Cambridge is best known for world-renowned universities, charming streets and deep-rooted history. It’s also a rockstar when it comes to the big and small screens. Whether serving as the backdrop for blockbuster movies (hello Matt Damon and Ben Affleck) or inspiring legendary television moments, Cambridge has often played a key role in Hollywood’s storytelling.
Whether you're a movie buff or TV aficionado, you can explore famous filming locations in Cambridge. Grab your popcorn and enjoy these iconic spots…
Good Will Hunting: The Brilliance of Harvard Square and MIT
“How do you like them apples?” It’s the iconic line from “Good Will Hunting” (1997), which showcased the intellectual charm of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Starring Cambridge natives Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, the Academy Award-winning film prominently features Harvard Square, where Will Hunting impresses Skylar (a Harvard student played by Minnie Driver) with his genius in a bar scene (“My boy’s wicked smaht”), and the former Au Bon Pain where Will and Skylar talk about his memory (while the location closed in 2019, you can still feel the scene when visiting Harvard’s Smith Campus Center). Also visit the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where Will works as a janitor and secretly solves complex equations. Walk through these locations and channel your inner genius.
The Town: Harvard Square’s Hidden Gems
Affleck returned to Cambridge for “The Town” (2010), his thrilling heist movie about Boston bank robbers. One of the film’s dramatic robbery scenes was shot at the Cambridge Savings Bank (‘Cambridge Merchants Bank’ in the movie) at 1374 Massachusetts Avenue in Harvard Square – just across from the Harvard stop on the Red Line and home of the current Cambridge Visitor Information Center. Afterward, take a break at Grendel’s Den, a legendary local pub that also makes a cameo in the film. With its cozy underground atmosphere and hearty food, it’s the perfect place to plan (or prevent) your next heist.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever—MIT’s Marvel Moment
Marvel fans, assemble! “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (2022) brought the superhero action to MIT, where the brilliant Riri Williams (Ironheart) is introduced. You’ll recognize scenes that follow a fleet of vehicles driving the streets around MIT, a scene filmed outside Stratton Student Center near the Kresge Auditorium, and another by the front entrance of Simmons Hall. While you won’t see vibranium-powered suits on campus, you can explore the halls and feel the energy of some of the world’s greatest innovators.
The Heat: Action and Laughs in Harvard Square
Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy took over Cambridge in “The Heat” (2013), an action-comedy about two mismatched law enforcers. The duo filmed scenes at the Hong Kong Restaurant in Harvard Square, famous for its scorpion bowls and lively atmosphere. Inman Square also makes an appearance, so grab some New England favorites at Puritan & Company, where the duo dined when not filming.
American Hustle: Glitz, Glamour, and Cambridge Elegance
The glitzy crime drama “American Hustle” (2013) had its fair share of Cambridge moments. The Sheraton Commander Hotel near Harvard Square served as a backdrop for some of the film’s stylish scenes, while the dynamic Kendall Square added to the movie’s classic 1970s feel. One notable location in Kendall Square was the Barker Engineering Library at MIT, which stood in for the U.S. Senate hearings in pivotal scenes. Stroll these areas and feel like you're part of a con-artist’s grand scheme.
The Social Network: The Birthplace of Facebook
It’s only fitting that “The Social Network” (2010), which tells the story of Facebook’s creation, features many real-life Harvard locations. Visit the John Harvard Statue, one of the most iconic landmarks at Harvard University, where Mark Zuckerberg (played by Jesse Eisenberg) and his co-founders pass by in the film. Pass by the iconic Eliot House, featured during the scene where Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin (Andrew Garfield) are seen in a dorm room discussing the early days of Facebook. The film also highlights Harvard Yard, where Zuckerberg’s infamous conversation with Erica Albright took place, as well as Kirkland House, which served as the backdrop for the early days of Facebook’s development. Hasty Pudding Theatricals, one of Harvard’s most famous social clubs known for its theatrical productions, makes an appearance during a scene featuring Zuckerberg and Saverin attending a Hasty Pudding event. Don’t forget to take a scenic walk along The Charles River, which had some memorable appearances.
TV Shows That Love Cambridge
Cambridge has also been referenced and featured in hit TV series. The sci-fi cult favorite “The X-Files” often mentioned Harvard and MIT as hubs for mysterious research. Meanwhile, in the animated world, “The Simpsons” nods to Cambridge through Principal Skinner’s Harvard ties. Over in “30 Rock”, Tina Fey’s Liz Lemon often flaunts her love for all things Harvard. And let’s not forget “Julia”, HBO’s captivating series about Julia Child, which showcases Cambridge’s culinary and academic scenes beautifully. While the Julia Child House is private, you can visit sites from the show like Savenor’s Butcher and Market, Harvard Book Store and Cardullo’s Gourmet Shoppe.
Ready to walk in the footsteps of Hollywood legends? Whether you’re solving equations at MIT, slurping on oysters at Puritan & Company, or reliving a dramatic heist in Harvard Square, Cambridge is the perfect destination for film and TV lovers. Catch a classic or an indie flick at Brattle Theatre, or stop by Landmark Kendall Square Cinema for a modern movie experience. Pack your camera, strike a pose, and let the magic of the movies come to life.
