best la studio tour

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Hollywood Studio Tours

Which are the best.

This post covers the most enjoyable movie studio tours in and around Hollywood.

With so many historic studios in the area, it might be difficult to pick just one to visit.

Taking a studio tour is one of the top things to do in LA .

• Studio Tours
• Celebrity Homes Tours
• Ways to Save on Tours
• LA TV Show Tickets
• Things To Do in Hollywood
• Tips from Locals and Travelers

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

STUDIO TOURS

Interestingly enough, there are quite a few differences between the tours offered at each studio, and that should make it easier to figure out which tour best fits your expectations.

Ticket prices vary from $62 per person to literally thousands of dollars.

However, 3 of the tours, Warner Bros., Sony Pictures, and Universal Studios are included for free or at a lower cost in several tourist attraction passes. 

It's also worth noting that the length of these tours can run from roughly an hour to almost a week.

With all of that said, let's start talking about what each movie studio offers with their tours.

• Warner Bros.
• Sony Pictures
• Universal Studios
• Paramount Pictures
• Adventures by Disney: Disney Backstage

At the bottom of this post , we share some thoughts and opinions from members of our Los Angeles Travel Tips group on Facebook.

Our group comprises roughly 9,000 locals (like our tour guides), tourists, returning visitors, and newbies to LA.

You don't need to be a member to read the posts, comments, and recommendations.

WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR

Below is a summary of our post on Warner Brothers Studio tours , where we also provide tips on planning your trip.

If you're in the market for a somewhat normal tour on the backlot, this might be one of your best bets.

In addition to seeing movie sets and sound stages from some of the most notable movies in film history, you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy a few specific activities.

  While on this movie studio tour, you'll be able to re-create a famous scene from the hit television show Friends , climb aboard Harry Potter 's broomstick, and even create your own Batmobile.

Warner Bros. even offers an interactive sound stage that explores the entire process of making a film from start to finish.

At three hours in length, this tour is probably the longest duration of all of the options in Hollywood.

• $70/adult | $60/child
• Availability: Thursday - Monday
• Hours: Every half hour from 9 am - 3:30 pm
• Duration: 3 hours
• Available in both English and Spanish
• Click here for more information .

TIP: This tour is included for free with the purchase of the Go City Los Angeles Explorer Tourist Pass .

You can also combine this tour with the Universal Studios tour using the combo deal below!

With an overall score of 4.5 out of 5 stars , it's fair to say that this Hollywood studio tour is very well rated ( read reviews here ).

Some guests have gone so far as to suggest that this trip is worth every single penny.

Visitors were typically very happy with their tour guides, referring to them as both friendly and informative. 

SONY PICTURES STUDIO TOUR

This might be the most affordable movie studio tour in Hollywood, and it's also one of the most historic. Do note, that is is a walking tour.

While on this tour, you'll see the sound stages where they recorded classics such as The Wizard of Oz and superhero flicks like Spider-man .

Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to see where Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune are recorded.

Although they don't make any promises, there's always a chance that you'll run into someone famous on this active studio back lot!

They also offer a premium tour which includes transportation via golf cart, access to the Sony Museum, a free souvenir photo, a complimentary beverage, and lower prices at the Sony Studio Store.

Tickets 

• $55 per person | $150 for the Premium tour
• Availability: Monday – Friday at 10:30 am, 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm
• Duration: 2 hours

Tip: Admission is usually included for free with the purchase of at least one Los Angeles tourist pass .

With an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor, it's clear that this is a pretty popular Hollywood studio tour.

Customers really appreciated the opportunity to see several historic filming locations and learn a lot about the process of making a movie.

Although some reviewers were unhappy that this is a walking tour, others simply appreciated the opportunity to see where film history was made.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS TOUR

This is where things get interesting, as Universal Studios has essentially made their tour one of the services offered at their amusement park.

In other words, you need to buy a ticket for Universal Studios Hollywood in order to experience this studio tour.

Clocking in at only one hour in length, this is definitely the shortest studio tour available. Check out this video of Stephen Spielberg giving a tour of the site.

In addition to seeing the back lot, you'll also experience attractions such as the Jaws ride, King Kong 360 in 3D, Bates Motel and Fast & The Furious : Supercharged.

Although it will cost more to take this tour, it's worth noting that your ticket lasts all day and guarantees access to all of the rides. 

• $119-$139/adult | $109-$129/child
• Availability: Daily from 8 am - 6 pm
• Duration: 1 hour
• Click here for ticket information .

TIP:   Universal Studios Hollywood is included for free with the purchase of a tourist pass. Read about all the opportunities for deals in our full post .

Despite the higher price tag, this movie studio tour has still received quite excellent ratings ( read reviews here ). The overall Universal Studios Hollywood experience has a score of 4.7 out of 5 stars .

A few visitors have even suggested that this trip around the studio is worth the price of admission.

Although most customers feel that the ticket price is a bit high, even the critics can't deny that they had a blast. 

PARAMOUNT PICTURES STUDIO TOUR

Unlike the other movie studios, Paramount Pictures offers three different studio tours.

The main tour is 2 hours long and covers quite a lot of ground on the backlot.

However, if you want to experience more, their VIP tour lasts for 4 ½ hours and includes access to several additional areas.

The VIP tour also provides a gourmet lunch at a unique location in the studio.

Alternatively, you can also choose a 2 ½ hour night tour that reveals a lot of historic locations such as notable theaters and original film vaults.

No matter which option you choose, you'll learn a lot about the history of Paramount.

• $65 for the studio tour | $215 for the VIP tour
• Availability of Studio tour: Mon-Fri, every half hour from 9 AM - 3:30 PM
• Availability of VIP tour: Mon, Wed, Fri at 9:30 AM
• Duration of Studio tour: 2 hours
• Duration of VIP tour: 4 ½ hours
• Click here for additional information .

Reviews for the Paramount Pictures Studio tours are very positive, averaging a rating of 4 ½ out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. 

Some visitors referred to the excursion as a movie buff's dream, while others were just impressed with how much they learned and discovered.

Some reviewers indicated that Paramount alters the tour slightly depending on the season, ensuring a nice variety of topics and locations to cover no matter when you decide to buy a ticket.

ADVENTURES BY DISNEY: DISNEY BACKSTAGE

You had to figure that Disney was going to be a little more expensive, but the actual cost of this week-long experience might shock you.

To be fair, the package includes meals and accommodation at both the Loews Hollywood Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.

This Disney backstage adventure includes a tour of the Walt Disney Studios & Archives, an Imagineering tour, a Hollywood walking tour, and a tour of the Jim Henson Company.

Most of these tours are only available via this week-long package. The entire itinerary takes six days to complete, and it will keep you busy with plenty of fun activities from start to finish. 

• $4,999 for Adults | $4,749 for Children
• Availability: 2-4 times per month
• Duration: 6 days
• Hotel accommodation included
• 11 Meals included
• VIP Disneyland ticket included

As you can probably imagine, the testimonials for this experience are quite positive ( read reviews here ).

Some guests even noted that they made friends with their tour guides and continue to stay in touch with them to this very day.

Additionally, customers also appreciated the opportunity to see some behind-the-scenes areas that bring the history of Walt Disney to life.

One visitor even suggested that this trip allowed them to become kids again as they explored secret and wonderful locations at the happiest place on earth.

COMBO DEALS

If you're looking for a better price on these tours and other activities in Hollywood, you might want to consider one of the following combo packages.

Studios like Warner Bros. and Universal often work with tour companies to provide their services at lower prices.

There are several options to mull over, and almost all of them provide additional tours and services.

If you plan on spending more than one day in Hollywood, these combo deals are definitely worth a look.

GO CITY LOS ANGELES ALL-INCLUSIVE PASS

There's a reason that this is one of the premier attraction passes in Los Angeles.

In addition to offering access to a variety of notable locations, they also provide admission to some studio tours.

In particular, you can enjoy the Universal Studios tour, the Warner Bros. Studio tour and (sometimes) the Sony Pictures Studio tour with one version of this pass or another.

The Warner Bros. Studio tour is currently only offered with their Explorer Pass, and you'll need to purchase at least a 3-Day All-Inclusive pass to get admission to the Universal Studios tour .

Given that this tourist pass also supplies tickets to Six Flags Magic Mountain and Knott's Berry Farm, it's fair to say that the Go City Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass could be a real bargain.

• $109 for 1-day pass
• $164 for 2-day pass
• $284 for 3-day pass
• $344 for 4-day pass
• $374 for 5-day pass
• $434 for 7-day pass
• $99 for 2 choices
• $119 for 3 choices
• $144 for 4 choices
• $154 for 5 choices
• $189 for 7 choices
• This attraction pass is available every day of the week
• Includes up to 3 movie studio tours

Read our post comparing the different tourist attraction passes available in Los Angeles.

TRANSPORTATION COMBO PACKAGES

If you're looking for transportation to and from each movie studio tour, the following services are available.

The advantage of these combo deals is that you won't have to pay for parking, gas, or car rental in order to visit each location.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included with each package.

Take your time and enjoy the studio tour without having to worry about anything else!

• Not currently available as of January 2024

CELEBRITY HOMES TOUR COMBO PACKAGES

These combo deals provide both a celebrity home tour and a movie studio tour.

Each option includes transportation not only around Hollywood but also to and from the studios.

While some of these services use a mini-bus, others drive you around town in a luxury sedan or an SUV.

Each company offers both hotel pickup and drop-off.

Expect these outings to last for between 6-8 hours on average.

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour & Movie Star Homes Tour (Starline Tours) - $119/Adults | $99/Children
• Alternatively, we offer our own self-guided celebrity homes tour .

This might be a good way to save even more money if you don't mind doing a bit of driving around Hollywood and Beverly Hills.

TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS

While we provide the details of what each tour offers, costs, and other information, here you can see what members of our Los Angeles Travel Tips group on Facebook have to say.

There are plenty of fans of the Warner Brothers tour.

And some enjoyed Paramount as well.

If you have to choose only one, between Warners or Paramount, these members’ insight may help.

Universal Studios received mixed reviews. Some people felt it was a waste of time and money.

On the other hand, Issa had a fantastic time, so much so that she wrote a very long post detailing her time there and how to make the most of your visit.

Take a look at our Los Angeles Travel Tips group for more recommendations, opinions and advice.

