Hollywood: Movie & TV Locations Tour with Film Insider

Summary

Walk where movie legends stood from Pink’s to Chaplin Studios

You’ll walk through Hollywood with a true film insider—hearing stories from red carpet premieres and seeing over 50 real movie locations like Pink’s Hot Dogs and Chaplin Studios. Expect laughter, unexpected details, and moments where Hollywood feels personal—not just famous. Includes VIP discounts and easy phone charging so you don’t miss a thing.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the Hollywood Roosevelt’s sign or even the crowds — it was Leo’s voice, this warm radio tone that somehow cut through all the street noise. He started our tour right there in the lobby, pointing at a corner where Marilyn Monroe supposedly used to sneak off for quiet. I’d seen the place in movies but never realized how much history just sits in the carpets and walls. It smelled faintly of old perfume and coffee from somewhere behind us. Leo told a story about interviewing Tom Hanks here years ago — apparently he’s as friendly as you hope.

We hopped into the van (thankfully, USB chargers at every seat — my phone was already dying), and Leo queued up a quick clip on his tablet before we pulled up to Formosa Cafe. I didn’t expect to feel anything at a diner, but seeing the same red booths from “L.A. Confidential” out the window made me weirdly giddy. Leo knew everyone behind the counter; he waved and they grinned back like old friends. He kept tossing out little details — who sat where, which scenes were shot at night versus day — stuff you’d never get from those big bus tours.

Pink’s Hot Dog stand was next, and yeah, it’s touristy, but standing in line thinking about Eddie Murphy filming “The Golden Child” here made me laugh. The smell of onions hit hard (in a good way), and some local guy ahead of us tried to guess which movies we’d seen filmed there. After that it was Jim Henson Company — still can’t believe that used to be Chaplin’s studio. The gate has Kermit dressed as Chaplin on top; it’s oddly moving if you grew up on The Muppets like I did.

I lost count after maybe twenty stops — Leo rattled off stories about “Pretty Woman,” “Iron Man 3,” even “Back to the Future.” At one point he paused mid-sentence because someone recognized him from TV Guide Network and wanted a selfie (he obliged). There was something comforting about how casual it all felt; no rush, just this steady stream of memories tied to real places instead of just screens. I still think about that moment outside The Troubadour when Leo described Elton John’s first LA show — you could almost hear echoes if you listened hard enough. So yeah, if you care about movies or just want to see Hollywood through someone who really lived it… this is worth your morning.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hollywood movie and TV location tour

• Start at Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
• See Formosa Cafe filming location
• Visit the Troubador venue
• Stop at Pink's Hot Dog location
• Visit Jim Henson Company studios
• Tour over 50 iconic film locations

Top questions

How long is the Hollywood Movie & TV Locations Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

Are there any food stops during the tour?

You’ll stop at Pink’s Hot Dog stand, featured in several films.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the starting point.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join with prams or strollers.

Is this tour accessible by public transport?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Will I see actual filming locations from famous movies?

Yes, you’ll visit over 50 movie locations including those from “Pretty Woman,” “Iron Man 3,” and more.

Are service animals permitted?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your experience includes two hours with a genuine Hollywood film insider guiding you through iconic locations across Hollywood—plus VIP discounts at Funko Hollywood and more. Every seat comes with USB charging ports so your phone stays ready for photos or videos throughout your journey.