Paramount Pictures

Paramount is the only major studio still located in Hollywood, which makes the 2-hour "cart tour" around its Hollywood headquarters far more historically enriching than the modern studios in Burbank (even the wrought-iron gates Gloria Swanson motored through in Sunset Boulevard are still there). The tour is both a historical ode to filmmaking and a real-life, behind-the-scenes look at working movie and television facilities in day-to-day operation; ergo, no two tours are alike, and chances of spotting a celebrity are pretty good. Visits typically include a walk-through of the soundstages of TV shows or feature films, though you can't enter while taping is taking place. The $40 tours depart Monday through Friday by advance reservations up to one month out, though you can occasionally get lucky with same-day tickets if you are in the neighborhood. You need to be 12 or older to take the tour, and recording equipment is verboten (still cameras are ok in certain areas). Tip: Unfortunately, tour guests are no longer permitted to have lunch at the commissary.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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