Where Was Ferris Bueller Filmed?

Iconic Movie Locations from Chicago and Beyond

The beloved 1986 film "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" is a classic for a reason. Its hilarious antics, memorable characters, and stunning cinematography have made it a timeless favorite. But where was this iconic movie actually filmed? Here's a comprehensive guide to the real-life locations that brought Ferris Bueller's epic adventure to life:

1. Glenbrook North High School (Exterior)

• Location: Glenview, Illinois
• Scenes: Exterior shots of Ferris's high school

The real-life Glenbrook North High School doubled as Ferris's high school, providing the backdrop for the iconic scenes where he and his friends ditch class and embark on their adventure.

2. Art Institute of Chicago (Museum)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Museum scenes, including the famous "We're not worthy" scene

The Art Institute of Chicago served as the setting for one of the film's most memorable moments when Ferris and his friends experience the euphoria of high art.

3. Wrigley Field (Ballpark)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Crowd scenes, including the infamous "Save Ferris" chant

Wrigley Field, the beloved home of the Chicago Cubs, provided the backdrop for the iconic scenes where Ferris and his friends rally a crowd to cheer for Cameron.

4. Von Steuben Metropolitan Science Center (Library)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Library scenes, including the memorable "Twist and Shout" dance

The Von Steuben Metropolitan Science Center, now known as the Chicago Children's Museum, transformed into Ferris's high school library, where he and Sloane dance and defy authority.

5. Sears Tower (Observation Deck)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Observation deck scenes, including the stunning panoramic views of the city

The iconic Sears Tower (now known as the Willis Tower) provided the perfect backdrop for the breathtaking observation deck scenes that showcase the beauty of Chicago.

6. The Drake Hotel (Rooftop)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Rooftop scenes, including the infamous "Danger Zone" scene

The Drake Hotel's rooftop terrace was the setting for the unforgettable "Danger Zone" scene where Ferris orchestrates a scene from "Risky Business."

7. Lake Forest High School (Interiors)

• Location: Lake Forest, Illinois
• Scenes: Interior shots of Ferris's high school

While Glenbrook North High School served as the exterior of Ferris's school, the interiors were actually filmed at Lake Forest High School, adding to the authenticity of the setting.

8. John Hughes Home (Glencoe)

• Location: Glencoe, Illinois
• Scenes: Exterior shots of Ferris's house

The real-life home of the film's director, John Hughes, was used for the exterior shots of Ferris's luxurious mansion, adding a touch of realism to the character's opulent lifestyle.

9. St. Joseph Hospital (Exterior)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Exterior shots of Cameron's home

The exterior shots of Cameron's home were actually filmed at St. Joseph Hospital, lending a sense of urgency and reality to the scenes where Ferris helps his friend through a mental health crisis.

10. Lincoln Park Zoo (Exteriors)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Zoo scenes, including the famous "German Day" celebration

The historic Lincoln Park Zoo provided the setting for the hilarious "German Day" scenes where Ferris and his friends engage in wild antics and embrace the festive atmosphere.

Beyond Chicago: Bueller's Road Trip

Ferris Bueller's adventure extended beyond the confines of Chicago. The film also featured several iconic locations outside the Windy City:

1. Shedd Aquarium (Chicago)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Underwater scenes, including the famous shark interaction

The Shedd Aquarium served as the setting for the thrilling underwater scenes where Ferris and Cameron encounter a great white shark, adding a touch of excitement and adventure to their day off.

2. Lincoln Park Conservatory (Chicago)

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Scenes: Greenhouse scenes, including the memorable "Michelle Pfeiffer" scene

The Lincoln Park Conservatory provided the lush backdrop for the romantic greenhouse scenes where Ferris and Sloane share a tender moment, showcasing the diversity of Chicago's natural beauty.

3. Glencoe Golf Club (Glencoe)

• Location: Glencoe, Illinois
• Scenes: Golf course scenes, including the infamous "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" cameo

The Glencoe Golf Club doubled as the exclusive country club where Ferris and his friends play a round of golf, adding a touch of sophistication and luxury to their adventure.

4. Parade Ground at Arlington National Cemetery (Arlington, VA)

• Location: Arlington, Virginia
• Scenes: Parade scenes, including the iconic "Stand and Deliver" speech

The Parade Ground at Arlington National Cemetery served as the backdrop for the powerful "Stand and Deliver" speech where Ferris defies authority and inspires his classmates, offering a poignant and memorable moment in the film.

5. Ferris's Bedroom (Glencoe)

• Location: Glencoe, Illinois
• Scenes: Bedroom scenes, including the infamous "Red Square" and "Bueller" pranks

The real-life bedroom of the actor who played Ferris, Matthew Broderick, was used for the bedroom scenes, providing an intimate glimpse into the character's personal space.

6. Sarah Jessica Parker's Apartment (Manhattan)

• Location: Manhattan, New York
• Scenes: Apartment scenes, including the memorable "Try a Little Tenderness" scene

Sarah Jessica Parker's real-life apartment in Manhattan was used for the apartment scenes where Ferris and Jeanie dance and share a romantic moment, adding a touch of glamour and charm to their day off.

Additional Trivia and Behind-the-Scenes Facts

• The film's budget was $6 million.
• The film grossed over $70 million at the box office.
• The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay.
• The film's soundtrack features iconic songs from the 1980s, including "Twist and Shout" and "Danke Schoen."
• The film has been parodied and referenced in numerous popular culture works, including "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy."

Conclusion

From the iconic Glenbrook North High School to the breathtaking Sears Tower observation deck, the locations of "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" have become synonymous with the film's charm and enduring appeal. By visiting these real-life settings, fans can immerse themselves in the world of Ferris Bueller and relive the hilarious and heartwarming moments that have made this classic film a timeless favorite.

Tables

Table 1: Filming Locations in Chicago

Table 2: Filming Locations Outside Chicago

Table 3: Key Characters

Table 4: Awards and Honors

FAQs

1. Where is the Ferris Bueller house located? Glencoe, Illinois.
2. What high school did they use in Ferris Bueller's Day Off? Glenbrook North High School.
3. What museum did they film Ferris Bueller's Day Off? Art Institute of Chicago.
4. What city is Ferris Bueller's Day Off set in? Chicago, Illinois.
5. What was the name of Ferris Bueller's best friend? Cameron Frye.
6. Who played Ferris Bueller? Matthew Broderick.
7. What was the name of the girl Ferris Bueller had a crush on? Sloane Peterson.
8. What was the name of the principal in Ferris Bueller's Day Off? Ed Rooney.