There are plenty of cinematic spots worth investigating in the Lone Star State. Here’s a look at five notable movies filmed in Texas and their locations. To explore more historic film spots, try your own self-guided tour here!

The Great Football Film Trail

Texans' passion for sports is evident in every corner of the state. Towering urban arenas and buzzing high school fields come alive on Friday nights. Sports are deeply ingrained in the state's culture—and it's been vividly captured on screen several times. Generations of filmmakers have celebrated Texas' love for football, bringing the heart and drama of the sport to audiences everywhere in films like “Varsity Blues” and “Friday Night Lights.” Explore some of the state's iconic players, legendary teams, historic fields, and more.

Marfa as seen in “Giant”

While Marfa has played host to other Westerns, 1956’s “Giant” was one of the first movies made in Texas, featuring this particular slice of West Texas. The film starring James Dean captures the expansive terrain of the region and is directed by George Stevens, who took home an Academy Award. “Giant” is primarily set on Ryan Ranch, where the fictional home’s skeleton still remains. One could argue that ’50s Marfa providing a temporary home to award-winning moviemakers was a precursor to what the town is today, a bustling habitat for artists and creatives.

Big Bend as seen in “No Country For Old Men”

Few Westerns are as terrifying and timeless as the Coen Brother’s “No Country For Old Men,” largely shot in Marfa, Alpine and the Trans Pecos region. This gripping addition to the long list of movies made in Texas sees Josh Brolin’s Llewelyn Moss escape through the brush and wilderness of Big Bend National Park. Though you won’t be dodging danger like the film’s protagonist, you can still follow the trails and experience the rugged landscapes as seen in the film. However, we don’t recommend removing your shoes or swimming in blue jeans.

Archer City as seen in “Last Picture Show”

Though Larry McMurtry’s novel and the adapted film offer subtle critiques to the nuances of small-town living, the success of both launched Texas’ Archer City to tourist notoriety. While the Hollywood of today is known for using visual effects, the backdrops of this film remain largely unchanged, including the famed Royal Theater, which still operates as a cultural space for live performances and exhibitions. Other landmarks that match up with stills from the film include the city hall sign and Murn’s Cafe.

Corpus Christi’s U.S.S. Lexington Museum as seen in “Pearl Harbor”

While the battle of Pearl Harbor was famously waged along the coast of Hawaii, the 2001 epic depicting the events (and a fun love triangle involving Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Beckinsale) featured many elements from Corpus Christi’s USS Lexington Museum. Housed on the remnants of the famed naval ship, which was transporting aircraft to Midway Island on the morning of December 7, 1941, this historical landmark serves as a double-dip into both film and United States history.

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