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Westworld movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Westworld filmed?

2016

City Locations

Los Angeles (USA), Arizona (USA), Utah (USA), Newhall (USA), Universal City (USA), Santa Clarita (USA), Agua Dulce (USA), Simi Valley (USA), Kayenta (USA), Agathla Peak (USA), West Hollywood (USA), Burbank (USA), Saugus (USA), Agoura (USA), New York (USA)

Location Types

Film Studio, Unusual, Ranch

Location Styles

Ranch, Futuristic, Hotel Style, Luxury Hotel

About Westworld

Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy's Westworld is a thought-provoking, dystopian sci-fi Western TV series that has captivated viewers since its premiere. On October 2nd, 2016, HBO debuted Michael Crichton's Westworld's highly anticipated return, reimagining his original 1973 film and its 1976 sequel Futureworld.

Step behind the walls of Westworld and journey into a Wild West-style amusement park. With robotic "hosts" to ensure everything runs smoothly, you can live out your wildest dreams without worrying about real danger. As the story progresses, it shifts from its digital setting to our current world in the middle of this century. This dystopian society is controlled by a potent AI system named Rehoboam, and people's lives are at the mercy of its decisions.

Joy and Nolan spearheaded the Westworld production, which debuted in April 2018. Afterward, it was followed by a third season in March 2020 and then again with a fourth one coming out in June 2022. However, it was canceled by HBO on November 2022. The debut season of the HBO original series was an absolute hit, drawing in millions of viewers. Even more impressive are its acclaimed performances, narrative arc, visuals, themes, and soundtracks composed by Ramin Djawadi. Unfortunately, the second season onward began to receive criticism due to script issues, characterization problems, and narrative opacity. This caused an eventual decrease in viewership ratings. Nevertheless, it still got numerous awards, and Thandiwe Newton won an Emmy Outstanding Supporting Actress award in 2018.

Westworld Locations

The production team shot the series on 35mm film incorporating HD taps. For a softer look, they used Arri Zeiss Master Prime lenses with their coatings removed. Kodak motion-picture film was the primary choice, and FotoKem in Burbank processed it. Later, Encore Hollywood scanned all suitable takes to create digital intermediates as dailies.HBO received the finalized cut of 2K JPEG digital format for broadcast, while Warner Bros. Television secured a negative copy for preservation in its archives.

The show was filmed at various locations across California, such as multiple soundstages, backlots at Universal Studios and Warner Bros., Big Sky Ranch, the Paramount Ranch in Agoura, Los Angeles Convention Center in L.A. and the Skirball Cultural Center, along with Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood. Most notable was Melody Ranch in Santa Clarita (previously used for Django Unchained and The Magnificent Seven), but Zack Grobler upgraded it to reflect a stereotypically ideal American frontier town for Westworld's Sweetwater set. Green screens were placed around the CA sets to mask modern objects like parking lots that could be digitally merged with outdoor shots from Utah. Additionally, a miniature train was supplied by Fillmore & Western Railway for guest arrival scenes (the same one used for 2013's The Lone Ranger).

To achieve the grand and sweeping look of the series, the producers looked to the work of legendary director John Ford, who had filmed four Western films in Castle Valley east of Moab. In 2014, Christopher Nolan made a scouting trip there with part of his crew and was immediately delighted by the place. The pilot episode was shot at various Utah locations over five days, including Castle Valley and Dead Horse Point State Park. For some horseback riding scenes, they worked on a private ranch that granted them more freedom than when shooting on public land. Additionally, set walls were transported from California to film reverse angles in Utah to ensure perfect continuity with the original footage shot in CA.

Control room scene in Westworld

Dead Horse Point State Park, UT-313, Moab, UT

The camera shifts to a sweeping landscape view before zooming in on a distant train. The landscape is on a large, round table in a control room. This is the Westworld Mesa Hub, with people wearing blue shirts crowding around it, each holding a tablet. We then observe a large hall where folks wearing white "cleanroom" attire construct an android horse. In another part of the room, someone can be seen testing human-like androids of various states - some clothed and some unclothed. These include female-looking figures, men with bows and arrows, and simulated gunfighters. Lastly, Bernard Lowe (Jeffrey Wright) was spotted sitting alongside Elsie (Shannon Woodward), as they witnessed Clementine (Angela Sarafyan) seated naked on a stool.

