Hollywood Studio Tours

LA is the entertainment capital of the world, and studio tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at where movies and TV shows are made. You'll see real soundstages, backlots, and production facilities. Unlike theme parks, these are working studios — you might spot productions in progress. Book in advance; tours sell out.

The most comprehensive studio tour in LA. 2-3 hours exploring real soundstages and the famous backlot. See sets from Friends, Big Bang Theory, Gilmore Girls. Interactive experiences including the DC Universe and Harry Potter exhibits. Genuinely educational about filmmaking. $69-79, book 2+ weeks ahead. Minimum age 8.

Part of the Universal Studios theme park experience. The Studio Tour tram ride (1 hour) takes you through the backlot with special effects experiences (Jaws, King Kong, Fast & Furious). More entertainment than education compared to Warner Bros. Included with park admission ($109-139). Great for families.

Hollywood's last major studio still in Hollywood. Walking tours are smaller and more intimate (2 hours). See the famous Paramount gates, soundstages, and New York backlot. VIP tours offer more access. Tours from $67. Great for classic Hollywood history buffs. The lot feels like old Hollywood.

The former MGM Studios where Wizard of Oz was filmed. Walking tours show iconic soundstages and sets from current productions. See the Jeopardy! set if you're lucky. $55, 2 hours. More low-key than Warner Bros — feels like a real working studio. Good for film history enthusiasts.

Warner Bros — best overall experience, most interactive. Universal — best for families, combined with theme park. Paramount — best for classic Hollywood history. Sony — best value, authentic working studio feel. All require booking in advance. Don't combine tours in one day — it's too much.