Film

Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Santa Ana has served as a backdrop for some of Hollywood’s most iconic movies. With magnificent 20th-century architecture, friendly locals, and art-filled streets, you’ll want to shoot your next film, TV series, or commercial with us.

Downtown Santa Ana’s Famous Courthouse

Follow the footsteps of great filmmakers and shoot scenes at the Old Orange County Courthouse. The restored 30,000-square foot Romanesque Revival building made of granite and sandstone is Orange County’s oldest court building, dedicated in 1901. Many of the area's proceedings that shaped its early history occurred inside the courthouse’s walls. Due to its beautiful facade, the courthouse gleaned attention from Hollywood, appearing in several popular films: “Catch Me if You Can,” “Legally Blonde,” "Rain Man,” “Jerry Maguire,” “Kindergarten Cop,” and “Clear and Present Danger.”

Other beautiful historic backdrops include The W.H. Spurgeon Building, the city’s first skyscraper built in 1913, and the Santora Building, a Spanish Colonial Revival Structure circa 1928

Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center

As the hub of transportation for Orange County, it's no surprise that this center, also known as The Depot, has graced the big and small screens. It's a beautiful Spanish-style building with coffered ceilings and Mediterranean-inspired tiles. Offering bus, rail, and other transportation services, it has appeared in the film “Rain Man" and the HBO drama “True Detective.”

Calle Cuatro (Fourth Street)

Shoot one or many scenes on Fourth Street, referred to by Santaneros as “Calle Cuatro.” The walkable street downtown features diverse restaurants, cafes, street vendors, and boutiques. Capture the colorful street murals and vibrant energy of the community at events like the Artwalk and Dancing in the Streets.

Apply for a Permit

Santa Ana has many unique shooting locations, including performing arts centers, parks, and much more! Our area boasts endless opportunities for any sized production. Complete a film permit application with the City of Santa Ana to get started on your next project.