Located along the Colorado River, Dead Horse State Park in Utah is a stunning natural wonderland, providing some of the most spectacular views in the US. The park offers various activities, from camping and hiking to mountain biking and horseback riding. It is home to many different species of plants and animals, such as juniper, piñon pine, mule deer, black bear, and golden eagles. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the canyons carved by rivers flowing into Lake Powell and explore ancient Native American dwellings. With its natural beauty and countless outdoor activities, Dead Horse Point State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Utah.

Getting to Dead Horse Point State Park is easy. Located just a few miles west of Moab, Utah, the park is accessible via US-191 and SR-313. Grand Junction, Colorado, is the closest airport, only an hour and a half drive away. Additionally, there are multiple bus stops near the park. Visitors can choose various transportation options, including car rental, shuttle buses, and taxi services.

Maeve in Sweetwater scene in Westworld

Melody Ranch, Oakcreek Ave, Santa Clarita, CA

Maeve (Thandiwe Newton) awoke in Sweetwater with a renewed sense of alertness and purpose. She wandered through the town, eventually going to the Mariposa Saloon. Standing at the bar with a plan, she glanced at her watch. Clementine (Angela Sarafyan), a new arrival to the area, noticed this and asked if Maeve was expecting someone.

Melody Ranch is a charming little community in Oakcreek Ave, Santa Clarita. This idyllic spot is well known for its picturesque homes and lush green surroundings. It provides peace and tranquility to all who reside there, with its pristine nature trails, fantastic view of the mountains, and plenty of recreational activities. For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails and parks to explore.

Getting to Melody Ranch in Oakcreek Ave, Santa Clarita, is easy. Located only a few miles from Santa Clarita, the area is accessible by car and public transportation. From Santa Clarita, you can take I-5 Northbound and exit at Lang Station Rd, then drive straight ahead until you reach Oakcreek Ave. Alternatively, there are regular bus routes to the area from downtown Los Angeles or Valencia Metrolink station.

Logan and William arrive together scene in Westworld

Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA

After Logan got off the platform, more than a dozen guys and girls in white apparel waited to welcome them. "See? What did I tell ya?" Logan (Ben Barnes) smirked as he took a girl's hand and walked away with her, calling back: "Have fun. Stay safe." William (Jimmi Simpson) reminded him to have some mercy. His response was: "What? Not like my sister didn't ride cowboys when she was here." He then grabbed an attractive guy's arm and revealed his tendency to grab opportunity - no matter what. Both, accompanied by Logan, made their way through the crowd.

The Los Angeles Convention Center in downtown Los Angeles is the largest exhibition facility in California. Its modern design, high ceilings, and spaciousness make it one of the most versatile venues in the region. It features 250,000 square feet of event and convention space, accommodating up to 10,000 guests in its main hall alone. From conferences and conventions to trade shows and other events, the LA Convention Center offers something for everyone.

Getting to the Los Angeles Convention Center is simple and convenient. The center is easily accessible from major highways such as I-5, US 101, and I-110. Public transport links to the venue include Metro Rail lines, bus routes, and even Amtrak services. If you're driving, multiple parking options exist on-site or nearby at various parking lots. You can also take a taxi or ride-share vehicle like Uber to the center.

Pariah City scene in Westworld

Mexican Street, Backlot, Universal Studios - 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA

Upon arriving at Pariah, Logan (Ben Barnes), William (Jimmi Simpson), and Dolores (Evan Rachel Wood) noticed Union soldiers, a cannon, and other military weaponry stationed around the area. Everyone entering the town had to pass under the watchful eye of the blue-uniformed Union Soldiers. Once past them, however, Mexican soldiers and those wearing Confederate Army uniforms were present on the streets. Logan described Pariah and attractions further away from the Mesa Hub at its center as rawer but more costly. He also mentioned his family's consideration of buying it out.