You don't need to join to read comments, but if you do join you can post a question regarding the studios!

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Which Is The Best Hollywood Studio Tour For You?

Posted on Published: June 29, 2019  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

Categories North America , California , Travel

There are four major Hollywood studio tours that you can go on in and around Los Angeles : Warners Bros., Sony, Paramount, and Universal Studio Tours.

It’s really not necessary to do all of them , especially on the same trip. There’s quite a bit of overlap between each studio tour, and the ticket prices can really add up.

Throughout my visits to California, I’ve managed to visit all 4 Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles (and some more than once!).

Here’s my in-depth reviews of all the major Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles. This is what to expect from each one so you can decide which is the best studio tour in los Angeles for you!

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Why Should You Go On A Hollywood Studio Tour?

Hollywood Studio Tours in Los Angeles are a great way to gain an “ all-access” pass to the biggest backstage lots in California .

They give you a chance to go behind the scenes on some of your favourite movies and TV shows.

You’ll get to see the sets and props, and learn about the magic of making movies. And, if you’re lucky, you might get the chance to either see a live film set or a celebrity at work . 

Let’s just say, visit a movie set is a quintessential Los Angeles activity … p.s. see my L.A. guide here .

Which Is The Best Hollywood Studio Tour For You ?

The best Hollywood studio tour for you will depend on three main factors :

• Your favourite films and TV shows

The studio tours vary in budget and tour length. The price ranges between $55 to $110 / ticket . And the tour can last anywhere between one to three hours .

But your favourite movies and TV shows are the most important factor when deciding which studio tour in Los Angeles to go to. If you haven’t watched anything the studio has produced, you’ll be less interested in what you’re seeing and learning about.

Best Studio Tours In LA: Overview

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Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

Universal Studios is a bit of a unique studio tour in Los Angeles. The studio tour can only be accessed if you buy a ticket to the entire theme park .

This also puts the studio tour at a much higher price point compared to the others around Los Angles. But, on the other hand, it is an ENTIRE day of activities instead of a few hours.

The tour itself is only 60 minutes but there are no shortage of other rides and shows to see once you’re in the park.

Quick Information & Links

Total Time : 1 hour (not including wait time in line) Admission : $109 -$119* (includes access to the entire park, price varies depending on the season) Book Tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood . Parking : Starts at $32* (General Parking)

*Updated January 2024

Movies Referred To/ Filmed Here:

You should check out this Hollywood studio tour if you’re a fan of…

• Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas
• Jurassic Park
• Fast and the Furious
• Jordan Peele’s horror epic, NOPE

Pros Of The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

You are on the LARGEST film and TV studio in Hollywood and the world! You get to drive by some of the most iconic sets in all movie history.

You drive-by the sound stages, new and old sets.

But this is still a ride in a theme park so they’ve added some more ride-like adventure elements to make things more exciting, unlike any other Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles.

At times you feel like you’re in the movie rather than just seeing where one was filmed!

And it’s not all for show either, they do still use these sets to film. In fact, this was the only Hollywood studio tour where I caught a live taping , so it’s still possible to see!

One thing’s certain though, you won’t be bored for a second on this tour even if you don’t happen to see an active film set during your tour. 

P.S. Make the most of your time at Universal Studios and book an Express Line ticket through Viator here . It gives you one-time express access to each ride, show, and attraction at the park !

Cons Of The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

It’s the least personal studio tour in Los Angeles. You’re on a tram the entire time for 60 minutes straight, with about 30 other people!

As I said, this tour is sometimes more of a ride than a studio tour (so it’s both a pro and a con!).

At times, the tour felt very streamlined , because most of it is. You still have a guide, but he’s following a script on a set path so it’s the same tour every time (unlike the others which have a bit more variance based on your guide).

The tram is on a set course and there are timed animatronics and effects throughout the tour.

Value For Money – Movie Location Los Angeles

I will admit, you get pretty good value for your money with your tickets to Universal studios. But that’s only if you wanted to visit the theme park.

If you were already planning on visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, then the studio tour is a must-do ride! 

But if you don’t like theme parks, and your only interest is the Hollywood studio tour, I wouldn’t recommend paying for the entire theme park just for the tour.

You might also be interested in reading…

• How To Plan Your Los Angeles Vacation

Logistics: What To Know Before You Go

A tram leaves about every 30 minutes for the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour so the line builds up pretty quickly. I’d prioritize this as one of your first rides of the day.

As I said, don’t expect reality with this one, they do show you real sets but it’s also still a ride. So you’ll get a lot of gimmicky routines created specifically for this tour. 

Also, some advance warning, you might get wet at certain points during the ride. If you’d prefer to not get wet, try to sit in the middle of the row.

Book Universal Studio Tours Tickets In Advance Through Viator

Book General Admission tickets →

Book Skip the Line Express Tickets →

Book the VIP Experience on Viator (giving your exclusive access to off-limits areas of the park) →

For more Los Angeles organized tours from Viator, click here .

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Warner Bros. Studio is actually in Burbank California , but it’s close enough to Los Angeles.

Warner Bros. studio tour takes you on a tram around different parts of the studio, with only around 12 guests at a time on the tour.

So unlike Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour, it’s a lot more personal and you’re only on the tram to get from place to place (because their lot is HUGE!).

You drive by sound stages and countless outdoor sets. But you’ll get off and walk around a bit, even walking in some sets if you’re lucky. So you should be prepared for some walking on this studio tour in Los Angeles!

Total Time : ~3 hours (1 hour guided, 2 hours unguided). Leaves every 30 minutes from 9:30 to 3:30 Admission : 70$* Parking : 15$* Website

What Was Filmed Here (Sets You Might See!)

Check out this Hollywood studio tour if you’re a fan of…

• Harry Potter
• Gilmore Girls
• Back to the Future
• The Big Bang Theory
• Pretty Little Liars

So Much More Than A Studio Tour

Over the years, the Warner Bros. studio tour has grown. It’s no longer just a backlot tour, now, that’s just one part of it…

Museums, Props, Sets, & Photo Ops At Warner Bros. Studio

Tickets to the Warner Bros. studio tour also includes interactive museums where you’ll want to take all the pictures you can!

You can interact with different sets from your favourite movies and TV sets, like Friends, the Big Bang Theory and Harry Potter! on the magic of movies, costume

There’s also an entire exhibit on the DC universe with all superheroe and villain props. They have Aquaman’s lair, Wonder Woman’s study, Superman’s office, and the Batman’s bat cave.

And finally they have an in-depth exhibit on all things filmmaking. Staring with the writing process and finishing with the special effects of movie making.

Book Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tickets With Viator

General Admission tickets →

Pros Of The Warner Bros. Studio Tour

They are constantly updating the Warner Bros. studio tour – that means you can even go back the next time you’re in Los Angeles, I’ve already gone back twice!

There was some over lap with the sets and information, but very little. A lot had been updated and added to the tour. And I’ve already noticed that they’ve added a lot more content since I’ve gone!

Also, the guided portion of the tour will rarely be the same. For starters, where you go will all depend on what they’re filming at the time. So not only can it change over the years, but it can change within the hour!

It’s also a very personal tour with only being 12 people on the tram. You can also all your questions about movie magic!

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Cons Of The Warner Bros. Studio Tour

With all the new additions to the tour every year, I’ve noticed the guided portion has become less and less…

The guided tour portion is only hour , and then two hours are a self guided tour through the museums.

But it’s the guided portion of the tour that’s always fresh and what brings me back! I’m a bit disappointed that the museums seem to have taken over the tour now, making the tour a bit more gimmicky and less about touring real sets and sound stages…

How to See San Diego in One Day

Bring government I.D. when you visit, and make sure to arrive early!

You have to go through security and there might be a lineup. They suggest arriving 30 minutes in advance.

Don’t worry about getting lost on your way to the studios (if you’re driving there)! I followed the instructions we were given on how to get to the visitor’s centre, but my GPS brought me to the wrong gate. No need to panic if this happens to you too! The patrol was very understanding (I’m sure this happens all the time) and told us exactly where to go.

If you’re driving, there’s a parking lot across the street from the visitor’s centre (paid, of course). The studio is in a pretty secluded area, but there’s a Starbucks in the visitor’s centre .

You can book Warner Brothers Studio tour tickets in advance on Viator here .

Paramount Pictures Hollywood Studio Tour

Paramount Pictures is really interesting because it’s the last Hollywood studio still in Hollywood (well in Los Angeles). 

So it’s only about a 15-minute drive from Hollywood Blvd. FYI, Warner is in Burbank, and Sony is in Culver City.

It was very similar to Warner Bros. Hollywood studio tour in terms of the scale of the studio. They have several sound stages, a water tank, and a totally customizable New York set.

Like the other Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles, there’s a museum portion of the tour with props. Paramount Pictures one had a lot of “ unwanted ” props (those that could only be used once for the film they were designed for).

There was A LOT of props from the Transformers franchise, but there were also Star Trek, Gladiator, and Dream Girls props.

Time : 2 hours * They leave every 30 minutes from 9:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. Admission : 65$* Parking : $22 – (used to be cash only)* Website

What Was/ Is Filmed Here

• The Godfather
• OG King Kong (In Set 19)
• Breakfast at Tiffanys
• Forrest Gump

Pros Of Paramount Pictures Studio Tour In Los Angeles

The best part about the Paramount Pictures Hollywood studio tour tour was the small size of the group. There’s a max of 7 people on the tour (you’re in an 8 seater golf cart).

The tour also provided earphones to be able to perfectly hear your tour guide at all times, so they didn’t have to shout at you! There can be a lot going on on sets with a lot of noises, so the earphones were definitely appreciated.

I also liked that they provided visuals for what you were looking at during the tour. Our tour guide carried around an iPad showing examples of what a specific set was used for over the years. So instead of looking at a giant green screen, they showed us how that green screen was used in different films.

Cons Of Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

Paramount Pictures studio tour taught me a few things about Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles…

First, the quality of the tour really depends on your tour guide – they can make or break your visit. And unfortunately, you won’t really know who you’re going to get beforehand.

Unfortunately for me, my tour guide at Paramount Pictures wasn’t the best. There’s so much history to this Hollywood studio that I ended up lost most of the time because I didn’t know who or what he was referring to, I guess the references were also a bit ahead of my time…

Paramount Studio tour also really showed me how important it is to have seen (or at least heard of) the films or shows the studio produced. 

