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Prison Break movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Prison Break filmed?

2005

City Locations

South Padre Island (USA), Irving (USA), Little Elm (USA), Pottsboro (USA), McKinney (USA), Decatur (USA), Galveston (USA), Fort Worth (USA), Houston (USA), Mineral Wells (USA), Miami (USA), Century City (USA), Woodstock (USA), Frisco (USA), Ouarzazate (Morocco), Rabat (Morocco), Casablanca (Morocco), Chicago (USA), Greensville (USA), Dallas (USA), Vancouver (USA), Joliet (USA), Toronto (Canada)

Location Types

Film Studio, Unusual, House

Location Styles

Bus, Federal Building, Parking Lot, Muscle, Modern Building, Modern Car, Foreign, Moroccan

About Prison Break

Prison Break is a gripping American serial drama television series that chronicles the compelling journey of two brothers, Lincoln Burrows and Michael Scofield. Embarking on an intense and captivating odyssey, they navigate through a maze of challenges and obstacles in their quest for freedom.

Lincoln faces a death sentence after conviction for a crime he did not commit. His genius brother Michael devises a brilliant plan to help him escape prison. The brothers set off on an exhilarating mission to clear Lincoln's name and uncover the truth behind his wrongful conviction.

Along with their allies Sucre, T-Bag, C-Note, and Sarah, they must stay one step ahead of the law as they cross state lines in search of freedom. As the show progresses, it follows these characters through thrilling adventures filled with intrigue, suspense, and heart-pounding action. Along the way, they discover shocking secrets about themselves that will change their lives forever.

The television show spawned a range of related products, including an authorized magazine and a novel that ties into the storyline. Titan Publishing introduced the official magazine on November 21, 2006, providing exclusive interviews featuring selected cast and crew members.

On the other hand, the tie-in novel titled "Prison Break: The Classified FBI Files" (ISBN 1-4165-3845-3) delves into the intricacies of the characters within the context of the second season's narrative. Penned by Paul Ruditis and published by Simon & Schuster, the novel hit the shelves on May 8, 2007.

Prison Break Locations

The popular TV series Prison Break was filmed primarily in the Midwest region of North America, including various locations around Chicago, Illinois; Woodstock, Illinois; and Joliet, Illinois. O'Hare International Airport in Chicago and Toronto, Ontario, also served as filming locations for certain scenes.

These areas provide a beautiful backdrop for the show, with a wide array of natural attractions ranging from the shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of the countryside near Woodstock. Landmarks such as The Bean in Chicago or the Historic Old Joliet Prison anchor these landscapes.

A trip to these locations for any fan of Prison Break would be worthwhile. From exploring downtown Chicago to visiting the hidden gems like the Woodstock Opera House or The Historic Old Joliet Prison, there is something here for everyone.

While travelers might not enter Fox River State Penitentiary (the jail featured in most of the show), they can still get a taste by visiting some of its exterior filming sites around Chicago and beyond. Taking a tour through these settings will give fans an inside look into how Prison Break came to life and help them appreciate its story even more.

Fun Facts:

For authenticity, the Prison Break production crew filmed some scenes inside real prisons, such as the Joliet Correctional Center in Illinois and Iron Mountain Central Jail in California, making it one of the most realistic TV shows ever made! The show featured guest stars, including William Fichtner (Oz) and Amaury Nolasco (24).

Michael and Lincoln trying to prove Lincoln's innocence scene in Prison Break

2314 N Ontario St, Burbank, CA 91504, USA

Michael Scofield (Wentworth Miller) and Lincoln Burrows (Dominic Purcell) try to prove Lincoln's innocence. This pivotal moment in the storyline showcases their determination as they work together to gather evidence and expose the truth behind Lincoln's wrongful conviction.

The scene is filled with suspense and tension as they navigate through obstacles and risks to uncover the conspiracy against Lincoln. North Ontario Street in Burbank, California, is a vibrant and diverse street known for its residential properties and community amenities. It offers a range of housing options, from beautiful single-family homes with pools and spas to charming family residences.

The street is in a desirable neighborhood, making it an attractive place. North Ontario Street is also known for its convenient location and accessibility. It is well-connected to other parts of Burbank, so start by heading towards Olive Ave, and follow it until you see a sign for North Buena Vista St. Take a left onto this road and continue until you reach North Victory Blvd. Once you've reached Victory Blvd, turn right and continue straight until you see the sign for N Ontario St. Turn left onto this road and follow it until you see your destination on the right-hand side.

Michael finds himself in the Sona scene in Prison Break

Historic Swift & Co. Plant, 698-1082 NE 23rd St, Fort Worth, TX 76164, United States

Michael (Wentworth Miller) discovers himself trapped in the notorious Panamanian, known as "Penitenciaría Federal de Sona" or, in English, the Sona Federal Penitentiary. Abysmal living conditions and menacing inmates, who closely observe his every move, confront him. Writhing in convulsions, a battered Bellick (Wade Williams) lies on the floor.

The Historic Swift & Co. Plant in Fort Worth, Texas, holds significant historical value, being a prominent meatpacking facility that operated from 1902 to 1955. Located at 600 E. Exchange Ave., the plant was one of the major players in the meatpacking industry during its time. The City of Fort Worth offered Swift & Company and Armour & Company an opportunity to establish their meatpacking operations in the area in 1901.

