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Top 5 LA Attractions for Film Fanatics
Stephanie Meador
It’s hard to imagine planning a trip to LA without blocking out some time to learn about and appreciate the oldest film industry in the world. Whether you’re encapsulated by the classics or constantly keeping up with the newest tech, there is a place for you to discover the wonders of movie making.
Photos via Stephanie Meador and Warner Bros. Studio Tour Instagram
Take a tour of some of the most famous film and TV sets of spectacular hits: past and present. Learn about the real-life magic used in creating the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and enjoy browsing some of the props and costumes from the films. Fans can even be sorted by the sorting hat! WB also offers a DC exhibit where guests can step into the world of their favorite superheroes. Tourists can also enjoy seeing the sets where iconic series such as Friends and The Big Bang Theory were filmed. Don’t forget to bring some extra money for souvenirs, because at the end of the tour, you’ll be free to shop in the gift shop: full of move-themed merchandise and knick-knacks that pay tribute to your favorite shows. This one’s the top of our list of LA attractions for film fans visiting Tinsel Town!
PHOTOS VIA SONY PICTURES STUDIO TOURS
Choose between the daily tours, group tours, and VIP tours and get ready to be swept off your feet as you enter this capsule of movie screen magic. Visit sound stages once home to legendary films like Men in Black and Spider-Man. Stop by the sites of popular game shows such as Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. Enjoy browsing film artifacts in the studio museum and keep your eyes peeled for popular stars at work on projects soon to come. Tour guides are eager to answer all your movie-making questions and to share behind-the-scenes secrets with adoring fans.
PHOTOS VIA CITY SIGHT SEEING LOS ANGELES
The “hop-on, hop-off” bus can take you all around LA to visit various sites where some of your favorite cinematic masterpieces were shot. Stop by Union Station and see the railroad passenger terminal that makes appearances in popular films such as Blade Runner and The Dark Knight Rises. Another stop to make is at the Biltmore Hotel. You might recognize this building from films like Wedding Crashers and Ghostbusters. Starline also offers a Hollywood Celebrity Homes tour so if you are interested in seeing how the stars of these blockbuster hits live, check that out as well. It may seem like one of the kitschier LA attractions for film fans, but it’s a must-do for all movie aficionados!
PHOTOS VIA THE OSCARS DIGITAL LIBRARY
This quiet escape from the bustling city provides an academic oasis for the studious LA film fanatic. One of the largest research libraries in the country, Margaret Herrick Library is the perfect place to go if you want to learn more about the development of the motion picture. Peruse thousands of screenplays, photographs, and books to learn about the development of filmmaking across decades. This place is a must-visit if you’re intrigued by film history and want to read more about it.
PHOTOS VIA HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME INSTAGRAM
With more than 2,600 stars on the Walk of Fame, you are certain to find a familiar name or two as you explore the 15 blocks of famous icons. Find your favorite actors, live performers, TV stars, radio personalities, and musicians all scattered across the path. Check out the map on the Hollywood Walk of Fame website to locate your favorite celeb’s star beforehand. When you find it, make sure to document the moment with a picture. If you are lucky, you might just run into the face that matches the name!
What are some of your favorite iconic movie sites in LA? Who’s your favorite Hollywood star? Share with us on Instagram @yourherelive
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