Warner Bros. Studio - trying to decide which tour.

Question

We want to visit SW studios while we're in LA but I can't decide between the Studio tour and the TCM Classic Films Tour. We're more interested in the film side than the TV stuff (we're not Friends fans and don't even know what the Gilmour Girls is) so the Classic Films seems a better choice for us. But I don't want to miss anything.

Any advice welcome. Thanks.

Answer

If your main interest is in film history rather than modern TV shows, the Warner Bros. TCM Classic Film Tour is likely the better choice for you. This tour focuses on the studio’s rich history in classic cinema, covering iconic films, legendary stars, and behind-the-scenes stories from Hollywood’s golden age.

Here are some considerations when deciding between the two tours:

Studio Tour: This is the standard tour that covers both film and television production. You’ll see current soundstages, sets, and potentially active filming, which includes shows like “Friends” or “Gilmore Girls.” It’s more about seeing the operational side of a modern studio and might not emphasize classic films.
TCM Classic Film Tour: This is a more curated experience focused on Warner Bros.' legacy in classic films. You’ll learn about legendary directors, actors, and cinematic milestones, and the tour often highlights memorabilia, historic sets, and classic backlot locations.
Time and schedule: Both tours last around 2–2.5 hours, but the TCM Classic Film Tour may offer fewer crowds and a more focused experience if your group is primarily film enthusiasts rather than TV fans.

If you want to maximize your experience and don’t want to miss anything iconic:

Consider the TCM Classic Film Tour as your main choice for film history.
Check if the standard Studio Tour is offered as a separate, shorter option or during a different day, in case you want a glimpse of current productions without committing to the full tour.
Arrive early to either tour, as both can sell out, especially on weekends or holiday periods.

Overall, for a focus on film and classic Hollywood rather than modern TV, the TCM Classic Film Tour should give you the most satisfying experience and avoid time spent on shows that don’t interest you.