10 Fascinating Facts About

the Film Studios in Hollywood & Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, and Hollywood studios are where the magic of movies and television truly comes to life. From legendary backlots to live filming locations, the city’s major studios have shaped global pop culture for over a century. Whether you're a movie buff or simply exploring top attractions in Los Angeles, here are 10 iconic film studios that define Tinseltown — and in many cases, welcome you behind the scenes.
1. Universal Studios Hollywood

A perfect blend of working film studio and theme park, Universal Studios offers one of LA’s most famous studio tours. Ride through movie sets from Fast & Furious, Jurassic Park, and King Kong, and enjoy thrilling attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

👉 Don’t Miss: The world-famous Studio Tour tram ride and live film sets.

people walking on street during daytime
people walking on street during daytime
brown and gray concrete castle under blue sky during daytime
brown and gray concrete castle under blue sky during daytime
2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Step into the world of Friends, Harry Potter, Batman, and The Big Bang Theory at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank. Their in-depth guided tour includes backlots, sound stages, and interactive exhibits.

👉 Insider Tip: Sit on the Central Perk couch and hold a real Oscar trophy.

a city street with a water tower in the background
a city street with a water tower in the background
gray and brown concrete building
gray and brown concrete building
3. Paramount Pictures Studios

Located on Melrose Avenue, Paramount is the only major studio still based in Hollywood proper. It’s the home of classics like Titanic, Mission: Impossible, and Transformers.

👉 Take the Tour: Walk past historic soundstages, original props, and maybe even spot a shoot in progress.

4. Sony Pictures Studios

Formerly the historic MGM Studios, Sony Pictures in Culver City is where The Wizard of Oz, Men in Black, and Spider-Man came to life. Their walking tour includes game shows like Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.

👉 Photo Moment: The iconic rainbow-colored Wizard of Oz backdrop is a fan favorite.

5. Walt Disney Studios (Private, No Regular Tours)

Located in Burbank, The Walt Disney Studios is the heart of the Disney empire. While not open to the general public, it occasionally hosts special events and screenings.

👉 Fun Fact: The animation building and Mickey’s sorcerer hat tower are legendary landmarks.

6. Netflix Studios at Sunset Bronson

The site of the original Warner Bros. Studio, Sunset Bronson now serves as Netflix's Hollywood production hub. While not open to tours, the streaming giant’s headquarters is an architectural marvel and symbol of the digital entertainment era.

👉 Nearby: Amoeba Music and Hollywood Walk of Fame are just a short walk away.

a person in a red suit with a helmet on
a person in a red suit with a helmet on
white and black concrete building during night time
white and black concrete building during night time
7. CBS Television City

Located near The Grove and Farmers Market, CBS Television City has been home to live-audience shows like The Price Is Right, American Idol, and Dancing with the Stars.

👉 Tour Access: While not always open to the public, tickets for live tapings are occasionally available online.

8. NBC Universal at Burbank Studios

The legendary NBC lot is where The Tonight Show, Days of Our Lives, and Access Hollywood were filmed. It’s now a digital production hub with limited public access.

👉 Trivia: This is where Johnny Carson and Jay Leno made late-night history.

a tall building with a colorful logo on it
a tall building with a colorful logo on it
turned-on NBC neon signage
turned-on NBC neon signage
9. Hollywood Center Studios (Now Sunset Las Palmas)

This independent studio has hosted productions from I Love Lucy to RuPaul’s Drag Race. It's a favorite for commercials, TV pilots, and streaming series.

👉 Did You Know? Lucille Ball once owned part of this studio.

10. Raleigh Studios Hollywood

One of the oldest operating studios in Los Angeles, Raleigh Studios has been in continuous operation since 1915. It’s popular with indie filmmakers and TV networks.

👉 Nearby Attractions: Right across the street from Paramount Pictures.

Bonus: Explore Hollywood’s Studio Scene in Style
Want to experience the heart of Hollywood entertainment? Book a 3-hour & 3-stop LA VIP Tour. Our guided tours include a photo stop with stunning sign views at Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills Sign and an overlook of Los Angeles — perfect for Instagram and unforgettable memories.