So if you’re a fan of classics like I Love Lucy, Alfred Hitchcock, or the original King Kong then Paramount Pictures studio tour is a must for you!

For me, Paramount Pictures studio tour was a bit of a mixed bag. I really see the potential of this tour though, but I think you have to be a really big movie buff to enjoy Paramount Pictures studio tour.

The visitor parking is across the street from the main gates. Be wary of the address on Google Maps, it brought me to the wrong gate.

When I visited, parking was cash only, so it’s always good to be prepared. There’s an ATM you can use at the end of the tour if you need (apparently no one does cash back in the area…).

Like the other tours, you have to show I.D. and go through security, so they ask you to arrive 30 minutes before your tour . But, in case there’s no wait at all, there’s a mini-exhibit you can visit to pass the time before your tour starts. 

Make sure to bring water and food, there’s really not much in the area. But drinks aren’t allowed on the tour itself, so leave it in the car!

SONY Studio Hollywood Tour

SONY Hollywood studio tour ended up being my favourite studio tour . We were only about 5 people on this tour, so it was very personal. But I don’t know if this was the max, or that fewer people happened to sign up for it.  

I know online there are 25 spots per time slot. I don’t know if that’s the typical tour size on a busier day, or if they would always split you up into smaller groups once you get there.

There are famous cars on display from movies and shows (like Breaking Bad and Ghostbusters). They also have a prop museum at the start of the tour. There’s even an Oscar and an Emmy award you can see (and even hold!). 

Time : 2 hours * Leaves 4 times a day: 9:30, 10:30, 1:30 and 2:30. Admission : 55$* Parking : Free Valet Website

What Was Filmed Here

• Breaking Bad
• Wheel of Fortune
• Ghostbusters
• The Goldbergs

Pros Of The SONY Studio Tour

SONY is a MUCH smaller studio than the other three Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles. That means you don’t even need a tram to get around, we walked everywhere (so you should also be prepared to walk!). This made it easier to take appreciate it all and take pictures!

I also absolutely loved our tour guide, he was by far my favourite out of all the ones we had on any tour. It didn’t seem like he simply memorized a script. It was as if he lived and breathed SONY and films in general. I would’ve believed it if he’d told us he grew up on set.

We also got the chance to walk on to a sound stage from one of my favourite TV Shows – The Goldbergs. And our guide brought us onto a working foley stage (where they create extra sounds for movies). 

If a sound or foley stage isn’t available to see, you are guaranteed to see either the Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy set . They film on opposite days, so you’ll always be able to see one of them.

But the best perk of all is… You get your picture taken on the set of either Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune, which they’ll print out and give to you as a souvenir… FREE OF CHARGE! ! Seriously when is anything ever free these days…

Cons Of The SONY Hollywood Studio Tour

As I mentioned, there’s no tram for the SONY Hollywood studio tour. Although the studio isn’t as large as the others, you have to be prepared to walk quite a bit.

Another sort of pro and con is that it’s 80 % outdoors . So you really want to go when it’s decent weather. And be prepared to be in the sun!

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Value For Money – Hollywood Studio Tours In Los Angeles

I think you get a lot of value for your money at SONY studio tour. It’s the cheapest out of any of the Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles and they give you some nice freebies (like parking and a photo souvenir!).

The scale of the studio might be smaller than the other three major studios, but there’s still a lot to see. And despite the lack of big blockbuster sets, they make up for it in different ways (like seeing the inside of a game show set, and a foley stage).

Like Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures studio tours, they ask that you arrive 30 minutes early to go through security. 

If you drive there, they offer FREE valet parking in the Overland lot. 

The studio is very much out of the way, so plan your meals and snacks in advance. All they had at the studio was a vending machine .

Don’t expect to see large outdoor sets like from Warner Bros. or Paramount, SONY is a lot smaller, so most of their sets are on sound stages. So if you’re interested in the big New York outdoor sets, SONY isn’t for you!

Overview, What’s The Best Studio Tour In Los Angeles?

Like I said before, Universal Studios is the most expensive, but you do get an entire days worth of activities. But if your intent is to learn about movie magic, the other three are better choices. 

If you have time for more than one, you don’t need to see both Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures. There’s quite a bit of overlap between the two. Instead, choose one of those, and then either Universal or SONY as your second option.

P.S. Need A Place To Stay In L.A.? Hotel Recommendations

Finding a place to stay in Los Angeles can be quite overwhelming – it’s HUGE!

I stayed at the Sofitel and would highly recommend it. It was in a safe area, and across the street from the Beverly Hills mall (which proved to be very convenient). It was also within walking distance to some local restaurants you need to try – like the Kings Road Cafe! See room rates & availability here .

If you want to stay on the beach outside of the city life instead, we stayed at The Georgian in Santa Monica and couldn’t recommend it enough! It’s only about a 25 minute drive from the city. This was a beautiful art deco hotel that is begging you to go there! It’s a minutes walk to the beach, Santa Monica Pier, and the Third Street Promenade. See room rates & availability here .

For more accommodation options in Los Angeles, click here . Interested in longer stays in L.A. check out Plum Guide here .

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Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Tuesday 26th of September 2023

You've gotten me excited about my next trip to Los Angeles. I've done the Universal tour and the Warner Bros tour, so I may do what you suggested and do Paramount and Sony next.

You're right about Universal's tour being more of a ride from what I remember. However, it was cool to see sets from The Good Place, Jaws, and Psycho. Being on the tram the whole time was a little different, and my experience was a bit thrown off because I hadn't expected Universal, CA to have such similar rides to Universal, FL, and I loved how Universal, FL made it really seem like you were on a set walking through various cities. Definitely not the same as CA. I think I was there for about 2 hours and was done. The weather was weird where it was kindof warm at first, but then turned super cold while I was in line for a ride, so I was done sooner than I expected.

I absolutely loved the Warner Bros tour. The guide was super nice and knowledgeable. I almost died when I saw the Gilmore Girl house and Luke's Diner. Of course I took pictures at the Central Perk. To me, the prop museum was a tad boring, but still overall decent. The tour was partially walking and partially riding. There were so many moments where I was like...."this looks familiar" and had to think of where the set had been used. Super cool. I highly recommend it.

Wednesday 27th of September 2023

That's awesome!! Definitely I enjoyed that the Warners brothers was mixed with walking and a tram ride you were able to get so much further that way - and the lot is HUGE! It really is cool seeing sets from your favourite TV shows and movies! I really liked the SONY tour but it was definitely a lot smaller than Warner bros!

Sunday 19th of February 2023

Hi Meghan, great article. Easy to read and allowed me to choose the studio we should visit in the short time we will be in L.A. Thanks you.

Monday 20th of February 2023

That's awesome to hear! Glad I could help :D :D

How To Plan Your Los Angeles Vacation | Afternoon Tea Reads

Thursday 1st of October 2020

[…] sure which one to visit? Read my overall review of each studio tour to help you […]

Monday 1st of July 2019

Wow what a great list of tours to choose from! I personally don't like these types of things however I think your post will be super useful for those who do!

Thanks! I hope it will be :)

I’ve done the Universal tour but it was like 20 yrs ago! I really want to go back and do all these studio tours. I’m film mad me 😃💕

Oh wow, you really should I'm sure a lot has changed since then. It's a movie geeks dream :)

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Top 5 Studio Tours in Los Angeles

The new year is here, and we’re all about bringing you the best things to do in LA, whether you are homegrown and live here full time, or if you have friends and family visiting and would love to show all that our beautiful city has to offer. One of the best ways to gain insider access to Hollywood’s glitz and glamour is through studio tours. The four major studio tours in LA provide a chance to get up close and personal with celebrities and production teams as they create movie magic and TV history. You’ll also get to go deeper into some of the classic films and see just how imaginative and resourceful studios can be when it comes to getting the perfect sound, visuals and storyline. If you’re lucky, you also may see a dreamy movie star or TV actor buzzing by you in their golf cart on their way to set. Here are four of the main studio tours in LA, plus an extra special behind the scenes tour of what is widely considered the happiest place on earth. 

Pro Tip: The studio tours can fill up quite quickly, so be sure to get your tickets in advance. Also, each studio lot has their own parking procedures and some are cash only, so be sure to have that information on hand before you go. Finally, the studio tours can vary in both price and time, and you can follow our guide below to get clear on which experience is right for you! 

photo by: Warner Bros Studio Tour

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Location: Burbank 

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood is our first pick for many reasons. First, from the time you enter the parking garage to the time your tram takes off on the lot, you are given movie star treatment. We love that although the tour can be quite large in the number of attendees, it feels like your own private experience with only 10-12 guests at a time on the tour. The Warner Bros. Tour has a great mix of both driving by numerous outdoor sets and sound stages and ample opportunity to wander around on your own. At just under three hours, this tour was the longest one we went on, and we still were left with wanting more. Our best moments included the new Storytelling Showcase highlighting nearly 100 years of Warner Bros . The new grand finale delights fans of the DC Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with recreated sets, authentic props, costumes, and memorable photo opportunities. Gilmore Girls fans will also delight in getting to walk around some very familiar scenes, and there are some great photo ops at ‘Central Perk’ and in front of the iconic Friends fountain! A brand new addition to the tour is the TCM (Turner Classic Movies) Classic Films Tour for TCM’s 30th anniversary . This tour takes guests on an incredible journey through the Golden Age of Hollywood, celebrating iconic movies which include  the exterior of James Dean’s apartment where he resided while working on the lot, the Eastwood Scoring Stage built in 1929, and the Property House, which houses over a half-million television and movie props, including the pirate chair from Captain Blood  and even the breathtaking Tiffany’s chandelier from  The Letter . Get tickets here !

Pro-Tip Bonus: A fter you work up an appetite walking around the studio, head to The Smokehouse in Burbank for a martini, steak, or just to admire the many old Hollywood stars that frequented the joint. Legend has it that The Smokehouse was also George Clooney’s go-to restaurant for many years while filming ER. 

