A Guide to Private Tours of US Film Sets and Studio Lots

For film and television enthusiasts, few experiences rival the thrill of walking through the sets and studio lots where iconic scenes were brought to life. The United States, as the epicenter of global film and television production, offers a variety of opportunities to explore behind the scenes—from historic Hollywood backlots to cutting-edge soundstages in Georgia and New York. But while public tours provide a general overview, private studio tours deliver something truly special: personalized access, insider knowledge, and a more intimate look at the creative process behind film and television production.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply someone craving a unique and immersive travel experience, this comprehensive guide explores the world of private tours on US film sets and studio lots—from how to access them to what to expect when the cameras stop rolling.

The Allure of Private Studio Tours

Public studio tours can be fun, but they often follow a fixed route, are packed with tourists, and offer only surface-level insights. A private tour, on the other hand, offers a more curated experience. Visitors are often guided by someone with deep insider knowledge—sometimes even an industry professional or former crew member—who can personalize the tour to suit specific interests, whether it’s the golden age of cinema, television comedies, or special effects blockbusters.

Here are some unique features of private film set tours:

• Behind-the-scenes access to working sets and soundstages

• Interaction with crew or talent (where available and allowed)

• Customized itineraries, based on genre or era preferences

• Access to archives, costume departments, and prop warehouses

• Photo opportunities in areas closed to the general public

Where to Go: Key Locations for Private Film Set Tours

1. Los Angeles, California – Hollywood & Burbank

Los Angeles is the heart of the film industry, and the options for private studio tours are abundant.

Warner Bros. Studios – Burbank

Warner Bros. offers a VIP tour option that takes guests far beyond the standard tram route. Visitors may walk the backlots where iconic shows like Friends, Gilmore Girls, and The Big Bang Theory were filmed. The tour can include entry into working soundstages, the Central Perk Café, and costume or prop departments.

Universal Studios Hollywood – Universal City

Universal’s private VIP experience includes a guided trolley tour through the massive backlot where everything from Jurassic Park to Psycho was filmed. The VIP tour allows you to disembark and walk through soundstages and streetscapes, plus access to the post-production studio and VIP lounges.

Sony Pictures Studios – Culver City

Located on the historic MGM lot, Sony’s private tours give you a front-row view of where The Wizard of Oz, Men in Black, and Breaking Bad were produced. The guided walk often includes visits to the Foley stages and active shooting locations, depending on scheduling.

2. New York City, New York – East Coast Sets

NYC may be known for its Broadway scene, but it’s also a major hub for TV production and independent cinema.

Kaufman Astoria Studios

Kaufman Astoria, where classics like Sesame Street are filmed, offers bespoke private tours for film buffs or small educational groups. Depending on production schedules, guests might witness part of a live shoot or explore preserved sets.

Silvercup Studios

Famous for producing 30 Rock, The Sopranos, and Sex and the City, Silvercup occasionally offers private group tours. These need to be arranged in advance and often cater to industry professionals, students, or VIP clientele.

NBC Studios Tour – Rockefeller Center

While mostly public, NBC offers a private version of its studio tour where guests can see Studio 8H (home of Saturday Night Live) and even participate in a mock production. These are intimate and often led by network insiders.

3. Atlanta, Georgia – The Hollywood of the South

Thanks to generous tax incentives, Georgia has become a major filming destination.

Tyler Perry Studios

One of the most secure and privately held studios, Tyler Perry Studios occasionally offers private tours for high-profile individuals or groups with special access. It features an airport-sized campus, including a replica White House and an entire small-town block used for multiple productions.

EUE/Screen Gems Studios

This historic site in Atlanta has housed productions like Stranger Things and The Hunger Games. With the right connections or group arrangements, private tours may be organized through local film organizations or production partners.

4. Albuquerque, New Mexico – Breaking Bad Territory

New Mexico’s deserts and cityscapes have made it an unlikely but iconic film location.

ABQ Studios

Used for productions like Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, and The Avengers, ABQ Studios is sometimes accessible to visitors with private arrangements through tourism partners. Tours often include site visits to filming locations in the city alongside soundstage walkthroughs.

Types of Private Studio Tour Experiences

1. Thematic Tours

These tours focus on a specific show, film franchise, or genre. Examples include:

• Harry Potter set walkthroughs at Warner Bros.

• Classic film tours highlighting Casablanca and other golden-era productions

• Superhero-centric tours focused on DC or Marvel film sets

2. Technical & Behind-the-Scenes Focus

For guests interested in the filmmaking process, these private experiences include:

• Editing bays

• Special effects stages

• Audio and Foley studios

• Lighting and rigging demonstrations

3. Meet-the-Expert Tours

Some studios offer private sessions with costume designers, set decorators, or location scouts who give insider insights into the creative process. These are especially useful for students and aspiring creatives.

4. VIP Red Carpet Tours

For a truly indulgent experience, private red carpet-style tours come with:

• Limousine pick-up and drop-off

• Champagne receptions

• Private studio gift bags

• On-site dining in executive lounges or themed restaurants

How to Book a Private Film Studio Tour

Booking a private studio tour requires more planning than the standard option. Here are key steps:

1. Plan Early – Private experiences are in high demand and limited availability.

2. Use Official Channels – Contact studios directly or through verified VIP concierge services.

3. Be Flexible – Studios are working environments. Access may depend on filming schedules.

4. Disclose Interests – When booking, share your preferences (classic cinema, sitcoms, sci-fi, etc.) so the experience can be customized.

5. Be Prepared for Background Checks – Some studios require visitor screening for security.

6. Understand the Rules – Photography, filming, or touching props may be restricted in certain areas.

What to Expect During the Tour

Private studio tours usually last 2–4 hours and are tailored to the group’s interests. Guests can expect:

• An overview of the studio’s history

• Personalized access to specific sets or departments

• Time to walk through backlots, themed streets, and facades

• Discussions with crew members (subject to availability)

• Exclusive merchandise or photo opportunities

Depending on your package, you may also enjoy:

• Complimentary refreshments

• Swag bags or memorabilia

• Filming or costume previews

Travel Tips for Making the Most of Your Private Studio Tour

• Dress comfortably for walking and varying weather conditions (especially in outdoor backlots).

• Arrive early and leave time for security check-ins.

• Bring questions for your guide—they often have firsthand stories you won’t find online.

• Check local filming calendars to avoid blackout dates when sets are closed for production.

• Respect NDAs or confidentiality agreements, especially if entering active filming zones.

Ideal Travelers for Private Studio Tours

These private experiences are ideal for:

• Film students wanting inspiration or insights

• Hollywood superfans seeking once-in-a-lifetime moments

• Luxury travelers looking for exclusive access

• Couples or families desiring a personalized, immersive day

• Business groups or corporate retreats seeking creative experiences

Costs and Customization

Prices for private film studio tours can vary significantly based on factors like:

• Tour length

• Number of guests

• Level of exclusivity (e.g., behind-the-scenes vs. celebrity access)

• Add-ons (transport, dining, photo ops)

Basic private tours may start at a few hundred dollars, while elite experiences can cost several thousand—especially if they include meet-and-greets or professional filming components.

Conclusion

Private tours of US film sets and studio lots offer an unrivaled glimpse into the magic of movie-making. They are as educational as they are enchanting, combining entertainment, history, and creativity in an unforgettable format. Whether you’re strolling through the cobbled streets of a backlot New York, standing on the soundstage of a favorite TV show, or chatting with a costume designer in a bustling wardrobe department, these experiences provide a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind the screen.

For the discerning traveler who wants more than just to watch the story—who wants to walk through it, touch it, and live it—a private studio tour is the perfect script.