Earlier this month we provided you with a list of famous places in and around Austin, Texas where movies and television series have been filmed.
Here’s a self-guided walking tour and driving tour that will take you to the most recognizable filming locations in Austin that were used for movies and TV shows.
DOWNTOWN WALKING FILM TOUR OF AUSTIN (2-3 hours)
Here’s a list of an easy walking tour packed with recognizable locations where films and television series showcase our city within 1.5 miles.
1) Texas State Capitol
Seen in multiple shows, including Walker for establishing government/city shots. There are great dome and grounds photos in this production.
Walk: 15 minutes south on Congress Ave
2) Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge
Frequent skyline/river establishing shots in Walker and other productions. The best angels are from the bridge or the hike-and-bike trail below.
Walk: 10 minutes west toward Auditorium Shores
3) Auditorium Shores at Zilker Park
Portions of A Scanner Darkly and other Austin-set films used these greenbelt and skyline views. Take a break and relax by the water to enjoy a classic Austin backdrop.
Walk or rideshare: 5 minutes to South Congress
4) Continental Club
This live music landmark featured in Boyhood. Grab a drink or catch an afternoon set. For an optional stop for a snack nearby, stop into Home Slice Pizza. It’s not a film set, but a very “Austin movie vibe” for a casual bite.
5) End the walk along South Congress for murals and storefronts often used for background city shots.
DRIVING TOUR OF AUSTIN’S FAMOUS MOVIE AND TV SPOTS (3-4 hours)
1) Top Notch Hamburgers
Featured prominently in Dazed and Confused where they recreated the burger-stand scenes.
Drive: 12 minutes south
2) Baker St. Pub & Grill
Exterior used as “Chotchkie’s” in Office Space. This is a quick stop worthy of an Instagram selfie!
Drive: 15 minutes south
3) Bedichek Middle School
The exterior served as Lee High School in Dazed and Confused. You can visit the school from the street.
Drive: 20 minutes southeast
4) McKinney Falls State Park
Outdoor scenes for Spy Kids and its sequel were filmed here. It’s also a favorite spot for
hiking, taking pics of waterfalls and a perfect picnic stop.
Drive: 20 minutes north
5) Del Valle High School Stadium
Used for football action in Friday Night Lights. Drive-by or quick exterior photos.
Optional evening stop back toward town: Broken Spoke – a beloved Texas dance hall often associated with Friday Night Lights fandom and Austin film culture.