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Your guide to disney’s hollywood studios at walt disney world in orlando.

By Lauren Tjaden

Disney ’ s Hollywood Studios® at Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando brings the excitement of Hollywood’s film industry to vivid life, promising grand adventures and inspiring the imagination with entertainment , live shows and fireworks , thrilling attractions , immersive dining experiences , and special events and tours .

Star Wars invites you to voyage to far away galaxies with epic escapades; Toy Story Land offers excitement for both young and old; and Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy is sure to get you pumped with a high-octane show.

Here's how to discover some of the must-do experiences at this famed Orlando theme park, plus information about how to plan your trip.

Here are some of the great activities for you at Disney's Hollywood Studios® in Orlando, plus information about how to plan your trip.

Disney guests will traverse the corridors of a Star Destroyer and join an epic battle between the First Order and the Resistance – including a face-off with Kylo Ren – at 'Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance' attraction.

- Walt Disney World

COASTERS AND CLASSIC ATTRACTIONS  

With 17 attractions and rides from mild to wild,  Disney's Hollywood Studios®  has range for everyone. Here are some of the rides that you'll want to experience.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith

You don’t know what fast is until you climb into a super-stretch limo and speed across the murky highways of Los Angeles, all while rocking out to Aerosmith tunes. This roller-coaster style ride is as outrageous as the legendary band: you’ll race through signature Hollywood landmarks, scream past traffic jams and go inverted not once, not twice, but three gut-wrenching times.

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway

Climb aboard a runaway railway and embark on a whirlwind ride through a world where the rules of physics don’t apply. Prepare for unexpected twists, slapstick gags and mind-boggling transformations at every turn, as Mickey and Minnie try to save the day. There’s no telling where this train is heading! This is an adventure for Mickey and Minnie fans of all ages.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Located in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge® , this thrill ride beckons you to enlist with the resistance against the First Order—a perilous mission. When your transport is ensnared, a grand battle ensues, complete with legions of stormtroopers that you’ll need to escape in order to give the resistance an opportunity to rise. This enormous attraction features multiple ride systems: expect small drops, dark spaces and loud noises on all of them.

Alien Swirling Saucers

Your youngest space cadets can climb aboard the colorful saucers at this attraction, where the loveable extraterrestrials from Toy Story deliver a gentle intergalactic spin through the skies over Toy Story Land .

More Enchantment

Families will love the  Slinky Dog Dash , a coaster that rolls by giant toys; thrill seekers will be drawn to the  Twilight Zone Tower of Terror TM  and its scary, dilapidated elevator; and anybody who likes to smile will want to see  Muppet*Vision 3D , a laugh-out-loud film and live-action show. Here’s where you can  check out all of the rides and attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios® .

Disney Genie Service lets you use the Lightning Lane entrance at select attractions and experiences at the Walt Disney World Theme Parks. On average, guests can enter 2 to 3 attractions or experiences per day using the Lightning Lane entrance if the first selection is made early in the day. You may make one selection at a time, starting at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit (experiences are subject to limited availability). If your Theme Park ticket includes the Park Hopper option, you can select Lightning Lane arrival windows across multiple Theme Parks.

Make sure to download the My Disney Experience app; it gives you attraction wait times, showtimes for fireworks and parades, and finds Character Greeting locations and times.

The app offers other nifty features too, including browsing restaurant menus, making dining reservations and placing mobile orders at select quick-service restaurants .

And you’ll never get lost when you use the ‘Get Directions’ function.

Disney’s planning page can help you answer other questions.

 The character experiences at Disney's Hollywood Studios® include rubbing elbows with familiar Disney friends like Minnie and Mickey. -Walt Disney World Resort

CHARACTERS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The character experiences at Disney's  Hollywood Studios®  include rubbing elbows with familiar Disney friends like Minnie and Mickey as well as journeying to the dark side for an encounter with Star Wars’ epic villain, Darth Vader. The shows will make you giggle, gasp, and sing out loud, while fireworks and light shows will keep your eyes glued to the sky. Check out these these Hollywood Studios® characters:              

For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

This 30-minute, uplifting tribute to Frozen – a blizzard of stories, special characters and surprises – is sure to melt your heart.  Projected lyrics for beloved tunes that include “Let It Go” make it simple to sing along with Anna, Elsa and Kristoff.

Wonderful World of Animation

This excitement-packed projection show will take you on an incredible journey through more than 90 years of Disney and Pixar animation.

Star Wars Launch Bay: Encounter Darth Vader

Travel through the portal from the Dark Side Gallery in Star Wars Launch Bay to discover a fully operational battle station – just one more illustration of the staggering power of the Galactic Empire - to be interrogated by Darth Vader, the Dark Lord of the Sith.

This over-the-top outside nighttime musical celebration showcases the forces of good and evil duking it out in Mickey’s dream. The show transports viewers with more than 50 live performers, mammoth sets, exquisite effects, glittering pyrotechnics and stimulating music, set against a striking backdrop of vibrant water and light.

More pixie dust awaits: at Disney Junior Play and Dance , join Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Timon and Mickey for a high-energy musical celebration; relive the romance and magic of a tale as old as time in a lavish Broadway-style musical version of Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage ; and root for Indy and Marion, demonstrating jaw-dropping stunts complete with explosive special effects at Indiana Jones™ Epic Stunt Spectacular! With 25 character experiences and shows, Disney's Hollywood Studios® offers unforgettable experiences to please every taste. Here’s a list of all of the theme park’s offerings .

Check the Entertainment Schedule , My Disney Experience app or the Times Guide at Magic Kingdom park for the schedule and showtimes. Be aware that outdoor parades and events may be cancelled due to inclement weather, and that showtimes are subject to change.  

SPECIAL EVENTS AND TOURS  

Marathons! Holiday galas! Seasonal celebrations! Special tours and unique access! Check out these special events at Disney's Hollywood Studios® .

Disney After Hours at Disney's Hollywood Studios®

When the sun goes down the action heats up at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®. On select nights, the theme park stays open for three extra hours for guests with special event tickets to attend Disney After Hours. The benefit for night owls is that the wait times for popular attractions and Character Greetings are short. Ice cream, popcorn and select beverages are included with admission.

Sunset Seasons Greetings

Delight in a festive yuletide projection show on The Hollywood Tower Hotel this holiday season.

VIP Tour Services

Disney World turns into your personal kingdom with a guided tour, helping you make the most of your time at the parks. Choose from offerings focused on food, adventure or customize your own tour.

Here’s a list of all Hollywood Studios special events and tours .

RESTAURANTS AND DINING EXPERIENCES  

Hollywood Studios® delivers 34 different ways to refuel across the park, including fine signature dining, casual eateries and food stands. Here are some of the yummy restaurants and dining options at Disney's Hollywood Studios®:

The Hollywood Brown Derby

Contemporary American cuisine is the star of the show at this upscale restaurant that transports you into Hollywood’s Golden Age. The wood-paneled eatery is a faithful replica of Tinseltown’s famous Brown Derby, an iconic site rich in glamour and glitz. It promises specialties that include Faroe Island salmon, char-grilled filet of beef and its renowned Cobb salad, as well as elegant cocktails poured tableside. Save room for dessert; the chocolate mousse cake, decadent with dark chocolate and candied cherries, is worth every indulgent calorie.

Ronto Roasters

A ronto is an immense creature native to the planet Tatooine from the Star Wars films - but Ronto Wraps are made from roasted pork, grilled pork sausage, peppercorn sauce and tangy slaw wrapped in pita bread. The traditional wraps, as well as the breakfast version of it, are offerings that get high marks at this exotic meat stall in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge® .

BaseLine Tap House

You find this charming pub housed in a small brick building frothing with character. While it offers a vast variety of California craft ales, lagers and cider as well as California wines and specialty cocktails, don’t overlook its luscious small bites, like the California Cheese and Charcuterie Plate, the Bavarian Pretzel complemented by Beer-Cheese Fondue and Spicy Mustard, and the Coffee-rubbed Rib-Eye Beef Puff.

Woody's Lunch Box

It’s hard to go wrong with chocolate-hazelnut stuffed pastry slathered in maple fondant and candied bacon. You can find this wonder, dubbed the ‘Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box Tart,’ at Woody’s walk-up window, located in Toy Story Land .

Take a walk on the wild side and try a cup of Batuu’s fabled blue or green milk at the Milk Stand  - the possibilities are legion.  Here’s  a list of all the restaurants and dining experiences at Disney's Hollywood Studios® .

In addition to a confirmed dining reservation, in-park dining at table-service restaurants requires a park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date for each person in your party ages three and up. Dining reservations don’t guarantee admission to the park.

Make sure to make reservations, and make them early. Dining reservations can be booked online up to 60 days in advance.

The My Disney Experience app lets you browse restaurant menus, make dining reservations and place mobile orders at select quick-service restaurants .

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STAR WARS: GALAXY’S EDGE at DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS®, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando (©Disney © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.)

STAR WARS: GALAXY’S EDGE at DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS®, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando (©Disney © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.)

Disney's Hollywood Studios ®

For the most up-to-date information on WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort, please visit: Welcome to a World of Magic .

Let your adventure begin at Disney’s Hollywood Studios ® at  Walt Disney World ® Resort  in Orlando, where they’re celebrating attractions and lands that make a day there even more extraordinary. Get set for an immersive experience where you’re not merely watching the story, but actually living it.

Save on discount tickets: WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort

Here, favorite stories unfold all around you. Together, you and your family can join the action in exhilarating new episodes that engage all your senses. At  Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge, you’ll experience the smells and tastes of a cantina set in a galaxy far, far away. You can also feel the rush of controlling the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy on  Millennium Falcon:  Smugglers Run, or take the battle to the First Order in  Star Wars : Rise of the Resistance.

Discover :  STAR WARS: GALAXY EDGE

And now, you can zip away on a zany adventure through a cartoon universe crammed with surprises courtesy of the park’s newest experience, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Or, enter a decidedly different dimension at The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror ™.

Discover : Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

You can also put it in drive for an up-close Pixar's  Cars  experience in Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy. Or join Elsa and Anna on a musical adventure through snowy Arendelle in For the First Time in Forever: A  Frozen  Sing-Along Celebration. You can even become the size of a toy with Buzz and Woody and take a ride on Slinky Dog Dash as he careens through Andy’s backyard in Toy Story Land .

Each and every story is absolutely unforgettable, because this time you’re right in the middle of them all. See below for details on the excitement, shows, shopping and dining waiting for you here, and let your adventure begin at Disney’s Hollywood Studios .

