Where was Urban Cowboy filmed?
1980
City Locations
Houston, TX
Location Types
House, Apartment, Restaurant, Clubs/Bars
Location Styles
Parking Lot, Building Dated/Retro, Classic Car, Mid-Century Modern, Americana/Anywhere
About Urban Cowboy
Urban Cowboy is a timeless romantic Western that takes place in the 1980s. It beautifully portrays the complex love-hate dynamic between two seemingly incompatible characters: Buford Uan "Bud" Davis, portrayed brilliantly by John Travolta, and Sissy, played by the talented Debra Winger. The film takes us on Bud's captivating journey from his humble Texas hometown to the bustling city of Houston, where he secures a job at the renowned Gilley's Club, a local honky-tonk bar. Despite their initial differences, Buford and Sissy are eventually drawn together as they attempt to navigate their way through the obstacles they face during their time in Houston. As they progress through the film, Buford and Sissy come to realize that true love often triumphs over adversity.
The success of Urban Cowboy led to a mainstream revival of country music. Along with earning its place among classic Western films and musicals, Urban Cowboy was also one of John Travolta's first starring roles since his breakout performance in Saturday Night Fever. The film also features a scene where Bud rides on a mechanical bull—something that became popular in bars all across America after its release!
Urban Cowboy received positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 70% "Fresh" rating based on 23 reviews. Vincent Canby of The New York Times described it as "not only most entertaining but also first-rate social criticism." Variety praised director James Bridges for capturing the atmosphere of Gilley's Club, one of the most famous chip-kicker hangouts.
The film brought attention to Pasadena and Houston, with celebrities like Andy Warhol and Jerry Hall attending the premiere. Mickey Gilley's career saw a revival, and the film's soundtrack sparked a music movement.
The success of Urban Cowboy led to a mainstream revival of country music, with the term "Urban Cowboy" used to describe the soft-core country music of the early 1980s. Artists like Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Johnny Lee, and Janie Fricke became synonymous with the mellow sounds featured in the movie. This musical style dominated country music sales during the early to mid-'80s.
Urban Cowboy Locations
The majority of the scenes from Urban Cowboy were shot in Houston, Texas, which provided a unique backdrop for the film. The city's expansive skyline of downtown buildings juxtaposed with the lush countryside of nearby ranches gave a stunningly beautiful contrast that could be seen throughout the movie. The natural beauty of the area made it perfect for filming outdoor scenes such as rodeo events and dance hall parties. Nearby areas such as Galveston Island and San Antonio were also used to give further depth to certain aspects of the story.
A trip to any of these locations used to film Urban Cowboy would certainly be worthwhile; whether you’re an avid fan or simply someone who enjoys exploring new places, each region has something special to offer in terms of scenery and atmosphere.
Experiencing authentic cowboy culture in Houston allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world created by this iconic motion picture.
Sissy driving a tow truck scene in Urban Cowboy
225 Red Bluff Rd, Pasadena, TX 77506, USA
Sissy is depicted working with a tow truck, pulling a car. The scene showcases Sissy's character as she demonstrates her skills and independence in a traditionally male-dominated field. The context of Sissy working with a tow truck adds to the authenticity of the film's portrayal of the urban cowboy culture and the characters' lives in Houston, Texas.
As one of the most scenic roads in Pasadena, Red Bluff Road offers breathtaking views and a sense of escape from the bustling city. This curving road winds through the hills, passing by beautiful homes and verdant greenery.
Getting to 225 Red Bluff Rd in Pasadena is easier than you might think, as it’s just a 20-minute drive east from downtown Houston.
Restaurant scene in Urban Cowboy
2408 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77504, USA
Wes (Scott Glenn) chews up and swallows something after drinking a bottle of tequila. Interestingly, this particular moment was not scripted but was improvised as a joke during the filming of the dailies.
This scene was filmed on Spencer Highway in Pasadena, a bustling thoroughfare that offers locals and visitors an array of options for dining, shopping, and entertainment. This busy street is home to numerous restaurants serving mouth-watering cuisine from all over the world. For those in need of retail therapy, Spencer Highway also boasts a variety of shops and stores.
If you're looking for 2408 Spencer Hwy in Pasadena, then it's important to note that the address is located just off Beltway 8 and close to the I-45 interchange. It’s about 15 miles southeast of downtown Houston.
Pam's penthouse scene in Urban Cowboy
2016 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, USA
There is a scene that takes place in Pam's (Madolyn Smith) Houston penthouse condominium. The luxurious penthouse, located on the 26th floor, serves as the home of the love interest of John Travolta's character. The scene showcases the interior of the condo, highlighting its elegant design and spaciousness.
The penthouse is found on Main Street in Houston, a vibrant hub of activity that is filled with bustling crowds, unique shops and restaurants, and fascinating historical landmarks. From iconic architecture to the stunning art installations scattered throughout the area, Main Street truly has something for everyone. Whether you're looking to grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Main Street offers endless opportunities for exploration. It's no wonder that so many locals and tourists alike flock to this lively Houston neighborhood every day.
Are you trying to find your way to 2016 Main Street in Houston? Houston is a sprawling city, but getting to your destination doesn't have to be a headache. Hop in your car and head towards downtown Houston. From there, find Main Street and drive south until you see the towering skyscraper of 2016 Main St.
Nightclub scene in Urban Cowboy
1885 Saint James Place, Houston, TX 77056, United States
Pam takes Bud, Bob (Barry Corbin), and Corene (Brooke Alderson) to a nightclub. In this scene, the characters enter the lively and bustling club, filled with people dancing, drinking, and enjoying the energetic atmosphere. The pulsating country music fills the air as Pam, Bud, Bob, and Corene join the crowd on the dance floor, showcasing their moves and immersing themselves in the vibrant nightlife.
This scene was filmed at 1885 Saint James Place in Houston. The area is home to a wide range of apartments, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and gathering spaces, making it the perfect destination for a delightful day out in the city.
If you're trying to find 1885 Saint James Place, you'll first want to head to the Galleria area, a bustling shopping and business district known for its high-end fashion stores and skyscrapers. From there, it’s just a one-mile drive to this Urban Cowboy filming location.
Uncle Bob and Aunt Corene's house scene in Urban Cowboy
2213 Westside Dr, Deer Park, TX 77536, USA
Uncle Bob and Aunt Corene's house is portrayed as a warm and welcoming environment for the characters. The house is an integral part of the storyline, symbolizing familial connections and providing a sense of comfort and refuge.
The house used for the film is found on Westside Drive in Deer Park, southeastern Houston. This area boasts beautiful views, gorgeous sunsets, quiet streets, and peaceful suburban surroundings.
The easiest way to reach 2213 Westside Drive is by car. Simply hop on the highway and take the exit for Deer Park, and it’s a 20-mile drive southeast from downtown Houston.
Conclusion
Urban Cowboy, a timeless American film, beautifully captures the essence of both rural and urban life. Set primarily in Houston, Texas, this cinematic masterpiece follows the transformative journey of Bud Davis. Transitioning from a small-town cowboy to a sophisticated city dweller, Bud discovers himself amidst the heartaches and loves found at Gilley's Bar & Grill. Through the lens of Bud's growth and evolution, we are granted a captivating glimpse into the contrasting landscapes of rural America and bustling urban centers.
From vast green fields to vibrant downtown streets, Urban Cowboy paints a vivid portrait of how these environments shape Bud's identity and his sense of belonging. With its unforgettable characters and profound messages, Urban Cowboy remains an enduring classic that will continue to enchant audiences for generations to come.