Southfork Ranch

The very sight conjures up the sweeping views of pre-oil tank Dallas, a young Larry Hagman and that familiar song - Southfork.Well, J.R. - dead or alive - doesn't live here anymore. Dallas is in syndication and you'll probably see more oil barons at The Mansion, but it's cool to get lost in the memory anyway.
A tram tour of the ranch includes a stop at the Dallas Legends exhibit, which displays memorabilia from the show, like the gun that shot J.R., Lucy's wedding dress, video clips from the series and more.

The tour highlight remains the Ewing Mansion. Guests are given a full guided tour of the home, including J.R.'s bedroom and the pool area. A guide also gives interesting tidbits about the 13 years of filming and insight into the character of Dallas' once-first family.

Visitors are welcome to run loose on the grounds, too. Check out Jock Ewing's original 1978 Lincoln Continental and shop for Texas-inspired apparel and more at Lincolns and Longhorns. Hungry? Grab a bite at Miss Ellie's Deli. Southfork T-shirts, Texas collectibles and other souvenirs can be found in the Ranch Roundup gift shop at the visitors center.

Southfork is home to the massive "Celebrate Freedom" Christian concert, held each Independence Day. It's said said to be the world's largest one-day Christian concert, with an average attendance of more than 150,000. The ranch is also a popular place for mixing boots with business. Indoor and outdoor facilities are available for all kinds of private events, such as conventions, wedding receptions, church groups and retreats. Several catering options (including breakfast) are available for small to large groups.

So while the legendary show has been resting in the annals of TV history since the '80s, the ranch itself is alive and well.

Directions: Heading north on Central Expressway, exit Parker Road in Plano. Drive east. Parker is also known as FM 2514. Go south on Hogge (also called FM 2551). You can't miss the white mansion in the distance.