The Swift & Co. Plant presented an impressive sight with its location on a hill at the east end of E. Exchange Avenue, opposite the Armour & Co. office building. From the north, take the I-35W motorway toward downtown Fort Worth. Exit on Meacham Boulevard and turn east until you reach NE 23rd Street. By public transport, Trinity Metro operates several bus routes that stop near the vicinity of NE 23rd Street.

Michael visits Sara scene in Prison Break

1990 W 19th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 2P3, Canada

Sara's (Sarah Wayne Callies) house is a significant location throughout the series, often providing a setting for crucial moments involving the characters. One notable scene is when Michael Scofield (Wentworth Miller), the main protagonist, visits to seek her help.

West 19th Ave in Vancouver is a bustling street that offers something for everyone. Whether you want a cozy coffee shop, exquisite restaurant, or eclectic boutiques, this avenue has it. The tree-lined street boasts charm and character, with stunning homes and architecture that make for a delightful stroll.

As you wander down West 19th Ave, you'll notice a warm sense of community emanating from the neighborhood's friendly residents. The street continues to be a popular destination among locals and tourists alike.

There are several ways to reach this destination, depending on your preferred mode of transportation. If you are driving, the best route would be via West Broadway and then south on Alma Street until you reach 19th Ave. Alternatively, bus routes 7 and 25 will take you within a short walk of the address.

At the Fox Penitentiary scene in Prison Break

Joliet Correctional Center, 1125 Collins St, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

Intense showdown within the four-person break team: Michael (Wentworth Miller) emerges as the unexpected champion by revealing the confrontation was all part of the master plan. To succeed, they must shake off English, Fitz, or Percy. Sadly, the rest of the team fails to grasp Michael's strategy.

The Joliet Correctional Center, located in Joliet, Illinois, is a historic and infamous prison with a rich and storied past. Established in 1858, it served as a maximum-security prison for over 150 years until its closure in 2002.

Over the years, the Joliet Correctional Center housed several notorious criminals, including gangster John Dillinger, who famously escaped the prison in 1933 using a wooden gun. Other notable inmates included serial killer Richard Speck and assassin Richard Loeb of the infamous Leopold and Loeb duo.

Get to 1125 Collins St. in Joliet via the Metra Rock Island District line stop at the nearby Joliet station, just a short walk from Collins St.

In the Ogygia Prison scene in Prison Break

Bridge Studios -Boundary-, 2400 Boundary Rd, Burnaby, BC V5M 3Z3, Canada

In Ogygia Prison, Michael (Wentworth Miller) uses a clever trick to access the infirmary. With the help of Whip (Augustus Prew), he pretends to have a fever by soaking his clothing in boiling water.

As one guard lashes him, another offers him pills. Hiding them in his mouth, Michael trades the tablets with his cellmate Ja (Rick Yune), who is going through withdrawal. In return, Michael gains access to a cell phone and a credit card number.

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Canada, Bridge Studios -Boundary epitomizes what it means to be a world-class production hub. Boasting over 600,000 square feet of studio and office space, Bridge Studios -Boundary has become the go-to spot for film and television production in the Pacific Northwest.

Between its state-of-the-art facilities and unparalleled support services, Bridge Studios -Boundary offers an unmatched level of convenience and reliability that is hard to find elsewhere.

Get to 2400 Boundary Rd in Burnaby via the Trans-Canada Highway or Highway 1. From the west, take exit 29 off Highway 1 and turn left onto Boundary Rd. Alternatively, take exit 33 off Highway 1 from the east and keep right at the fork, following the BC-15/Boundary Rd.

Sara and others visiting the cemetery scene in Prison Break

Mountain View Cemetery - City of Vancouver, 5455 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5W 2Z3, Canada

During a lively street fair in Central America, Sara (Sarah Wayne Callies) captures our attention with a distinctive snake-shaped scar on her shoulder. She lovingly calls her child, Michael Jr. (Ethan Alderman), who proudly displays a temporary tattoo. They mention it is time to visit Daddy and lead us to a beachside cemetery.

There, they reunite with Linc (Dominic Purcell), Sucre (Amaury Nolasco), and Mahone (William Fichtner). Emotionally, Michael Scofield Jr. places flowers on a headstone while Linc leaves an origami crane. Together, they pay heartfelt respects.

Mountain View Cemetery, owned and operated by the City of Vancouver since 1886, is the only cemetery in the city. This site, spanning 106 acres of land, stretches between 31st and 43rd Avenues, west of Fraser Street.

It boasts approximately 92,000 grave sites, making it a significant and expansive location. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, which feature various sections and gardens dedicated to different religious, ethnic, and cultural communities. This vibrant neighborhood is full of shops, restaurants, and landmarks worth discovering.

Make your way to 5455 Fraser St by taking the Skytrain towards King Edward Station. From there, transfer to the 25 bus towards Brentwood Station and get off at Fraser St and E 39th Ave.

Conclusion

Prison Break is an exciting and suspenseful show that features a wide variety of locations. Chicago, Woodstock, and Joliet in Illinois, O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, and Toronto, Ontario in Canada, provided settings for most scenes.

The story follows structural engineer Michael Scofield, who has to break himself and his falsely accused brother out of the prison he designed. With locations near and far from its Illinois base, Prison Break immerses viewers in a thrilling world of action-packed drama.

From the bustling city streets of Chicago to the more rural areas around Woodstock, Prison Break offers a wide range of settings for viewers to explore along with the characters. Visiting international landmarks such as O'Hare Airport and Toronto further adds to the excitement of each character arc. With its unique blend of real-world locations near and far away from its base set in Illinois, Prison Break will keep viewers on their toes!