Your Guide to Best Studio Tours in Los Angeles

If you live in Los Angeles and finally carved out time to play tourist, or you’re visiting with a camera roll to fill, a studio tour belongs on your list. Famous gates, real soundstages, and backlots that feel like entire cities.

We’ll point you to the best studio tours in Los Angeles and share the inside scoop on options, pricing, and smart tips so your day runs smoothly. If you love exploring, you can also check out some of the best outdoor activities to round out your itinerary.

Bring comfy shoes and curiosity. Some tours run on set schedules, some ask for a photo ID, and a few have age limits, so booking ahead is smart. Weekday mornings usually mean smaller groups and easier parking.

Keep your camera handy, but follow any no-photo signs. With that, you’re set to pick a lot and step behind the scenes.

How to Plan Your Studio Tour Like a Local

Locals know that small details decide whether your tour feels smooth or rushed. Use these insider pointers to plan a day that keeps your energy up from the first backlot to the last photo stop.

Booking Secrets You’ll Wish You Knew

Kick off with the first slot on a weekday morning. Lines stay short, and parking stays calm. Buy tickets online and scan the fine print on ID checks and age limits. Some lots change routes during active shoots, so early times protect your plan.

• VIP perks often include priority entry, extra stops, and smaller groups. Great when time is tight or patience is thin.
• Standard tickets work if you arrive early and pace your day.
• Keep confirmations on your phone and carry a photo ID.
• Add a small buffer for security. It turns Los Angeles studio tours into smooth, stress-light outings.

What to Wear & What to Pack

Dress for walking and stairs. Simple choices look sharp in photos and keep you comfortable.

• Closed-toe shoes with good support.
• Neutral colors that photograph well. Skip loud prints that bounce glare.
• Light layers. Mornings can run cool, and afternoons warm.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for outdoor lots.
• Pack light: small crossbody or compact backpack. Tripods and selfie sticks often face limits.
• Portable charger, water, lip balm.
• If rain shows up, a thin poncho beats an umbrella in tight spaces.

Best Times to Visit LA Studios

Timing shapes the whole day. Aim for windows that trade crowds for breathing room.

• Weekday mornings win, especially Tuesday through Thursday.
• Peak times: spring break, summer weekends, and winter holidays. Book early if those dates are fixed.
• Friendly months: late January, early May, late September, early November.
• Arrive 30 minutes early to clear security and find your group.
• Early light flatters photos. Late afternoon adds a warm glow near closing.
• Weekdays bring more active productions, which can add energy to backlots.
• Keep this rhythm as you plan movie studio tours in Los Angeles that run on time and leave space for a relaxed finish.

Best Studio Tours in Los Angeles

Curious where to start? Here’s a quick guide to the lots that still make movie magic, with what each one does well and how to line up a great day.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood Tour

• Address: 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505, United States
• Open Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Admission prices: 1-day ticket price ranges from $79 – $330
• Tickets: https://store.universalstudioshollywood.com/

Big energy, big backlot, and that famous tram. The Universal Studios Hollywood Tour rolls past soundstages, street sets, and practical effects in action. It runs inside the theme park, so you can pair it with rides for a full day. Among Hollywood studio tours, this one goes wide and keeps a quick pace.

Universal’s soundstages and backlot have hosted countless productions, including franchises like Jurassic Park and Fast & Furious. The signature Studio Tram Tour takes you past active sets and soundstages and pulls back the curtain on practical effects and backlot illusions.

• Tourist tip: Consider the Universal Express Pass. It gives one-time expedited entry to each ride, attraction, and seated show, which can save hours on busy days, especially if you’re pairing the Studio Tour with multiple headliners.
• When to go: Weekdays usually see lighter crowds than weekends. Arrive near opening to knock out the Studio Tour and the most popular rides with shorter waits.

Good to know

• Sit on the left side for strong views on several set streets.
• Grab quick photos near the tram queue and on elevated walkways in the park.
• Universal Express cuts wait time during peak seasons.
• Arrive near opening and do the tram first, then loop back to the rides.
• Keep your phone handy, then stash it during surprise water or wind effects.

