The iconic film “Urban Cowboy” holds a special place in the hearts of many movie buffs. Released in 1980, it starred John Travolta and Debra Winger, and gave rise to a cultural phenomenon that celebrated the country-western lifestyle. But did you know that the film had a significant connection to the city of Houston, Texas?
One of the most memorable locations in the movie was Pam’s Houston penthouse condominium. This luxurious residence, where John Travolta’s character Bud falls in love with Pam, was actually located at 1885 St. James Place in Houston. While the actual condominium may not exist anymore, its presence in the film has left a lasting impression on viewers.
Another notable filming location was the Uptown 3 Level Nightclub, where Pam takes Bud and their friends for a night of dancing and revelry. This nightclub was situated at 1885 St. James Place in Houston as well, providing a vibrant backdrop for the characters’ adventures. Although the nightclub may have undergone changes or even closed down since the filming, it remains an integral part of the film’s legacy.
For those who are curious about the dining scenes in “Urban Cowboy,” Toppers Steakhouse played a significant role. Located at 2408 Spencer Highway in Pasadena, Texas, this restaurant provided an authentic setting for the characters to enjoy their meals. It’s worth noting that the restaurant scenes were filmed between 2408 and 2510 Spencer Highway, showcasing the local flavor and atmosphere of the area.
Additionally, the film features some scenes at Gilley’s, a legendary country-western nightclub. While the original Gilley’s in Pasadena, Texas, has closed down, a new Gilley’s was opened in Dallas in 2003. This Dallas location boasts a 26,000-square-foot main showroom and even features the original mechanical bull, El Toro, which was prominently showcased in “Urban Cowboy.” The success of the film and the popularity of Gilley’s contributed to its status as a cultural icon during that time.
It’s important to note that “Urban Cowboy” not only showcased specific locations in Houston and Texas but also captured the spirit of the city’s downtown area. The recently listed downtown Houston penthouse at 2016 Main Street, for example, was home to John Travolta’s love interest Pam in the film. This luxe 26th-floor condo serves as a reminder of the movie’s impact on popular culture.
As we delve into the history and filming locations of “Urban Cowboy,” it becomes clear that the film’s connection to Houston, Texas, is deeply ingrained. From the iconic penthouse condominium to the vibrant nightclub scenes, these locations have become synonymous with the film’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a fan of country-western music, John Travolta, or simply appreciate a good love story, “Urban Cowboy” continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of romance and Texas charm.
What Part Of Houston Was Urban Cowboy Filmed?
The movie Urban Cowboy, released in 1980 and directed by James Bridges, was primarily filmed in Houston, Texas. Several iconic locations in Houston were used as filming sites, adding to the authenticity of the film’s depiction of the city’s urban cowboy culture.
One of the notable locations featured in the movie is Pam’s Houston penthouse condominium, which is situated on Main Street in Houston. This luxurious setting provides the backdrop for many pivotal scenes in the film, showcasing the lavish lifestyle of the characters.
Another prominent location in Urban Cowboy is The Uptown 3 Level Nightclub. This nightclub, where Pam takes Bud, Bob, and Corene for a night out, is located at 1885 St. James Place in Houston. The club’s three levels offer a vibrant atmosphere and serve as a hub for the characters’ social interactions and romantic entanglements.
Additionally, Toppers Steakhouse is another memorable location in the movie. This restaurant, where various restaurant scenes take place, is situated at 2408 Spencer Highway in Pasadena, Texas, which is a suburb of Houston. Toppers Steakhouse provides a rustic and casual setting for the characters to gather, dine, and engage in conversations.
To summarize, Urban Cowboy was predominantly filmed in Houston, Texas. The movie showcases several key locations, including Pam’s Houston penthouse condominium on Main Street, The Uptown 3 Level Nightclub at 1885 St. James Place, and Toppers Steakhouse at 2408 Spencer Highway in Pasadena. These locations contribute to the authentic portrayal of the urban cowboy culture and the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Where Is Gilley’s Bar From Urban Cowboy?
Gilley’s, the famous bar from the movie “Urban Cowboy,” is located in Dallas, Texas. This iconic establishment first opened its doors in 2003 and has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Situated in Dallas, Gilley’s spans an impressive 26,000 square feet, making it a spacious and vibrant venue for entertainment.
One of the main attractions at Gilley’s is the original bull, El Toro, which was featured in the movie “Urban Cowboy.” This mechanical bull adds an exciting element to the overall experience, allowing patrons to test their skills and endurance just like the characters in the film.
With its rich history and connection to “Urban Cowboy,” Gilley’s has become a staple in Dallas culture. The main show room is a focal point, offering a large space for live performances, concerts, and other events. The ambiance of Gilley’s captures the essence of the movie, providing visitors with a taste of the country-western lifestyle portrayed in “Urban Cowboy.”
Gilley’s bar from “Urban Cowboy” is located in Dallas, Texas. It boasts a sizable main show room spanning 26,000 square feet and features the original bull, El Toro. This iconic venue has become a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of the country-western scene and a chance to relive the energy of the film.
Is Gilley’s Still Open In Houston?
Gilley’s is no longer open in Houston. The original Gilley’s club, which was located in Pasadena, Texas, closed its doors in 1989. However, there are still three other Gilley’s locations in operation. These include Gilley’s Las Vegas in Nevada, Gilley’s Dallas in Texas, and Gilley’s Durant in Oklahoma. The club in Houston was a popular hotspot back in the day, known for its mechanical bull and country music scene. It even gained recognition through the movie “Urban Cowboy” featuring John Travolta and Debra Winger. But unfortunately, the Houston location is no longer in operation.
Where Was Pam’s Apartment In Urban Cowboy?
Pam’s apartment in the film “Urban Cowboy” was located in downtown Houston, specifically at 2016 Main Street. This luxurious penthouse is situated on the 26th floor, offering stunning views of the city. It is interesting to note that this penthouse is currently listed for sale on the Houston Association of Realtors website. The apartment holds a unique place in cinematic history as it was portrayed as the residence of John Travolta’s love interest in the 1980s film.
Conclusion
“Urban Cowboy” is a classic film that captures the essence of 1980s Texas culture and the country western lifestyle. Set in Houston, the film showcases iconic locations such as Pam’s penthouse condominium on Main Street and the Uptown 3 Level Nightclub on St. James Place. The film also features Toppers Steakhouse in Pasadena, where memorable restaurant scenes take place.
One of the most significant landmarks in the film is Gilley’s, a famous nightclub and honky-tonk that was a major attraction in Houston during the 1980s. Although the original Gilley’s in Dallas is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on through other locations in Las Vegas, Dallas, and Durant.
The downtown Houston penthouse, which is currently listed for sale, holds a special place in the film’s history as the home of John Travolta’s love interest, Pam. This luxurious condo on the 26th floor provides a glimpse into the glamorous lifestyle depicted in “Urban Cowboy.”
“Urban Cowboy” is an iconic film that not only tells a compelling story of love and passion but also serves as a time capsule of Houston’s past. Its portrayal of Texan culture, the country music scene, and the urban cowboy phenomenon continues to captivate audiences today. Whether you’re a fan of classic films, a lover of Texas history, or simply enjoy a good love story, “Urban Cowboy” is a must-watch.
