Pittsburgh: Tour The Silence of the Lambs Film Location

Exploring Buffalo Bill’s House: A Deep Dive into the “Silence of the Lambs” Tour

If you’re a fan of classic films and love a bit of creepy Hollywood history, the Pittsburgh tour of Buffalo Bill’s house could be just the ticket. This isn’t your typical sightseeing experience; it’s an up-close look at one of the most iconic movie locations from The Silence of the Lambs. For around $88, you get a two-hour guided journey through the actual house where some of the film’s most memorable scenes were shot.

What I really like about this tour is how detailed it is. You’re not just standing outside and taking a quick peek—you’re getting the inside scoop on film secrets, stories that haven’t been widely shared before, and even the chance to dress up as Clarice with some fun cosplay gear. Plus, the house remains remarkably unchanged since filming, so it feels like stepping back into the movie. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for very young children or wheelchair users, so it’s best for older kids and adults who appreciate the film.

If you’re a true film enthusiast, a pop culture lover, or just someone curious about how movies are made, this tour is likely to appeal. It’s also a solid option if you enjoy interactive, photo-friendly experiences. On the flip side, if you’re after a more traditional historical house tour or a casual sightseeing walk, this might feel a bit niche. But for those who are into The Silence of the Lambs, it’s a memorable dive into movie magic.

Key Points

• Authentic filming location: House still features the attributes seen in the movie.
• Interactive elements: Recreate scenes, cosplay, and take fun photos.
• Behind-the-scenes stories: Learn film secrets most fans don’t know.
• Historical context: Get insights into the Victorian home’s history, dating back to the late 1800s.
• Engaging experience: Perfect for film buffs and pop culture fans.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for young children or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The tour begins at the front porch of Buffalo Bill’s house—no secret knock or doorbell needed. Your guide will meet you there, ready to share stories and lead you inside. Once you step onto the property, you immediately feel like you’re part of a movie set. The house is a well-preserved Victorian structure from the late 1800s, and many of its original features remain intact, offering a tangible connection to the film’s filming process.

Inside, you’ll visit key scenes such as the foyer, where Buffalo Bill lures Clarice, and the dining room, where the iconic interactions between Clarice and Jame Gumb unfold. You can replicate Clarice’s look with provided cosplay gear—think the classic green wool jacket and FBI badge—making for some fun photo moments. The house’s authenticity really helps to bring scenes vividly to life, and you’ll find yourself picturing the tense exchanges that made this film so memorable.

Next, the tour moves into the kitchen, where Buffalo Bill’s frantic search for his pistol takes place. It’s fascinating to see the actual space where these tense moments happen, and it gives you a sense of the real environment behind the cinematic drama. Then, down into the basement, you’ll find the interactive workshop set. This is where the tour really amps up: a vintage Singer sewing machine, mannequins dressed in 80s fashion, and a fully functional disco ball bring a quirky, creepy vibe.

One highlight is the well set, built with help from renowned horror FX artist Tom Savini and Emmy-nominated FX artist Jerry Gergely. The well scene, which added to the film’s chilling atmosphere, now has a dedicated interactive station that makes for excellent photos. Gergely’s involvement ties the experience to Hollywood’s special effects history, which adds a layer of authenticity and intrigue.

What makes this tour stand out is the music and atmosphere—as you approach the basement, motion-activated speakers start playing “Goodbye Horses,” the haunting tune from the film’s infamous dance scene. It’s a clever touch that adds to the immersive feel, especially if you’re into horror or film memorabilia.

Throughout the tour, your guide shares little-known stories and facts—some directly from filming, others about the house’s own history, which dates back over a century. For instance, the 3-car garage originally served as something else entirely, and the 1910 home itself has a story worth hearing.

How Does it Value for Money?

At $88 per person, this experience is priced on the higher side for a two-hour guided tour, but considering the access to a real movie set, the interactive elements, and the cosplay fun, it offers a unique value. You’re not just walking around a house; you’re stepping into a piece of cinematic history with plenty of opportunities for photos, storytelling, and hands-on participation. For fans of the film or avid photographers, the cost is justified by the memories you’ll create.

Keep in mind, the tour does not include a gift shop—so if you’re hoping to buy souvenirs, you’ll need to plan ahead or look elsewhere nearby. Also, the tour runs in the morning, afternoon, and evening, giving some flexibility for your schedule, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed, which helps if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is a great pick for film fans, especially those who love The Silence of the Lambs and want to see the filming locations up close. It’s also suited for people who enjoy interactive, photo-friendly adventures; the cosplay and set recreations make for fun memories. However, it’s less ideal if you’re traveling with very young children or in a wheelchair, as the tour isn’t designed with accessibility in mind.

If you’re visiting Pittsburgh and have a passing interest in Hollywood or horror films, this tour could add a quirky, memorable element to your trip. It’s a well-organized, engaging way to combine culture, history, and pop culture into one experience. Just be prepared for a focus on the film’s darker side—it’s not a lighthearted stroll, but it’s certainly a captivating one.

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FAQ

Is the house still unchanged since filming?
Yes, the house retains many attributes from the film, making it feel authentic and familiar to fans.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the house, take photos, and hear stories.

Can I recreate scenes from the film?
Absolutely. You can dress as Clarice with provided cosplay gear and pose in iconic spots like the front door and dining room.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 8 due to the dark themes and the nature of the experience.

Is there a gift shop?
No, the tour does not include a gift shop, so souvenirs are not part of the package.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are advised since there’s walking involved, and you’ll want to be ready for some fun photo ops.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

All in all, this tour offers an intriguing blend of film history, interactive fun, and a chance to stand where movie magic happened. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a glance at a house—here, you get a story, a set, and a chance to relive a chilling classic. Just remember, it’s best suited for fans and mature audiences ready for a spooky, cinematic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: