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Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman filmed?

1993

City Locations

Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Sacramento, San Marino, Universal City (USA)

Location Types

Film Studio, Retro

Location Styles

Ranch Style, Old Hollywood, Retro, Dated, Americana

About Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

"Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" is a classic American television series that ran from 1993 to 1998. The series follows the lives of Dr. Michaela Quinn, a courageous and determined woman who abandons her high-society existence in Boston for the untamed frontier town of Colorado Springs. Following her father's death, she relocates west to establish her medical business, bucking nineteenth-century society's standards that devalued female doctors.

The series is a riveting blend of drama, romance, and social commentary, realistically depicting the struggles and successes of a woman practicing medicine in an era and country where her profession was predominantly male-dominated. Dr. Quinn, played by Jane Seymour, is a powerful, sympathetic heroine who continuously challenges societal biases while providing medical care to the town's residents.

People distrust Dr. Quinn because she is a woman, and they do not believe she can treat unusual disorders. She must demonstrate her abilities as a doctor while simultaneously finding love, marrying, and starting a family with Sully, a strong mountain man, and three adopted children.

The show was set in Colorado, although the majority of the shooting took place at the Paramount Ranch in California. People could even visit the set while it was being filmed, making it a popular destination for those looking to get a true sense of the Wild West.

The show "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" is more than just entertaining; it provides a new perspective on the challenges women have faced in the past and the strength required to overcome them. The performance honors Dr. Michaela Quinn's courageous and persistent personality.

Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman Locations

The popular TV show "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" took fans back to the frontier town of Colorado Springs. But most of the show was filmed in sunny California. The Paramount Movie Ranch in Agoura Hills was the main place where the episodes were filmed. With its famous Western background, the ranch perfectly caught the spirit of the Old West.

Agoura Hills is famous for its beautiful views and country charm. It is in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, which gives it beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere that fits the show's setting. More scenes were filmed in Malibu Creek State Park, Courthouse Square on the Universal Studios backlot, and even Sonora, California, which was used to stand in for Colorado.

Fans of the show may find visiting these areas worthwhile. There was a time when movie fans could go to the Paramount Ranch and talk to stars while experiencing the magic of the Wild West for themselves. Even though a fire in 2018 devastated much of the land, work is still being done to restore it. Visit these filming locations to not only gain a unique insight into how "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" was filmed but also to experience California's magnificent surroundings.

The opening scene in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

Malibu Creek State Park, 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States

One of the most memorable aspects of the show is its opening credits sequence. As the theme music swells, viewers are treated to panoramic vistas of rolling hills, lush greenery, and wide-open spaces that set the tone for the series. The camera sweeps across the landscape as horses gallop freely, creating a sense of freedom and adventure that is integral to the series' narrative.

Malibu Creek State Park, esteemed as the premier recreational jewel of the Santa Monica Mountains, lies just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles. Encompassing over 8,000 acres, this stunning nature sanctuary offers a myriad of outdoor pursuits such as hiking, bird watching, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. With its expansive tallgrass plains and winding trails flanked by oak and sycamore forests, it provides a serene retreat to nature and is a favored destination for both locals and visitors alike.

To get to 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302, from downtown Los Angeles, head north on US-101 towards Ventura. Take the Las Virgenes Rd exit from US-101 N, then turn south onto Las Virgenes Road. Drive straight for about 3 miles. On your right, you'll see Malibu Creek State Park with plenty of parking. Travel time is typically around 35 minutes, subject to traffic conditions.

Dr. Quinn arriving at the Colorado Springs scene in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

Paramount Movie Ranch, 2903 Cornell Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301, United States

In 1867, when Dr. Quinn steps into the town of Colorado Springs, she faces scorn and antagonism from the majority of the residents, with Charlotte Cooper (Diane Ladd) and the "mountain man" Byron Sully (Joe Lando) being notable exceptions. Charlotte, who runs the local boarding house, is battling to provide for her three children—Matthew (Chad Allen), Colleen (Erika Flores), and Brian (Shawn Toovey)—following her husband's abrupt departure with their life savings.

Paramount Movie Ranch, nestled in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, is a historic film and television production location. Purchased by Paramount Studios in 1927, it has been a backdrop for movies and TV shows for nearly a century. Although it was reduced to 436 acres and abandoned as Western films lost popularity, it remains an integral part of a national park. It offers opportunities to learn about film history while immersing oneself in its beautiful environment.

To visit Paramount Movie Ranch, located at 2903 Cornell Rd, Agoura Hills, take US-101 N toward Ventura. Exit at Kanan Rd, then turn left onto Kanan Rd. Drive for 4.3 miles, then turn right onto Cornell Rd. Continue straight for approximately 1.5 miles. The entrance to Paramount Movie Ranch will be on your left. The trip usually takes around 50 minutes from Los Angeles, depending on traffic.

Dr. Quinn, Sully, and the children traveling to the Washington scene in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

California State Capitol, 1300 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814, United States

Dr. Mike, Sully, and the children travel to Washington D.C. to lodge a complaint and seek a change in orders, as Cloud Dancing and the rest of the Cheyenne tribe have been told to move. It becomes more complicated when Senator George Steward (Nicholas Pryor) hears Sully's name and investigates, finding out that Sully deserted the Army.

The California State Capitol, located in Sacramento, is the hub of the state's government and a significant historical site. It's an exquisite example of Roman architecture, featuring a 220-foot cast-iron dome reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol building. The building serves as both a working legislative space and a museum, offering a glimpse into California’s political past and present. Its grounds are equally impressive, hosting a park and many public exhibits.

To reach the California State Capitol at 1300 L St, Sacramento, if driving from San Francisco, take I-80 E towards Sacramento. Merge onto I-80 BUS E/US-50 E towards the Sacramento/Capitol City Freeway. Take the 15th Street exit towards Downtown Sacramento, turn right onto 15th St, then left onto L St. The Capitol will be on your right. This trip usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

The dinner at the White House scene in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, United States

All guests are cordially invited to a dinner and an overnight stay at the White House, where they grow close to the first family. They gain insights into President Grant's (Dennis Lipscomb) political landscape and his adversaries. Jesse Grant (John Kidwell) reveals to Brian a concealed passageway leading to the President's office. The children become privy to several schemes against the President. In this mix of events, Dr. Mike is offered to serve in President Grant's administration.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, known as The Huntington, is a renowned educational and research institution. It's an iconic tourist destination in San Marino, California, featuring 207 acres of breathtaking gardens, rare book collections, and art galleries. The collections include notable British art and rare manuscripts. Visitors can also enjoy virtual tours of the Conservatory, exploring tropical collections.

To visit The Huntington at 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, from downtown Los Angeles, take the I-10 E. Exit at Atlantic Blvd toward San Marino and head north. Turn right onto Huntington Dr, then a left onto Oxford Rd. The Huntington entrance will be on your right. The drive is approximately 30 minutes without heavy traffic, providing a seamless route to this iconic destination in San Marino.

At the train station in Washington scene in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

California State Railroad Museum, 125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814, United States

After advocating for the rights of the Cheyenne people, Dr. Mike, Sully, and the children are preparing to board a train to leave the city. However, as they're about to embark on their journey, Sully is arrested for desertion of the army. This dramatic moment underscores the political tension and personal risks they face in their fight for justice.

The California State Railroad Museum, nestled in Old Sacramento, is North America's premier railroad museum. Visitors can explore vintage train cars, enjoy interactive exhibits, and take a scenic 50-minute round-trip ride along the Sacramento River. The museum interprets the significant role of railroads in the West and offers fascinating narratives about its history. Renowned for preserving history and engaging storytelling, it's considered one of the best railroad museums visited.

To visit the California State Railroad Museum at 125 I St, Sacramento, start on I-5 N towards Sacramento. Take exit 519B for J St towards Downtown. Continue on J St, then turn left onto 3rd St. Turn right at the 1st cross street onto I St. The museum is located between 2nd and 3rd Sts on your left. Parking is available nearby. This route is convenient from various points in Sacramento.

Traveling to Boston scene in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

New York St, North Hollywood, CA 91602, USA

Dr. Mike receives news of her mother's (Georgann Johnson) ill health. Consequently, she travels to Boston with her children. During this visit, Dr. Mike and Sully also attend Colleen's medical school graduation. However, they discover that Dr. Mike's mother is terminally ill. The scenes in Boston depict a mix of joy at Colleen's achievement and sorrow due to the impending loss.

New York Street in North Hollywood, originally built in the 1930s, is a testament to classic Hollywood. Stars like James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart, and Edward G. Robinson once graced this location. Today, it's a part of the Universal Studios Lot, often used as a filming spot. Nestled in the San Fernando Valley, North Hollywood also hosts the NoHo Arts District and is undergoing significant development.

To reach New York Street in North Hollywood, drive on US-101 N toward Ventura. Take the exit for Lankershim Blvd and head south. Turn right onto Magnolia Blvd, then make a left onto Tujunga Ave. Continue for a few blocks until you reach New York St on your right. The iconic street is nestled within the bustling area of North Hollywood, easily accessible and surrounded by vibrant arts and entertainment options.

Conclusion

The television series "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" transported viewers to the frontier town of Colorado Springs, although it was primarily filmed in California. The Paramount Movie Ranch in Agoura Hills served as the principal filming location, its rustic Western set providing an authentic backdrop for the drama. This location was so integral to the series that fans could visit the sets, interact with the actors, and watch the filming process. Additional locations included the Courthouse Square at Universal Studios, Malibu Creek State Park, and even Sonora, which stood in for Colorado. These diverse locations brought the fictional town to life, making it a beloved fixture for viewers. The success of "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" is a testament to its compelling storylines and characters and the evocative, detailed settings that were carefully chosen and utilized throughout the series.