Add value to your Disney’s Hollywood Studios visit with special savings on Walt Disney World Resort tickets . Plan for your best vacation while saving time and money. As an official seller of Orlando attractions tickets, Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com makes it easy for you. You can also customize your Disney experience with a ticket plan that works best for you.

Please note: Annual passholders and Disney Cast Members are required to have an advance reservation via the Disney Park Pass system .

Disney Genie Service

Available for all Walt Disney World Resort guests in the My Disney Experience app, the complimentary Disney Genie Service offers new features that let you create your best Disney day. These features include a personalized itinerary creator that effortlessly and smartly maps out an entire day inspired by the things guests tell Disney they love — helping you make the most of your park time so you can have more fun.

Similar to a navigation app on a phone, the Disney Genie Service continues to update your itinerary from morning to night as the day changes, so you can stay spontaneous and go with the flow — whether you need a nap, encounter an unexpected rain shower or want to take a detour for a Mickey ice cream bar.

Through the My Disney Experience app, you can also purchase the Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane Entrance for more than 40 attractions across the four Walt Disney World theme parks, as well as Individual Lightning Lane Entrance for highly demanded attractions. As a reminder, attractions continue to offer a traditional standby queue.

Step into your own story at Disney’s Hollywood Studios . Unless otherwise noted, all experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are suitable for all ages and heights.

ALIEN SWIRLING SAUCERS

Take a spin with Toy Story ’s beloved extraterrestrials. It’s an interstellar, all-ages romp like no other with futuristic tunes providing a musical backdrop.

Height restrictions : 32 inches (81 cm)

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

The wackiest, silliest train trip ever is ready to take you through the cartoon world and Mickey & Minnie’s first ride-through attraction in Disney Parks history. You ready? When Mouse Rules apply, anything can happen. So, pack your imagination, switch tracks and take a ride on the cartoon side like never before.

Millennium Falcon : Smugglers Run

Gather your crew and take control of the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy on this amazing attraction, one of many ways to live your very own Star Wars ™ story at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Height restrictions : 38 inches (97 cm)

Muppet*Vision 3D

Be a part of the hilarity of the Muppets in 3D. Join Kermit, Miss Piggy and the gang as they tour you through the Muppet Labs. Jokes, pranks and mishaps make this a madcap adventure. You might even find yourself in the middle of a dreamy bubble shower. And of course, things go haywire when the Swedish Chef takes over the projector.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster ®  Starring Aerosmith

Zoom through the dim streets of Los Angeles on this luxe, stretch limo-themed coaster at a supercharged speed of 60 mph as you head to a legendary Aerosmith concert. Roll by iconic Hollywood landmarks, swerve past traffic and whiz through rollover loops to catch the concert just in the nick of time.  This indoor roller coaster is set in the dark and features big drops and loud music.

Height restrictions : 48 inches (122 cm)

Slinky Dog Dash

Get a glimpse of everything in Toy Story Land on this wild ride. Twist around curves, hills and drops as Slinky Dog’s coils get stretched to the limit.

Star Tours ® — The Adventures Continue

Be prepared to be propelled into outer space as you voyage through the galaxy of  Star Wars  during this motion-simulated flight with high-tech 3D. Your adventure may take you face-to-face with the First Order as you try to deliver the Rebel spy safely to the Rebel forces. With so many twists and turns, you’ll never know where you will end up in the Star Wars universe.

Height restrictions : 40 inches (102 cm)

Star Wars  Launch Bay

Be transported into a galaxy far, far away. Hobnob with your favorite characters and explore an incredible collection of authentic replicas of  Star Wars  movie props and models from  Star Wars  films.

Star Wars  Photo Opportunities

Spot these perfect locations for a group photo or selfie with  Star Wars  characters and props:

AT-AT Walker : Shrink in size as you stand next to an enormous AT-AT walker towering over an Ewok village.

Location:  In front of Star Tours ® — The Adventures Continue

Cantina (Temporarily Unavailable) : Pop into an outer space cantina inspired by Mos Eisley Cantina. Pretend you’re a sketchy alien or play a game of holographic chess.

Location:   Star Wars  Launch Bay

Star Wars : Rise of the Resistance

Steady your nerves and summon your resolve as you find yourself in the middle of blasts, rumbles and thrills of a climactic  Star Wars ™ battle. With multiple ride systems carrying you through multiple scenes, jaw-dropping effects and an incredible drop from space, it’s one of the most advanced and immersive Disney Parks attraction experiences ever.

Toy Story Mania! ®

Descend into the magical world of a toy treasure chest. Mix it up with your favorite  Toy Story  characters as you blast moving targets. Play five virtual carnival games: toss rings onto Little Green Men, throw baseballs at plates, pop balloons with darts near a bubbling volcano, and more.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror ™

Launch upward into the Twilight Zone as you step into a haunted hotel elevator. Prepare for unexpected drops and plummets as you plunge into the darkness of the Hollywood Tower Hotel, inhabited by unruly ghosts from 1939. Take this terrifying ride into the fifth dimension if you dare.  This ride is set in the dark and features big drops and a scary theme.

From special cavalcades down the Magic Kingdom ® Park parade route and friends sailing the waterways of Disney’s Animal Kingdom ® Theme Park to motorcades on Hollywood Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios ®, each area will come to life throughout the day. You never know when a party of your pals may come by, so be prepared for plenty of surprises.

Note: Some experiences may be modified, limited in capacity, and subject to availability or closure.

Disney® Visa® Cardmember  Star Wars  Character Experience

Located at  Star Wars  Launch Bay, it’s your best chance to interact with the likes of Chewbacca and Darth Vader. Prepare for spontaneous interactions.

Meet the Toys in Toy Story Land

Round up the gang and get those batteries charged! Shake the snakes out of your boots and say howdy to Sheriff Woody. Yodel a hello to Jessie the Cowgirl. Remember to greet Buzz Lightyear with your best Space Ranger salute — he’s always looking for a few good toys.

See Disney Junior Pals in the Animation Courtyard

Kids will be smiling from ear-to-ear when they meet the whimsical TV stars from Disney Junior like Doc McStuffins, Vampirina and Fancy Nancy for a special photo op.

See Minnie at Red Carpet Dreams

Smile as you witness Minnie hit the red carpet as she sets off to make her Hollywood dreams come to life. Minnie looks dazzling in her star-debut attire and performs a show-stopping dance routine.

See Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight

Olaf, the adorable snowman from Frozen , seems to be smitten with the beach and all things involving summer. Come snap a photo before he melts away.

If you'd like to spend more time with Disney’s Hollywood Studios characters, schedule a character dining option when available for a meal you'll never forget.

Please note, sales of Disney dining plans are temporarily unavailable.

Dine Hollywood-style and make memories along the way. You won’t want to miss out on hitting a Hollywood hotspot for steak or going retro at mealtime. One thing is for sure: It’s not just a meal — it’s a memory.

50’s Prime Time Cafe

Bebop your way into Mom’s kitchen at this vintage eatery. Old-fashioned, savory pot roast and Aunt Liz’s fried chicken are just a couple of crowd-pleasers for the comfort-food set. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a homemade chocolate peanut butter layer cake.

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo 

Housed in a working hangar bay, this restaurant at  Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge serves a variety of dishes prepared with ingredients from across the galaxy — all of it delicious.

The Hollywood Brown Derby and The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge

Feel like a celebrity as you dine at one of the most historic Hollywood “it” restaurants. Be sure to try the Cobb salad, named after the original owner, or a delectable grilled filet of beef. Check out Hollywood memorabilia and enjoy fine dining all in one swoop.

Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano

Everyone’s family as they step into this classic, family-style Italian restaurant. Casual and kitschy (think red-checkered tablecloths and décor hanging from the ceiling), this spot makes you feel right at home with traditional favorites like chicken alla parmigiana and spaghetti and meatballs. Adults will enjoy the selection of Italian and Californian wines, and kids won’t want to share their delicious flatbreads.

Rizzo the Rat from the Muppets and his lovable gang are the proprietors of this 2-story, family-style pizzeria. Pizza pies are delicious and varied. Traditional Italian desserts like tiramisu and cannoli are foolproof favorites. Be sure to hit the second story: It’s aptly named Rizzo’s Deluxe Supreme Banquet Hall, since it’s themed after a wedding reception complete with a disco ball and a catchy play list. Of course, it’s the place to see and be seen.

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

Hop into a '50s-style drive-in designed with parked cars that serve as restaurant booths all facing a movie screen. Clips from sci-fi movies’ heyday include menacing mummies, dangerous robots and aliens in attack mode. If you can peel your eyes away from the movie screen or your plate, then you’ll notice the ceiling is a star-filled sky. The classic American burger and Buffalo chicken salad are two moviegoer favorites. Leave room for dessert and nosh on a house-made sci-fi candy bar.

Enjoy dynamic and engaging entertainment inspired by everything from fairytales to  Star Wars  sagas to action-adventure flicks to the scary villains and adored characters from Disney classics.

Beauty and the Beast — Live on Stage

Revel in the romantic fairytale of Belle and the cursed Beast in this live musical. Fall in love again as all the entertaining scenes unfold. Get caught up in this beloved tale about the unstoppable power of true love. 

Citizens of Hollywood

You never know when you’ll be discovered. Participate in the action as this spirited improv acting troupe wrangles unsuspecting guests as performers. Unpredictable audience participation gives this show added punch and spontaneous humor, making it a definite must-see.

DISNEY JUNIOR Play and Dance!

Join Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Timon and Mickey for this high-energy musical celebration at the Animation Courtyard.

A great way to end a fantastic day at the park, enter Mickey’s vivid imagination when his dream sours into a nightmare. Cheer Mickey’s bravery as he summons his magical power. Watch him overcome the forces of evil as he confronts Disney’s most notorious villains: Ursula, Cruella de Vil and Maleficent. Dancing waterfalls, fireworks, multi-colored lights and other terrific surprises add to the show’s appeal. Be mesmerized as Mickey wields his sorcerer powers to prove good guys do finish first. 

For the First Time in Forever: A  Frozen  Sing-Along Celebration

Who doesn’t adore an old-fashioned sing-along? Yes, you’re happily invited to join two royal historians as they retell Anna and Elsa’s fairytale while watching the most fantastic moments from Disney’s  Frozen . Onscreen lyrics help the whole family break out in song to popular tunes like “Let It Go.” 

Indiana Jones ™ Epic Stunt Spectacular

Nothing beats the action and thrills of an Indiana Jones adventure. Watch Indy and Marion wage battle against villains in their daring quest to get their hands on the golden idol first during this live-action show. Epic stunts and special effects will leave you on the edge of your seat as vehicles burst into flames and surprise explosions put you in the middle of all the action. Members of the audience are picked as movie extras and given costumes and direction. 

