Paramount Pictures Studio Tour
4.5(4.6K)google
4.4(91)yelp
FilmHollywoodGuided TourEducational
Overview
As the singular major Hollywood film studio remaining geographically within Hollywood proper, this active lot delivers guests unmatched glimpses into entertainment history. Walking through the iconic Bronson Gate, fans can tour working soundstages and view massive outdoor New York street backlots.
Practical Info
Best TimeThis year-round tour is best experienced on weekdays (Monday through Friday), when the historic studio lot is actively working, maximizing your chances of seeing real television and film production. Book a 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM slot for pleasant morning temperatures and optimal lighting at the famous Paramount arches.
Getting ThereSituated in Hollywood, you can take the Metro B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Vine Station, then catch the Metro Bus Route 210, exiting at Melrose/Bronson directly in front of the gates. If driving, navigate to the dedicated Paramount Guest Parking structure at 5515 Melrose Ave (parking fee applies).
Travel Tips
- All studio tour variants must be pre-booked online as no walk-up ticket windows exist on-site; you must present a valid, physical government ID or passport matching the reservation name at security, or entry will be denied with zero refunds.
- This is an active commercial production facility with strict anti-spoiler rules; mobile photography is only permitted in designated open-air backlot streets when explicitly indicated by the guide. Videotaping or unauthorized shooting of soundstages results in immediate device wiping and expulsion.
- Standard tours last 2 hours and consist entirely of brisk walking across uneven studio asphalt and high soundstage thresholds; backless sandals, slides, and high heels are banned—wear closed-toe sneakers. No luggage storage facilities exist, so leave all bulky bags behind.
Reviews
Positive
- As the only major century-old studio still operating in central Hollywood, seeing the Forrest Gump bench and active soundstages delivers a visual punch that lives up to the name.
- Docents are industry-savvy cinephiles providing deep commentary while driving you through backlots in premium golf carts, maximizing the fun experience.
- The studio backlots are orderly and secure; high-end restrooms are pristine, reflecting top-tier management from a global entertainment giant.
- Set on a prime Hollywood avenue right off municipal bus lines, it is highly accessible, with clear directional signs leading to its parking lot.
Heads up
- The tour ticket is among the most expensive in LA, and the gift shop marks up basic logo hoodies heavily; the general spend threshold is very high.
- Because it is an active commercial studio, if prime production crews lock down a set for filming, famous backlots and stages close to tours without warning.
- Flat-rate driving parking fees are expensive, and surrounding Melrose Avenue grinds to a complete halt during rush hours, causing heavy delays.
- You must strictly follow the guide and are barred from exploring solo; inside certain active stages, pulling out phones or cameras is banned for copyright defense.