Photo by Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Tour

Location: Universal Studios, Universal City 

This tour is SO much fun and packs so much within the 60 minute run time. The studio tour is included with park admission, so you can spend the whole day going on rides and then hop on the tour for a nice relaxing break. Comedian and The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon makes a (pre-recorded) appearance as you get to travel throughout one of the world’s biggest TV and movie production lots. We loved the exclusive behind the scenes look of the Jupiter’s Claim set on Jordan Peele’s latest horror movie, NOPE. We don’t want to give away all the twists and turns on the ride, but let’s just say there are some jaw dropping moments that will leave you quaking with delight. 

Photo By Time Out

Paramount Studios Tour 

Location: Hollywood 

If you’re a movie buff looking for a classic Hollywood tour, look no further than the Paramount Studios Tour. From seeing the original Forrest Gump bench to the “little New York” city, Paramount has a large part in Hollywood’s history and future. Make sure to download their Paramount Studio Tour app, as it provides a fun extra bonus to see how the props in front of you were actually used in their respective movies. We loved the insider glimpse into Hollywood’s top TV shows like I Love Lucy and films like the original King Kong. Paramount Pictures offers three different studio tours, and while their main tour is just about 2 hours long and covers much ground, the VIP also offers some extra perks including a gourmet lunch. 

Photo By Sony Pictures Studios

Sony Pictures Tour

Location: Culver City

The Sony Pictures Tour is our choice for when you’re in the mood to explore on foot, as this two-hour guided walking tour gives you the close up experience of a working studio. Create some great Vision Board pics by holding an Oscar and an Emmy Award, and visit sound stages once used for giant films like The Wizard of Oz, Men in Black and Spider-Man . Swing by smash-hit games shows Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune . Our favorite was the scoring stage and we left having a deeper appreciation for the labor intensive process of making a movie and all the integral parts within production from start to finish.

Photo by Disneyland

Adventures By Disney Backstage Tour 

Neighborhood: Hollywood and Disneyland, CA 

Okay, we’ve done the movie thing and now we’re ready to celebrate in the land of the Magic Castle and Mickey! If you really want to go big with plenty of activities and a week long excursion of fun and magic, the Disney Backstage Adventure is six fun-filled days long days and includes a tour of Walt Disney Studios & Archives, a Hollywood walking tour, and tour of Jim Henson Company. The tour is on the lux side coming in just over $4000 per ticket for adults, but it also includes a bevy of amenities including coverage for most of your meals over 6 days, a VIP Disneyland ticket with your own private Disney Adventure guide, and hotel accommodation at both the Loews Hollywood Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa.

Whatever tour you choose, we wish you a wonderful experience and have a feeling it will make you fall in love with La-La Land a little bit more. 

Here are more activities to do in LA and they’re F-R-E-E!

Meryl Klemow

Meryl is a performer, writer, podcaster, and animal lover! You can catch her across town producing her MIsh Mosh Comedy Shows and doing stand-up, listen to the chart-topping weekly comedy Campfire Sht Show podcast, and hopefully be not too offended from her apparel brand, Pre-Canceled. Meryl is friendly and would love to see photos of your dogs!

We Explore and Rank the Best Studio Tours in Hollywood

Finding the best studio tours in Hollywood is tricky.

Because there are so many of them!

When visiting Los Angeles there really isn’t anything better for a film lover to do than to visit one of the infamous studio tours. But which studio do you visit?

With such a wide range of options, we have done the hard work for you and have ranked the best to worst Hollywood studio tours.

The Best Studio Tours in Hollywood

With the list below being my own personal opinion, you may have different choices and tastes.

Consider this a guide for your next Los Angeles adventure.

1. Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Situated in Burbank the Warner Brothers Studio Tour is simply the best.

Mixing film education with an absolutely incredible tour it is above and beyond what you’d expect a studio tour to be.

Get ready, this one is a MUST VISIT!

Warner Brothers actually offer the most in terms of range when it comes to the tours. There are three options to choose from!

Warner Brothers Standard tour

Hop on board the open-sided vehicle and head into one of the most iconic movie studios in Hollywood.

Every single tour is different from the last but what you can expect is to visit various backlots and sound stages of various productions and it’s a guarantee you’ll visit such classic sets as The Big Bang Theory and the iconic Central Perk from Friends.

You’ll also explore the DC Universe exhibit in addition to a wizarding world exhibit in the Warner Bros museum where you can look around at your own leisure at all the movie props and costumes.

On the tour, you’ll also be taken into Stage 48 where you’ll step into an immersive world of seeing a movie go from script to screen.

From pre to post-production you can see how a movie is pieced together and the interactive elements are sure to keep you engaged from start to finish.

This added touch to an already perfect tour shows just how much the public and their entertainment means to Warner Bros.

Warner Brothers Classic tour

This is the only tour on the list that I haven’t personally experienced but I imagine it’s very similar to the structure of the normal tour.

As you drive around the back lot a tour guide will guide you through the studio tour themed to classic movies and TV shows rather than modern ones.

The perfect gift for the older generation or even the younger soul who appreciates the good classics. The modern  Stage 48 is also included as part of the tour but the classics tour also includes a tour of The Prop House.

I’d personally want to go on the classics tour JUST to see The Prop House.

That really should be included on the normal tour too!

Warner Brothers Deluxe tour

The Warner Bros Deluxe Tour is without a doubt the best Hollywood experience I had at a studio. The deluxe tour is the ultimate experience.

If you’re travelling to Los Angeles to do movie tours and have the cash to splash this is one experience that you’ll never forget.

This 5-hour in-depth tour takes you through the whole studio. In and out of live sets and the two times I did the deluxe tour I actually spotted a celebrity.

The studio is a live working studio so on any tour you can expect to spot a known talent at any given moment.

With the deluxe tour, you get to eat in the fine dining room. An exclusive dining experience where studio execs, talent and more all gather to have meetings over a nice spot of lunch prepared by an executive chef.

The food was outstanding and we saw so many big named talent in there it was unbelievable.

Naturally, you really shouldn’t approach them but we did have the studio executive approach our tour to say hello so you just never know who you may meet during your very own tour.

The day starts off with a complimentary drink and breakfast and then into a private screening room for a little introduction to the studio.

The 5 hours fly by from exploring the museum to seeing the Batmobile collection. As well as the costume department (only available on the deluxe tour) you also explore the props department.

Warner Bros Tour Comparison Chart

Out of the best studio tours in Hollywood. No, THE best studio tour in Hollywood! Warner Brothers will always be number one for me! 

I had so much of a great time on the tour that when I flew back over to LA a few months later and I did it all again and it was completely different.

That’s the magic of these tours. No two days are the same!

Book A Warner Bros Studio Tour Here

2. Universal Studios Tour

The second place on our best studio tours in Hollywood list is Universal Studios.

Universal Studios combines a studio with a theme park in this incredibly exciting experience. Here we have two options to choose from. A standard tour and a VIP experience.

Standard tour (Inclusive of park entry price)

This 60-minute experience will take you through four acres of the historic studio lot.

Jump into your Universal tram and explore some large construction sets whilst being narrated by the one and only Jimmy Fallon.

This is a tour like no other as your tram actually becomes part of various interactions including a subway earthquake scene, a 4D experience and some epic special effects set pieces that showcase various effects used in movies.

Drive past such iconic structures as Bates Motel and step into the grand finale of Fast & Furious Supercharged.

The standard tour is a thrill ride mixed with information about the studio itself. Whilst a fun ride it’s not very informative.

If you want an informative tour then Warner Bros are the clear winners here.

If you want some extra fun on your tour you can’t go wrong with Universal.

Once the tour has finished you’re free to explore what the rest of the theme park has to offer.

Universal Studios VIP Experience – Price – $299 per person

It’s a tough choice between this VIP experience and the Warner Brothers one.

As stated above if you want a more informative and deeper look into how a studio works then Warner Brothers are unrivalled but if you want an epic VIP tour and THEN access to a theme park thereafter then Universal is the way to go.

The VIP Universal experience is a full-day experience.

Arrive at Universal Studios, flash the VIP pass and enjoy your own valet parking.

Upon entering into a private VIP building you are served breakfast as you await your call time before setting off in a VIP tram with comfy leather seats and complimentary drinks as you drive around set.

Whilst the normal tram tour just drives on by the VIP tour park up, get off as you tour sound stages and movie sets from the biggest shows and films ever created.

Visit the prop department and more as you can take a sneak peek behind the scenes.

Feel Like A Star

Universal doesn’t usually have as much going on compared to Warner Brothers when it comes to activity on the production lot, as a result, the two times I visited the studio section was rather empty but maybe I just attended on a quiet day. Unfortunately we didn’t see any stars this time around.

Your personal tour guide takes you throughout the studio and you enjoy a lovely gourmet meal in a private dining room.

Once you’ve had your food the real fun begins.

Your tour guide will personally walk you to the front of every single ride in the park and you will get front row seats at every show in the park with your VIP badge.

You can ride the rides as many times as you want once the tour is open and your VIP badge will shoot you to the front of the queue every single time.

With such rides as the brand new Jurassic World water ride and the new Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey expansion, you’ll really feel like a star with the Universal Studios VIP pass.

I think I went on The Mummy rollercoaster 12 times in a row and kept walking past people who had been queuing for over 30 minutes.

Ignore the envious looks and just have yourself a wonderful time!

Book A Universal Studios Tour Here

3. Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

Third on our list is Paramount Pictures who offer two tours, a standard tour, and a VIP tour.

Standard Tour – Price $60

This 2-hour cart tour takes you on a little journey around the studio as you visit infamous locations like the Bronson Gate, the prop house and more.

For me, the Paramount tour was quite dull. With Paramount being a much smaller studio the driving areas are narrow and limited.

Most of the tour involved parking up somewhere and being spoken to.

As much as it was interesting to hear about the studio we were usually parked up next to a brick wall, an iconic brick wall but a brick wall nonetheless.

I was a little bored throughout the tour until we ran into Ken Jeong (Hangover) who was on the lot filming and Kevin Hart was also filming a show as our tour was taking place.

This made the tour worth every penny as we were right next to these Hollywood giants and seeing them at work.

If I hadn’t have seen these two I would have had a very poor experience. It just wasn’t my cup of tea.

There was nothing to keep me hooked and it felt as though we were being taken around an office building rather than an iconic studio.

There was sadly no magic or effort made from the studio to cater for their tour guests.

VIP Tour – Price $189

This 4 and a half hour tour gives you VIP access to archives and backlot production facilities. The VIP upgrade is 100 times better than that of the rather dull standard tour!