Star Wars : A Galactic Spectacular (Temporarily Unavailable)

Marvel at the 180-degree fireworks surrounding you as you traverse across the galaxy, soaking in the most epic  Star Wars  movie moments. It’s a spectacular finale to an action-packed day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Voyage of The Little Mermaid (Temporarily Unavailable)

Follow Ariel’s adventure as you dive under the sea and immerse yourself into the musical talents of the beloved characters from  The Little Mermaid . Cringe when Ursula comes on the scene and sing along when Sebastian bellows out the popular tune, “Under the Sea.” Feel a part of Ariel and her friends’ special world with vibrant puppetry, clips from the movie, multi-sensory special effects and live performances that bring Ariel’s ocean world to life. 

Wonderful World of Animation

Your favorite characters from more than 90 years of Disney and Pixar animation come to life during this nighttime show, which transforms the iconic Chinese Theatre with light and sound.

Shop Hollywood-style at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , where shopping is inspired by memorable movies and TV shows.

Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities

Shop for mysteries and unique galactic artifacts collected by a legendary antiquities dealer at  Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge. You’ll want to explore every nook and cranny of this shop — you never know what priceless riches you’ll encounter.

Droid Depot

At  Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge, visit a workshop stocked with parts, chips, manuals and other tech items useful for constructing your very own droid. Register your choice of the BB-series unit or R-series unit, then begin your droid-building experience.

Mickey’s of Hollywood

Time-travel from the 1920s to the 1940s with Mickey Mouse himself and pick up Disney’s Hollywood Studios keepsakes and mementos.

Stage 1 Company Store (Temporarily Unavailable)

It’s more than a store — it’s an attraction all on its own. Spy clashing colors and paint splatters on the building’s exterior. Once inside, you’ll discover Muppet-themed decor inspired by the Happiness Hotel featured in  The Great Muppet Caper , along with comical gags, props and Muppet signage. Fans of all ages will be in awe of all the different types of Muppet merchandise available. Also, be sure to view the gorgeous Disney cels and artistic sketches. Warning: You may be in here a while.

Savi’s Workshop

Travel to Black Spire Outpost at  Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge, where you can build your own custom lightsaber using unusual parts, whimsical pieces and miscellaneous memorabilia collected from the far reaches of a galaxy far, far away. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for this experience.

Tatooine Traders

Enter a strange dome inspired by the desert planet, Tatooine, from  Star Wars . It’s the ideal place to pick up an assortment of intergalactic goodies. Action figures, apparel, books and gadgets are just some of the items you will find at this well-stocked showcase of  Star Wars- related merchandise.

Tower Hotel Gifts

Do you dare step foot in this store after the scariest elevator ride ever? Of course, if you want to get your hands on all the terrifying Tower Hotel essentials like hotel desk bells, bell caps and other Tower Hotel-related merchandise. Outfit yourself with comfy Tower Hotel bathrobes and sip coffee out of Tower Hotel monogrammed mugs once you return home.

View maps, amenities and more information for Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort.

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Disney's Hollywood Studios

Home to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge featuring Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Last updated: April 29, 2024

Hollywood Studios has some of Walt Disney World's most popular and highly-rated attractions. Don't miss Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway , a family-friendly ride with everyone's favorite mouse, and Slinky Dog Dash , Disney's top family-friendly roller coaster. We think Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is the best ride Disney has built in decades.

Today's Park Information and Crowd Levels

Hollywood Studios Current Closures / Refurbishments

When to visit.

Every morning at Hollywood Studios, guests flock to the entrance of the headliner attractions. Crowds in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and Toy Story Land are either busy or insane! However, there are lots of tips and tricks you can learn to make sure you pick the right day to visit the Studios.

Picking the right day to visit Hollywood Studios means knowing when not to visit. Check out our park hours and show times , as well as our refurbishments and closures .

Hollywood Studios Waits In Line

Average Wait In Line By Hour

Live Entertainment at Hollywood Studios

Live shows and entertainment are a core part of your day at Hollywood Studios. The tricky part is that shows are often scheduled so that performances overlap, or are really, really close together. That makes it difficult to see all of them.

Our touring plans know about each show’s performance times on the day of your visit. The plans will guide you around the park and get you to your show seats on time.

Subscribe for full access to these TouringPlans tools

See daily crowd predictions, show, parade and firework times and special events.

Crowd Tracker

Select dates to keep an eye on. We’ll keep you updated on changes to park hours and crowd predictions.

Planning Your Day

Disney's Hollywood Studios has something for everyone in your group. Thrills for the teens, live shows for the tots, and musical performances for seniors. Little snowpeople, little Skywalkers, and little rockers will all find one-of-a-kind experiences at Hollywood Studios.

At TouringPlans we use data and math to make your vacation better.

See which Hollywood Studios attractions are best for your family. We’ve collected over 1,700,000 guest surveys from every ride, show, and attraction in Walt Disney World. Results are organized by age group, so you can find the best things to do for your family.

See Hollywood Studios Attractions and Ratings →

See which attractions benefit most from Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane. These extra-cost programs have lots of rules. And Disney won't tell you how to get the most for your money. We will.

See Which Attractions Work Best with Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane →

Get Shorter Lines by Arriving Early. The Hollywood Studios park-opening process is known as “Rope Drop.” With our advice, you’ll be through the gates and done with your first ride before most people are even in the park.

Read our Hollywood Studios Rope Drop Advice →

Up-to-the minute access to maximize your time

Save up to 4 hours a day, using our researched and tested plans, or create and customize your own.

Use our app to keep you updated throughout your stay with the latest park hours, closures, and wait times.

Download the Lines app

“rise of the resistance is the most amazing attraction it's not just a ride, it's an experience.”, what to see and do.

Hollywood Studios has some of Walt Disney World’s most popular rides, from family-friendly coasters, to epic stories across the galaxy!

Slinky Dog Dash

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Live stage shows are at the heart of entertainment at Hollywood Studios. Don’t miss these:

For the First Time In Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!

Disney Junior Play and Dance!

Hollywood Studios also has lots of character meet-and-greet opportunities: you can visit Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, Olaf, Mickey and Minnie, and more!

To cap off a night Hollywood Studios, head to the 6,900-seat Hollywood Hills Amphitheater to watch Mickey Mouse and his imagination duel with villains in Fantasmic!

Check out how you can make the most of your time with our Attraction listings with reviews and ratings.

Shows, Fireworks, & Entertainment

Find show times and plan how to work this fun into your day using our Lines WDW app or the link below.

Lines are inevitable, but we can recommend the best times to visit each attraction in Hollywood Studios. See sample wait times below.

Download chart to share to social media.

Hollywood Studios has some great, if a bit difficult-to-discover, dining options. Find out which dining venues will best fit your day and your family's tastes using our dining database and enjoy great meals at restaurants.

The top-rated sit-down restaurant in the park is 50's Prime Time Café , where you sit in 50's-style mini-kitchens and dine on family favorites such as fried chicken and pot roast. Other good choices are BaseLine Taphouse for a quick drink, and The Hollywood Brown Derby , where you'll dine among the stars! Hollywood Studios also features some of the best-known snacks on property like the Carrot Cake Cookie and awesome seasonal cupcakes at The Trolley Car Café .

Dining resources to make your trip delicious

Food Finder

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Disney Dish with Jim Hill Podcast

Learn more about the latest doings at Disney with Len Testa of TouringPlans & Jim Hill of JimHillMedia.com

Learn more about the latest doings at Disney with TouringPlan's Len Testa & Jim Hill of JimHillMedia.com

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Which Is The Best Hollywood Studio Tour For You?

Posted on Published: June 29, 2019  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

Categories North America , California , Travel

There are four major Hollywood studio tours that you can go on in and around Los Angeles : Warners Bros., Sony, Paramount, and Universal Studio Tours.

It’s really not necessary to do all of them , especially on the same trip. There’s quite a bit of overlap between each studio tour, and the ticket prices can really add up.

Throughout my visits to California, I’ve managed to visit all 4 Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles (and some more than once!).

Here’s my in-depth reviews of all the major Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles. This is what to expect from each one so you can decide which is the best studio tour in los Angeles for you!

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Why Should You Go On A Hollywood Studio Tour?

Hollywood Studio Tours in Los Angeles are a great way to gain an “ all-access” pass to the biggest backstage lots in California .

They give you a chance to go behind the scenes on some of your favourite movies and TV shows.

You’ll get to see the sets and props, and learn about the magic of making movies. And, if you’re lucky, you might get the chance to either see a live film set or a celebrity at work . 

Let’s just say, visit a movie set is a quintessential Los Angeles activity … p.s. see my L.A. guide here .

Which Is The Best Hollywood Studio Tour For You ?

The best Hollywood studio tour for you will depend on three main factors :

• Your favourite films and TV shows

The studio tours vary in budget and tour length. The price ranges between $55 to $110 / ticket . And the tour can last anywhere between one to three hours .

But your favourite movies and TV shows are the most important factor when deciding which studio tour in Los Angeles to go to. If you haven’t watched anything the studio has produced, you’ll be less interested in what you’re seeing and learning about.

Best Studio Tours In LA: Overview

Plan the ultimate vacation

My  digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

Universal Studios is a bit of a unique studio tour in Los Angeles. The studio tour can only be accessed if you buy a ticket to the entire theme park .

This also puts the studio tour at a much higher price point compared to the others around Los Angles. But, on the other hand, it is an ENTIRE day of activities instead of a few hours.

The tour itself is only 60 minutes but there are no shortage of other rides and shows to see once you’re in the park.

Quick Information & Links

Total Time : 1 hour (not including wait time in line) Admission : $109 -$119* (includes access to the entire park, price varies depending on the season) Book Tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood . Parking : Starts at $32* (General Parking)

*Updated January 2024

Movies Referred To/ Filmed Here:

You should check out this Hollywood studio tour if you’re a fan of…

• Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas
• Jurassic Park
• Fast and the Furious
• Jordan Peele’s horror epic, NOPE

Pros Of The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

You are on the LARGEST film and TV studio in Hollywood and the world! You get to drive by some of the most iconic sets in all movie history.

You drive-by the sound stages, new and old sets.

But this is still a ride in a theme park so they’ve added some more ride-like adventure elements to make things more exciting, unlike any other Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles.

At times you feel like you’re in the movie rather than just seeing where one was filmed!

And it’s not all for show either, they do still use these sets to film. In fact, this was the only Hollywood studio tour where I caught a live taping , so it’s still possible to see!

