For any true Disney enthusiast, visiting the Walt Disney Studios Lot in Burbank, California, should be at the very top of the bucket list. While Disneyland in Anaheim is often called the “Happiest Place on Earth,” the Studios Lot offers something even more magical: a direct connection to Walt Disney’s legacy and the rich history of The Walt Disney Company.
Located just beyond the world-famous Hollywood Hills—the same hills where the iconic Hollywood sign stands—Burbank is home to several renowned movie and television studios. Among them are Warner Bros. Studios, known for shows like Friends, and of course, the historic Walt Disney Studios, which also serves as the headquarters of The Walt Disney Company.
Right next to the studio lot, you’ll also find the hospital where Walt Disney passed away in 1966, adding another layer of historical significance for devoted fans. In short, this is a sacred place for Disney lovers.
Can You Visit the Walt Disney Studios?
Unlike the Warner Bros. Studio Tour or Universal Studios, which also doubles as a theme park, access to the Walt Disney Studios Lot is much more limited—but not impossible.
Tours of the studio are available on select days throughout the year, but there’s a catch: you must be a member of the official Disney fan club, D23.
Becoming a D23 member is easy and can be done online. While Gold Membership requires a fee and provides a few perks (mostly useful to U.S. residents), free membership is also available. Though it doesn’t come with member benefits, it does make you eligible to book a spot on the studio tour.
We did the tour two years ago, and it was truly one of the most unforgettable days of our lives.
What to Expect During the Tour
The guided tour lasts between 2 to 3 hours and includes:
- Entry into the original animation building
- A stop at the iconic Disney water tower
- A visit to the Disney Archives
- Time at Legends Plaza, where you’ll find the headquarters building supported by statues of the Seven Dwarfs, and the famous Partners statue of Walt and Mickey
- The absolute highlight: a visit to Walt Disney’s preserved office, complete with personal items and decor from his time
After the tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to shop at the exclusive Studio Store, which sells merchandise you can’t find anywhere else.
How to Book
If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles or Disneyland, we highly recommend taking the time to include this experience. Here’s how to do it:
- Sign up for a free D23 membership at D23.com
- Check the available tour dates and book online
- Plan to be in the Los Angeles area during the time of your visit
Keep in mind, this once-in-a-lifetime experience does come with a hefty price tag. As of the time of writing, the tour costs:
- $149 per person on weekdays ($99 for Gold Members)
- $159 per person on weekends
- Plus a $3 booking fee per person
Still, for fans of Walt Disney, it’s worth every penny.
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