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A Guide to Hollywood Studio Tours: Behind-the-Scenes Hollywood is a place where dreams are made and magic happens.

A Guide to Hollywood Studio Tours: Behind-the-Scenes

Hollywood is a place where dreams are made and magic happens. For decades, tourists have flocked to Tinseltown to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars, visit iconic landmarks like the Walk of Fame and the Chinese Theatre, and explore the backlots where some of Hollywood's most beloved movies and TV shows were filmed. One of the best ways to experience the glamour of Hollywood is on a studio tour, which provides a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of these legendary studios.

The Studios

Los Angeles is home to several major film studios that offer guided tours, including Warner Bros., Universal, Paramount, and NBCUniversal's studios. Each studio has its own unique history, architecture, and attractions, so be sure to choose the one that best fits your interests and schedule. Here are some of the highlights you can expect to see on a typical studio tour:

  • ![image: hollywood-sign, los-angeles, walk-of-fame](Warner Bros. Studio Tour takes you through working studios where you can visit soundstages, including those used for hit TV shows like "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory." You'll also get to explore the iconic Warner Bros. water tower and see props and costumes from some of their most famous movies and TV shows.
  • ![image: universal-studios, los-angeles](Universal Studios Hollywood offers a behind-the-scenes look at movie magic with its guided tour, which takes you through the working movie studio where scenes from "Jurassic Park," "The Fast and the Furious" franchise, and other popular films were shot. You can also explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and experience thrilling rides and attractions based on some of your favorite movies and TV shows.
  • ![image: paramount-studios, los-angeles](Paramount Pictures Studio Tour takes you through a working studio where you can visit soundstages, including those used for hit TV shows like "Star Trek" and "NCIS." You'll also get to see props and costumes from some of Paramount's most famous movies and TV shows.

What to Expect

When planning your studio tour, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Best Time to Visit: Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (summer and holidays) when the studios can be very crowded. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
  • Getting Around: Each studio offers parking options, but some may require shuttle service from a nearby lot. Plan ahead and arrive early to ensure you have enough time to park and get settled before the tour begins.
  • Camera Restrictions: Some studios may prohibit photography or videography on certain sets or areas of the studio, so be sure to check with your tour guide beforehand.

Practical Info

Here are some practical details to keep in mind when planning your studio tour:

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Check the official website for hours, fees, and location hints.
  • Universal Studios Hollywood: Check the official website for hours, fees, and location hints.
  • Paramount Pictures Studio Tour: Unfortunately, the public is no longer allowed to visit the studios; instead, take a guided tour of the historic Paramount backlot.