One thing’s certain though, you won’t be bored for a second on this tour even if you don’t happen to see an active film set during your tour. 

P.S. Make the most of your time at Universal Studios and book an Express Line ticket through Viator here . It gives you one-time express access to each ride, show, and attraction at the park !

Cons Of The Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

It’s the least personal studio tour in Los Angeles. You’re on a tram the entire time for 60 minutes straight, with about 30 other people!

As I said, this tour is sometimes more of a ride than a studio tour (so it’s both a pro and a con!).

At times, the tour felt very streamlined , because most of it is. You still have a guide, but he’s following a script on a set path so it’s the same tour every time (unlike the others which have a bit more variance based on your guide).

The tram is on a set course and there are timed animatronics and effects throughout the tour.

Value For Money – Movie Location Los Angeles

I will admit, you get pretty good value for your money with your tickets to Universal studios. But that’s only if you wanted to visit the theme park.

If you were already planning on visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, then the studio tour is a must-do ride! 

But if you don’t like theme parks, and your only interest is the Hollywood studio tour, I wouldn’t recommend paying for the entire theme park just for the tour.

You might also be interested in reading…

• How To Plan Your Los Angeles Vacation

Logistics: What To Know Before You Go

A tram leaves about every 30 minutes for the Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour so the line builds up pretty quickly. I’d prioritize this as one of your first rides of the day.

As I said, don’t expect reality with this one, they do show you real sets but it’s also still a ride. So you’ll get a lot of gimmicky routines created specifically for this tour. 

Also, some advance warning, you might get wet at certain points during the ride. If you’d prefer to not get wet, try to sit in the middle of the row.

Book Universal Studio Tours Tickets In Advance Through Viator

Book General Admission tickets →

Book Skip the Line Express Tickets →

Book the VIP Experience on Viator (giving your exclusive access to off-limits areas of the park) →

For more Los Angeles organized tours from Viator, click here .

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Warner Bros. Studio is actually in Burbank California , but it’s close enough to Los Angeles.

Warner Bros. studio tour takes you on a tram around different parts of the studio, with only around 12 guests at a time on the tour.

So unlike Universal Studios Hollywood studio tour, it’s a lot more personal and you’re only on the tram to get from place to place (because their lot is HUGE!).

You drive by sound stages and countless outdoor sets. But you’ll get off and walk around a bit, even walking in some sets if you’re lucky. So you should be prepared for some walking on this studio tour in Los Angeles!

Total Time : ~3 hours (1 hour guided, 2 hours unguided). Leaves every 30 minutes from 9:30 to 3:30 Admission : 70$* Parking : 15$* Website

What Was Filmed Here (Sets You Might See!)

Check out this Hollywood studio tour if you’re a fan of…

• Harry Potter
• Gilmore Girls
• Back to the Future
• The Big Bang Theory
• Pretty Little Liars

So Much More Than A Studio Tour

Over the years, the Warner Bros. studio tour has grown. It’s no longer just a backlot tour, now, that’s just one part of it…

Museums, Props, Sets, & Photo Ops At Warner Bros. Studio

Tickets to the Warner Bros. studio tour also includes interactive museums where you’ll want to take all the pictures you can!

You can interact with different sets from your favourite movies and TV sets, like Friends, the Big Bang Theory and Harry Potter! on the magic of movies, costume

There’s also an entire exhibit on the DC universe with all superheroe and villain props. They have Aquaman’s lair, Wonder Woman’s study, Superman’s office, and the Batman’s bat cave.

And finally they have an in-depth exhibit on all things filmmaking. Staring with the writing process and finishing with the special effects of movie making.

Book Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tickets With Viator

General Admission tickets →

Pros Of The Warner Bros. Studio Tour

They are constantly updating the Warner Bros. studio tour – that means you can even go back the next time you’re in Los Angeles, I’ve already gone back twice!

There was some over lap with the sets and information, but very little. A lot had been updated and added to the tour. And I’ve already noticed that they’ve added a lot more content since I’ve gone!

Also, the guided portion of the tour will rarely be the same. For starters, where you go will all depend on what they’re filming at the time. So not only can it change over the years, but it can change within the hour!

It’s also a very personal tour with only being 12 people on the tram. You can also all your questions about movie magic!

Never forget a favourite travel memory

Keep track of your travels every day with my digital and printable travel journal . Use it on the go on your phone or tablet, or print it out!

Cons Of The Warner Bros. Studio Tour

With all the new additions to the tour every year, I’ve noticed the guided portion has become less and less…

The guided tour portion is only hour , and then two hours are a self guided tour through the museums.

But it’s the guided portion of the tour that’s always fresh and what brings me back! I’m a bit disappointed that the museums seem to have taken over the tour now, making the tour a bit more gimmicky and less about touring real sets and sound stages…

How to See San Diego in One Day

Bring government I.D. when you visit, and make sure to arrive early!

You have to go through security and there might be a lineup. They suggest arriving 30 minutes in advance.

Don’t worry about getting lost on your way to the studios (if you’re driving there)! I followed the instructions we were given on how to get to the visitor’s centre, but my GPS brought me to the wrong gate. No need to panic if this happens to you too! The patrol was very understanding (I’m sure this happens all the time) and told us exactly where to go.

If you’re driving, there’s a parking lot across the street from the visitor’s centre (paid, of course). The studio is in a pretty secluded area, but there’s a Starbucks in the visitor’s centre .

You can book Warner Brothers Studio tour tickets in advance on Viator here .

Paramount Pictures Hollywood Studio Tour

Paramount Pictures is really interesting because it’s the last Hollywood studio still in Hollywood (well in Los Angeles). 

So it’s only about a 15-minute drive from Hollywood Blvd. FYI, Warner is in Burbank, and Sony is in Culver City.

It was very similar to Warner Bros. Hollywood studio tour in terms of the scale of the studio. They have several sound stages, a water tank, and a totally customizable New York set.

Like the other Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles, there’s a museum portion of the tour with props. Paramount Pictures one had a lot of “ unwanted ” props (those that could only be used once for the film they were designed for).

There was A LOT of props from the Transformers franchise, but there were also Star Trek, Gladiator, and Dream Girls props.

Time : 2 hours * They leave every 30 minutes from 9:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. Admission : 65$* Parking : $22 – (used to be cash only)* Website

What Was/ Is Filmed Here

• The Godfather
• OG King Kong (In Set 19)
• Breakfast at Tiffanys
• Forrest Gump

Pros Of Paramount Pictures Studio Tour In Los Angeles

The best part about the Paramount Pictures Hollywood studio tour tour was the small size of the group. There’s a max of 7 people on the tour (you’re in an 8 seater golf cart).

The tour also provided earphones to be able to perfectly hear your tour guide at all times, so they didn’t have to shout at you! There can be a lot going on on sets with a lot of noises, so the earphones were definitely appreciated.

I also liked that they provided visuals for what you were looking at during the tour. Our tour guide carried around an iPad showing examples of what a specific set was used for over the years. So instead of looking at a giant green screen, they showed us how that green screen was used in different films.

Cons Of Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

Paramount Pictures studio tour taught me a few things about Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles…

First, the quality of the tour really depends on your tour guide – they can make or break your visit. And unfortunately, you won’t really know who you’re going to get beforehand.

Unfortunately for me, my tour guide at Paramount Pictures wasn’t the best. There’s so much history to this Hollywood studio that I ended up lost most of the time because I didn’t know who or what he was referring to, I guess the references were also a bit ahead of my time…

Paramount Studio tour also really showed me how important it is to have seen (or at least heard of) the films or shows the studio produced. 

So if you’re a fan of classics like I Love Lucy, Alfred Hitchcock, or the original King Kong then Paramount Pictures studio tour is a must for you!

For me, Paramount Pictures studio tour was a bit of a mixed bag. I really see the potential of this tour though, but I think you have to be a really big movie buff to enjoy Paramount Pictures studio tour.

The visitor parking is across the street from the main gates. Be wary of the address on Google Maps, it brought me to the wrong gate.

When I visited, parking was cash only, so it’s always good to be prepared. There’s an ATM you can use at the end of the tour if you need (apparently no one does cash back in the area…).

Like the other tours, you have to show I.D. and go through security, so they ask you to arrive 30 minutes before your tour . But, in case there’s no wait at all, there’s a mini-exhibit you can visit to pass the time before your tour starts. 

Make sure to bring water and food, there’s really not much in the area. But drinks aren’t allowed on the tour itself, so leave it in the car!

SONY Studio Hollywood Tour

SONY Hollywood studio tour ended up being my favourite studio tour . We were only about 5 people on this tour, so it was very personal. But I don’t know if this was the max, or that fewer people happened to sign up for it.  

I know online there are 25 spots per time slot. I don’t know if that’s the typical tour size on a busier day, or if they would always split you up into smaller groups once you get there.

There are famous cars on display from movies and shows (like Breaking Bad and Ghostbusters). They also have a prop museum at the start of the tour. There’s even an Oscar and an Emmy award you can see (and even hold!). 

Time : 2 hours * Leaves 4 times a day: 9:30, 10:30, 1:30 and 2:30. Admission : 55$* Parking : Free Valet Website

What Was Filmed Here

• Breaking Bad
• Wheel of Fortune
• Ghostbusters
• The Goldbergs

Pros Of The SONY Studio Tour

SONY is a MUCH smaller studio than the other three Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles. That means you don’t even need a tram to get around, we walked everywhere (so you should also be prepared to walk!). This made it easier to take appreciate it all and take pictures!

I also absolutely loved our tour guide, he was by far my favourite out of all the ones we had on any tour. It didn’t seem like he simply memorized a script. It was as if he lived and breathed SONY and films in general. I would’ve believed it if he’d told us he grew up on set.

We also got the chance to walk on to a sound stage from one of my favourite TV Shows – The Goldbergs. And our guide brought us onto a working foley stage (where they create extra sounds for movies). 

If a sound or foley stage isn’t available to see, you are guaranteed to see either the Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy set . They film on opposite days, so you’ll always be able to see one of them.

But the best perk of all is… You get your picture taken on the set of either Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune, which they’ll print out and give to you as a souvenir… FREE OF CHARGE! ! Seriously when is anything ever free these days…

Cons Of The SONY Hollywood Studio Tour

As I mentioned, there’s no tram for the SONY Hollywood studio tour. Although the studio isn’t as large as the others, you have to be prepared to walk quite a bit.

Another sort of pro and con is that it’s 80 % outdoors . So you really want to go when it’s decent weather. And be prepared to be in the sun!

