Hollywood has been captivating audiences for over a century, transporting them to worlds beyond their own through the magic of cinema. In Los Angeles, hundreds of acres of land are dedicated to crafting stories for both the big and small screens. Major movie studios like Universal, Warner Bros., Sony, and Paramount offer studio lot tours that give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the movie-making process, from set design and sound recording to costumes and props. These tours not only generate revenue for the studios but also act as a training program for new employees and provide marketing opportunities for upcoming projects.
The film industry brings in over $100 billion in tourism, with attractions like studio tours, the Hollywood sign, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame drawing visitors from near and far. Studio lot tours offer a unique opportunity for guests to experience the physical spaces where their favorite movies and TV shows were created, providing insight into the entertainment industry and Los Angeles’ creative legacy. These tours cater to a wide range of visitors, from movie enthusiasts fascinated by behind-the-scenes workings to casual tourists looking for a thrilling experience.
Sony Pictures Studio, located in Culver City, offers a two-hour walking tour that takes guests through sets like “Seinfeld,” prop displays from famous films and TV shows, and a Foley studio where visitors can witness sound creation for movies and television. Warner Bros., with its elaborate studio lot tour, showcases filming locations for popular TV shows like “Friends” and “The Big Bang Theory,” as well as interactive sound stages and prop houses. The company also offers specialty tours like the Turner Classic Movies tour, highlighting classic films shot at the studio.
Paramount’s studio lot tour focuses on the production process, allowing guests to meet crew members and tradesmen responsible for keeping the studio running smoothly. The tour has three tiers, ranging from a standard two-hour tour to a VIP four-hour experience that includes access to behind-the-scenes areas and trade demonstrations. Guests will get to explore famous sets, prop warehouses, and on-staff archivists who showcase archival costumes and props, providing a glimpse into the rich history of filmmaking at Paramount.
Universal Studios Hollywood, originally a studio tour, has evolved into a theme park with special effects attractions, immersive rides, and classic set recreations. The studio lot tour, included in the theme park’s admission, features iconic locations like the Bates Motel from “Psycho” and the courthouse from “Back to the Future.” For a more in-depth experience, guests can opt for VIP tour packages that offer extended backstage access, private transportation, and front-of-the-line access to rides and attractions. The studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood provides guests with a real movie studio experience, allowing them to see production in action and maybe even catch a glimpse of a movie star on set.