The Mexican Street & Backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood is a vibrant and unique experience. Located right in the middle of the studio backlot, the area features a colorful recreation of an authentic Mexican town and marketplace. Visitors can explore vibrant shop stalls and eateries, admire brightly colored buildings, explore alleyways, and more. The area also serves as a film location for many international productions.

Getting to the Mexican Street & Backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood is easy and convenient. The attraction is in the studio backlot and can be easily accessed on foot. You can also use one of the free trams available at various locations around the park. For those driving, there are multiple parking options on-site or nearby at various parking lots.

Lee getting drunk scene in Westworld

Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

After having his story dismissed by Ford (Anthony Hopkins), Lee Sizemore (Simon Quarterman) takes some time off and proceeds to get drunk at the Mesa Bar's pool. Unfortunately, he mistakenly tries to flirt with Charlotte Hale (Tessa Thompson) and is cut off from the bar. In a desperate attempt to retain a bit of liquid courage, he steals a liquor bottle.

Located in Los Angeles, the Skirball Cultural Center is an incredible destination dedicated to exploring and celebrating the story of modern Jewish culture. The center’s collection ranges from art and artifacts to educational programs, concerts, and lectures. Among its permanent exhibitions are significant works by Picasso, Chagall, and numerous other renowned artists. Visitors can explore a range of historical and interactive experiences for all ages, including the Skirball Museum, Heichal HaTarbut (Skirball Room), Billie & Edgar Stern Sculpture Garden, Ackerman family history exhibition as well as various hiking trails on the grounds.

The center can be easily accessed from major highways such as 101 and 10. Public buses also run to and from the area, including Metro Lines 233, 234, 235, and 236. Visitors driving to the center should use Skirball Drive or Mulholland Drive to access convenient parking. For those cycling or walking, multiple trails connect to nearby neighborhoods, making it easy to get to from adjacent areas.

Teddy and Dolores riding scene in Westworld

Monument Valley, Arizona

Dolores (Evan Rachel Wood) and Teddy (James Marsden), both armed, are seen riding across the open prairie. In the eyes of the Ghost Nation tribesman, Akecheta (Zahn McClarnon), Dolores is stripped of the upper half blue dress, a bandolier of bullets strung over a white shift fabric beneath her. She rides with passion and determination as she pursues fleeing party guests with seemingly unwavering focus, taking them all down successfully.

Monument Valley is an iconic landscape in Arizona's heart of the Navajo Nation. It's known for its magnificent red rock buttes, sandstone towers, and mesas that rise from a desert valley floor, making it one of the most photographed sites in the USA. Its incredible backdrop has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and video games, with some of the most iconic scenes occurring here. Visitors can explore sacred sites such as Carney's Folly Tower and Totem Pole Rock or take guided tours led by local Navajo guides to experience the culture and history of this area.

Monument Valley is located on the border of Arizona and Utah, most accessible from Navajo Route 4 in Utah or U.S. Route 163 in Arizona. Both roads lead into Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, the only area open to visitors for sightseeing and photography. Private vehicle tours are available from nearby towns, as well as guided tours provided by local Navajos.

Conclusion

Westworld captivated viewers with its marvelous and mysterious exploration of the Wild West, weaving a science-fiction Western narrative that will leave you spellbound. Filming took place in many different locations, both natural and man-made. These included California, Texas, Utah, and Colorado for outdoor scenes and Spain for studio shots and CGI environments. To ensure the greatest level of realism, filming for this series was conducted in various locations across the U.S.

All these locations work together to create an immersive experience for viewers and bring the world of Westworld to life. From panoramic perspectives to intense details, each place contributes to crafting a remarkable and unforgettable narrative. If you're a fan of Westerns, science fiction, or the tantalizing combination of both genres, Westworld is sure to thrill and captivate.