How to Make the Most of Your Time in Long Beach California

Value For Money – Hollywood Studio Tours In Los Angeles

I think you get a lot of value for your money at SONY studio tour. It’s the cheapest out of any of the Hollywood studio tours in Los Angeles and they give you some nice freebies (like parking and a photo souvenir!).

The scale of the studio might be smaller than the other three major studios, but there’s still a lot to see. And despite the lack of big blockbuster sets, they make up for it in different ways (like seeing the inside of a game show set, and a foley stage).

Like Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures studio tours, they ask that you arrive 30 minutes early to go through security. 

If you drive there, they offer FREE valet parking in the Overland lot. 

The studio is very much out of the way, so plan your meals and snacks in advance. All they had at the studio was a vending machine .

Don’t expect to see large outdoor sets like from Warner Bros. or Paramount, SONY is a lot smaller, so most of their sets are on sound stages. So if you’re interested in the big New York outdoor sets, SONY isn’t for you!

Overview, What’s The Best Studio Tour In Los Angeles?

Like I said before, Universal Studios is the most expensive, but you do get an entire days worth of activities. But if your intent is to learn about movie magic, the other three are better choices. 

If you have time for more than one, you don’t need to see both Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures. There’s quite a bit of overlap between the two. Instead, choose one of those, and then either Universal or SONY as your second option.

P.S. Need A Place To Stay In L.A.? Hotel Recommendations

Finding a place to stay in Los Angeles can be quite overwhelming – it’s HUGE!

I stayed at the Sofitel and would highly recommend it. It was in a safe area, and across the street from the Beverly Hills mall (which proved to be very convenient). It was also within walking distance to some local restaurants you need to try – like the Kings Road Cafe! See room rates & availability here .

If you want to stay on the beach outside of the city life instead, we stayed at The Georgian in Santa Monica and couldn’t recommend it enough! It’s only about a 25 minute drive from the city. This was a beautiful art deco hotel that is begging you to go there! It’s a minutes walk to the beach, Santa Monica Pier, and the Third Street Promenade. See room rates & availability here .

For more accommodation options in Los Angeles, click here . Interested in longer stays in L.A. check out Plum Guide here .

My California Amazon Must Haves

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Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Tuesday 26th of September 2023

You've gotten me excited about my next trip to Los Angeles. I've done the Universal tour and the Warner Bros tour, so I may do what you suggested and do Paramount and Sony next.

You're right about Universal's tour being more of a ride from what I remember. However, it was cool to see sets from The Good Place, Jaws, and Psycho. Being on the tram the whole time was a little different, and my experience was a bit thrown off because I hadn't expected Universal, CA to have such similar rides to Universal, FL, and I loved how Universal, FL made it really seem like you were on a set walking through various cities. Definitely not the same as CA. I think I was there for about 2 hours and was done. The weather was weird where it was kindof warm at first, but then turned super cold while I was in line for a ride, so I was done sooner than I expected.

I absolutely loved the Warner Bros tour. The guide was super nice and knowledgeable. I almost died when I saw the Gilmore Girl house and Luke's Diner. Of course I took pictures at the Central Perk. To me, the prop museum was a tad boring, but still overall decent. The tour was partially walking and partially riding. There were so many moments where I was like...."this looks familiar" and had to think of where the set had been used. Super cool. I highly recommend it.

Wednesday 27th of September 2023

That's awesome!! Definitely I enjoyed that the Warners brothers was mixed with walking and a tram ride you were able to get so much further that way - and the lot is HUGE! It really is cool seeing sets from your favourite TV shows and movies! I really liked the SONY tour but it was definitely a lot smaller than Warner bros!

Sunday 19th of February 2023

Hi Meghan, great article. Easy to read and allowed me to choose the studio we should visit in the short time we will be in L.A. Thanks you.

Monday 20th of February 2023

That's awesome to hear! Glad I could help :D :D

How To Plan Your Los Angeles Vacation | Afternoon Tea Reads

Thursday 1st of October 2020

[…] sure which one to visit? Read my overall review of each studio tour to help you […]

Monday 1st of July 2019

Wow what a great list of tours to choose from! I personally don't like these types of things however I think your post will be super useful for those who do!

Thanks! I hope it will be :)

I’ve done the Universal tour but it was like 20 yrs ago! I really want to go back and do all these studio tours. I’m film mad me 😃💕

Oh wow, you really should I'm sure a lot has changed since then. It's a movie geeks dream :)

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Guide to the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood

What’s better than being a guest at Universal Studios Hollywood ? Being a VIP guest at Universal Studios Hollywood. Don’t get us wrong , every day at Universal feels like magic. But the VIP Tour feels like…well, extra cushy magic.

So what, exactly, does it mean to be an A-lister at Universal Studios Hollywood? In the VIP Experience , you’ll explore the theme park with a super knowledgeable tour guide, in a maximum 13-person group. The tours last a minimum of five hours and include one (truly delicious) meal, an extended Studio Tour , unlimited Express Pass access, and — well, let’s just get into it, shall we? Here’s everything you need to know about the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood.

THE PRE-TOUR PERKS

When you hear the words “VIP,” it’s fair to assume you’re about to be peppered with sweet, sweet perks. The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood is no exception to the rule. And, lucky for you, those fun little bonuses begin the second you arrive at Universal. Here’s what you can expect before you even start the tour:

• Valet parking. This is a huge perk! Just roll up to the main entrance to the Jurassic Parking garage, hand your keys over to a Team Member, and they’ll take it from there. No fretting over losing your keys or forgetting where you parked — you’re a VIP now. 
• Complimentary refreshments. Enter the VIP lounge (just look for the red carpet to the right of the entry gates after security) for a comfortable, air-conditioned waiting area before your tour. There, you can enjoy a complimentary spread including bagels, coffee, and other light bites.
• Sun protectants. You’re about to spend a full day in a theme park — there’s no such thing as enough sunscreen! Guests have access to complimentary sunscreen ,lip balm, and ice water in the VIP Experience Center.

Once your group is assembled, fed and sunscreened up, it’s time to explore Universal Studios Hollywood — VIP style!

The tour guides are what make the VIP Experience truly one-of-a-kind. First, they’re perhaps the most knowledgeable folks you’ll ever meet about all things Universal. As your tour guide leads your small group through the theme park, they’ll hit you with factoid after factoid. It’s an inundation of anecdotes to use at your next cocktail party.

Do you know which other major studios you can see from the escalator on the way to the Studio Tour? Or what iconic 80s film the facade of Saul & Sons in the New York section of the theme park is based on? Or who dubbed Universal “the strangest city in the world”? Your VIP tour guide does.

Beyond a sky-high Universal IQ, the tour guides are there to help make your experience exactly what you want it to be. Each VIP Tour is different. Your Guide is given an allotted time to take your group to three things: the Studio Tour, the WaterWorld show, and lunch. Other than that, they have room to improvise. That means there’s lots of time for rides via Express Lanes. While you can’t completely tailor the experience to every little thing that you, personally, would like to do — you are on a group tour, after all — the guides are able to take your input into consideration.

THE STUDIO TOUR

The Studio Tour is your chance to see the ins and outs of how movies get made. But on the VIP Experience, the Studio Tour brings you just shy of straight-up making the movies yourself. While General Admission guests stay on the tram, VIP guests get to hop off and walk the sets. The exclusive access of movie and TV sets — plus certain luxe amenities — make this unlike any other Studio Tour you’ve experienced. In addition to all standard Studio Tour experience, VIP guests have access to:

• The VIP Trolley. Forget the tram, you’re a trolley rider now! Part of being very important means riding on a special trolley, complete with complementary ice water.
• Soundstage stop. Learn how movie magic comes to life inside one of Universal’s massive soundstages. You might walk through rooms that look totally real — until you learn all the walls are removable for lighting and camera access.
• Edith Head Costume and Prop department. Named for the legendary 20th century costume designer, this building homes hundreds of props used in iconic films throughout time. Just one rule: you break it, you buy it. So I’d keep my hands to myself. 
• Walk on a real set. VIP guests get to hop off and explore iconic movie sets on foot. It could be New York City, or Courthouse Square, or Colonial Street, but each tour is slightly different.

NOTE: These are all real, working sets! Therefore, all VIP Experience tours are subject to availability based on production schedules and other factors. Each tour is a little bit different.

VIPs? Wait in long lines? What a ridiculous concept! With your Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience comes an Unlimited Express Pass, meaning you get to use the Express Lanes on every ride in the theme park. That means less time waiting, and more time riding. We made it onto seven rides during my VIP Experience.

And the best part? The VIP Experience is the only way to bypass the general queue for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge . The regular Express Pass doesn’t come with that perk.

But the VIP Experience isn’t just about skipping lines, it’s about the little things. It’s all about removing friction from your day. Here are a couple examples of little luxuries on the rides:

• No Ride Locker Necessary. VIP guests can just hand their bag to their tour guide as they hop on a ride, who hands it back when you get off. Easy peasy. 
• WaterWorld Seats. Snagging seats for this crowd-pleaser is no sweat when you’ve got VIP seats waiting for you. 

PRO TIP: Your VIP lanyard functions as an Express Pass for the remainder of your day at Universal Studios Hollywood! If you’re a real thrill-seeker, snag a spot on an early tour — then hit the rides via Express Lane until the theme park closes. 

You’ve done everything at Universal Studios Hollywood, you claim? Bet you haven’t eaten at VIP Dining. If you haven’t already done the VIP Tour, you definitely haven’t. I mean, I hadn’t, and Iwork here.

VIP Dining, tucked in the Parisian (so you know it’s fancy) portion of the Upper Lot, is the VIP-only dining room. During your VIP Tour, you’ll enjoy a one-hour, all-you-can-eat experience here. And I do mean enjoy. VIP Dining has (arguably) the tastiest food available at the theme park and CityWalk. The whole buffet is delicious, but I especially recommend the mushroom risotto, the melon and prosciutto, the caprese salad, the asian cucumber salad — I could go on. And, you know what? I will: Don’t forget to save room for gelato, cheesecake and cookies.

The elevated menu, plus free phone charging stations and visits from Universal characters, makes VIP Dining the perfect oasis at which to refuel during a jam-packed day at the theme park.

THE DETAILS

Here are the nitty-gritty details you need to know:

• VIP Tours start at various times throughout the morning. The number of tours per day varies by season and day of the week.
• Tours are capped at 13 guests each.
• Tours run for a minimum of 5 hours.
• Children must be at least 5 years old to attend, and 17 years old to attend without an accompanying adult.
• Book your VIP Experience here.
• VIP Private Experience tours are also available. Call (818) 622-8477 to reserve yours.

