Ever wonder what it feels like to step into television history? You are about to experience just that here at Southfork Ranch. This ranch is not just a piece of land. It is an icon etched into the memories of millions worldwide.
Southfork Ranch rose to international fame as the setting for the television series “Dallas.” From 1978 to 1991, viewers across the United States and in 95 countries tuned in to watch the Ewing family’s drama unfold. The series remains in first-run status in many countries. Because of its popularity the ranch quickly became a tourist mecca.
Originally, the house was built in 1970 by Joe Duncan. It was known as Duncan Acres. The property spanned 200 acres. The mansion itself is 5,900 square feet. It includes a converted garage that served as a den or card room.
Exterior shots were filmed here from 1978 to 1989. Lorimar Productions created a studio mock-up in California. This was used when Texas weather was uncooperative. From 1989 onward, production shifted entirely to the California studio. The reunion movies “J.R. Returns” and “War of the Ewings” brought filming back to the ranch. So did the non-fiction special “The Return to Southfork.” “War of the Ewings” in 1998 was the only time filming occurred inside the real ranch for dramatic purposes. Southfork was used again for the new “Dallas” series from 2012-2014.
Initially, the ranch owner lived here with his family during filming. Requests for private events soon followed. A small party pavilion was built. Tents were erected to accommodate these events. In 1985, the owner opened the Ewing Mansion to the public. The ranch expanded as an event center.
Southfork Ranch is now a premier special events venue and meeting destination. It hosts hundreds of events annually. These include weddings, reunions, and corporate meetings. Southfork Ranch boasts 63,000 square feet of event space.
In 1992, Rex Maughan, an Arizona businessman, bought the ranch. Today, Southfork Ranch offers tours that run continuously. These tours are available Tuesday through Sunday.
Inside, the “Dallas Legends: Fact To Fantasy” exhibit awaits. See memorabilia like the gun that shot J.R. and Lucy’s wedding dress. Video clips from the TV series bring back memories.
Southfork Ranch is more than just a place. It is a symbol of an era. It is a testament to the power of television. As you explore, remember the iconic moments that made Southfork a household name.