Stepping into the ring on March 7, 2025, Queen of the Ring brings to life the trailblazing story of Mildred Burke, one of the most influential figures in women’s professional wrestling. Directed by Ash Avildsen, this biographical sports drama takes audiences through Burke’s personal struggles, professional triumphs, and her fight against societal norms to become a wrestling champion at a time when women weren’t even allowed in the ring.
While Burke’s journey took her across the country, the film found its home in the heart of the Midwest, with key scenes shot in Kentucky and Indiana. Let’s step into the world of Queen of the Ring and explore the stunning locations that brought this powerful story to life.
Where Was Queen of the Ring Filmed?
The film was primarily shot in Louisville, Kentucky, with additional scenes filmed in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, and New Albany, Indiana. Each location provided an authentic, vintage backdrop, perfectly capturing the golden era of professional wrestling.
Louisville, Kentucky
Why It Was Chosen: Louisville, known for its deep sports culture and historic charm, was the perfect setting to recreate the gritty and glamorous world of 1930s-1950s wrestling. With its grand theaters, historic hotels, and old-school charm, the city helped transport audiences back to the era when Mildred Burke made history. Here are Queen of the Ring Filming Locations in Louisville:
The Palace Theatre
📍 625 S 4th St, Louisville, KY
Why It Stands Out: Built in 1928, this stunning venue with its opulent Spanish Baroque design is one of Louisville’s most breathtaking landmarks. Used in the film for wrestling matches and entertainment scenes, The Palace Theatre adds a grand, vintage feel to Burke’s world.
What to Do Here:
- Catch a live concert or performance at this historic venue.
- Admire the ornate ceiling, intricate carvings, and golden accents.
- Take a backstage tour to see where some of Hollywood’s biggest stars have performed.
Filming Fun Fact: The Palace Theatre has been featured in several films and TV shows, making it a favorite for period dramas!
The Henry Clay
📍 604 S 3rd St, Louisville, KY
Why It Stands Out: Originally a luxury hotel, this historic venue now serves as an event space, featuring classic architecture and elegant ballrooms. The Henry Clay was used in the film for scenes depicting high-society events and key moments in Burke’s personal life.
What to Do Here:
- Attend an event or wedding at this iconic venue.
- Explore the beautifully restored architecture.
- Take a walking tour of downtown Louisville’s historic sites.
Filming Fun Fact: The Henry Clay was once one of the most luxurious hotels in Louisville—a fitting location for a story about glamour, ambition, and success.
Elizabethtown, Kentucky
Why It Was Chosen: Elizabethtown, with its small-town charm and historic architecture, was the perfect place to capture the classic, early-20th-century feel of Burke’s journey.
The Historic State Theatre Complex
📍 209 W Dixie Ave, Elizabethtown, KY
Why It Stands Out: Originally built in the 1930s, this restored movie palace gave filmmakers an authentic retro backdrop for scenes set in Burke’s early career.
What to Do Here:
- Catch a classic movie screening in the beautifully restored theater.
- Admire the vintage marquee and original art deco interiors.
- Visit nearby museums and historic sites in downtown Elizabethtown.
Filming Fun Fact: The theater’s vintage seats, original stage, and classic lighting made it a seamless fit for period-specific scenes in Queen of the Ring.
New Albany, Indiana
Why It Was Chosen: Located just across the river from Louisville, New Albany, Indiana, provided an old-world elegance that was perfect for filming some of the movie’s grandest scenes.
The Grand
📍 138 E Market St, New Albany, IN
Why It Stands Out: With its ornate ballroom, historic charm, and classic architecture, The Grand became the backdrop for scenes depicting Burke’s rise in the wrestling world.
What to Do Here:
- Attend a concert or special event at The Grand.
- Experience the vintage elegance of one of Indiana’s most famous venues.
- Take a historic walking tour of downtown New Albany.
Filming Fun Fact: The Grand was originally a theater and ballroom, making it the ideal location for filming moments of drama, competition, and spectacle in Burke’s journey.
When Did Queen of the Ring Film?
Filming began in July 2023 in Louisville, Kentucky.
The film made its world premiere at the Buffalo International Film Festival on October 15, 2024, ahead of its March 7, 2025 theatrical release by Sumerian Pictures.
Best Time to Visit the Filming Locations
- Spring (March – May): Enjoy Louisville’s vibrant downtown, festivals, and mild weather.
- Summer (June – August): Experience the Kentucky Derby spirit and take a day trip to Churchill Downs.
- Fall (September – November): The perfect time to explore Kentucky’s historic sites and film locations with stunning autumn colors.
- Winter (December – February): A quieter time to visit, with holiday lights and cozy historic hotels.
How to Get to the Filming Locations?
By Air: Fly into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) for easy access to all the major filming locations.
By Car: Louisville is a great starting point for a road trip through Kentucky and Indiana, stopping at Elizabethtown and New Albany along the way.
By Train: Amtrak services run to Louisville and nearby cities, making train travel an option for those exploring the Midwest.
A Quick Guide of Louisville, Kentucky,
Louisville, Kentucky, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a unique blend of Southern charm and Midwestern influence. Here’s a glimpse into what makes Louisville special:
Key Features:
- Location: Situated on the Ohio River along the Indiana border, Louisville serves as a gateway between the North and South.
- Kentucky Derby: Home to the world-famous Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs, Louisville is synonymous with horse racing.
- Bourbon: As the heart of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Louisville boasts a thriving bourbon culture, with numerous distilleries and bourbon-themed experiences.
- Arts and Culture: Louisville has a vibrant arts scene, with a variety of theaters, museums, and galleries, including the Speed Art Museum and the KMAC Museum.
- History: Louisville’s history is deeply intertwined with its location as a major river port and its role in the Civil War. Historic neighborhoods like Old Louisville showcase stunning Victorian architecture.
- Cuisine: Louisville offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional Southern fare to innovative contemporary cuisine.
- Parks and Outdoors: With numerous parks and green spaces, including the scenic Waterfront Park and the expansive Jefferson Memorial Forest, Louisville provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Things to See and Do:
- Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and excitement of the Kentucky Derby.
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Discover the history of baseball bats and see how they are made.
- Muhammad Ali Center: Explore the life and legacy of the legendary boxer and activist.
- Louisville Waterfront Park: Enjoy scenic views of the Ohio River and participate in various events and activities.
- 21c Museum Hotel: Experience a unique blend of art and hospitality at this contemporary art museum and hotel.
- Distillery Tours: Sample some of Kentucky’s finest bourbon at one of Louisville’s many distilleries.
- Old Louisville: Stroll through the largest Victorian preservation district in the United States.
Why Louisville is Unique:
- Blend of Cultures: Louisville seamlessly blends Southern hospitality with Midwestern practicality, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
- Urban Bourbon Trail: The city’s dedication to bourbon culture is unparalleled, with a wide range of bourbon-related experiences.
- Accessibility: Louisville offers a big-city feel with a more manageable pace and cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a sports enthusiast, or simply looking for a vibrant and friendly city to explore, Louisville has something to offer everyone.
Final Thoughts
Queen of the Ring is more than just a sports drama—it’s a story of resilience, ambition, and breaking barriers. If you want to walk in Mildred Burke’s footsteps, visit the film’s breathtaking locations in Louisville, Elizabethtown, and New Albany.
From the grand theaters and elegant ballrooms to the historic charm of downtown Louisville, these filming locations offer a true cinematic experience.