Paramount Pictures is the only one of the major film studios that is still located within Hollywood itself, and its lot on Melrose Avenue is a working, historic studio with a distinctive wrought-iron gate on Bronson Avenue. The guided studio tour takes you past soundstages, the backlot streetscapes, and areas where well-known films and television shows have been shot, with stories from the studio's long history. It is a smaller, more intimate experience than the theme-park-style tours at Universal or Warner Bros., and it is a good fit for film fans who want the history without the crowds.
The appeal of the Paramount tour is its place in film history. The studio dates back to the early days of Hollywood, and its lot has hosted countless productions, which the guides tie to specific buildings and soundstages. The backlot has street sets that can be dressed to play New York, Chicago or small-town America, and tours often include time on those streets.
You may also see the studio's famous gate and the water tower, though what you see depends on the production schedule, since this is a working lot where access can change from day to day.
Because it is a working studio, the tour has a different rhythm from a theme park. Groups are modest in size, guides provide commentary, and the route may vary depending on filming. Photography rules apply on some parts of the lot, and some areas may be closed when a production is underway. That unpredictability is part of the charm for people who like seeing the machinery behind the movies, but it means you should confirm the tour details and arrival time when you book, and allow a flexible morning or afternoon around it.
The studio sits on Melrose Avenue between Hollywood and the Miracle Mile, so it pairs easily with other Hollywood sights: Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame are close by, the Hollywood Forever cemetery adjoins the lot, and the Academy Museum and LACMA are a short drive to the west. It suits older children, teens and adults rather than very young kids, since the tour involves walking and listening. If you want the thrill rides, go to Universal; if you want the behind-the-scenes history of how movies get made, Paramount rewards a visit.
What to expect
The experience
Guided tour of a working studio lot in Hollywood, including soundstages and backlot streets. Group sizes are modest and the route varies with production activity.
Best time
Weekday tours are the best bet, when more of the lot is active. Check the tour time when you book.
How long
About two hours, confirm when you book.
Tips
Arrive early with photo ID if requested, wear comfortable shoes, and keep the afternoon flexible. Confirm photography rules and any restrictions, since this is a working lot.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Film fans, history lovers and anyone who wants a behind-the-scenes studio look without the theme park.
- Families
- Best for older children and teens who can walk and listen; there are no rides.
- Couples
- A good low-key Hollywood outing, with Melrose Avenue and Hollywood nearby.
- Pair with
- The Walk of Fame, Hollywood Boulevard and the Academy Museum are all close by.
- Time needed
- About two hours.
Good questions
Where is Paramount Pictures?+
On Melrose Avenue in Hollywood, between Hollywood and the Miracle Mile. It is the only major studio still located within Hollywood itself.
Is the tour a ride?+
No. It is a guided walking and tram-style tour of a working studio lot, with commentary on the history of the lot and its productions.
Will I see celebrities filming?+
Not reliably. It is a working lot, so activity varies, and access depends on what is in production. The tour focuses on the history and the sets.
Is it good for young children?+
Better for older kids and teens. The tour involves walking and listening rather than rides.
How does it compare to Warner Bros. or Universal?+
Paramount is smaller and more intimate, with a focus on history and a working-lot feel. Warner Bros. leans into the movie-making exhibits, and Universal combines a tram tour with a theme park.
