Curator’s statement
As a current Angeleno with experience working in Hollywood, I have tried to visit as many known filming locations, studio tours, and film and tv themed restaurants as I can find. Los Angeles is rich with entertainment history and if you know where to look (which you will after reading this guide), you will feel even more connected to your favorite actors, movies and shows by the end of your trip.
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Things to do in Los Angeles
Studio Tours
Warner Bros. - This tour is my personal favorite and is the best for fans of Friends, Gilmore Girls, DC and Harry Potter. All of the tour guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and no two tours are exactly alike.
Paramount Pictures - If you value smaller group sizes and an emphasis on film history, this is the studio tour for you. This one feels less commercial and more intimate than some of the others.
Universal Pictures - If you're planning a trip to the iconic theme park, don't miss out on this tour through the backlot of Universal. This is great for visitors who want more of an interactive experience.
Sony Pictures - This tour has less to offer than the others but might be right for you if you're a fan of Jeopardy, The Wizard of Oz and Spider-Man.
Tapings
If you want to see how the magic happens, you can go to a live taping of one of your favorite shows. Some of these shows include American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, Jeopardy, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Price is Right, America's Got Talent, The Voice and more.
Sightseeing
Go for a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and find your favorite celebrity's star. Stop by the TCL Chinese Theatre to see not only the famous handprints, but also the imprints of Hermione Granger's wand, Marilyn Monroe's earring and Betty Grable's leg! If film history excites you, don't forget to check out the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
Filming Locations
Movies and tv shows don't just film on a sound stage. There are iconic filming locations all across LA, from Griffith Observatory (La La Land), Grand Central Market (Blade Runner), the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (Pretty Woman) and so many more.
Places to eat & drink in Los Angeles
If you're looking for an immersive dining experience that transports you into the universe of your favorite film, try out Scum and Villainy, a Star Wars themed bar, or Beetle House, a restaurant with nightly performances from your favorite Tim Burton characters.
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Travel Advisor
Amanda Taylor
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Souvenir Advisors’ guide, Exploring Los Angeles, California.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Los Angeles.