Saddle Up for a Rootin' Tootin' Tour of Television at Old Tucson Studios!
How many times can you say "yeehaw" in one sitting? Well, that's how many times you'll likely utter this enthusiastic outburst after a visit to Old Tucson Studios, Arizona's premier spot for all things Western...and a whole lotta TV shows! This ain't your grandpappy's dusty backlot, folks. This sprawling 300-acre ranch has been the backdrop for over 500 films and television shows, making it a true Hollywood legend of the West.
From Shootouts to Saloons: A Cavalcade of Classic TV
We're talkin' television titans here, partners! Remember those long, lazy Saturday afternoons spent glued to the boob tube (and let's be honest, fueled by sugary cereal)? Chances are, the shows you were glued to were filmed right here at Old Tucson. Think:
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- Gunsmoke: Dodge City's Marshal Matt Dillon (played by the ever-stoic James Arness) probably spent more time here than at his own darn house.
- Bonanza: The Cartwrights sure knew how to wrangle a ranch, and boy, did they wrangle one heck of a spread here at Old Tucson.
- Little House on the Prairie: Sure, Walnut Grove looked idyllic, but those dusty streets and rugged landscapes? All Old Tucson, baby!
But Wait, There's More! A Genre-Bending Extravaganza
Hold your horses! Old Tucson Studios isn't just a one-trick pony (or should we say, one-trick mustang?). This versatile venue has played host to a surprising variety of shows, including:
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- Kung Fu: David Carradine's grasshopper-hopping Caine found serenity amongst the cactus at Old Tucson.
- Death Valley Days: Those dramatizations of the Wild West's true stories? Yep, filmed right here.
- Three Amigos!: This hilarious Steve Martin comedy may not be your typical Western, but it used Old Tucson's dusty charm to perfection.
How to Experience Old Tucson Studios Yourself
Now that you've got a hankering for a visit, here's the lowdown:
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- Head to Tucson, Arizona: This sun-baked city is the gateway to your Old Tucson adventure.
- Saddle Up for a Tour: Explore the sets, learn about the filming history, and maybe even see a live-action shootout! (Don't worry, they use blanks these days.)
- Embrace Your Inner Cowboy: Giddy-up on a horseback ride, learn to throw a lasso, or pan for gold – just like they did in the good ol' days (with slightly less risk of actual danger).
FAQs for the Aspiring Television Tourist
How to get to Old Tucson Studios? Jump in your car and follow the signs! It's a quick 15-minute drive from downtown Tucson.
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How much does it cost to visit? Check their website for current pricing, but it's generally a pretty affordable adventure for the whole family.
How long should I spend at Old Tucson Studios? Plan on spending at least half a day to soak up the atmosphere and explore the sets.
How can I learn more about the shows filmed at Old Tucson Studios? The studio has a great website with tons of information, and the staff on-site are chock-full of Western trivia.
How can I convince my significant other that a trip to Old Tucson Studios is a good idea? Bribery with cactus candy might work. Or, simply remind them of all those classic shows they loved – filmed right here!
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