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2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

• Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
• Open Hours: 8:30 AM – 03:30 PM
• Admission prices: 1-day ticket price ranges from $109 – $359
• Tickets: https://www.wbstudiotour.com/tickets/

Calmer vibe, smaller groups, and a lot in Burbank. The Warner Bros Studio Tour Hollywood leans into craft and history. Guides share set lore, prop details, and production trivia. It is a true Burbank studio tour with a focus on the nuts and bolts of filming.

It’s been a cinematic playground for legends like Humphrey Bogart and Bette Davis and, more recently, stars such as Ben Affleck and Gal Gadot. Its filmography ranges from timeless masterpieces like Casablanca and The Matrix to modern blockbusters, including the Harry Potter series and Wonder Woman.

• Tourist tip: Book an early-morning tour for a quieter, more personal look at sets and facilities. If you want deeper access, choose Studio Tour Plus or the Deluxe Tour. Buy tickets in advance to lock in your time, and plan a quick stop at the Warner Bros. Studio Plaza after for souvenirs.
• When to go: Weekdays are your best bet for lighter crowds and a better chance of seeing live productions in action. Aim to arrive near opening so you can clear security, join the first departures, and cover the marquee areas before mid-day lines build.

Good to know

• Book early morning for quieter stages and easier parking.
• Keep a photo ID handy for security.
• Ask about outdoor backlot streets for classic photos.
• Time for the gift shop to stop. Go before closing to skip the rush.
• Weekdays bring a better chance of live action on the lot.

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3. Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

• Address: 5515 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038, USA
• Open Hours: 8:30 AM – 04:00 PM
• Admission prices: ticket price ranges from $69 – $220
• Ticket: https://www.paramountstudiotour.com/

Signature arch at the gate, Melrose buzz nearby, and a deep film legacy. The Paramount Studio Tour runs tidy routes through historic spaces. For vintage energy, it often stands out as the best studio tour in LA.

Paramount is a cornerstone of Hollywood history. Its 65-acre lot has hosted icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlon Brando and produced classics and blockbusters including The Godfather, Titanic, and Transformers.

• Tourist tip: Book early, especially for the VIP tour. If you want more one-on-one time with guides and staff, choose a weekday. Plan extra time for Melrose Avenue nearby for boutiques and vintage shops.
• When to go: Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends. Aim for the first tour of the morning for easier parking, lighter groups, and better chances to linger on backlots. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time.

Good to know

• Aim for the first tour of the day for lighter groups.
• Take a quick shot near the arch, then step aside for others.
• Add a short Melrose window-shop session after your tour.
• Ask your guide about quieter courtyards for clean backlot photos.
• Parking runs smoothly when you arrive 30 minutes early.

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4. Sony Pictures Studio Tour

• Address: 10202 West Washington Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232
• Tour Time: 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 01:30 PM, 02:30 PM
• Admission prices: ticket price per person – $55
• Ticket: https://www.sonypicturesstudiostours.com/

Culver City streets, Art Deco bones, and a walk-first format. The Sony Studio Tour suits guests who want a slower pace and close looks at sets and props. It shows up often in movie studio tours in Los Angeles, thanks to its film-tech history.

Sony Pictures Studios has hosted legends like Judy Garland and Tom Hanks, with classics such as The Wizard of Oz alongside modern hits like Spider-Man and Jumanji. Its legacy blends deep Hollywood history with ongoing, contemporary success.

• Tourist tip: Wear comfortable shoes, there’s a fair bit of walking, and check the forecast; parts of the tour are outdoors. Bring a portable charger so you don’t miss photo ops.
• When to go: Weekdays are your only option and typically steady; aim for a morning slot for simpler parking and fewer overlapping groups. Arrive 30 minutes prior to the tour.

Good to know

• Wear supportive shoes. You will stand and walk a lot.
• Check gear rules. Tripods and selfie sticks often land on the no-go list.
• Museum and lobby exhibits change. Scan posted notes as you enter.
• Coffee and quick bites line nearby Culver paths for an easy pit stop.
• Morning slots help with parking and cooler temps.

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5. The Walt Disney Studios (D23 Member Tour)

• Address: 500 S Buena Vista St, Burbank, CA 9152
• Tour Time: Select dates only (not daily; scheduled by D23)
• Admission prices: Varies by date and membership; 2.5-hour walking tour for D23 members
• Membership prices: range from $49.99 – $299.99
• Ticket: D23 Events Calendar (membership required)

The Walt Disney Studios is a coveted stop for studio-tour fans, renowned for pioneering animation, imaginative storytelling, and ongoing innovations in film and streaming. Its blend of rich heritage and contemporary creativity makes it a standout among LA studio experiences.