You are taken around the inner workings of the studio and not just the brick walls that make up the studio and get hands-on with props and speak to members of staff working on various movies.

You are physically introduced to people within the studio and this could include stars.

For dinner, you will enjoy a gourmet lunch in a private production dining room and this exclusivity makes for all the more enjoyable experience.

Seriously, forget the standard tour. I felt as though I had wasted my money. Take the leap and bump yourselves up to the VIP tour. You won’t regret it!

Instead of seeing Kevin Hart and Ken Jeong there was more chance of meeting them and getting photos with them if I had taken the VIP tour.

I’m still kicking myself even now!

Book A Paramount Studio Tour Here

4. Sony Pictures Studio Tour – $50

Step back in time, walk through those iconic gates and enjoy this 2-hour walking tour.

Sony only offers a standard tour, there are no VIP upgrades available.

Take a look at sound stages, sets including Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. The sony tour just lets you walk around a visually stunning studio in the glorious LA sunshine.

With various picture opportunities (including the Breaking Bad RV and ECTO-1 from Ghostbusters ) I can’t really pick out a highlight of the tour.

The tour office houses some iconic Sony movie props and that was before the tour even started and free to view for any member of the public.

The best bit of the tour was the museum which was free to explore.

Instead of going through movie history, the majority of the tour is looking at TV game shows that I couldn’t care less about.

If you’re a TV gameshow fanatic then Sony Pictures is for you.

If you love your movies then look elsewhere.

A tour guide pointing to a car park and saying this is where we shot a scene from The Holiday starring Cameron wasn’t my idea of informative, immersive or interesting.

Easy the worst tour on the list and the price reflects that.

To be honest even the $50 they do charge seems overpriced. Very much so.

The best part about the tour was the mini-museum that was located within the reception building and that’s free!

The standard tour at Warner Brothers is only $60 and the experience there is much more involved and interesting.

Book A Sony Pictures Tour Here

As far as the best studio tours in Hollywood goes the clear winner here is Warner Brothers. They have the full package for an all-round studio tour experience.

Universal could easily be a number one but for me as a studio experience, you want to go to Warner Brothers.

With Universal Studios being more of a theme park it dampens the studio experience somewhat. You’re on the tour aching to get inside the park properly and jump on the rides!

It doesn’t feel as detailed or as movie focused. It’s very much more family targeted.

The tram is a theme park-style experience not an informative tour, it was very commercialized. Which is fine. But for a genuine studio tour, Warners takes the crown every single day of the week.

I absolutely recommend the VIP upgrades on all of the studio tours. You will absolutely regret it and at no point did I feel short-changed on any of them.

You get the full experience and some great photos to remember it by.

Create some memories and who knows, you might just meet a celebrity along the way!

Thanks for checking out our Best Studio Tours in Hollywood post!

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Owner of Back to the Movies and Born in Stoke on Trent Sean Evans set up this website to talk about films the way you'd talk to your friends about them. No critics, just fans.

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2 thoughts on “ we explore and rank the best studio tours in hollywood ”.

Thank you so much. This was such an informative and helpful review of the studios. Exactly what i was looking for. Thanks

Thank you Michael, this is an old article but the general premise remains the same and WB is still miles ahead in terms of tour quality.

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Guide to Los Angeles' Studio Tours

 Universal Studios

Going on a studio tour in Los Angeles is a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at some of your favorite TV and movie sets. As a tourgoer, you'll get to see some of the most iconic backdrops in town, from Monica's apartment on "Friends" to the RV from "Breaking Bad"—but access is limited and be aware that your favorite movie scenes might actually be just a bunch of warehouses full of lights, cables, and set pieces.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Warner Bros.' studio tour in Burbank entails both walking and riding in a cart around to working sets (although rarely are there any actors around). It's the most expensive of the studio tours, but that's because it's a bigger studio and it's also home to some of the most familiar stages like "Friends," "Big Bang Theory," the Harry Potter series, and more. There's even a working Central Perk Café on-site. The regular tour takes three hours and there's also a deluxe version that takes six hours.

Paramount Studio Tour

TripSavvy / Kayte Deioma

Two-hour cart tours of the studio behind the famous Paramount Arches are offered several times a day. Here, you'll see the Bronson Gate, the New York Street Backlot (which is designed to look like NYC), and the Prop Warehouse. You might recognize things from "Forrest Gump" and "I Love Lucy." The VIP Paramount Studio Tour includes a gourmet lunch and talks with archivists and last four hours, 30 minutes long.

Sony Pictures Studios Tour

Michael Kovac / Getty Images

The two-hour guided walking tour of Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City includes photo opportunities on the "Jeopardy" set and in front of the mobile meth lab from "Breaking Bad." Tours are offered four times a day Monday through Friday, but they can get very busy—probably because this is one of the cheapest studio tours in town—so it's recommended to make a reservation beforehand.

Universal Studios Tour

Universal Studios Tours are unique in that they're actually part of the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park . You'll have to pay theme park prices to take the tram tour, which includes special effects sets so you get to experience earthquakes, floods, car crashes, "King Kong" in 3D, and a "Fast and the Furious" simulation along the way. You'll also get to see outdoor backlot sets that have been used in TV shows and famous movies like "Psycho" and "War of the Worlds." The route is ever-changing depending on which sets are in use.

Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio & Museum

Rick R.1 / Flickr / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio in Newhall, north of Los Angeles, is a working set for everything from westerns to war movies. Its museum houses nine decades of movie memorabilia, including the famous "Dukes of Hazard" car. Tours of the 22-acre lot are only available for groups, but if you come in April, you might be able to attend the annual Cowboy Festival  (that is if it doesn't get relocated due to filming).

Paramount Ranch

Patrick Slaven / Flickr CC By-NC 2.0

In addition to the Paramount Studio Tour, you can also visit Paramount Ranch , located in the Santa Monica Mountains. This old western movie set was built back in 1927 and operated for 25 years. After that, it changed hands numerous times, until the National Park Service finally took it over. It is still available for use as a film set or for weddings, but it's open to the public, so you can sometimes watch filming from afar. The ranch is a hub for surrounding hiking and equestrian trails. Best of all, it's free to visit. 

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Combined Shape .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} SMS Main navigation Things to Do Attractions & Tours Arts & Culture Outdoors & Wellness Shopping Budget Family Hidden Gems Luxury Pet-Friendly Eat & Drink Bars Clubs Dine LA Restaurant Week Restaurants Business Spotlight Find Events Itineraries Where to Stay Celebrate LA Heritage AAPI Heritage Black LA Latino Heritage LGBTQ+ Tourist Information Meetings About LA Tourism Travel Trade Membership Business Spotlight Media Research Careers Today's must read Hidden Gems of Los Angeles Log in Search Search Things to Do Attractions & Tours Go Behind the Scenes at the Best Studio Tours in LA by Discover Los Angeles   Mar 6, 2024 The World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood  |  Photo:  Yuri Hasegawa Share Been There Login Register My Next Trip Login Register Studio Tours Television & Motion Picture Studios Arts and Culture From classic films to current hit TV shows, Los Angeles is home to the studios that produce much of what you see on the small and large screen. Book a studio tour to get a behind-the-scenes peek at sets and props, learn Jeopardy -worthy trivia, and maybe even see some of your favorite stars in action.

Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

Founded in May 1912, Paramount Pictures Studio (5515 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles 90038) is the longest operating studio in Hollywood. Cecil B. DeMille, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Marlene Dietrich, Mae West, Gary Cooper, the Marx Brothers, and Elvis Presley have all filmed at the iconic studio lot. Paramount Studios is also home to an elaborate New York Street backlot that can transform into 10 different NYC neighborhoods — making a visit to Paramount the fastest and cheapest way to travel across the country!

The Studio Tour  features a 2-hour guided cart tour of iconic filming locations and the Prop Warehouse - along the way your guide will provide insight into the studio’s rich history. The VIP Tour  is a 4.5-hour cart tour that includes VIP access to the archives, backlots and production facilities; a gourmet catered lunch (morning tours) or champagne & hors d’oeuvres in the Prop Warehouse (afternoon tours); complimentary parking and a personalized souvenir photo.

Where to eat nearby: Osteria La Buca (5210 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles 90038)

Sony Pictures Studio Tour

At Sony Pictures (10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City 90232), a two-hour walking tour ($50) will provide you with a glimpse of the soundstages where The Wizard of Oz, Men in Black and Spider-Man were filmed; and beloved game shows Jeopardy! and  Wheel of Fortune are currently taped.

You may also get to a chance to see the Barbara Streisand Scoring Stage or the set of the ABC comedy The Goldbergs . The lot is also home to a studio museum and is the permanent home of the Breaking Bad RV . The Sony Pictures Studio lot took over what used to be MGM, and many of the buildings still boast the same Art Deco styling that dates back to the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Available Monday-Friday at 11:00 a.m., the 3-hour VIP Tour ($200) includes Sony Museum access, three-course prix fixe lunch, souvenir photo, and an employee's discount at the Sony Studio Store.

Where to eat nearby: Ms Chi Cafe , 3829 Main St., Culver City 90232

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5 Best Studio Tours for Families in Los Angeles

by Heather Spohr

September 21, 2019

Los Angeles is known as the center of the entertainment industry , and for good reason: the most famous television and movie studios in the world are located here. These five studio tours are the best the area has to offer—read: the opportunity to tour sets ( Friends, Psycho and The Wizard of Oz), learn   behind-the-scenes info and see stars in action!—and are great not only for visitors to Los Angeles  but also for natives. Come on, who wouldn't love the chance to come face to face with Jaws or wave a wand alongside Harry, Ron and Hermione? Native or not, you're going to want to add these five studio tours in Los Angeles to your bucket list.

1. Warner Brothers Studios

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Burbank, CA Warner Brothers Studio tour guides take visitors behind-the-scenes at this iconic TV and motion picture studio. Tour the backlots, which have been the exterior sets for films and TV shows like Casablanca , Batman , Gilmore Girls and Friends . You can even "experience" the sets of famous Warner Bros. entities like Friends ' Central Perk, Big Bang Theory 's Apt 4A, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and a very special DC Universe: The Exhibit ! You'll also get to see soundstages where current shows like Young Sheldon  and Ellen are filming—and if you're lucky, you might see one of the stars. 

