A Friendly Look at the Two Hour Movie and Show Locations Tour with Film Freak Tours
If you’re a movie buff headed to Los Angeles, chances are you’re eager to see where your favorite films and TV shows were made. The Two Hour Movie and Show Locations Tour with Film Freak Tours promises just that—an up-close look at iconic Hollywood filming spots, guided by a knowledgeable industry insider.
We’ve checked out the reviews, the itinerary, and what makes this tour stand out, so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your trip.
Leo was knowledgeable about the area mainly due to the fact that he has lived that lifestyle , excellent tour and wiukk oh d definitely recommend
Great tour for movie buffs. Leo is very knowledgeable. Look for the open air bus labeled Film Freak parked on Orange Drive (left side of the hotel) about 15 minutes before the start of your tour.
Leo is fantastic and knows everything about Hollywood and the movies. This tour was made for me. As a movie buff I was so excited for this tour and it didn't disappoint. You see where many movies and tv shows were filmed. Book this tour!!
One thing that really jumps out is how highly rated this experience is—a perfect 5.0/5 based on 166 reviews. Travelers love the depth of Hollywood stories and the personal touch of guide Leo, who’s interviewed stars like Ryan Reynolds, Robert Downey Jr, and Tom Hanks. Plus, the open-air minivan gives you excellent photo opportunities while riding through LA’s most famous spots.
On the flip side, it’s a shorter tour—just about two hours—so if you’re looking for a deep dive into Hollywood’s history, you might want to supplement this with more extensive studio visits.
This tour is designed for anyone with a curiosity about Hollywood’s filming history or a love for movies and TV. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a quick, engaging overview of the city’s cinematic landmarks. If you’re after a personal, insider experience with storytelling that’s both fun and informative, this tour could be just what you need.
Key Points
- Expert Guide: Leo’s industry experience and personal stories make the tour memorable.
- Iconic Locations: Visit Hollywood landmarks and filming spots used in well-known movies and TV shows.
- Comfortable Ride: Riding in an open-air minivan offers great photo ops and a relaxed vibe.
- Concise Duration: At around 2 hours, it’s a quick way to get an overview without feeling rushed.
- Affordable Price: At $39.99, it offers good value for a Hollywood-themed experience.
- Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 13 travelers, the tour feels personalized and intimate.
What to Expect from the Tour Itself
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Los Angeles
Starting Point: Hollywood Roosevelt
The tour kicks off at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, an instantly recognizable Hollywood icon. While the admission isn’t included, the location itself sets the tone—classic, glamorous, and steeped in Hollywood history. It’s a popular meeting point, easy to find and close to public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.
Very fun and informative! Our guide Leo and the driver are very personable. You get to see a lot in 2 hours. Highly recommend.
Many locations were shown, with lots of narrative an information. Discount coupons given at the end for local businesses
Leo, the tour guide, was really knowledgeable of everything around. He used to have a show and interview celebrities, so he actually knows some gems you might not hear/find on other tours.
Stops You’ll Visit
Formosa Cafe is next, a legendary spot that’s been featured in numerous productions. Just a brief stop here, but it’s fun to see where movies like The Lincoln Lawyer and The Golden Child filmed scenes. The cafe’s vintage vibe and history make it a favorite among film fans.
Troubadour is a music and entertainment staple used in films like Rocketman and Tilt. Though a quick stop, it’s full of character and clearly a place with lots of stories behind its facade. It’s not included in the ticket price, but worth noting if you’re into Hollywood venues.
Pink’s Hot Dogs is more than just a tasty snack spot; it’s a Hollywood staple seen in movies like The Lincoln Lawyer. You can snap photos from the outside and imagine the scenes that played out here.
Jim Henson Company (formerly Chaplin Studios) is where classics like The Muppet Movie and Dark Crystal were filmed. Visiting this site provides a fun peek into the world of puppetry and animatronics that made Jim Henson a Hollywood legend.
This was an excellent tour! Leo really knows Hollywood and we felt like the videos plus the movie locations while you’re sitting right in front of the place was amazing! The price was extremely reasonable and it was one of our favorite tours
If you love movies, this is a tour filled with fun movie locations and info. The owner led tour gives a great dive into his past inside the Hollywood scene which is so interesting to hear. Don’t expect to get many photos of the locales. While they’ll slow or even stop for the most popular, Leo will point out a lot more than you could capture through the open sided bus.
Absolutely incredible! We were able to see the sites and he played the clips from the movies so you could actually see it in the film! This is a MUST DO!
