FILMING LOCATIONS OF BENJI<br/>

Explore the Texas filming locations of the 1974 classic film Benji with your dog!

By Erik Nachtrieb, SetJetters CEO & Cofounder

Ready to explore the filming locations of the 1974 classic film *Benji* with your dog?

This beloved family film, directed by Joe Camp and produced by Mulberry Square Productions, follows the adventures of a stray dog who helps rescue two kidnapped children.

Benji, played by the dog Higgins, became a cultural icon after the film’s release and captured hearts everywhere.

Now, you and your furry friend can visit the filming locations in McKinney and Denton, Texas, where this timeless movie was brought to life.

McKINNEY & DENTON, TEXAS

McKinney and Denton are two charming towns, each filled with history and small-town appeal. McKinney’s tree-lined streets and historic buildings offer a welcoming atmosphere, while Denton’s lively courthouse square and unique character make it equally enjoyable to explore with your dog. Both towns feature key scenes from Benji, and they’ve retained much of the charm you’ll recognize from the movie.

**Downtown McKinney**
Known for its historic architecture, this area was pivotal in *Benji*. The buildings date back to the late 1800s, with many restored and preserved to keep their original charm. Walking through the streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a slice of history.
**Location:** *1104 South Tennessee Street, McKinney, Texas*

This picturesque square is a prime filming location. The Denton County Courthouse is a standout with its classic design. Around the square, you'll find local businesses, restaurants, and quaint shops, all adding to the town's friendly feel.

Location: Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square; 110 W Hickory St, Denton, TX 76201, United States

Pro Tip: Use the SetJetters app to track your stops and collect the Benji badge as you visit each scene. You’ll unlock the badge after visiting all the key filming spots.

BENJI FILMING LOCATIONS

Easily find all of the Benji movie locations by downloading the SetJetters movie scene location app from your app store. Here are the scenes you’ll find.

Are any scenes missing? Submit the scenes via SetJetters and get attribution.

**Benji’s House/Haunted House**

As the sun comes up, a stray dog called Benji begins his day inside an abandoned house.

**Location:** *1104 South Tennessee Street, McKinney, Texas, United States*

*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

**The Cat Lady’s House**

The owner (Frances Bavier) of a tormented cat being chased by Benji, shoos the dog off and rescues her precious white cat from a tree.

**Location:** *The house no longer exists at this location.*

***Note:*** SetJetters will place you in front of the McKinney Performing Arts Center in downtown McKinney, but can you find the GPS location of the Lady with the Cat?

*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

**Heroes Indeed - Chapman Clinic**

After Benji uses his wits and tenacity to get help to rescue the missing Chapman children (Allen Fiuzat and Cynthia Smith), and his new dog friend was injured, the kids leave their father's (Peter Breck) medical clinic lobbying him and Mary (Patsy Garrett) to allow them to adopt the two hero canines.

**Location:** *Harris Building / 202 West Louisiana Street*

**Note:** We place you in front of the McKinney Performing Arts Center in downtown McKinney, but can you find the GPS location of the Lady with the Cat?
*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

**Benji Chases Officer Tuttle**

With no one to turn to or to understand that he knows where the Chapman children (Allen Fiuzat and Cynthia Smith) are being held, Benji chases after Officer Tuttle (Terry Carter) as he enters the town's police station.

**Location:** *Denton Civic Buildings / Quakertown Park, Denton, Texas, USA*

*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

**Bill’s Cafe**

Benji stops by Bill's Cafe to do his daily duty of waking Bill (Edgar Buchanan) - who calls Benji "Sam" - from a nap so he can get ready for the lunch rush, and receive his reward of a bone.

**Location:** *Mom and Popcorn / 215 East Louisiana Street, McKinney, Texas, USA*

*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

**Popcorn Break in the Small Town Park**

Benji runs into Officer Tuttle (Terry Carter) in a city park and is offered some popcorn by the kind policeman, but passes and continues on his journey.
**Location:** *Denton Civic Buildings / Quakertown Park, Denton, Texas, USA*

*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

**Benji Obeys the Law**

Benji waits patiently for the light to turn red so he can cross the street on his way through town.

**Location:** *Historic Downtown McKinney, McKinney, Texas, USA*

*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

**Benji Says Hello**

On his morning trek across town, Benji pauses to say good morning to the groundskeeper (Bill King) of the local courthouse.

**Location:** *1206 West Louisiana Street, McKinney, Texas, USA*

*Image*ⓒ *Mulberry Square Releasing*

CELEBRATE BENJI’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Join fellow Benji fans for the 50th anniversary celebration! McKinney is hosting a special event to commemorate the release of the film. The event will feature a tour of filming locations and fun, dog-friendly activities.

Event: Benji 50th Anniversary Celebration
Date: 19 October, 2024
Location: McKinney, TX
More event details here

This is a great chance to connect with other fans and explore McKinney’s downtown with your dog.

DOG FRIENDLY SPOTS IN THE AREA

After visiting the Benji locations, treat your dog to some fun and relaxation:

Bonnie Wenk Dog Park (McKinney) – With separate areas for small and large dogs, your pet will love the open space and the pond for a refreshing swim.
Wagging Tail Dog Park (Denton) – A great spot to let your dog run and play, with plenty of shaded areas.
Erwin Park Hike and Bike Trail (McKinney) – This trail is perfect for a scenic hike with your dog. It’s quiet and with natural beauty all around.

LOCAL CULTURE & INSIGHTS

McKinney and Denton are known for their laid-back, small-town atmosphere. Friendly locals, slower-paced streets, and a deep appreciation for community create a warm and inviting feel in both towns. You’ll experience this as you stroll through the streets or grab a bite at a local café.

Outdoor Festival: McKinney’s Arts in Bloom festival celebrates local artists, live music, and outdoor dining. It’s a great time to visit in the spring. More about the festival
Live Music: Denton is famous for its live music scene. Visit Dan’s Silverleaf, a local favorite for outdoor live performances. Check their schedule here.
Great Food: Try Local Yocal BBQ and Grill in McKinney, known for their farm-to-table meats and delicious BBQ.
Unique Shop: Check out The Groovy Coop in McKinney, a retro-inspired shop offering vinyl records, vintage finds, and quirky items you won’t see anywhere else.

DID YOU KNOW?

Benji’s trainer, Frank Inn, formed a strong bond with the dog behind the famous character. Though you won’t find this tribute in Texas, Frank Inn’s grave site in California, Forest Lawn Memorial Park (Hollywood Hills), is where Benji’s urn is buried with him - a touching memorial to one of the most iconic dogs in film history. Read more about the trainer here.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE WITH SETJETTERS

Can you explore both McKinney and Denton in a day? It’s possible, but you’ll need a car to travel between the towns, which are about 48 kilometers (30 miles) apart. You’ll want to take your time to explore the film locations and enjoy the local dog-friendly spots, so consider spending the night.

McKinney Downtown Map and Guide: Explore everything offered “Beyond The Frame” of the movie.
Where to Stay in McKinney: Check out The Grand Hotel, a charming and pet-friendly spot right in downtown.
Where to Stay in Denton:The Wildwood Inn is a boutique hotel with pet-friendly accommodations, close to the town’s best attractions.

FILMING LOCATIONS OF BENJI