THE BEST HOLLYWOOD TOURS TO TAKE IN LOS ANGELES (FROM A LOCAL)
One of the best ways to experience Los Angeles—even as a local—is by taking a few classic Hollywood tours. Over one Memorial Day weekend, I decided to play tourist in my own city, and it turned out to be one of the most fun (and surprisingly informative) ways to explore Hollywood.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Our first stop was a visit to Warner Bros. Studio Tour, a must for film and TV fans, including fans of Harry Potter, Friends, Gilmore Girls, Game of Thrones, and DC Comics, and many more! Once inside, you’ll be able to watch a celebrity-hosted introductory movie before you’re whisked away on an open-air tram tour of the studio grounds and a self-guided, interactive space, which was recently renovated.
What to expect:
Buy your tickets in advance online (they have pre-booked, timed entry). Tickets start at $76, and go up to $330 for the Deluxe Tour
There is a small parking lot next to the building hosting the tour for $15 (as of 2026) located at 3400 Warner Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505
Miss breakfast? No problem! There is a Starbucks on-site at the entrance. There’s also a real-life Central Perk where you can order coffee, sandwiches and Friends-themed food and souvenirs
Small-group tour via open-air cart (more personalized experience)
Behind-the-scenes access to working studio lots
One of the highlights is the Archive Museum, where you can see iconic costumes and props—and even get sorted into a Hogwarts house (I got Slytherin!) for a fun, interactive moment.
Hollywood Celebrity Homes Tour
The Starline Tours Hollywood Movie Stars’ Homes Tour is a classic LA experience. We went on this tour immediately after the Warner Bros. Studio Tour (we pushed through!). We went to the TCL Chinese Theatre (then the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) to check in for our Starline Movie Stars' Home Tour. Tours run about 2 hours in an open-air vehicle—so expect lots of sunshine. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and water!
What you’ll see:
Homes (and neighborhoods) of celebrities like Keanu Reeves, Katy Perry, and Leonardo DiCaprio, the Hilton’s, and more
Scenic drives through Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills
Insights into celebrity lifestyles, homes, and car collections
Dearly Departed: Hollywood’s Dark Side
If you're interested in Hollywood history beyond the glamour, the Dearly Departed Tours offers a unique perspective, especially if you are into celebrity scandals and murders. There are two tours throughout the day, one at about 11 am and another at 2 pm (Tour times may shift based on group size, so keep your schedule flexible).
What makes it different:
Focus on true crime, scandals, and lesser-known stories
Deep dives into infamous Hollywood events
Visual materials that bring stories to life (Some content can be graphic, so this tour is best suited for those comfortable with darker subject matter.)
Paramount Pictures Studio Tour
The Paramount Pictures Studio Tour offers a more intimate studio experience than the Warner Bros. Studio Tour.
Highlights:
Smaller group sizes
Access to real soundstages and backlots
Interactive prop areas where you can explore and try things on
Good to know:
Some areas may be restricted during active filming
Parking nearby can be pricey—street parking is often available
California residents can get discounted tickets online
Final Tips for Planning Your Hollywood Tour Day
Book tickets in advance for popular studio tours
Group tours by location to save time and avoid traffic
Stay flexible—tour schedules can change
Dress for the weather (especially for outdoor tours)
Final Thoughts
Whether you're into blockbuster films, celebrity homes, or Hollywood’s hidden history, there’s a tour for every type of traveler in Hollywood. Even as a local, I walked away learning something new at every stop.