THE SPOOKY VERSION

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the combination of two of the best parts of Universal Studios Hollywood: VIP + Halloween Horror Nights. It’s called the R.I.P. Tour. (Genius.)

The R.I.P. Tour differs slightly from the regular VIP Experience, but the bones (har-har) are the same. You’ll get a guided walking tour of the event, one-time express entry to each haunted house and available attractions, the Terror Tram backlot experience in a VIP trolley, and gourmet dining experience, and more. Check out the full details her e . But basically, it’s the VIP Experience, plus a whole lot of guts and gore and jump-scares. Hell really is a place on Earth.

THE VERDICT

So, should you splurge on the VIP Experience? The short answer: yes. But let’s break it down and see if it makes sense for you. The VIP Experience is awesome for…

• Universal superfans. If you want to soak up every last thing the theme park has to offer, the VIP Experience is an absolute must. As I mentioned, certain experiences, like VIP Dining and the up-close Studio Tour, are only available to VIP guests.
• Folks who want a cushier experience . Treat yourself! Theme park days can be long ones — make yours a truly relaxing visit with the VIP Experience.
• Entertainment buffs. Even the biggest film nerds can learn a thing or two from the brainiac VIP tour guides.
• Parents of young ones. Tired of planning every single little detail of the family vacation? Your VIP tour guide has got you covered. Parents will appreciate someone else taking the lead for a jam-packed day!

Overall? Going VIP totally elevates the Universal Studios Hollywood experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or have an Annual Pass, put this one on your bucket list.

What part of the VIP Experience are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments below.

Universal Destinations & Experiences

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Grace Perry

Senior Editor, Universal Studios Hollywood. Lisa sun, Smithers rising, Disco Stu moon.

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24 comments.

I am thinking about doing the Vip experience on my own on Jan 19, 2024. Well I still have fun?

We think you’ll have the best time! 🤩

Hello, I booked a VIP tour for January 30, since WaterWorld will be closed what will the tour substitute?

Hi Naomi! We recommend reaching out to our VIP Team at (818) 622-8477 with any questions you may have regarding your specific tour!

We did it one time..WAS AMAZING.

was amazing , you really feel like a VIP

We’re so glad that you had a great time!

I spy Greg! He was our tour guide for RIP last year and was amazing. Looking forward to going again this year with fingers crossed we get him as our guide again!

We’re so happy to hear you had a great time on your tour, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon!

We have a 5 year old. Would he enjoy the tour or be bored? I worry about the backlot portion?

Hi Sandra! For any questions or assistance with our VIP Experience, please feel free to reach out via phone at (818) 622-8477. We hope to see you soon!

Where and how we can get VIP experience..

Hi Rosita! To book a VIP Experience, we recommend contacting our team at 1-866-346-9350 as they would be more than happy to answer any questions and provide further assistance. We can’t wait to see you at our parks soon!

Goedemiddag,

We hebben vandaag ook deze tickets geboekt alvast voor komende zomervakantie in Augustus. Maar weet iemand ook of je met deze tickets voorrang krijgt om op de foto te gaan met de karakters die in het park staan/lopen?

Hi Marcel, we’re so excited to hear of your upcoming visit and VIP Experience! This tour does not include expedited access to our character meet and greets.

Does the unlimited express include the Bowser Mario Cart ride, or is it only once while on the actual tour?

Hi Michael, the only way to bypass the general queue for that attraction is the VIP Experience. Universal Express Unlimited does not include that attraction.

Is the Toadstool Cafe included with the VIP-Tour, or do I have to make a reservation?

Hi Moni! We recommend reaching out to our VIP Experience Team at 1 (800) 864-8377 for more information regarding your tour offerings!

Hi! Can we upgrade VIP tickets to platinum passes should we decide to become pass holders that day?

Hey Liz! If you had any questions regarding upgrading your ticket packages, we recommend reach out via phone at 800-864-8377. We hope to have you visit soon!

I see that during April-Aug, general admission tickets also can get off the tram and experience the movie sets. What am I paying extra for besides food and rides? This was a major draw for my family of 4 booking the vip tour and being able to leave the tram.

Hi Ramon, while Celebrating 60 Years of the Studio Tour, Guests will be able to step off the tram for about 10 minutes. During the VIP Experience, Guests get a much more in-depth look at some iconic movie sets on foot when stepping off the VIP trolley.

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The 5 Best Studio Tours in Hollywood [2024 Reviews]

Hollywood - where dreams are made and stars are born.

The Land of Dreams, Hollywood has been attracting fame-seekers from all over the world for over a hundred years know. Just one of the neighborhood in Los Angeles once, it became the US film industry headquarters in the early 1900’s.

Nowadays, Hollywood sign attracts not only young actors, directors, writers, and musicians, but also tourists from all around the globe.

Crossroads of the World, the Walk of Fame, the Wax Museum, the Universal Studios, and the Warner Brothers Studio – you won’t get bored in this part of the City of Angels, that’s for sure. And here is our list of best Hollywood tours, which, we promise, you’ll find absolutely amazing!

The 5 Best Hollywood Studio Tours

• Universal Studios Hollywood and Movie Stars’ Homes Tour
• Movie Star Homes and Warner Bros Studio Tour
• Private Tour: Hollywood Highlights or Celebrity Homes of Beverly Hills
• Universal Studios Hollywood with Transport
• Hollywood Grand City Tour

Best Hollywood Studio Tours

Best hollywood studio tours reviews, #1 universal studios hollywood and movie stars’ homes tour.

• Departure Point: Tour departs from Grauman’s Chinese Theatre OR selected hotels in the Los Angeles areas. Pickup is NOT available from Anaheim.
• Departure Time: 9:30am. Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
• Duration: 9 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes: Admission to Universal Studios Hollywood, Movie Stars’ Homes Tour, Driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected).

This full-day tour is a great Universal Studios backlot tour, as well as one of the best celebrity home tours in Hollywood. You’ll get an exclusive opportunity to witness the stars’ way of life: where they live, where they shop, where they eat and hang out.

Some of the world’s most renowned celebrities own houses in the secluded streets of Beverly Hills. You will see the mansions of Diana Ross, Nicolas Cage, Steve Martin, Barbara Streisand, Richard Gere, Peter Falk, Tori Spelling, Harrison Ford, Phil Collins, Michael Douglas, Eddie Murphy, and many, many other superstars, famous all over the globe.

Other exclusive sights, which you will see on the tour, are famous Rodeo Drive, Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel, the Sunset Strip, the mansion of Marilyn Monroe, as well as widely known “Pink Palace”. And, of course, the tour can’t miss worldwide-known Hollywood sign, one of the most recognizable sights in LA.

In the Universal Studios, you’ll get an exquisite chance to literarily go behind the scenes of the most popular Hollywood movies. Thrilling rides, attractions, and shows will put you inside some of the world’s most successful movies. This is about to become an experience, which you won’t forget soon.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, #2 movie star homes and warner bros studio tour.

• Departure Point: Starline Terminal. Select hotel pick-ups available.
• Departure Time: 9:30 AM and 12:15 PM.
• Duration: 6 hours (approx.)
• Includes: Narration by a professional driver/guide, entrance to the Warner Bros. Museum and the Transportation Museum, hotel pickup and drop-off (morning tour only).

Go behind the scenes of famous movies on this Warner Brothers Studio tour. Get ready to explore the backlot, where such shows as Batman, Friends, and The Big Bang Theory were brought to life. You’ll get exclusive access to original props, cars, costumes, and sets of your favorite movies and TV shows, created by Warner Brothers.

Explore the amazing world of J.K. Rowling on The Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts exhibit. Visit Stage 48, an interactive sound stage, where characters’ voices and other sounds come alive.

Sit on the famous couch from Central Perk café, feel yourself a hobbit at special effect table, or fly over Hogwarts on a broomstick. This Warner Bros Studio tour is about to become one of the most memorable moments of your visit to LA.

After the Warner Bros tour, you’ll head to the palm-lined streets of Beverly Hills and Bel-Air. You will see houses belonging to Tom Cruise, Ozzy Osbourne, Madonna, Halle Berry, David and Victoria Beckham, Frank Sinatra, Richard Gere, and dozens of other world-famous celebrities.

Then cruise the Sunset Strip, enjoying the view of the renowned Hollywood sign, the Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, and Beverly Wilshire Hotel.

Take numerous stories from one of the best tours in Hollywood back home. You’ll definitely have something to tell your friends and family.

#3  Private Tour: Hollywood Highlights or Celebrity Homes of Beverly Hills

• Departure Point: Your hotel in Los Angeles
• Departure Time: Please advise your preferred departure time in the Special Requirements field when booking
• Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
• Includes: Narration by a professional private guide, transport by air-conditioned private vehicle, bottled water and snacks, hotel pickup and drop-off

If you prefer undivided attention from a professional friendly guide, take this 2-hour private tour. One of the best tours of Hollywood, it offers two options: take a look at celebrity houses or explore Hollywood itself, while sitting in a comfortable private vehicle, enjoying interesting narration and some fresh snacks. The driver will pick you up at your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.

If you pick the great Hollywood homes tour, the driver will take you to Beverly Hills and Bel-Air neighborhoods, situated just across the Sunset Boulevard.

See the mansions of Michael Jackson, Johnny Depp, Madonna, Tom Cruise, Marilyn Monroe, Jennifer Aniston, Leonardo DiCaprio, and many other famed superstars. Get a pick at the life of rich and famous.

Or get to know the history and the presence of Hollywood itself. Walk along Hollywood Boulevard and take pictures among the stars on the Walk of Fame. See the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, the Dolby Theatre, home to the Academy Awards, Chateau Marmont, and the Sunset Strip.

No matter, what option you choose, we’re sure you won’t get bored on one of the best Hollywood car tours.

#4 Universal Studios Hollywood with Transport

• Departure Point: Select hotels and some locations in Anaheim.
• Departure Time: 7:45am – Mid-June to Labor Day, 8:45am – September to Mid-June
• Duration: 12 hours (approx.)
• Includes: Admission to Universal Studios Hollywood, round-trip transportation from designated pickup locations

Enjoy a full day of fun on this Universal Studios tour! Explore the movie sets and experience some of the most thrilling rides in your lifetime.

Come face-to face with scary monsters in the House of Horrors, enjoy some heart-pounding rides in the amusement park, and go inside some of the world’s most famed movies, such as Jurassic Park, Revenge of the Mummy, and King Kong. Go behind the scenes of your favorite movies and TV shows on one of the best Hollywood studio tours!