Cost : Adults $72, children (ages 8-12) $62

2. Sony Pictures Entertainment

Sony Pictures Studio Tour 10000 W Washington Blvd Culver City, CA Guests on the Sony Pictures Tour get a behind-the-scenes look at a studio that's been around for nearly 100 years. The walking tour makes stops at soundstages where iconic films like The Wizard of Oz and Spiderman were filmed, plus stages where current game shows like Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune are still filming. You might get a peek at the set from The Goldbergs , and everyone will get a glimpse of Sony's many Best Picture Oscars. Finally, the tour wouldn't be complete without walking under the studio's 94-foot tall rainbow.

Cost : $50 per person, ages 12 and up

3. Paramount Studios

Paramount Pictures 5555 Melrose Ave LA, CA Paramount Pictures began in 1912 and has been responsible for films like The Ten Commandments , Breakfast at Tiffany's and Titanic . Visitors will ride around the lot in a cart driven by their tour guide, and they'll visit sound stages, the backlot and iconic Hollywood landmarks (including the famous "New York street" set). Paramount is also the home of current TV shows, so keep your eyes open for stars. The tour begins and ends in the Studio store, allowing guests to buy snacks at the beginning and souvenirs at the end. Smart. 

Cost : $60 for the studio tour (ages 10 and up), $99 for the After Dark tour (ages 16 and up), $189 for the VIP tour (aged 10 and up)

4. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Los Angeles, CA Universal Studios' "world-famous" studio tour is one of the main attractions inside the Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park. And for good reason: this tour delivers. Universal Studios is the largest working movie studio in the country, and there's always something being filmed there. Jimmy Fallon introduces tour-related clips on the tram's HD monitors, while a live tour guide narrates the tour and answers any questions the group has. Tour highlights include experiencing the plane crash from War of the Worlds, catching up with Norman Bates at the Bates Hotel, coming face to face with Jaws and a grand finale of living  Fast and Furious: Supercharged ! The best part? After the tour, your family can enjoy the rest of the park!

Cost : $109-139 for a one-day ticket, $179-279 for a Universal Express ticket, from $349 for a VIP Experience ticket

5. Adventures by Disney Hollywood and Disneyland Tour

The granddaddy of all the studio tours, this six-day/five-night tour is literally a vacation! Guests on the Backstage Magic Tour will get an experience like no other, with private tours of the El Capitan Theatre, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Jim Henson Company Studios, and Walt Disney Imagineering. The package also includes VIP Experience tickets to Disneyland and California Adventure, where guests will get behind-the-scenes tours.

Cost : From $3,199. Includes accommodations, ground transportation, theme park tickets, and most meals. No children under 4 permitted.

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The best Los Angeles tours

Los Angeles tours like bike rides to Santa Monica bakeries and Arts District walks make it easy to see all of the city

When you’re visiting a city as vast as Los Angeles, tours are the best way to explore as many neighborhoods as possible during a short time. Choose a sightseeing tour if you must hit all the big Los Angeles attractions or opt for a food tour to sample the best tacos in Los Angeles . Movie buffs will want to go behind-the-scenes at film studios, and who doesn’t want to feel the sand between your toes on the best beaches in L.A. ? Whatever Los Angeles experience you want to have during your trip, this list of the best Los Angeles tours has something for everyone.

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Best Los Angeles tours

Grand city tour of los angeles.

This five-hour tour might very well be the most efficient way to see all the top L.A. attractions. Kick things off in Downtown with a visit to the Walt Disney Concert Hall before heading west to check out the Griffith Park Observatory and catch your first glimpse of the Hollywood Sign. Next, it’s off to Hollywood Boulevard to experience the Walk of Fame, Dolby Theatre and TCL Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. You’ll drive through Beverly Hills and loop back to the Original Farmers Market, where you’ll have time for lunch before heading back to your hotel. $75

Los Angeles Latin Food and Culture Small Group Walking Tour

It’s impossible to separate the culture of the city from the culture of the Latin-American residents who call it home. Venture into East L.A. and Boyle Heights and you’ll find the best tamales, incredible mercados and joyful mariachi bands. This tour uses the Metro Gold Line to hit spots all over East L.A., from the first tortilla factory in the city to a bakery that keeps at-risk youth of the streets. And don’t worry: There will be plenty of tastings along the way. $75

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Laurie Avocado

Movie Locations Bus Tour

It’s only fitting that a tour of Los Angeles’s most famous movie locations would depart from TCL Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, a big-screen landmark in its own right. The three-hour tour crisscrosses the city to take you past more than 50 iconic filming locations from movies like The Graduate, Spider-Man and Chinatown . A 65-inch TV on the bus will play relevant clips as you zoom by each spot, in case you need to jog your memory. $60

Photograph:  Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Christian Haugen

Santa Monica Sweet Spots Bike Tour

Ice cream and truffles and lemon bars, oh my! Taste test some of Santa Monica’s most popular sweets on this dessert tour by bike. The tastings vary from tour to tour, but favorites include fudge brownies and authentic Mexican pastries. You’ll spy the Third Street Promenade and some of the city’s wealthiest streets as you pedal along. $89

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

See how movie magic happens with a behind-the-scenes tour at Warner Bros. Studios. Film geeks will love the chance to get an inside look at the production process, from the sound stages to the prop department. The tour ends with your chance to try on the Sorting Hat from J.K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter franchise and sit on the Central Perk couch where the Friends gang drank so many cups of coffee. $104

Neon Cruise

• Art and design

Talk about Instagram bait. The Museum of Neon Art’s popular Neon Cruise drives you past countless examples of L.A.’s illuminated electric art at night. Feast your eyes on the restored facade of Clifton’s Cafeteria, the marquee of the Los Angeles Theatre, the multicolored sign for the Frolic Room and many more neon novelty pieces. $55

South Bay Brewery Tour

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

The craft beer scene in Los Angeles has exploded in recent years, and nowhere is that more apparent than the South Bay. El Segundo, Torrance and Redondo Beach each boast a bevy of popular craft breweries like Smog City Brewing Co., Three Weavers Brewing Co. and Phantom Carriage Brewery. Visit three of the best and enjoy a flight of four testers at each location on a guided LA Beer Hop tour of the area. The best part? Your tour guide serves as an automatic designated driver. $69

Philip Mershon’s Felix in Hollywood Tour

Forget the star tours and flashy tourist traps: This tour of Hollywood looks past all the superficial attractions to get to the heart of the entertainment industry. Local historian Philip Mershon describes the origin stories of all the major film studios, record companies and television networks with such gusto that you might feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s a fascinating journey for anyone interested in the business of Hollywood. $40

Arts District Walking Tour

Craft breweries, hip restaurants, art galleries and vibrant murals abound in the Arts District, a neighborhood on the eastern edge of Downtown that’s known for its cool vibe. Spend two hours walking the streets of this trendy nabe to experience the art that made it so famous for yourself. The tour also includes a visit to ArtShare LA, the city’s largest private art warehouse. $22

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Passion Leica

Los Angeles Taco Tour by Bike

If Los Angeles had an official dish, it would be the taco. Locals know that some of the best come from sidewalk stands or taco truck parked outside strip malls. Navigate the streets of Downtown to sample some of the most beloved al pastor and carne asada tacos on this two-hour bike tour. $100

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ T.Tseng

Looking for more tours in L.A.?

11 L.A. tours worth going on with a date

Instead of meeting for drinks or seeing a forgettable movie, take someone special on one of these L.A. tours worth going on with a date.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Best Los Angeles Tours

15 Best Los Angeles Tours

The glamorous “City of Angels” attracts visitors from across the world interested in connecting with American show business.

The warm climate and relaxed atmosphere have also resulted in many beautiful and vibrant beaches being within easy traveling distance of the city.

This way of life – combined with the way it epitomizes the American dream – makes Los Angeles an excellent city to visit time and time again.

A great way to experience the different influences on Los Angeles culture is by taking a series of tours throughout the city.

There is a great variety available and with the huge cultural influences in the city, there is sure to be a tour to please every visitor.

Here are the 15 best tours in Los Angeles.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood: 1 or 2 Day Ticket

Universal Studios Hollywood is a famous theme park dedicated to the movies and showbiz that many tourists come to Los Angeles to experience.

From thrill rides and studio tours to themed restaurants and boutique gifts stores, you can easily spend days at a time enjoying the park and the City Walk area.

This ticket gives you discounted entry into the park for either one or two days. You will have full access to all the entertainment, shopping and dining options.

2. Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket

The City Sightseeing hop-on-hop-off buses are a great way to become acquainted with a new city when you first arrive; they take you around all the most famous sights of the city.

You can opt for a 24, 48 or 72-hour pass, depending on how long you are in the city and how much time you want to dedicate to each stop.

On board are audio guides available in nine languages, detailing the important information about each spot.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Private Mustang Tour

Get your own VIP Hollywood experience with this private tour in an authentic Mustang through the city. As this tour is private, you will get the opportunity to tailor it to what you want to see whilst in the city.

You will be taken to the most luxurious neighborhoods and told the deepest secrets of the city in this two-hour tour. A cold beverage is provided on board the convertible Mustang.

4. Hollywood Studio Tour: Warner Bros

If you are in Los Angeles to get close to the movie industry, you absolutely cannot miss this classic tour.

You will be taken behind the scenes of a real working movie studio owned by Warner Bros and learn all about the history of movies made at the studio, as well as the stories of the actors, directors, and crews behind them.

You can also check out famous film sets from movies and shows such as Friends, Harry Potter and Batman.

5. OUE Skyspace LA Skyslide Combo Entry Tickets

Enjoy beautiful, panoramic views over Los Angeles from this fantastic attraction in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.

Your ticket will allow you to head up to the observation deck of the OUE Skyspace building, as well as give you access to the skyslide – giving you an extra thrill on the way down.

The Skyspace itself is filled with fun, interactive features, giving you an outlook on the fascinating history of the tower and the downtown Los Angeles area.

6. Newport Beach: 2-Hour Whale Watching Tour

Get up close with Southern California’s native marine life in a much more humane way with this excellent tour departing from Newport Beach.

You will be taken on a boat out into the coastal waters to try and spot some whales for yourself, including the humpback whales and finback whales that are native to the area.

The two-hour tour includes an onboard guide to help you know how to spot the whales and tell you all about the marine life in the area. Newport Beach is only a short journey from central LA by both car and public transport.

7. The Original Hollywood Tour

This classic tour around the homes of Los Angeles’ rich and famous has been popular with visitors from around the world for decades.

The open top bus guides you through Hollywood, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills in two hours. You will also be shown the filming locations from some of the most well-known and loved movies to come out of the city, as well as taken to the Hollywood sign for a great view over the area.

Pick-up from hotels nearby is included as part of the price.

8. Hollywood Sign Small Group Tour in a Luxury Van

The iconic Hollywood sign has become an enduring symbol for the United States film industry.

This tour takes you right up to the sign, giving you an iconic view not just of the monument, but across the city of Los Angeles. You will be shown the TCL Chinese Theatres and the Hollywood Walk of Fame before departing on your adventure uphill to the sign.

Tours are limited to small groups for a more intimate experience and the luxury van is fully air-conditioned for your comfort. A live guide is provided.

9. 1-Hour Flight for 2 Persons

Get an even more luxurious vantage point over the Hollywood Sign with this one-hour private flight over the city of Los Angeles.

You will be shown some of the most iconic sights in the city – including the dodger stadium, Beverly Hills and the extensive beaches – from the sky in this excellent experience.

It is limited to two people, so you have your own private flight which can be adapted to your wishes. One person will even have the opportunity to try flying the plane themselves.

10. Champagne Brunch Cruise from Marina Del Rey

Nothing is more West Coast than brunch, and this cruise takes the late morning meal to the next level.

The cruise departs from the famous Marina Del Rey and will give you fantastic views over the Southern Californian coast. The champagne is unlimited – as is the brunch buffet – so feel free to eat and drink as much as you like.

There is atmospheric music setting a calm mood throughout your experience. All gratuities are included and you will be returned to the Marina at the end of the two hours.

11. The Queen Mary Tour

This tour takes you on board the iconic Queen Mary ocean liner. The now-retired ship was once synonymous with luxury cruises and has become an iconic attraction in Los Angeles.

This five-hour tour will take you around the most impressive parts of the ship and explain the vibrant history.

You are provided with an audio headset allowing you to tour the ship at your own pace. There are three different restaurants aboard for you to have your own sampling of luxury.

12. Palm Springs Day Tour and Outlet Shopping from Los Angeles

Head deep into the Southern Californian desert where the oasis town of Palm Springs lies. Palm Springs is a popular resort with Hollywood’s rich and famous; this tour will let you sample the high-life of SoCal’s wealthiest residents.

You will ride the iconic cable car after to see the iconic views over Palm Springs. You will then finish up your tour at the Premium Outlets, where you can search for bargain prices on some of America’s most iconic designer brands.

You will also have the opportunity to learn about the unique desert ecosystem, as well as check out some of the homes of the rich and famous in the area.

13. Downtown Los Angeles: Arts and Culture 2-Hour Walking Tour

Experience some of Los Angeles’ best cultural delights outside of the film industry in this tour through the museums, galleries and architectural highlights of the downtown area.

Your expert guide is local to the area and can provide you expert commentary on the history and culture of central Los Angeles.

You will also receive fantastic information on the arts movements that have shaped the city, and how artistic subcultures are still thriving in the central city.

14. Los Angeles: Downtown Food Tour

As with most major American cities, Los Angeles has a thriving food culture, with a vibrant selection of cuisines available across the city.

This three-hour tour is with a local guide who will talk to you about the history of cuisine in the City of Angels, as well as the cultures that have influenced it.

You will visit eight different restaurants in the city, allowing you to sample cuisine influenced by Germans, Mexican and Lebanese migrants – as well as a host of other national and international cuisines.

15. Hollywood Cannabis Tour

The recent legalization of recreational marijuana in the State of California has opened up a thriving cannabis industry across Los Angeles.

This tour takes you around all the main spots associated with cannabis in Hollywood and teaches you how the industry is growing across the country thanks to recent legalization movements. This tour is two and a half hours long and will take you to a real-life grow room, a cannabis dispensary, and on a short tour around some of the major sights in Hollywood.

You can also check out the thriving art community associated with the cannabis industry and enjoy a small discount on retail products.

15 Best Los Angeles Tours:

• Universal Studios Hollywood: 1 or 2 Day Ticket
• Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket
• Private Mustang Tour
• Hollywood Studio Tour: Warner Bros
• OUE Skyspace LA Skyslide Combo Entry Tickets
• Newport Beach: 2-Hour Whale Watching Tour
• The Original Hollywood Tour
• Hollywood Sign Small Group Tour in a Luxury Van
• 1-Hour Flight for 2 Persons
• Champagne Brunch Cruise from Marina Del Rey
• The Queen Mary Tour
• Palm Springs Day Tour and Outlet Shopping from Los Angeles
• Downtown Los Angeles: Arts and Culture 2-Hour Walking Tour
• Los Angeles: Downtown Food Tour
• Hollywood Cannabis Tour

Protect Your Trip »

The 13 Best Los Angeles Tours

Maximize your time in Los Angeles with the insider tips and historical context provided by the best local tours.

Courtesy of Bikes and Hikes LA

At more than 465 square miles, Los Angeles defies easy exploration. Even those who dream of touring the city's top attractions in a sporty convertible may be discouraged by the city's notorious traffic congestion and tough parking rules. To enjoy that stress-free, laid-back vacation California is famous for, choose an easy, efficient guided tour. Using both traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News selected some of the top tours in Los Angeles whose entertaining introduction to the city will engage intrepid explorers, first-time visitors and local residents alike.

Bikes and Hikes LA – Hollywood Sign Hike

Price: From $29 Duration: 3 hours

Summit Mount Hollywood on this hiking trip. You'll see Griffith Park and the Forest Lawn Mausoleum as well as the world-famous Hollywood sign and panoramic vistas of the city. Be ready for a workout: You'll hike approximately 4 miles round-trip. Reviewers say the tour is excellent and the guides provide lots of history during the hike.

Tours are offered daily year-round and depart at 8:45 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. The company also offers a shorter version of this hike and several bike tours of LA.

Check prices & availability on:

Open Bus Tours – Movie Star Home Tour

Price: From $35 Duration: 2 hours

Open Bus Tours whisks you through Hollywood and Beverly Hills in an open-top van to show you the places where the rich and famous play. The guide will point out landmarks associated with past and current celebrities, contemporary sports figures and YouTube stars, plus drive past famous movie studios and filming locations, if available. You can snap photos of mansions, the Hollywood sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, the Sunset Strip, the Dolby Theatre and more. Visitors say they like leaving the LA driving to fun, knowledgeable guides who entertain them with gossip. Others emphasize that this is more of a sightseeing tour and wish that they saw more celebrity homes.

The tours are available from Thursday to Monday; there are four departures each day. The company also offers private tours.

Big Bus Tours Los Angeles – TMZ Celebrity Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $49 Duration: 2 hours

Gossip, secrets and buzz-worthy names are the focus of this popular Hollywood Celebrity Hot Spot Tour from Big Bus Tours Los Angeles and TMZ, the famous celebrity news website. The guided bus outing departs several times daily from Hollywood and makes no stops. Instead, the entertaining guides show video clips, share stories, do giveaways and play games. Recent tour-takers who love celebrity gossip and pop culture offer very positive reviews of the outing, while some complain about not seeing any celebrities during their tour.

Tours depart multiple times daily. TMZ also runs a Hollywood Selfie Tour, which shuttles tourgoers to the best photo spots.

ExperienceFirst – Haunted Hollywood Walking Tour: True Crime, Creepy Tales

Price: Adults from $39; kids from $35 Duration: 2 hours

This ghost tour not only covers paranormal activity in Hollywood, but also delves into LA's crime history. You'll learn about serial killers who traumatized the city as well as the infamous Manson family murders. Among the locations you'll visit are the Hollywood Roosevelt hotel and the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Reviewers say the tour is excellent and that guides are wonderful storytellers.

Trips depart at 6 p.m. nightly. ExperienceFirst also operates guided hikes to the Hollywood sign, among others.

Courtesy of A Day in LA

A Day in LA Tours – LA City Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $89 Duration: 7.5 hours

Cruise from Venice Beach to Griffith Park and everywhere in between on this tour. Tourgoers will hop on an air-conditioned bus that's equipped with device charging ports and cruise in comfort to areas like Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive and Santa Monica. First-time visitors to LA rave about how much you see in one day despite the city's famous traffic. Others appreciate spending about 40 minutes at each attraction so they could explore and take photos.

Trips depart daily around 8 a.m. A Day in LA Tours offers hotel pickup from Los Angeles area hotels for an additional fee. You can also take this tour from Anaheim.

Six Taste – Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 4 hours

On this Downtown LA walking tour by Six Taste, visitors will sample signature dishes from five eateries while learning more about the history of downtown and the city's diverse cultures. Tastings may include pupusas, pizza, chicken mole and gelato. The company partners with more than 100 restaurants, so these tastings may change. Locals and visitors alike rave about the Six Taste guides and their selection of hard-to-find stands and shops, as well as the delicious food.

Downtown tours run on Saturdays and Sundays only at 11 a.m. The tour is vegetarian friendly. Some dietary accommodations can be made as long as you notify the company at least 72 hours in advance. Other popular Six Taste tours explore Santa Monica and the Arts District.

Malibu Wine Hikes – Malibu Wine Hike & Trail Tour

Price: From $49 Duration: 2 hours

California wine is a must-try for oenophiles, but you won't need to venture to Napa, Sonoma or Santa Barbara to sample some vino. Approximately 30 miles west of LA you'll find Malibu, a well-known beach town and home to Malibu Wine Hikes. On its 2.5-mile wine tour, you'll explore Saddlerock Ranch and its incomparable beauty, including the property's grape vines. Guides will tell you about the varietals the ranch grows and you'll get to taste the wine it produces. Visitors say they had a great time and are particularly wowed by the scenery.

Keep in mind this hike isn't accessible and strollers and wagons are not allowed. Tours depart Wednesday through Monday. Times can vary by day, but you can generally expect tours in the late morning and mid-afternoon. Malibu Wine Hikes also offers a popular tour in a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Sunset Ranch Hollywood – Mulholland Trail Tour

Price: From $75 Duration: 1 hour

Hop on a trusted steed and explore Griffith Park with Sunset Ranch. As you ride through the park, you'll see the Hollywood Sign, the Pacific and LA vistas. Tour-takers say that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable; the ride is a great option for beginners. They also rave about the views from the trail. While children are welcome, they must be at least 8 years old to ride; they company doesn't allow double riders.

