One of the many things I love about California is its rich history with the film industry. The movies were born here, and there is a wide array of places to visit that offer glimpses into the magic of movie making, as well as thousands of locations to visit. Some are boasted on large billboards, while others are tucked away. One of these hidden gems is Paramount Ranch.
In 1927 Paramount Pictures purchased a massive plot of land in Agoura Hills. With its sloping hilltops and looming Santa Monica Mountains the area offered solitude from the bustling city outside and thus a perfect place to film. Many sets came and went, and in 1953 Paramount sold the land to William Hertz, who built a permanent western set on the land, but sold the property in 1955. After changing hands multiple times, the National Parks Service purchased much of the original 2,700 acres that Paramount had owned, including the western film set. The set was maintained, as it continued to be used for filming, most notably as the stand in for Colorado Springs in the 1990s series, Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman.
I had a total geek-out moment when I spied Dr. Quinn's clinic. I remember watching Dr. Quinn with my mother, and loving it.
If you visit, you can see that the buildings have seen better days, but it still feels rich with history, and is still recognizable as the growing town in Dr. Quinn. I was able to spot out her clinic, Bray's store, Jake's barber shop, the bank, and even the area where Grace had her outdoor restaurant.
The ranch was also used in episodes of The A-Team, Dukes of Hazard and CHiPs throughout the 1970s and 80s, as well as an episode of the sci-fi western, and cult classic, Firefly. The surrounding area around the western town offers miles of hiking trails, and is a popular spot for horseback riding.
Paramount Ranch is located at 2903 Cornell Road in Agoura Hills, about 30 miles west of Hollywood. Typing in Paramount Ranch into Google Maps will give you perfect directions! Visit the NPS's website for details on hours and events, including tours.
You can view later visits to Paramount Ranch here and here.
What an awesome spot, I lived in LA for a year in college but I never knew about half the places you have been visiting! I will have a list of places to visit next time I visit for sure! Also your skirt is amazing!
Oh this place sounds fantastic! I remember my grandpa telling me about Paramount Ranch when I was younger, and I've always wanted to visit. I still want to visit.
I can't even…oh my Dr. Quinn loving goodness! That show was the be all to end all for me TV wise for a few years when I was a child and it's still a firm favourite to my day. This location might just take the cake now as my favourite you've ever shot at, dear Janey.
Naturally, I adore your outfit, too. Your collection of vintage covered wagon themed novelty print skirts is the coolest!
How fun! And your outfit is picture perfect too!
I too remember watching Dr. Quinn with my mom when I was younger. I loved the shots of the buildings you took, you can really see the whole town 🙂 By the way I love your skirt, you always seemed to be nicely dressed in theme!
So cool! Pictures are really great, awesome blog post!
I adore this look so much! …The skirt especially – no surprise!
What an amazing place to visit, so much history! And yeah, the skirt is phenomenal too, and absolutely appropriate for the occasion.