Where was Dallas filmed?
1978
City Locations
Dallas (USA), Frisco (USA), Thousand Oaks (USA), Forney (USA), Parker (USA), Simi Valley (USA), Culver City (USA), Rockwall (USA), Plano (USA)
Location Types
Film Studio, Ranch, Office, House, Apartment
Location Styles
Ranch Style, 80's, Federal Building, Rustic, Office Building Style
About Dallas
Dallas is a great American TV show that started in 1978 and quickly became famous all over the world. The story takes place in the middle of Texas and is about the Ewings, a wealthy and violent family with a separate oil company Ewing Oil, and large cattle ranches.
The story is mostly told through the viewpoint of J.R. Ewing, a Texas oil magnate notorious for his cunning and manipulative tactics. His tireless desire for power frequently puts him at odds with his brother Bobby and other family members, resulting in compelling confrontations and storylines. The series begins with the marriage of Bobby Ewing and Pamela Barnes, whose families were fierce enemies. Still, as the story unfolds, it highlights other facets of the Ewings' lives and their convoluted ties.
Dallas is a fast-paced story of wealth, power, plotting intrigue, and dramatic feuds that have captivated audiences worldwide. It was more than flash and glamour; it also demonstrated the guts and resolve of its characters, making it a timeless masterpiece.
The 1956 film "Giant" is generally credited as the inspiration for Dallas. Both books focus on the competition between wealthy oil tycoons and cattle barons in Texas in the mid to late 1900s. Furthermore, both productions feature a primary character known as "J.R."
Dallas remains a television milestone because of its captivating storyline, memorable characters, and representation of the alluring combination of riches and power.
Dallas Locations
Dallas, the famous TV show, was shot in many places, each of which added to the show's unique Texan style and grandeur. Locations for shooting included old ranches and tall skyscrapers, giving viewers a taste of rustic charm and modern elegance.
Most of the scenes were filmed at Southfork Ranch, a showplace in North Texas that Lorimar Productions chose as the show's setting. This huge estate was the setting for many of the Ewing family disasters and became a symbol of the show. Although well-known, the interior scenes depicting the families' homes were shot in California on sets inspired by Southfork Ranch.
Campbell Center, Big Sky Movie Ranch, Fountain Place, Southern Cross Ranch, Golden Oak Ranch, and Renaissance Tower were other important places where the movie was filmed. With their vast landscapes and grand cities, these places perfectly caught what Texas is like.
Fans of Dallas should go to all of these places. Visitors come from all over the world to Southfork Ranch to see where Dallas was shot and to experience the way of life that the show is popular for. The trip from Parker, Texas, to Frisco, Texas, about 26 1/2 miles, would be an adventure you'll never forget.
Fun Fact
The show's theme music is as memorable as the series. The opening credits, including helicopter images of sparkling structures, grazing cattle, and oil rigs, became instantly identifiable and established the tone for the grandeur and drama unfolding in each episode.
J.R. and Sue's conflict scene in Dallas
Brinkmann Ranch, 10514 Main St, Frisco, TX
J.R. Ewing (Larry Hagman), the infamous oil tycoon, has a heated confrontation with his wife, Sue Ellen (Linda Gray). The intense scene showcases the volatile conflicts and relationship dynamics of the series. Amid accusations and betrayal, J.R. makes a shocking decision, leaving Sue Ellen stunned and heartbroken.
Brinkmann Ranch is a sprawling, picturesque property located in Frisco, Texas. It covers over 3,500 acres and is one of the city's largest privately owned pieces of land. The ranch is renowned for its verdant landscapes and serene beauty, offering a tranquil escape from urban life. It also has a thriving equestrian center where horse lovers can enjoy riding and training facilities. While it's a working ranch, Brinkmann Ranch is also a popular venue for events and celebrations, adding to its charm.
You can visit the iconic Brinkmann Ranch in Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. From there, it's a drive north via the Dallas North Tollway. Exit on Main Street in Frisco and head east; the destination will be on your left. Public transport options are limited, so driving or arranging a car service is advisable for convenience.
Sue decides to leave J.R. scene in Dallas
The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel, 200 Main St, Fort Worth, TX
In her stylishly decorated living room, Sue Ellen (Linda Gray) is sipping a drink while looking out at the Dallas skyline, reflecting on her decision to leave J.R. (Larry Hagman). The room is tense as she gets an unexpected knock on the door – it's J.R., pleading for her to return to Southfork. This scene captures Sue Ellen's struggle for autonomy and the ongoing power dynamics between her and J.R. It's a poignant reminder of their tempestuous relationship and the personal battles that lie beneath the surface of their glamorous exterior.