Rides available include, among others, The 3D Transformers Ride, the Simpsons Ride, and the Water World. Don’t miss a visit to the Special Effects Stage, where you will find out, how your favorite blockbuster movies were made. Learn about stop motion, CGI, motion capture, 3D technology, and other making off secrets and technologies.

This tour is truly a great family getaway and one of the best Hollywood tours for kids!

#5 Hollywood Grand City Tour

• Departure Point: Local Operator Office
• Departure Time: 9:30 am and 12:00 pm
• Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes: All taxes, fees and handling charges, driver/guide, local and professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off (Please contact supplier for exact time and location offered), free hotel pickup and drop-off in Hollywood, West Hollywood and North Hollywood ONLY, open top bus is a single level air-conditioned bus, no restroom, or Wi-Fi.

Feel the essence of Hollywood on one of the best Hollywood bus tours. You will visit some of the most significant landmarks, related to movie making, hear stories from celebrities’ lives, see the locations, where popular movies were filmed, learn about the history of the neighborhood and its culture. Get to know the real Hollywood, both past and present, on this exciting trip.

Best tour of Los Angeles and Hollywood, it offers the opportunity to stroll along the Walk of Fame and find your favored celebrity’s star. Look for your star’s footprints at the TCL Chinese Theater.

Visit Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum, Capital Record, Hard Rock Café, the Dolby Theater, the home of the Oscar, and the fascinating Egyptian Theater, as well as numerous other attractions spotted along the Hollywood Boulevard.

After that, you will head to Griffith Park, for the amazing views and memorable pictures, taken right in front of the famous Hollywood sign. You trip to LA definitely won’t be complete without this experience.

Then, cruise through Beverly Hills and Bel-Air for some celebrity houses eye picking, visit the Sunset Strip night clubs, and scroll down the US most expensive shopping street – Rodeo Drive.

Your Guide to Visiting Hollywood

Airports & Entry

Planning Tips

Restaurants & Eating Out

Nightlife & Entertainment

Getting Around

Accommodations

Attractions

If you are coming to Los Angeles by plane, you will probably land at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Although, the Bob Hope Airport (BUR), situated in Burbank, is closer to Hollywood itself.

The shuttle service from LAX is operated by LAXFlyAway and costs $8 per person per ride. The shuttle bus stops on the west side of Vine Street, half a block away to the south from Hollywood Boulevard.

If you come to Bob Hope Airport, you can take a metro shuttle to North Hollywood station, where you should change to the Red line and ride into Hollywood.

Keep in mind, taxis can be quite expensive and you might have to wait in a long line, in order to get one.

Other airports, available around the city, are Long Beach Airport (LGB), Ontario International Airport (ONT), and John Wayne Airport (SNA). While private planes, mostly, come to Santa Monica (SMO), Van Nuys (VNY), or Hawthorne (HHR).

Consider your plans for Los Angeles promptly, when packing your luggage. Are you going to visit a theater performance, have a picnic, spend days on the beach, or go sightseeing from sunrise until the sunset? Are there any theme parks on your itinerary? Or, maybe, you wish to go hiking in one of the parks?

Make a list of the things you might need, not to forget anything. Swimsuit, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential if you are coming during the summer season. For a long day of sightseeing, pack snickers, slippers, or any other shoes you find comfortable. If you are going hiking, good hiking boots are obligatory. And for a fancy event, such as theater performance or a dinner in a top-end restaurant, don’t forget a nice evening gown.

If Hollywood is even missing something, it is definitely not the number of facilities for eating out. Cafes, bars, and restaurants range from cheap fast food cafes to luxury restaurants, popular with most famous celebrities.

If you are on a low budget, try Ponchik Factory, Roro’s Chicken, Tacos El Gavilan, Skooby’s, La Monarca Bakery & Café, Running Goose, Musso and Frank Grill, Cheebo, Palms Thai Restaurant, or one of the numerous other bistros and cafes all around Hollywood.

However, if you are looking for something unique and elegant, you should head to Yamashiro, Japanese restaurant, which offers great vies of the city, as well as cozy gardens and tasty food. And, just across from the Chinese Theater, you’ll find ceFiore, fine place with Italian desserts, non-fat frozen yoghurt, and yogurt smoothies.

For drinks, try Roosevelt Hotel Lounge, The Well, Velvet Margarita Cantina, or Power House. And if you are a non-alcohol enthusiast or just thirsty for some juice, head to The Juice Fountain, which offers a variety of delicious fresh juices.

As well as with eating facilities, there is no lack of night entertainment in the city, which never sleeps. The number of theaters and nightclubs is exquisite, and New York City is, probably, the only place, which can compete with it.

For cultural evening out, you can choose one of the following options: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood Palladium, Fonda Theater, Ford Theater, Pantages Theater, or Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre.

During the summer season, every Saturday at 7 pm, Hollywood Forever Cemetery hosts Cemetery Movie Screenings, where the Cinespia film society shows old movies. Keep in mind, the crowds can be huge, so arrive prior to the gate opening, if you want a good spot. The same rule applies to tickets, which should be purchased in advance.

Most people bring picnic food with them and enjoy the outdoor movie theater, as well as DJ music playing, while having a nice dinner. But keep in mind, no spirits are allowed, only beer and wine.

The Mulholland Drive offers great views of Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley, both at night and during the daytime, so don’t miss the opportunity. And as for night clubs, head to Sunset Strip, where you’ll find most popular night facilities and disco bars.

Hollywood is situated between Melrose Avenue on the south, the Hollywood Hills on the north, the 101 freeway on the east, and West Hollywood on the west. Two main streets are Hollywood Bouleward and Sunset Boulevard, which are both walkable, as well as the rest of Hollywood most interesting areas.

Hollywood offers a wide range of accommodations for every budget and demand. The antique Roosevelt Hotel, The Beverly Wilshire, filmed in Pretty Woman, and Kimpton Everly Hollywood are some of the upscale choices the city offers.

The range of standard motel chains is also wide, including such as Motel 6, Travelodge, and Best Western. The choice of hostels is acceptable too, including such facilities as USA Hostels Hollywood, Republic Inn, Melrose Hostel, and Orange Drive Hostel.

Hollywood Heights Hotel, Saharan Motor Hotel, Hollywood Le Bon Hotel, as well as Dunes Inn and Trylon Hotel are considered budget accommodations. And there are, of course, numerous apartments available for rent in Hollywood, as well as mansions and bungalows, so why not consider this type of accommodation, rather than a hotel?

The City of Angels enjoys mild Mediterranean climate throughout the year. Summer season is warm, rarely hot, but tends to bring the sadly-famous dirty smog. Although the quality of air has improved over the years, the problem still exists. During August and September, which tend to be the hottest months of the year, the average day temperature gets as high as 28 o C (83 o F), while nights are cooler and bring temperatures such as 17 o C (63 o F). Winters in Los Angeles are mild and rainy. The daytime temperature rarely goes lower, than 20 o C (68 o F), although nights can be as cold as 9 o C (49 o F).

Springs bring both sunny and rainy days, and often, Los Angeles experiences “May Gray” and “June Gloom”, along with the rest of Southern California. Those are marine effects, which bring fog and clouds. Therefore, spring months are not the best time for a beach vacation. Falls are mostly warm and dry, causing frequent wildfires, so be careful if you are going wild during this season. Ocean temperature throughout the year varies from 14 o C (58 o F) in January to 20 o C (68 o F) in August. It’s not warm enough for swimming, but is great for surfing and sailing.

The well-known Santa Ana winds usually come during autumn and winter, although can occur any other time of the year as well. During these periods, hot dry winds blow from the desert to the coast, making weather hot and dry, unlikely the typical climate conditions in the area. Powerful ones can even create a high fire danger, by raising the air temperature quite significantly.

There is no lack of places to see in Hollywood. You can choose the best Hollywood tour from our list above or explore them on your own. If you are into film industry, don’t miss most world famous studios, such as Universal Studios, Warner Brothers Studios, Walt Disney Studios, Paramount Pictures, and CBS Television City. Of course, the Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Sign are must-visit. And don’t forget about Grauman’s Chinese Theater or the Dolby Theater.

If you are a museum enthusiast or the weather is not suitable for walking outside, try some of Los Angeles Museums. In fact, you might find Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Getty Center, and the Natural History Museum quite interesting. While Long Beach hosts one of the world’s largest and most spectacular aquariums – Aquarium of the Pacific – situated just across the harbor from the historic Queen Mary ship.

And for a spectacular scenery, head to one of the following places: Griffith Park, Mullholland Drive, or Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook – they all offer fantastic views of the city and valley laying under.

Tour Guides

The Universal Studios Hollywood and Movie Stars’ Homes Tour is our top pick based on the sites seen and value.

Richard Moore

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15 people injured in Universal Studios Hollywood tour tram crash

At least one person reportedly sustained critical injuries.

Lester Fabian Brathwaite is a staff writer at Entertainment Weekly , where he covers breaking news, all things Real Housewives , and a rich cornucopia of popular culture. Formerly a senior editor at Out magazine, his work has appeared on NewNowNext , Queerty , Rolling Stone , and The New Yorker . He was also the first author signed to Phoebe Robinson's Tiny Reparations imprint. He met Oprah once.

15 people were injured in a tram crash at Universal Studios Hollywood Saturday evening.

According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the victims were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries. KTLA, however, reported at least one person sustained critical injuries.

According to a statement from the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department, "deputies responded to the lower parking lot of Universal Studios Hollywood regarding a tour tram collision. The collision caused several passengers to fall out of the vehicle."

The trams are used in the theme park's signature Studio Tour, transporting guests through iconic Hollywood film sets. It's unclear what caused the crash, or if any other vehicles were involved but LASD tells Entertainment Weekly that the "cause of the accident is still under investigation and there is no further information at this time."

The LACFD Public Information Office confirmed the incident in a tweet , writing "at 9:05 units were dispatched to a tram accident where 15 patients were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries. CHP will be the lead investigatory agency for all further inquiries."

“Saturday night on the Studio Tour, a tram collided with a guard rail while making a left turn," a spokesperson for Universal Studios said in a statement to Entertainment Weekly . "Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor."

The statement continued, "We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority. We have resumed Studio Tour operations with a modified route and are reinforcing our operational and safety protocols."

Earlier this month, Universal Studios Hollywood was hit with a lawsuit stemming from a 2022 incident in which passengers claim they were stranded while riding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, an attraction that takes guests through notable locations in  J.K. Rowling 's Wizarding World, including the Great Hall, the grounds of Hogwarts, and the Quidditch pitch.

