As you approach the historic downtown Dodge City area, one of the first things youll notice is a life-sized bronze sculpture of James Arness as Marshal Matt Dillon from the popular television series Gunsmoke. Standing in front of the Visitor Information Center at 400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd, this statue was unveiled on July 30, 2017, and adds a unique flavor to the cityscape.

The character of Matt Dillon is fictional, but his presence in Dodge City is significant. Portrayed by James Arness, the character watched over the real-life Dodge City as he did on television, reminding visitors of the rich history that Dodge City has to offer. Some notable historical figures, like Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson, once served as deputies in this very city.

This statue is just one of several life-sized bronze sculptures scattered around the area, with other notable characters such as Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday also having their likenesses immortalized in bronze. Together, these statues create a captivating tableau that celebrates the citys history and adds a touch of nostalgia for those who remember watching Gunsmoke on television.

As you continue your exploration of Dodge City, take a moment to appreciate this welcoming sight – a tribute to one of the most iconic characters from TVs past, standing guard over a city that has its own storied history. And who knows? You might even feel like Matt Dillon is watching over you as you embark on your journey through time in this historic town.