The TV and movie studios of Hollywood are among LA's biggest visitor attractions. Not only are they what Los Angeles is all about, they also offer great guided tours. The tours are so popular that they take place all year round, Monday-Friday unless stated, while the studios are still at work making movies. Some sets are naturally closed to visitors, but others remain open and there is a chance of spotting one of your favorite movie stars making a film – or maybe even at lunch.
ADVANCE BOOKING
Some studios require advance booking for guided tours, and even where it isn't essential, it's wise to make a booking, to avoid being disappointed. Some tours are by cart, some on foot, so if you have mobility concerns, check first.
STUDIO TOURS: THE DETAILS
NBC STUDIOS: The cheapest tour but still one of the most interesting as you get to see behind the scenes, including a visit to the set of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. No advance booking, just turn up but get there early as they can sell out quickly. Tours start 9am, on weekends too in summer and holiday seasons. The walking tours leave every 30 minutes and last 75 minutes. Phone: 818-840-3537.
PARAMOUNT PICTURES: Best chance of spotting a movie star as you visit the working movie and TV studios. Get a lesson in film history, and in modern movie-making. Tours start 10am and last two hours, using a small car. Minimum age 12. Movie cameras forbidden! Phone: 323-956-1777. www.paramount.com.
SONY PICTURES: A look at the sets for movies ranging from The Wizard of Oz to Spiderman, and the many TV shows made here. The 2-hour tours are on foot, starting at 9.30am. Minimum age 12. Take photo ID. Phone 323-520-TOUR. www.sonypicturesstudios.com.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS: Universal was the first to offer a studio tour, and the 1-hour tram tour is included in the price of admission to the amusement park which has developed out of those original tours. It's much more expensive (even parking costs $10) but there's much more on offer. No need to book. Opens 9am summer, 10am winter. Phone 818-662-3801. www.universalstudioshollywood.com.
WARNER BROTHERS: Warner Brothers claims to be the world's busiest TV and movie studio, so you're bound to see something happening on the cart tour that lasts just over 2 hours. Tours leave every half-hour starting 8.30am and bookings are recommended. Minimum age 8. Phone 818-972-8687. www.wbstudiotour.com.
Mike Gerrard - Mike is an award-winning travel writer who has worked for National Geographic, the London Times, and many other clients. ...
