Where Was Sister Act Filmed
belting out gospel tunes in a nun’s habit. But equally as iconic as those unforgettable scenes, are the film locations that served as the backdrop for this comedy classic. “Sister Act” was primarily filmed in Reno, Nevada and San Francisco, California.
In my quest to discover the real-life locales behind this beloved 90s flick, I’ve learned quite a bit about these cinematic landmarks. Reno’s glitzy casino scene sets the stage for Deloris Van Cartier’s (Whoopi Goldberg) lounge singer lifestyle at the beginning of the film. It’s her witness to a murder here that kicks off her journey into hiding within a convent – entering us into our next distinct setting.
The Saint Katherine’s Parish, home to our singing nuns, is actually St Paul’s Catholic Church located in Noe Valley – a quaint neighborhood in San Francisco. Here lies one of cinema’s most heartwarming transformations: from run-down church to revitalized community center – all thanks to music! So if you’re ever waltzing down Church Street in San Francisco or trying your luck on Virginia Street in Reno, know that you’re walking through some pretty iconic Sister Act history.
Unveiling the ‘Sister Act’ Filming Locations
I’m sure we’ve all wondered where the singing and dancing for the iconic movie, “Sister Act,” took place. It’s time to lift that curtain and reveal these shooting locations.
Primarily, “Sister Act” was filmed in two major cities: Reno, Nevada, and San Francisco, California. The opening sequences showcasing Deloris Van Cartier’s (played by Whoopi Goldberg) flashy life as a casino lounge singer were shot at the ‘Mapes Money Tree Casino’ in Reno. Unfortunately, this historic building no longer exists as it was demolished back in 2000.
Next on our list is San Francisco. Remember those stunning church exteriors with towering steeples featured throughout the film? They’re part of St. Paul’s Catholic Church located in Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco. Although the exterior shots were here, unfortunately fans won’t find Deloris or her choir inside.The interior scenes where Deloris transformed a group of nuns into a vibrant choir were actually filmed elsewhere! A soundstage at Burbank Studios served as their stage-setting playground.
Lastly but not leastly is another familiar sight – Eddie Souther’s (played by Bill Nunn) apartment complex which is located on Jones Street near Washington Square Park in San Francisco.
Just seeing these locations come alive on screen makes me want to hop right into a tour bus and visit them myself! I hope you share my excitement too over these iconic filming sites from ‘Sister Act’.
