Why visit Burbank
Burbank is where the magic of Hollywood actually gets made, and you can see it up close on the excellent Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The pleasant downtown brims with shops, restaurants, and a buzzy nightlife, while attractions like the famous Bob's Big Boy, Stough Canyon hiking, and easy access to nearby Universal Studios round out a visit. It's an ideal, low-stress base for entertainment fans and families.
Named for dentist-turned-rancher David Burbank, the city incorporated in 1911 and grew through aviation, with Lockheed building aircraft here for decades, and through entertainment, as Warner Bros. and later Walt Disney established their studios in town. The dual identity of airplane manufacturing and moviemaking defined 20th-century Burbank, earning it the nickname 'Media Capital of the World.' Aviation has faded, but Burbank remains the headquarters of major studios and a quintessential industry town with a wholesome, small-city feel.
Top Attractions
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
An immersive, behind-the-scenes tour of working backlots, soundstages, and sets from beloved films and shows; book ahead on the official website.
- Universal Studios Hollywood (nearby)
Just over the city line, the famous theme park and working studio offers rides, the studio tour tram, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Downtown Burbank
A walkable district of shops, restaurants, a multiplex, and the AMC Burbank, lively day and night.
- Bob's Big Boy
A 1949 Googie-style diner that's a designated landmark, famous for car-hop service on weekends and classic Americana atmosphere.
- Stough Canyon & Wildwood Canyon
Foothill trailheads above town offering accessible hikes and panoramic valley views.
- The Gordon R. Howard Museum
A local history museum highlighting Burbank's aviation and entertainment heritage.
A Suggested Day
- 1Start with breakfast at Bob's Big Boy or Porto's
- 2Take the Warner Bros. Studio Tour (book in advance)
- 3Lunch and shop in walkable downtown Burbank
- 4Hike a section of Stough Canyon for valley views
- 5Spend the afternoon at nearby Universal Studios Hollywood
- 6Dine with a view at The Castaway
Where to Eat
- Bob's Big BoyClassic diner
The historic Googie diner serving burgers and shakes; the weekend hot-rod gatherings in the lot are a beloved tradition.
- Porto's Bakery & CafeCuban bakery
The Burbank branch of the famous Cuban bakery, drawing crowds for pastries, sandwiches, and potato balls.
- Olive & ThymeCalifornia cafe / market
A popular gourmet cafe and marketplace favored by locals and studio workers for fresh, seasonal fare.
- The CastawayAmerican steakhouse
A hilltop restaurant with sweeping views over the valley, popular for special occasions; reserve ahead.
Where to Stay
- Mid-rangeBurbank Marriott Convention Center
A large full-service hotel near the airport and studios, convenient for industry visitors.
- BoutiqueHotel Amarano Burbank
A stylish boutique hotel near the studios, popular with entertainment travelers.
- Mid-rangeHoliday Inn Burbank-Media Center
A practical, comfortable option close to downtown and the Warner Bros. lot.
Best Photo Spots
- 📸 The neon Bob's Big Boy sign
- 📸 Warner Bros. studio water tower
- 📸 Downtown Burbank's tree-lined San Fernando Boulevard
- 📸 Valley views from Stough Canyon
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Top Attractions Near Burbank
Theme ParksUniversal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a major movie-themed amusement park and working film studio, blending thrill rides with the famous behind-the-scenes Studio Tour. Immersive lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World make it one of LA's top family attractions.
LandmarksGriffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory is a free public observatory on the slopes of Mount Hollywood, offering telescopes, science exhibits, and some of the best views in Los Angeles. Its Art Deco architecture and sweeping vistas of the city, the Hollywood Sign, and the Pacific make it a must-see for first-time visitors.
LandmarksHollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a stretch of sidewalk embedded with thousands of terrazzo-and-brass stars honoring entertainment legends. Free and always open, it runs through the heart of Hollywood past landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Dolby Theatre.
Burbank FAQ
How do I tour a studio in Burbank?
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood offers guided behind-the-scenes tours; book tickets in advance on the official website, as they sell out and details can change.
Is Universal Studios in Burbank?
Universal Studios Hollywood sits just over the city line in the Universal City/Studio City area, a short drive away, making Burbank a convenient base for visiting.
Is Burbank good for families?
Yes. With studio tours, a safe walkable downtown, easy hikes, and proximity to Universal, Burbank is one of the more family-friendly bases in the LA area.
