop for the traditional American education depicted in the film.

Visitors wishing to explore this iconic filming location can reach Concord, Massachusetts, via car or public transit. Concord is about 20 miles west of Boston and accessible via MA-2 W. The school offers in-person tours. However, contact the administration beforehand for further assistance to ensure a smooth visit.

David (Brendan Frasier) embarks on his first date with Sally Wheeler (Amy Locaine). During their intimate conversation, Sally acknowledges that David stands apart from the other boys she's acquainted with — most of whom come from wealth. She candidly admits to him that her interest is piqued by his intriguing nature, setting him apart from the rest.

This memorable encounter happens at “Skip’s Diner,” filmed at The Blue Bird diner in Gardner, MA. Its 1949 construction is meticulously maintained and a specimen of a late-era barrel-roofed eatery renowned Worcester Lunch Car Company produced. Since 1954, it has remained in its present location and earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

The main entrance of the diner, one of its original entrances, can be found at the western end facing the street, protected under a canopy. The exterior boasts porcelain enamel panels with integrated polychrome graphics, while the entry doors feature a stainless steel construction. One can find a marble counter, fourteen counter stools, and booths lining the southern wall.

To reach The Blue Bird diner from Boston, take MA-2 W and exit 86 from MA-2 W towards Gardner. It's approximately a 66-mile journey by car. It is also near Middlesex School, only 40 minutes by car.

David (Brendan Fraser) receives an invitation to a celebratory dinner at a private club. He gets acquainted with the crème de la crème, including the families of Dillon (Matt Damon) and Sally (Amy Locaine). However, the evening takes a turn when Charlie grows envious as David asks Sally for a dance. Later, at the bar, Charlie uncovers David's Jewish heritage.

The prestigious Lanam Club in Andover, MA, was the backdrop for this scene. Known for its exceptional services and high-profile events, this private social and business club is the backdrop for the celebratory dinner hosted by “Grayson Dillon.”

Established in 1957, the Lanam Club is a premier business and social club North of Boston. Its exquisite gardens and elegant interiors make it an ideal venue for members and guests to celebrate holidays, weddings, intimate dinners, and other special occasions.

A car journey via I-93 N typically takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Haverhill Line train, which usually takes about an hour.

David (Brendan Fraser) proceeds to Bartram's (Peter Donat) office, admitting he was responsible for the cheating. He doesn't know that Van Kelt (Randall Batinkoff) has already informed the headmaster that Dillon (Matt Damon) was the offender. Bartram informs David and Van Kelt that they ought to have reported the wrongdoing, but he forgives both of them.

The headmaster's office scene was filmed at Saint Mark's School in Southborough, Massachusetts, adding authenticity to the setting of the prestigious prep school depicted in the movie. Founded in 1865 by Joseph Burnett as an all-boys school, St. Mark's began admitting girls in 1978 and is a member of the Independent School League.

St. Mark's School offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, which makes it a fascinating location to visit. While it operates as a residential high school during the academic year, visitors are welcome to tour the campus outside of these times. They are encouraged to put on their "camp goggles" to envision the space in a different light, getting a feel for the St. Mark's campus and its potential as a summer camp location.

If you're coming from Boston, St. Mark's School is approximately 30 miles away via I-90 W, a journey you can comfortably make by car. Alternatively, public transportation options are available, including trains and buses. However, these routes may require several transfers and could take roughly two hours to reach the destination.