The lot has been home to icons from Walt Disney and Julie Andrews to modern filmmakers like Jon Favreau and Ryan Coogler, with classics such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Mary Poppins alongside modern hits like Frozen, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Black Panther.

The Walt Disney Studios lot is typically closed to the public, but D23 Disney’s official fan club offers limited guided walking tours on select dates. Highlights often include Walt Disney’s office suite, the Walt Disney Archives, the original Animation Building, historic soundstages, and Legends Plaza.

• Tourist tip: These tours sell out fast, and members may buy only one tour per calendar year. Set an alert and book the moment dates drop. Bring a photo ID, and note that recording is not permitted; photography is allowed in most locations (with restrictions in the Archives and Walt’s office)
• When to go: Pick the earliest available time on your chosen date for cooler temps and lighter groups, and arrive 30 minutes before your confirmed tour time. D23 only allows entry onto the lot within that window.

Places to Relax After Your Studio Tour

A short pause after a studio tour keeps the day smooth. Pick a close, low-effort spot with grass, views, or shade, or explore some of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles for a perfect outdoor break.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

• Lake Hollywood Park (10–15 min): Open lawn with Hollywood Sign views. Street parking is limited. Best before sunset for soft light.
• Griffith Observatory lawns (20–25 min): City and canyon views. Building entry is free. Parking in the lots is paid. Arrive early on weekends.

2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

• Johnny Carson Park (5–7 min): Shaded paths, picnic tables, and a playground. Free parking is simple.
• Wildwood Canyon Park Overlook (12–15 min): Short uphill walks to benches and valley views. Bring water and sun protection.

3. Paramount Pictures

• Hollywood Forever grounds (3–5 min): Quiet, historic green space. Follow posted rules. On-site parking is limited.
• Barnsdall Art Park (8–10 min): Hilltop lawn with city views. Usually open when no events run.

4. Sony Pictures Studios

• Culver City Park (8–10 min): Picnic tables, shade, and easy parking. Good for a quick snack stop.
• Kenneth Hahn Recreation Area (12–15 min): Lakes, lawns, and short overlook trails. Several parking lots inside the park.

5. The Walt Disney Studios

• Magnolia Park pocket greens (5–10 min): Small neighborhood lawns with coffee spots along Magnolia Blvd.
• Brace Canyon Park (10–12 min): Shaded fields, restrooms, and light breezes. Free parking.

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Plan Your Tour, Then Relax in Style

You now have a clear view of Los Angeles studio tours, with pricing, timing, and practical tips for each lot. Pick your date, book early, and aim for the first tour of the morning. Save a little energy for a calm finish nearby, or head to the coast for a sunset break.

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FAQs

What is the best studio tour in Los Angeles?

It depends on your interests. Universal Studios Hollywood offers a mix of rides and behind-the-scenes access, while Warner Bros. focuses more on authentic sets and film production. Paramount is ideal for classic movie lovers, Sony for film history enthusiasts, and Disney for animation fans who are D23 members.

How long do studio tours in Los Angeles usually take?

Most tours last between 1.5 and 3 hours. Universal Studios includes its tram ride within a full theme park experience, while Warner Bros. and Paramount offer guided tours that typically run about two hours. Disney’s D23 tours are around two and a half hours.

Do I need to book tickets in advance for studio tours?

Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during weekends, holidays, or peak tourist seasons. Some studios have limited tour spots each day, and others, like Disney’s D23, only open on select dates.

Are Los Angeles studio tours family-friendly?

Most are family-friendly, but each has age restrictions. Universal Studios is great for all ages, while Paramount and Sony require guests to be at least 10 years old. Always review the studio’s official policies before booking.

What should I wear on a studio tour?

Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are best. Many studio lots include outdoor areas, so a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket are helpful depending on the weather.

Can I take photos during a studio tour?

Photography is usually allowed in outdoor areas and certain stages, but not in active production zones. Always follow your guide’s instructions and respect no-photo signs to avoid disruptions.