Main Hollywood Area: The bulk of the tour is spent driving through Hollywood, where you’ll see more than 50 filming locations from blockbusters like Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Iron Man 3, Back to the Future, Pretty Woman, and many others. This hour-long stretch is packed with stories and clips, giving you a broad overview of Hollywood’s cinematic landscape.
The Experience
Most travelers love Leo’s storytelling—“Leo was so knowledgeable,” says Hannah, who loved that he took them to lesser-known spots as well as the iconic locations. Multiple reviews emphasize how personable and engaging Leo is, adding personal tidbits and insider info that makes the tour feel special.
The vehicle itself is a highlight—an open-air minivan that allows for unobstructed photos and an immersive experience. The short stops are well-timed, giving just enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.
Price & Value
At just $39.99, this is a budget-friendly way to see Hollywood’s filming spots. Compared to more extensive studio tours that can cost upwards of $50-$100, this offers a quick but comprehensive Hollywood highlights reel. Many reviews describe it as “the best movie tour,” with some calling it “top tier,” especially because of Leo’s passion and knowledge.
Leo was so knowledgeable. It felt like a locals tour so rather than just seeing the most obvious locations he took us to places you’d never guessed were used. Lots of great personal tidbits as well. We had a great time
We loved seeing all of the historic Hollywood spots for film locations and Hollywood intrigue. Leo was a knowledgeable, personable and fun guide for our family with teenage sons. Thank you for a wonderful time!
This tour was the highlight of our trip! Leo was very entertaining and knowledgeable about all things Hollywood!
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Los Angeles
Who is This Tour For?
This experience is great for movie lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a fun, quick overview of Hollywood’s film history. It’s also suited for those who appreciate storytelling and insider tales. The small group size means a more intimate feel, which is great for asking questions or snapping candid photos.
Considerations
While it’s a fun and informative tour, keep in mind it’s only about two hours long. If you’re seeking an in-depth exploration of Hollywood studios or want to visit specific filming locations in detail, this might feel a bit brief. Also, the stops are mostly quick photo ops and exterior views—they don’t include interior tours or access to studio lots.
The Bottom Line
If you’re after a lively, friendly, and well-informed Hollywood tour, the Film Freak Tours option is hard to beat at this price. The combination of a personable guide, the convenience of a short ride, and the chance to see many iconic spots makes it a great choice for a quick Hollywood fix.
The real star here is Leo, whose passion for movies shines through and makes the experience engaging beyond just sightseeing.
Leo is very knowledgeable of the industry and there are very interesting places to visit. If you are a fan of movies of any kind, this tour is mandatory.
Got to view many memorable places in Hollywood. Leo is a great tour guide and very knowledgeable about the different areas we went. Highly recommend this tour if you love movies.
This tour was amazing! Leo did an excellent job taking me around LA and showing me all the movie locations I would've never known about. Buildings that I had passed by before, I had no idea they were in movies until Leo showed me the very scenes from those movies. He also showed me locations where some of my favorite stars like to hangout, which I was not expecting on this tour at all. He was so knowledgeable that I left this tour feeling like I knew secrets that other people don't know. Leo even pointed out that Pauly Shore walked right past us. It was an amazing tour. Leo and the driver were great!
For those who want to learn behind-the-scenes stories or just want to stand in the same spots where movies were shot, this tour offers a compelling blend of entertainment and education. It’s especially ideal if you’re with friends or family who are movie fans but don’t want to commit to a longer, more expensive studio tour.
Two Hour Movie and Show Locations Tour with Film Freak Tours
"Leo was knowledgeable about the area mainly due to the fact that he has lived that lifestyle , excellent tour and wiukk oh d definitely recommend"
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best suited for older kids or teens who have an interest in movies. The focus on Hollywood locations and stories appeals to a wide age range, but this isn’t a kid-specific tour.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately two hours, which makes it manageable even if you have a busy schedule or prefer shorter sightseeing outings.
Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is near public transit options, making it convenient for most travelers.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Just your camera or smartphone for photos. Leo is helpful and friendly—he even asks if you need chargers or blankets, so he’s attentive to comfort.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds or options for a different date.
Is this the best Hollywood movie tour?
Based on reviews, many travelers feel this is the top pick, thanks to Leo’s expertise, the variety of locations, and the engaging storytelling.
All in all, if you’re looking for a fun, authentic Hollywood experience with insider stories and great photos, this tour is a solid choice. It’s a quick yet memorable way to see Hollywood’s most famous spots with an industry insider leading the way.
