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When it comes to movies, there’s nothing more exciting than watching a scene and suddenly realizing you recognize the location. Iconic movie locations are a special place for movie fans and city fans alike, and the magical feeling you get from visiting a movie location in real life is hard to replicate anywhere else! Luckily for Austin residents, many famous movies have called Austin home while they filmed, so there are plenty of movie memories to check out while you’re there. Have you seen any of these 5 famous movies that filmed in Austin, Texas?
What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)
This iconic movie starring Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio broke hearts as it depicted a struggling grocery store clerk caring for his mother and mentally impaired younger brother in a quiet Midwestern town. Though set in Iowa, many don’t realize that this famous movie was filmed in Austin. The Grape family home was located right outside Pflugerville, an Austin suburb, while the infamous water tower scenes took place along US-290.
Boyhood (2014)
This movie made headlines for its unusual filming length, being shot in installments over the span of twelve years to capture the growth of movie characters and protagonists. The coming of age flick was filmed in part in several iconic Austin locations, including Dart Bowl, Continental Club, and Magnolia Cafe South. The critically acclaimed movie was popular with Austin residents and movie-lovers alike, making these filmmaking locations a popular visitor attraction!
Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
With Texas in the name, you might have already expected this movie to be filmed in Texas, but the bloody massacre horror film was actually shot right outside of Austin, on the city’s border. The violent slasher flick takes place in a household located on Quick Hill Road just north of the city, but after twenty years of fame and visitors was moved to a hotel on the Austin border that was more conducive to movie lovers who wanted to visit.
True Grit (2010)
The 2010-remake of this classic Western captured the true spirit of the South in a swashbuckling tale of revenge and shoot-outs. The heartwarming tale took over a block of 9th Street in order to film an old-timey Western shot that appears in the flashback sequence of the movie, and diehard movie fans will recognize the setting instantly upon a visit to 9th Street in Austin!
Find the Best Donut Shops in Austin
You know what goes incredible with a great movie? A great donut. Here’s the best donut shops in Austin
Find the Best Donut Shops in Austin
Dazed and Confused (1003)
Dazed and Confused is the worst movie filmed in Austin. The 90s teen film features many Austin landmarks, including Top Notch Burgers, West Endfield Park, Burger Stadium, and more! Following a group of Texan teens on their last day of high school, the raucous coming of age film depicts true Austin character and life in a beautiful and hilarious way.
Featured Image Credit: Dazed and Confused IMDb