This is where the Walt Disney Company has been working its magic since 1923. Relocated from its original studio at Silver Lake, the Burbank studio was established after the monumental success of the 1937 film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The international headquarters of this iconic company, this state-of-the-art facility offers its services in the fields of film production, music publishing, stage production, distribution, and marketing. The site spans over 51 acres (21 hectares) and features notable structures like the Michael D. Eisner Building, Disney Legends Plaza, and the Frank G. Wells Building, among others. There is also a provision at the Main Theater to showcase first-run Disney movies for special guests. A colossal landmark on 500 South Buena Vista Street, the studio is unfortunately not open to the public, but hoists gigantic head constructions of Mickey Mouse and the Seven Dwarves over its steep red-bricked walls for passers-by to savor.
One of the most noted places in the world, the Warner Brothers Studio has played home to some of the entertainment worlds most famous comedy and drama series. The studio has numerous sets for various scenes all of which have excellent facilities, props and sound and light systems. On location here are also craft and set shops where patrons can purchase memorabilia. There is a tour of the entire studio which takes guests on a journey into the entertainment world with guides who are well versed with the place.
This small theater in Burbank features intimate productions of high quality. The group has received praise from local drama critics and produces plays in all genres-musicals, comedy, and drama—classical and contemporary. Ray Bradbury, the science fiction writer, has a special affection for this theater. The Colony has mounted four Bradbury productions through the years, including three world premieres: The Martian Chronicles, Fahrenheit 451 and The World of Ray Bradbury.
Mission San Fernando Rey de Espana is an old mission that has been transformed into a museum that offers a unique look into the region's past. The original mission was founded on September 8, 1797 and has been meticulously restored to closely resemble the original structure plus a few modernizations. Visitors to the mission can tour the church, monastery, living quarters and even an archival center featuring preserved documents and records. Also be sure to check out the museum's theater, which offers short films pertaining to the mission's illustrious history.
One of the most renowned comedy clubs in the city, Flappers Comedy Club has hosted some of the most famous names in the comedy business. The club is also a restaurant, and serves some delectable American food. Among the comics who have graced the stage here include Christopher Titus, Josh Blue and Paul Rodriguez. Do see the club’s website to know more about upcoming shows and other details.
Burbank’s answer to the Hollywood Bowl, this marvel is a much-loved and frequented concert venue near Stough Park. A wide variety of concerts, from classical to pop, are held in this stunning setting throughout the summer. This beautiful natural bowl offers ample seating, both on benches and in the grass, where guests may enjoy their favorite performers and amazing acoustics to the transporting views of sunsets gradually superceded by starry skies. Visitors are invited to pack a picnic, including drinks of their choosing with no express restrictions imposed, other than non-interference with other patrons’ enjoyment of the event. Pricing is very affordable, enabling music buffs to get their fill during the summer months, after rationing their patronage of rather more expensive concert halls and arenas during the rest of the year.
With more than ten tours, Guideline Tours is perhaps the largest in the area. Specific destinations include downtown, Malibu, Santa Monica, the Getty Center, Universal Studios, Disneyland, Queen Mary Seaport and more. Its most unique tour is Nightlife L.A. which visits Griffith Observatory, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Century City, and Melrose Avenue. Tour prices sometimes include admission to major theme parks and other attractions. Internet discounts are available. Tour times vary, so call for specific times and to make reservations, which are required.
Run by the Burbank Historical Society, the Gordon R. Howard Museum is located in the historical Victorian Mentzer House. Built in 1887, you can explore this historic home and admire interesting displays and artifacts about life in the past. This small museums showcases the local Burbank history where you can view photographs that show the evolution of Burbank from a small settlement to an entertainment wonder. Tours are by appointment only.
Los Angeles Science Fantasy Society is a science fiction members-only club, that has its own set of laws. The club was originally founded in 1934 by Hugo Gernsback, and is today led by Forrest J. Ackerman, a legendary science fiction spokesperson. The club hosts two prestigious science fiction and fantasy conventions, namely, Loscon and Westercon. Meetings at this society primarily feature guest lectures and auctions of science fiction items. There is also a weekly forum called Neverending panel, that holds discussions on science fiction story plots and listens to fan suggestions. There are also regular events hosted, that invite scientists and science fiction writers, and there are also exhibitions held displaying a slew of sci-fi artwork.
Bhagavad Gita Museum is a unique Los Angeles gem. Established in 1977, its aim was to teach visitors about the Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture calling for selfless action. You will gain an insight into the scriptures through eleven large dioramas that depict colorful scenes. Some of the awe-inspiring dioramas include the Changing Bodies diorama and the the Precarious Condition of the Living Entity diorama. You'll also see animatronics that help bring life to the story. Sign up for a guided tour to gain a deeper insight into the museum exhibits.
The Lake Shrine is a beautiful place hidden away in Pacific Palisades. It is the resting place for a portion of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes and people from around the world come to pay their respects. The grounds cover ten acres and lie on a former movie set. There is a lake with swans, lush greenery, waterfalls, and beautiful statues. A perfect place to spend the day when you need to get away from it all, the memorial is open to visitors of any denomination. This pleasant place was created by Yogi Paramahansa Yogananda in 1950. Services for followers of this yogi are held in a Dutch windmill left over from its days as a movie studio.
Located in Los Angeles LGBT Center, Davidson/Valentini Theatre is a small performing arts theater. This warm and cozy venue is known for its creative theatrical productions. They help amateur and established actors, directors and writers showcase their talent. Visit this theater and get enthralled by their spectacular live performances.