Want more movie news? Sign up for  Entertainment Weekly's  free newsletter  to get the latest trailers, celebrity interviews, film reviews, and more.

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Universal Studios tram tossed “multiple” riders to the ground, accident investigators say

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A tram vehicle at Universal Studios Hollywood threw “multiple” riders to the ground after it struck a guardrail near props from the “Jurassic Park” film franchise in an accident that is under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

Details of the accident that took place Saturday night — amid the 60th anniversary of the attraction — remain sketchy, but the CHP said the agency has determined that drugs and alcohol were not a factor in the crash that injured 15 park visitors.

For the record:

3:01 p.m. April 22, 2024 An earlier version of this article said 15 riders on the Universal Studios Hollywood tram attraction were thrown to the ground. The California Highway Patrol said “multiple” riders were thrown to the ground and that a total of 15 were injured.

The tram was driving through the storied Universal Studios back lot shortly after 9 p.m. when the crash occurred, according to authorities.

The linked tram cars passed by a set of props from the “Jurassic Park” film franchise when the tram driver turned onto Avenue M and for some unknown reason the last car in the procession collided with the metal guardrail on the right side, the CHP said. This caused the tram to “tilt and eject multiple passengers from the tram,” authorities said in a news release.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department received a call for service shortly after 9 p.m. for the crash and 15 passengers were transported to a hospital with minor to moderate injuries.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department also responded to the scene but the CHP is the lead agency, a Universal Studios spokesperson said.

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Firefighters and paramedics were on the scene and had assessed and treated 14 people, including bus riders and other vehicle passengers.

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“Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor,” Universal Studios said in a statement.

The theme park is working closely with authorities as Universal Studios continues its “review of the incident and safety remains a top priority.”

The Studio Tour tram ride, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this week, will continue to operate with a modified route and the theme park will reinforce its “operational and safety protocols.”

The status of the injured passengers was unclear as of Monday.

In many ways, the tram ride came to define the theme park.

Over the years, countless riders have enjoyed close encounters with a robotic shark depicting the blood-thirsty animal in the movie “Jaws,” a terrifying stop outside the Bates Motel from the film classic “Psycho” and a harrowing escape from the clutches of King Kong.

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A woman has sued Disneyland and an unnamed employee in a Goofy costume, claiming the character actor hurt her in a fall.

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Newer film franchises have joined the tour, including a stroll through a suburban neighborhood wasted by aliens from the 2005 film “War of the Worlds” to a western-themed sideshow from Jordan Peele’s 2022 movie “Nope.”

The tram tour got its start in 1964 when Universal Studios executives noticed that food sales at the studio commissary shot up after local tour buses were allowed past the studio gates to let fans get a glimpse of the back lot movie sets and props.

The first iteration of the attraction were the pink-and-white Glamour Trams, which carried about 38,200 riders in the first year. Passengers paid $2.50 for a two-and-a-half hour tour that included stops to see a stunt show and a movie makeup exhibition.

Entertainment & Arts

How the Universal Studios tram tour defined the modern theme park

The most important theme park ride ever created? It may just be the Universal Studios tram tour, which dates to the silent film era. Once primarily a behind-the-scenes tour, the trek has evolved to define the modern theme park.

Aug. 3, 2023

Later renamed the Universal Studios Studio Tour, the trams have since endured real life fires, labor strife, a series of expansions and at least one fatal accident.

The theme park launched a renovation project in 2022 to begin converting the diesel-hydraulic powered vehicles to run on electricity to reduce emissions. It is not clear if the tram that struck the guard rail was a newer electric vehicle or an older version.

This is not the first time an accident happened at the theme park. In 1986, a park employee was run over by the tram during a special Halloween “Fright Nights” show . Paul Rebalde, 20, was stationed on a parked tram filled with mannequins dressed to look like corpses, the Sheriff’s Department said at the time.

While in costume, Rebalde was to leap from among the mannequins on the parked tram and frighten people passing on moving trams, but was trapped between the third and fourth sections of one of the four-section moving trams and was run over and dragged to his death, according to authorities. The Halloween-themed attraction was paused for several years and later rebranded “Halloween Horror Nights.”

More recently, a stunt performer was hospitalized after performing in the “Waterworld” show in January 2023 . The performer was set on fire shortly before taking a leap off a tower in the show’s finale. The “Waterworld: A Live Sea War Spectacular” show is inspired by the 1995 Kevin Costner film and opened months after the movie’s debut.

Times editor Hugo Martin contributed to this report.

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April 24, 2024

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Nathan Solis is a Metro reporter covering breaking news at the Los Angeles Times. He previously worked for Courthouse News Service, where he wrote both breaking news and enterprise stories ranging from criminal justice to homelessness and politics. Before that, Solis was at the Redding Record Searchlight as a multimedia journalist, where he anchored coverage of the destructive 2017 fires in Northern California. Earlier in his career, he worked for Eastsider L.A.

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15 people injured when tram collides with guardrail at Universal Studios theme park near Los Angeles

Authorities say more than a dozen people suffered mostly minor injuries when a tram used for tours crashed into a railing at Universal Studios Hollywood near Los Angeles

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. -- More than a dozen people suffered mostly minor injuries when a tram used for tours crashed into a railing at Universal Studios Hollywood near Los Angeles, authorities and the company said.

Los Angeles County Fire Department units responded shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday to the theme park in Universal City, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of downtown LA, the agency said in a social media post.

The California Highway Patrol said that while the tram was negotiating a turn, its last car collided with a metal guardrail, “causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers.”

The fire department said 15 people were taken to hospitals with minor injuries. The highway patrol's statement on Sunday said some of the injuries were moderate, but didn't specify a number.

Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement Sunday afternoon that tours have resumed with a modified route.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor. We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority,” the statement said.

The highway patrol, which is leading the investigation, said alcohol and drugs were not considered a factor.

The tram circuit, called the World-Famous Studio Tour, offers a glimpse behind the scenes of Universal movies including “Jaws” and Jordan Peele's “Nope.” The theme park will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the tour starting Friday.

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15 People Injured in Universal Studios Hollywood Tram Crash, Authorities Say

Fifteen people were injured when a tram crashed at Universal Studios Hollywood on Saturday night, according to authorities.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department shared on social media that it responded to the theme park just after 9 p.m. for reports of a crash.

“A tram tour was in progress on the Universal Studios Hollywood back lot,” Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told The Hollywood Reporter in a statement. “The tram had just passed the Jurassic Park Cars and was making a turn to head northbound on Avenue M. Due to unknown reasons, while negotiating the turn onto Avenue M, the last car of the tram collided with a metal guardrail on the right side of the roadway causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers from the tram.”

“Fifteen passengers were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment and evaluations with minor to moderate injuries,” the statement added. “The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Alcohol and drugs are not considered to be a factor in this crash.”

A spokesperson with Universal Studios Hollywood shared in a statement to THR Saturday night, “There was a tram incident at the theme park tonight that resulted in multiple minor injuries, confirmed by the LA County Fire Dept. We are working to support our guests and understand the circumstances that led to the accident.”

Late Sunday afternoon, a Universal Studios Hollywood spokesperson shared an updated statement: “Saturday night on the Studio Tour, a tram collided with a guard rail while making a left turn. Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor. We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority. We have resumed Studio Tour operations with a modified route and are reinforcing our operational and safety protocols.”

Universal Studios tour is one of the theme park's most popular attractions, taking riders on a one-hour backlot tour to see behind the scenes where some of Hollywood’s most memorable films and television shows were filmed. Some of the movie sets featured in the tour are Jaws and Jordan Peele's Nope .

Starting next week, Universal Studios Hollywood is also celebrating the 60th anniversary of the ride, which they called the “World-Famous Studio Tour,” after its debut in 1964.

April 21, 11:41 a.m. Updated with statement from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

April 21, 5:25 p.m.: Updated with new statement from Universal Studios Hollywood.

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15 people injured when tram collides with guardrail at Universal Studios theme park near Los Angeles

FILE - The Universal Studios Hollywood officially reopens to the public at 25% capacity with COVID-19 protocols in place in Los Angeles, on April 16, 2021. A tram accident at Universal Studios in Los Angeles injured multiple people Saturday night, April 20, 2024, authorities and the company said. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

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UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. (AP) — More than a dozen people suffered mostly minor injuries when a tram used for tours crashed into a railing at Universal Studios Hollywood near Los Angeles, authorities and the company said.

Los Angeles County Fire Department units responded shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday to the theme park in Universal City, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of downtown LA, the agency said in a social media post.

The California Highway Patrol said that while the tram was negotiating a turn, its last car collided with a metal guardrail, “causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers.”

The fire department said 15 people were taken to hospitals with minor injuries. The highway patrol’s statement on Sunday said some of the injuries were moderate, but didn’t specify a number.

Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement Sunday afternoon that tours have resumed with a modified route.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor. We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority,” the statement said.

The highway patrol, which is leading the investigation, said alcohol and drugs were not considered a factor.

The tram circuit, called the World-Famous Studio Tour, offers a glimpse behind the scenes of Universal movies including “Jaws” and Jordan Peele’s “Nope.” The theme park will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the tour starting Friday.

15 injured in tram accident at Universal Studios

A group of amusement park visitors were injured Saturday evening in a Universal Studios tram accident near Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department was dispatched shortly after 9 p.m. PT Saturday and transferred 15 patients to hospitals with minor injuries.

The California Highway Patrol said a tour was underway at the studio in Universal City and the tram was making a turn following the "Jurassic Park Cars" attraction.

"Due to unknown reasons, while negotiating the turn onto Avenue M, the last car of the tram collided with a metal guardrail on the right side of the roadway causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers from the tram," the agency said.

The injuries were evaluated as "minor to moderate," the highway patrol said. Neither drugs nor alcohol are being considered as factors.

A spokesperson for Universal Studios Hollywood confirmed the accident in a statement and said a tram collided with a guard rail while it was turning left.

"Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor," the statement said. "We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority."

Universal said the Studio Tour has resumed "with a modified route" and the park is "reinforcing our operational and safety protocols."

Universal Studios is owned by NBC News’ parent company, NBCUniversal.

According to the park’s website, the tram tour is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary Friday.

The Universal Studios Tour offers park visitors a chance to ride a tram through behind-the-scenes locations of some of the studio's famed films while tour guides impart some of the history of the lot.

Many of the locations are still used for filming, so the locations may change. A consistently popular attraction includes re-creations of scenes such as a "Jaws"-style shark attack.

Doha Madani is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News. Pronouns: she/her.

Emilie Dorn is an NBC News assignment editor.

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