You'll want to book your tour online in advance to secure a spot. Tours depart hourly from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you want a longer ride, consider the two-hour Mt. Hollywood Trail Tour.

Courtesy of Architecture Tours L.A.

Architecture Tours L.A. – Silver Lake

Price: From $80 Duration: 2-3 hours

Architecture buffs and design professionals should book ahead for this tour of the Silver Lake neighborhood. For up to three hours, you'll view midcentury modern and contemporary homes by master architects Richard Neutra, Rudolph Schindler, John Lautner and other notables. Architectural historian and author Laura Massino Smith is your expert guide as she chauffeurs you through the neighborhood via van. Tour-takers appreciate Smith's insider access to homes designed by master architects that would otherwise be impossible to find or view up close.

Tours run daily around 10 a.m. and are given by reservation only. You can get tickets by contacting the company directly and you must have at least two people to book. Architecture Tours L.A. hosts a variety of other tours through Los Angeles neighborhoods, such as Hancock Park/Miracle Mile and West Hollywood/Beverly Hills.

Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles – Downtown LA Food Tour

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $75 Duration: 3 hours

This vegetarian-friendly food tour of downtown Los Angeles appeals to travelers interested in the neighborhood's history and ethnically diverse culinary scene. You'll make six food stops that could include doughnuts, French pastry, Mexican tacos and Asian fusion. You'll also walk through Grand Central Market and see sights like the Biltmore Los Angeles, a luxury hotel, and the Million Dollar Theatre. Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides and appreciate finding restaurants to return to, while locals enjoy learning about downtown and the city's hidden gem restaurants.

Expect to walk or stand the entire tour and bring a full water bottle. Tours run at 11 a.m. Friday through Monday. Many stops can accommodate gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free diets. Sidewalk Food Tours also offers a West Hollywood Food Tour and private food tours.

Surf City Tours – The Perfect Malibu Tour

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $70 Duration: 5.5 hours

See the homes of the rich and famous – with a side of spectacular ocean scenery – during this tour. Surf City Tours whisks you through Malibu to see the homes of celebrities like Lady Gaga and Cher as well as historic sites and filming locations. It also includes an hourlong stop so you can explore the beach on your own. Travelers say the tour is a must-do and appreciate the guides' enthusiasm and historical knowledge.

Tours depart at 9:30 a.m. daily. You must bring a car seat for all children 8 and younger. Tours depart from the company's location in Santa Monica. The company also runs a surfing trip and a Hollywood tour.

Universal Studios Studio Tour

Price: Included with park admission Duration: 1 hour

Movie fans will get a thrill out of Universal Studios' Studio Tour, a theme park attraction that moves tram riders around the studio backlot. Jimmy Fallon serves as your video tour guide who introduces short clips that serve to enhance the narration from your in-person guide. During the tram ride, you'll encounter the Jupiter's Claim set from "Nope," the shark from "Jaws" and other key props. Interactive experiences include watching a 3D King Kong battle a T. rex and racing alongside stars from "The Fast and the Furious" movie franchise. Both experiences are favorites of reviewers who especially enjoy the special effects. Some tour-takers feel that it is more of another theme park ride than a tour.

The backlot tours leave throughout the day. Tours are included with the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park ticket, which starts at $109 per person for one-day general admission. The park offers multiple shows and rides featuring famous animals, cartoon characters and blockbuster hits.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $60 Duration: 3 hours

Spend time with friends, scientists and wizards during the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. For one hour of the experience, a guide will drive you around the backlots of the studio while they tell you about the company's history and how they produce films and shows. The remainder of the the tour is self-guided. Tour-takers can explore sets from "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory," see numerous costumes and props (including items from the DC Universe and "Fantastic Beasts") and grab a bite to eat or a souvenir at the cafe and shop. Tourgoers rave about this tour, calling it an absolute must for movie fans.

Tours are available daily from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You must select a specific time slot when you book. You can upgrade your experience to a Plus or Deluxe tour, which include longer guided tours and meals.

You may also be interested in:

• Best Things to Do in Los Angeles
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• Best California Tours
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Tags: Tours , Los Angeles , Vacations , Travel , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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The best panels at the L.A. Times Festival of Books, according to an L.A. bookseller

Jessica Ferri, owner of Womb House Books, shares the panels she’s most excited about at the 2024 Festival of Books

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An exclusive look at what we’re reading, book club events and our latest author interviews.

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Good morning and welcome back to the L.A. Times Book Club newsletter.

For the next few editions of the newsletter, you’ll be hearing directly from folks in the book world. Next up …

I’m Jessica Ferri, a writer for The Times and the owner of Womb House Books , a secondhand online shop specializing in 20th century literature by women. We will have a booth (No. 122) at the festival, so come on down and visit us! In addition to books, we’ll be selling our author hats, so choose your L.A. it-girl fighter while supplies last: Eve Babitz or Joan Didion .

In book news, I think this season is an explosion of blessings of writing by women. Sheila Heti’s new book, “ Alphabetical Diaries ,” is a veritable art bible. Then there’s Maggie Nelson’s new collection of essays and conversations, “ Like Love ,” and Miranda July’s latest novel, “ All Fours ,” coming in May. In June we have Rachel Cusk’s new novel, “ Parade ,” and in July, Sarah Manguso’s second novel, “ Liars .”

(Please note: The Times may earn a commission through links to Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookstores.)

The L.A. Times Festival of Books is finally here!

I’m moderating what I think will be the best event at the festival, “Love and Friendship: Miranda July and Maggie Nelson in Conversation,” on Saturday at 1:30. We’re going to be discussing the concept of “feeling real” in our relationships — love in marriage and the perils of having a human body. Maggie and Miranda are two of the most audacious thinkers and artists, and it will be such a thrill to have them onstage together.

Also, on Sunday at 12:30, Belletrist’s Karah Preiss will be moderating a conversation between Melissa Broder, Henry Hoke, Isle McElroy, and Jennine Capó Crucet called “Make It Weirder: Body Swapping, Giant Cacti, and Celebrity Impersonators in Contemporary Fiction.” Broder’s most recent novel, “ Death Valley ” (which I reviewed for The Times ), is a book about grief that somehow manages to be hilarious. Tickets are required for both events .

The Week(s) in Books

If you’re into literary takedowns, Ann Manov’s Bookforum review of Lauren Oyler’s most recent book of essays, “ No Judgment ,” may go down in history, thanks to lines like this: “Oyler clearly wishes to be a person who says brilliant things — the Renata Adler of looking at your phone a lot — but she lacks the curiosity that would permit her to do so.”

Sophie Kinsella, the author of “Shopaholic” and other books, announced on social media that she is under treatment for brain cancer. “To everyone who is suffering from cancer in any form I send love and best wishes, as well as to those who love and support them” she wrote. “It can feel very lonely and scary to have a tough diagnosis.”

Scribner editor Emily Polson created a stir when she posted a photo of a box of galleys of “ Didion and Babitz ” by Lili Anolik, calling them “Literary It Girls.” Most were excited by the book, but some took issue with Babitz and Didion being paired together, leading Polson to issue an apology .

“The PEN Awards and World Voices Festival is on the brink of collapse” according to Literary Hub , due to what many feel is a total lack of response to the war in Gaza. Nearly 30 writers and translators have pulled out of the awards. In an open letter, they write: “We cannot, in good faith, align with an organization that has shown such blatant disregard of our collective values.”

Bookstore faves

For this week’s bookseller conversation, I spoke to past festivalgoers Jenny Yang and Chris Capizzi, owners of Filipinotown’s new A Good Used Book shop. Here’s what they had to say about curating their new space.

What would you say your specialization is in? What makes “a good used book?”

We definitely love vintage paperbacks, which we set out in wine crates like records so people can flip through them, cover to cover. We want a whole new generation to discover them. We focus mostly on modern and classic literature including poetry and plays, genre fiction like science fiction and crime, nonfiction in the humanities, sciences and social sciences as well as occult and spirituality, modern and contemporary art and culture of all kinds. I think we’re looking for all the different ways the human experience is interpreted and expressed, and we look to provide a wide variety of ways people communicate those experiences in print.

Tell us about the new shop, the location and neighborhood.

We’re located in Historic Filipinotown near Echo Park, Silver Lake and downtown Los Angeles. We have great neighbors like Clark Street Bread, Grá Pizza, Laveta Coffee and Butchr Bar, so there’s a lot to do. And we have Echo Park Lake just a few blocks away, with Vista Hermosa Park, the local favorite, even closer.

What do you think of L.A. book culture? What are your customers looking for?

There are great bookstores that have been around and are still going strong on this side of L.A.: Alias East in Atwater Village, Counterpoint Records and Books in Hollywood, Sideshow Books in Miracle Mile, Stories in Echo Park and the Last Bookstore downtown. Also can’t forget about the Secret Headquarters comic shop that’s been going on 18 years and just got a new location in Atwater Village. And we’re excited to be part of a new class, along with Untitled Books, Heavy Manners Library and Des Pair Books, working toward nurturing our communities around books.

What’s the most popular title and/or who is the most popular author you sell?

Currently our most popular title is “ Everything Now ” by Rosecrans Baldwin. We call it the “gateway drug” to Los Angeles literature. It’s a great book for transplants and native Angelenos to better understand Los Angeles through its history, its artists and its authors. And it’s just fun to read.

What are your and Jenny’s favorite books of all time, and what are you reading now in terms of new books?

One of Jenny’s favorite books is “ Breast and Eggs ” by Meiko Kawakami, a novel translated from Japanese that sheds light on femininity through female relationships and a woman’s relationship to her own body. She just finished reading Han Kang’s novel “Greek Lessons ,” her follow-up to “The Vegetarian,” a thought-provoking thriller about how one woman’s choice to stop eating meat changes the course of her life and the lives around her.

My favorite book of all-time is probably “ Black Boy ” by Richard Wright, and I’m currently finishing up Kazuo Ishiguro’s latest, “ Klara and the Sun ,” a speculative fiction novel told from the point of view of an android companion.

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