In 1978 Lorimar Productions chose the Southfork Ranch as the site for the hit CBS series Dallas. When filming began the original owners of the ranch continued to live inside the sprawling mansion, but as the series grew in popularity it became increasingly difficult for the family to maintain their privacy. In 1985 the family moved out, opened the doors to the public, and Southfork Ranch became a full-fledged tourist attraction. A 60,000+ square foot conference and event center was built to accommodate special events.
In 1992 Rex Maughan, a successful Arizona businessman with extensive business ties in Texas, purchased the ranch. Mr. Maughan was a client of Southfork's, hosting events several times a year for business associates from around the world. Since Mr. Maughan's purchase, business has continued to dramatically grow. Tourists are still attracted to Southfork's unique facilities with over $14,000,000 in capital improvements having been completed, proof that history is still unfolding at the "world's most famous ranch."
A three-time winner of the "Facility of the Year" Award from the DFW Chapter of Meeting Professionals International, Southfork Ranch hosts over 1400 events a year, including extravagant weddings and holiday parties. Other events at Southfork Ranch include corporate meetings and retreats, conventions, seminars, fundraisers, company picnics, trade shows, product introductions, VIP entertaining, rehearsal dinners, school and church functions, training sessions, alumni and family reunions, elegant served dinners, themed extravaganzas, proms and large outdoor concerts. All meals at Southfork Ranch events are prepared on-site by a world class Food and Beverage staff offering a variety of menu options.
If you are looking for gift items shop at "Ranch RoundUp" in the Visitors Center. Visit the "Dallas Legends" Exhibit and see the gun that shot J.R., Lucy's wedding dress, video clips from the series, interviews with the stars, and other memorabilia. Head over to the mansion and see Texas longhorns and American quarter horses. Once there a tour guide will give interesting tidbits about the years of filming and insight into the character of the Ewings. Admission is less than $10 for adults and discounts are available for groups of 15 or more people. Children under 4 years of age are admitted free of charge.
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