The Silence Of The Lambs House: 7 Terrifying Facts About Buffalo Bill's Lair You Can Now Rent

Step inside the terrifying world of cinematic history. As of December 12, 2025, the infamous house used as the lair of the fictional serial killer "Buffalo Bill" in the Academy Award-winning film *The Silence of the Lambs* is no longer a private, unassuming residence, but a fully operational, horror-themed vacation rental and tourist attraction. This iconic property, which played a pivotal role in the psychological crime drama, has been meticulously transformed by its new owner, a dedicated horror fan, ensuring that every corner chills and delights fans of the 1991 masterpiece.

The transformation of the house, located in the quiet town of Perryopolis, Pennsylvania, represents a unique convergence of Hollywood lore and local history. After being on and off the market for several years, the property was purchased and converted into a destination that allows guests to immerse themselves in the world of Clarice Starling and Jame Gumb, making it a must-visit landmark for fans of the movie and horror genre enthusiasts alike. The current status of the house as a rental and tour spot means its cinematic legacy is now more accessible than ever before.

Property Profile: Buffalo Bill's House (8 Circle St.)

While the character of Jame Gumb, known by his alias Buffalo Bill, was a terrifying creation, his on-screen home is a real-life, charming Queen Anne-style house with a surprisingly picturesque setting. Its history and features are now central to its appeal as a cinematic destination.

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• Official Name: Buffalo Bill's House
• Real-Life Address: 8 Circle Street, Perryopolis, Pennsylvania, 15473
• County: Fayette County, PA
• Location Context: Situated in the Laurel Highlands region of Western Pennsylvania, about 30 miles south of Pittsburgh. It is within walking distance of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail.
• Architectural Style: Queen Anne (Victorian)
• Size: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, three stories, with a large wraparound porch.
• Sale History: The house was put on the market several times over the years. It was most recently purchased for approximately $290,000 to $298,500 in 2021.
• Current Owner: Chris Rowan, a film industry art director and devoted horror fan.
• Current Status: Private vacation rental (available via platforms like Airbnb) and guided tour location. It can accommodate parties of up to eight people.

The Chilling Details: What Makes the House So Iconic?

The house itself is a character in *The Silence of the Lambs*, serving as the backdrop for the climactic confrontation between FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) and the serial killer Jame Gumb (Ted Levine). Fans are drawn to the property because many of its on-screen features have been preserved or recreated, allowing for an authentic, immersive experience.

1. The Exterior is Instantly Recognizable

The three-story house, with its distinct dark wood detailing, two-acre lot, and expansive wraparound porch, is the very image that appeared on movie screens worldwide. This exterior shot is where Clarice Starling first arrives, believing she is interviewing a witness, only to realize she has found Buffalo Bill’s lair. The quiet, remote-rural setting of Perryopolis adds to the isolated, unsettling atmosphere established in the film.

2. The Iconic Foyer and Staircase Remain

One of the most famous scenes in the house takes place in the foyer, featuring the grand, dark-wood staircase. The new owner has ensured that the interior flourishes, including the vintage wallpaper and dark wood trim, remain a faithful homage to the 1991 film. This area is the first point of entry for guests and tours, instantly transporting them back to the movie’s most tense moments.

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3. The Absence of the "Pit" is a Key Fact

A crucial detail that often surprises visitors is that the infamous "well" or "pit" where Buffalo Bill holds his victims was not filmed in the Perryopolis house. The basement scenes, including the pit and the workshop where Jame Gumb works on his "woman suit," were shot on a soundstage. However, the current owner, Chris Rowan, has introduced a significant new feature to enhance the cinematic experience.

The New Vision: From Private Home to Cinematic Destination

The purchase of the house by Chris Rowan marked a major turning point in the property's history. His background as an art director in the film industry gave him the perfect skill set to transform the house into a true cinematic experience, going beyond a simple bed and breakfast.

4. The Basement Now Features a Replica Dungeon

To satisfy the curiosity of every fan, the current owner has installed a highly detailed, screen-accurate replica of the dungeon and Buffalo Bill's workshop in the basement of the Perryopolis house. This addition allows guests to finally experience the chilling atmosphere of the fictional killer's inner sanctum, complete with a workshop area and a nod to the infamous pit. This transformation ensures the house fully embraces its identity as a horror movie landmark.

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5. The House is a Museum of Horror Memorabilia

Beyond the architectural details, the house now functions as a small museum dedicated to the film and the horror genre. The rooms feature various movie props and memorabilia, making an overnight stay or a tour a fully immersive journey into the world of *The Silence of the Lambs* and its cultural impact. This focus on topical authority and cinematic history is what sets the current iteration of the house apart from its previous lives as a standard private residence.

6. The Location is a Hub for Western PA Attractions

While the primary draw is the house itself, its location in the Laurel Highlands makes it a strategic base for other Pennsylvania attractions. Guests staying overnight can easily visit Ohiopyle State Park for outdoor activities or explore the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail, which runs nearby. This juxtaposition of cinematic horror with the natural beauty of Western Pennsylvania offers a unique vacation experience.

7. Booking a Stay: The Ultimate Horror Fan Experience

The current business model focuses on providing an unforgettable experience for dedicated fans of the psychological thriller. The house is available for private vacation rentals, often booked months in advance, and also hosts special event tours, especially around Halloween and other horror-themed dates like Friday the 13th. Staying overnight at Buffalo Bill's House is considered the ultimate bucket list item for those who appreciate the dark side of cinema and want to walk in the footsteps of Clarice Starling. The house's popularity highlights the enduring fascination with the film and its chilling antagonist, Jame Gumb.