You might be surprised by how many TV shows and movies have been filmed right here in DFW. From iconic mansions to small towns and country backroads, here are a few you may not have realized were shot in our own backyard!
Updated April 2025
“DALLAS” AT SOUTHFORK RANCH
The iconic TV show “Dallas” began filming in 1978, with all exterior shots filmed at Southfork Ranch. Production used the ranch for outdoor scenes through 1989 and returned to the spotlight for reunion movies and documentaries in the years that followed. With 13 seasons and 356 episodes, “Dallas” became one of the most-watched shows in the world! In 2012, the series made a comeback on TNT– once again returning to Southfork with a mix of original and new cast members.
MORE DFW FILMING LOCATIONS
QUEEN OF THE SOUTH (2016-2021)
This gritty crime drama follows Teresa Mendoza’s rise in the drug world and was filmed across Dallas in spots like Deep Ellum, Oak Cliff, and Fair Park.
BOTTLE ROCKET (1996)
Wes Anderson’s first feature short film, co-written with Owen Wilson, was shot entirely in DFW, including a Preston Hollow home and scenes in Hillsboro– capturing that signature indie, Texas charm!
WALKER, TEXAS RANGER (1993-2001)
This classic action series starring Chuck Norris was filmed across DFW, including Downtown Dallas and @WhiteElephantSaloon in the Stockyards.
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (2006)
Before moving production to Austin, the original pilot episode was filmed in DFW– perfectly capturing the North Texas football spirit!
ROBOCOP (1987)
Surprisingly, this futuristic action film was shot largely in downtown Dallas, which stood in for a dystopian Detroit.
SPY KIDS 2 (2001)
The scenes with Bill Paxton touring his amusement park were filmed at Six Flags in Arlington!
THE GOOD GUYS (2010)
This short-lived Fox television series starring Bradley Whitford and Colin Hanks was filmed throughout Fair Park for its diverse locations and to not disturb the locals.
PRISON BREAK (2006)
Several scenes in the earlier seasons of this hit series were filmed around North Texas, including parts of Dallas and surrounding suburbs.