The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel is a luxurious downtown Fort Worth, Texas, establishment. Known for its grand architecture and elegant interior design, the hotel offers exceptional services and amenities, including spacious rooms, fine dining options, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Its prime location near Sundance Square makes it an ideal choice for guests exploring the city's vibrant arts scene, shopping districts, and local attractions.
To visit 200 Main St, flying into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is most convenient. Drive on TX-121 S and I-35W S from DFW to downtown Fort Worth. Parking is available on-site and nearby. Take the TRE train from DFW to Fort Worth Central Station for public transit, then walk or take a short ride to the destination.
J.R. tells his plans to Cliff scene in Dallas
Bryan Tower, 2001 Bryan St, Dallas, TX
J.R. (Larry Hagman) and Cliff Barnes (Ken Kercheval) face a high-stakes confrontation. J.R., always the schemer, confidently tells Cliff he plans to bankrupt his mother's company. The power dynamics between these two characters are palpable as they both vie for control in the cutthroat world of the oil business. The scene represents the show's enduring rivalry, power, and family drama themes.
The Bryan Tower is a prominent 40-story skyscraper in downtown Dallas, Texas. Completed in 1973, it stands 512 feet tall and was one of the city's first modern reflective glass high-rises. Known for its gold all-glass facade, the tower was designed by renowned architects Neuhaus & Taylor. Currently owned by Woods Capital, the building is undergoing a $10 million renovation to reposition it, including adding approximately 425 residential units.
To reach the imposing Bryan Tower at 2001 Bryan St, Dallas, TX, from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, take TX-114 E to I-35E S. Continue towards downtown Dallas and exit on Pacific Ave/St Paul St, merging onto Elm St. Turn right onto Harwood St, then left onto Bryan St. The skyscraper will be on your right. Public transportation is also an option, with DART services to nearby stations.
Pam defends her decision about marrying scene in Dallas
DoubleTree by Hilton Dallas-Campbell Centre, 8250 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX
Barnes-Wentworth is the oil company owned by the Barnes family, the arch-rivals of the Ewing family. One memorable scene in the Barnes-Wentworth offices involves Pamela Barnes (Victoria Principal), the company's Vice President, and her brother Cliff (Ken Kercheval). In this tense exchange, Pam defends her decision to marry Bobby Ewing (Patrick Duffy), a rival family member. The scene is filled with emotional intensity, highlighting the deep-seated rivalry and complicated relationships that define the series.
The DoubleTree by Hilton Dallas-Campbell Centre is a 4-star hotel just off US-75, seven miles from downtown Dallas. It offers easy access to Southern Methodist University and North Park Center. The hotel features over 15,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, a fitness center, and complimentary parking. Guests praise the clean rooms, helpful staff, and modern amenities. The hotel is also close to major attractions like the Dallas Convention Center.
To visit the DoubleTree by Hilton at 8250 N Central Expy in Dallas, take I-35E N to US-75 N. Take exit 5A towards Caruth Haven Ln and merge onto N Central Expy Service Rd; the hotel will be on your right. Public transport options include DART buses and rail services that stop near the hotel. Parking is available on-site.
Rebecca tells the truth about her identity scene in Dallas
4930 Park Ln, Dallas, TX
Rebecca (Priscilla Pointer) reveals her true identity as the mother of Cliff (Ken Kercheval) and Pamela Barnes (Victoria Principal), shocking the entire family. The mansion's grandeur underscores the gravity of the revelation, with its opulent decor and expansive rooms providing the perfect backdrop for this pivotal moment. The tension in the room is palpable, marking a turning point in the series' narrative.
Park Lane, located in mid-town Dallas, offers a blend of luxury living and retail. It features The Shops at Park Lane, which provides a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experience. Additionally, Park Lane boasts numerous apartment communities like the Galleries and the Heights at Park Lane, offering a variety of comfortable homes. It is also home to Park Lane Townhomes, providing more residential options.
To visit 4930 Park Ln in Dallas, fly into Dallas Love Field Airport and take Northwest Hwy. Turn north on Preston Road, then east on Park Lane. Your destination will be on the right. Public transportation options include DART buses that run along nearby routes.
Conclusion
Dallas, the groundbreaking television series, brilliantly employed a variety of locales to bring its plot to life. There was a great mix of the sophistication of Dallas and the rustic charm of Southfork Ranch in the show. The different settings gave the Ewings family fights and business disputes a lot of variety, which made the show both artistically appealing and story-driven.
Locations in Dallas included everything from big farms to tall skyscrapers. These settings showed the different landscapes of Texas and the contrast between old and new ways of life. Today, fans from all over the world still come to these filming sites to try to walk in the shoes of their favorite characters. Dallas isn't just a TV show; it's a visual journey through the heart of Texas that shows fans the state's grandeur, beauty, and spirit.