Lights, camera, action! Step behind the scenes of Hollywood's most iconic studio and discover where movie magic comes to life. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour, like the tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, offers you an intimate glimpse into the heart of entertainment history, where countless beloved films and television shows have been brought to life over nearly 100 years.
What To Expect on the Tour
Planning your visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Hollywood is an exciting first step into the world of movie magic. Unlike its British counterpart, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, which focuses primarily on Harry Potter, the Hollywood location offers a broader entertainment experience while still featuring magical elements from the wizarding world.
From the moment you step through the iconic Warner Bros. water tower gates, you're transported into a world where entertainment history is made daily. The tour combines Hollywood glamour with authentic behind-the-scenes access, making it a must-visit destination for film and television enthusiasts.
Iconic Sets and Historic Soundstages
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour takes you through active sound stages where today's biggest shows and movies are filmed. While specific stage access varies depending on current production schedules, you'll likely visit several of the 30 soundstages on the lot. These massive structures have hosted everything from classics like "Casablanca" to modern hits like "The Big Bang Theory."
Walking through these historic stages, you'll learn fascinating details about how shows are filmed, including:
- The intricate lighting systems that create perfect shots
- How sets are constructed and modified for different scenes
- The complex logistics of managing multiple productions simultaneously
- The evolution of filming technology from the golden age to the digital era
Each soundstage tells its own story, and your knowledgeable guide will share insider anecdotes about famous scenes filmed within these walls. You might even catch a glimpse of current productions in action, though photography is restricted in active filming areas.
Backlot Tour Highlights
The backlot tour is where Hollywood magic truly comes alive. These outdoor sets have played countless roles in films and TV shows, transforming from New York City streets to small-town America with just a few careful modifications. You'll discover how a single street can serve as multiple locations through clever camera angles and set dressing.
Notable backlot highlights include:
- Midwest Street, which has served as everything from Stars Hollow in "Gilmore Girls" to various DC Comics cities
- New York Street, featuring perfectly crafted brownstones and city facades
- Hennesy Street, which transforms from a western town to a modern urban setting
The Friends Fountain Experience
No Warner Bros. Studio Tour would be complete without visiting Central Perk and the iconic fountain from "Friends." This recently expanded experience lets fans step into their favorite scenes from one of television's most beloved shows. You can sit on the famous orange couch in the meticulously recreated Central Perk set and take photos by the fountain featured in the show's opening credits. Here, you can also explore authentic props and costumes from the series and learn behind-the-scenes secrets about how the show was filmed.
The Harry Potter Experience
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour's Harry Potter experience brings the wizarding world to Hollywood. While different from its London counterpart, this magical section offers plenty of enchanting elements for Potter fans.
In this area, you'll discover:
- Original costumes worn by the cast throughout the film series
- Authentic props, including wands, Horcruxes, and magical artifacts
- Interactive experiences where you can practice your spell-casting
- An extensive collection of creature designs and concept art
- The Sorting Hat experience, where you can find out your Hogwarts house
The exhibit also features rotating displays that showcase different aspects of the films throughout the year, ensuring that repeat visitors always have something new to discover.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Before your visit, be sure to secure your Warner Bros. Studio Tour in advance, especially during peak seasons when tours can sell out quickly.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour largely depends on your preferences and schedule flexibility.
Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more intimate experience. Summer months are the busiest but also feature special seasonal exhibits. Holiday periods often include unique themed experiences and decorations. Production activities are typically most active during weekdays, increasing your chances of seeing filming in action.
For the optimal experience, consider booking a weekday tour during the shoulder season (March to May or September through November), and you'll likely enjoy shorter wait times while still potentially catching glimpses of active productions.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time, and wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves significant walking. Bring a light jacket, as soundstages are kept cool for equipment. Also, keep your camera ready, but remember photography restrictions in certain areas. Other tips include:
- Consider upgrading to a deluxe tour for additional access and experiences.
- Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
- Allow approximately three hours for the standard tour.
- Check the official website for current exhibits and special events.
The tour offers different experiences throughout the year, so following Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood on social media can help you plan your visit around specific exhibits or events that interest you most.
Enjoy a Memorable Experience at Warner Bros. Studio With CityPASS® Tickets
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the entertainment industry's inner workings. Whether you're a film buff, television enthusiast, or simply curious about how Hollywood magic happens, this tour provides an incredible journey through the past, present, and future of entertainment.
Make your Warner Bros. Studio Tour even more memorable by including it in your Los Angeles vacation. Use Los Angeles CityPASS® tickets to save on admission and combine your studio tour with visits to other top things to do in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Los Angeles, we recommend finding lodging near Los Angeles’s top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Header image Courtesy of Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood