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Did you know that Burbank produces more TV shows than any other city in the world? Often called “The Media Capital of the World,” this vibrant California city is home to major studios like Warner Bros, Walt Disney, and countless production facilities. Beyond its Hollywood connections, Burbank offers visitors an exciting mix of entertainment, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, our guide highlights the best Burbank, California things to do for an unforgettable visit.
Plan Your Burbank Adventure
Before diving into the attractions, let’s cover the essentials for planning your Burbank trip. Located just a short distance from downtown Los Angeles, Burbank offers convenient access to Southern California’s best sights while maintaining its own unique charm.
Ready to Visit Burbank?
Start planning your perfect Burbank getaway with these travel essentials:
Downtown Burbank offers a perfect base for exploring the city’s attractions
Getting to Burbank
Burbank is conveniently accessible through multiple transportation options:
- Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) – Formerly known as Bob Hope Airport, this convenient regional airport offers domestic flights and is much less crowded than LAX. It’s located within Burbank city limits.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – About 30 miles from Burbank, LAX offers more flight options, including international routes.
- Driving – Burbank is accessible via several major highways including I-5, CA-134, and US-101.
- Public Transportation – Metrolink and Amtrak trains serve Burbank, and the city is connected to the greater LA area via Metro buses.
Local Tip: If possible, fly into Hollywood Burbank Airport rather than LAX. You’ll save significant time on ground transportation and avoid the notorious LAX traffic.
Best Time to Visit Burbank
Burbank enjoys Southern California’s famous mild climate year-round, but certain seasons offer distinct advantages:
| Season | Temperature | Crowds | Notes |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 60-75°F (15-24°C) | Moderate | Pleasant weather, wildflowers in nearby hills |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 75-95°F (24-35°C) | High | Warm and dry, perfect for outdoor activities |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 65-85°F (18-29°C) | Low | Ideal weather, fewer tourists |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 45-65°F (7-18°C) | Low (except holidays) | Occasional rain, best hotel rates |
The ideal times to visit Burbank are spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is perfect and tourist crowds are manageable. Fall offers the additional benefit of lower accommodation rates.
Where to Stay in Burbank
Burbank offers accommodations for every budget and preference, from luxury boutique hotels to comfortable mid-range options. Most hotels are conveniently located near major attractions and studios.
Luxury Options
- Hotel Amarano – Boutique luxury hotel with Hollywood glamour, located near Warner Bros Studio
- The Tangerine – Stylish boutique hotel within walking distance of Warner Bros
Mid-Range Choices
- Hilton Garden Inn Burbank – Modern hotel in Downtown Burbank with Spanish-inspired design
- Hotel Burbank – 19-story hotel with renovated rooms and beautiful views
Budget-Friendly
- Safari Inn – Retro-style hotel with kitchen facilities in some rooms
- Portofino Inn Burbank – Affordable option close to major attractions
Hotel Burbank offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of the city
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Studio Tours and Entertainment
Burbank’s claim to fame is its world-renowned film and television studios. Visiting these iconic production facilities offers a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood magic.
Warner Bros Studio Tour
The Warner Bros Studio Tour is an absolute must-do when visiting Burbank. This working studio offers an intimate look at how your favorite movies and TV shows are made. The tour includes:
- Backlot sets where countless productions have filmed
- The iconic Friends fountain and Central Perk set
- The Big Bang Theory sets
- DC Universe exhibit featuring original costumes and props
- Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts exhibits
Tours last approximately 2-3 hours and are conducted in small groups via golf carts, giving you an up-close experience of this legendary studio.
The iconic Warner Bros Studio Tour entrance welcomes film and TV enthusiasts
Universal Studios Hollywood
Just a short drive from Burbank, Universal Studios Hollywood combines a working studio with a theme park. Highlights include:
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Super Nintendo World
- Studio Tour showcasing movie sets and special effects
- Thrilling rides based on popular films and shows
- Live entertainment and character experiences
Plan to spend a full day here to experience all the attractions. The park can get crowded, especially during summer and holidays, so consider purchasing Express passes to skip the lines.
TV Show Tapings
Burbank is home to numerous television productions that welcome live audiences. Attending a TV show taping is a unique experience and often free! Shows frequently taped in Burbank include talk shows, game shows, and sitcoms.
Tickets should be reserved well in advance, as they’re in high demand. Tapings typically last 2-4 hours, and you must be at least 18 years old to attend most shows.
Exploring Downtown Burbank
Downtown Burbank offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options within a walkable area. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening during your visit.
Downtown Burbank offers excellent shopping and dining options
Shopping
Downtown Burbank features over 600 shops, including:
- Burbank Town Center – A three-level indoor mall
- IKEA Burbank – The largest IKEA in North America
- San Fernando Boulevard – Lined with boutiques and specialty stores
- Urban Outfitters, H&M, and other popular retailers
Dining
The area boasts an impressive array of restaurants:
- Urban Press Winery – Wine tasting and Italian cuisine
- Granville – Upscale comfort food with great patio seating
- Yakumi Sushi – Premium Japanese cuisine
- Bob’s Big Boy – Historic diner with Hollywood connections
Entertainment in Downtown
Beyond shopping and dining, Downtown Burbank offers:
- AMC Burbank 16 – Flagship movie theater with premium formats
- Flappers Comedy Club – Featuring up-and-coming comics and established names
- Burbank Mural Walk – Self-guided tour of colorful street art
- Seasonal events like the Summer Arts Festival and Winter Wine Walk
Magnolia Park: Vintage Shopping Paradise
Magnolia Park is Burbank’s charming vintage shopping district, offering a nostalgic atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. This unique neighborhood is lined with independent boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafes.
Magnolia Park offers unique vintage shopping experiences
- Audrey K. Boutique – Stylish women’s clothing with a vintage flair
- Bearded Lady Vintage – Curated vintage clothing and accessories
- Halloweentown – Year-round Halloween-themed store
- Magnolia Park Collective – Multi-vendor marketplace for vintage and handmade items
- Little Nelly – Unique gifts and home decor
- Tansy – Beautiful plant boutique and home goods store
- Run Out Groove Records – Vinyl records and music memorabilia
Visit on the last Friday of each month for “Ladies Night Out,” when shops stay open late and food trucks line the streets. It’s a perfect evening activity with a friendly community atmosphere.
Local Tip: Start your Magnolia Park exploration at Three Sister’s Coffee and Tea for a delicious cinnamon roll and coffee before shopping.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
While Burbank is famous for its entertainment industry, the city also offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities to enjoy Southern California’s beautiful weather.
The Los Angeles Equestrian Center hosts international equestrian events
Los Angeles Equestrian Center
This world-class facility hosts international equestrian events throughout the year. Visitors can watch competitions, take riding lessons, or enjoy trail rides through the adjacent Griffith Park.
Griffith Park
Adjacent to Burbank, this massive urban park offers hiking trails, horseback riding, and the famous Griffith Observatory. The park provides stunning views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign.
DeBell Golf Club
Set against the hills above Burbank, this challenging 18-hole golf course offers beautiful views and affordable rates. The course features 5,600 yards of varied terrain suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
Nearby Griffith Park offers excellent hiking trails with views of the Hollywood Sign
Orbic Air Helicopter Tours
For a truly unforgettable experience, book a private helicopter tour with Orbic Air at the Hollywood Burbank Airport. These tours offer breathtaking aerial views of:
- The Hollywood Sign
- Universal Studios
- Warner Bros Studio
- Downtown Los Angeles
- Beverly Hills and celebrity homes
Tours range from 20 minutes to over an hour, with various routes available to suit your interests and budget.
Unique Burbank Attractions
Beyond the major studios and shopping districts, Burbank offers several unique attractions that showcase the city’s character and history.
The 7-foot tall bronze Batman statue is a popular photo spot in Downtown Burbank
Superhero Statues
Burbank celebrates its connection to DC Comics with impressive statues throughout the city:
- 7-foot tall bronze Batman statue in Downtown Burbank
- Wonder Woman statue in the Media District
- Superman statue near Warner Bros
These make for perfect photo opportunities – don’t forget to use the hashtags #BurbankBatman and #BurbankWonderWoman when posting!
West Coast Customs
Car enthusiasts will love visiting the world-famous West Coast Customs, known for their celebrity car modifications and TV show. Their Burbank headquarters offers:
- Behind-the-scenes tours
- Custom car displays
- Retail shop with merchandise
Tours are available by appointment and provide an inside look at this legendary automotive customization shop.
Artelice Patisserie offers some of the best macarons outside of Paris
Culinary Gems
Burbank is home to several unique dining experiences worth seeking out:
- Artelice Patisserie – French pastries and macarons that rival those found in Paris
- Bob’s Big Boy – Historic diner where The Beatles once dined (look for the commemorative plaque)
- The Smoke House – Legendary restaurant near Warner Bros known for its garlic cheese bread
- Plush Puffs – Gourmet marshmallow shop where you can toast custom s’mores
Day Trips from Burbank
Burbank’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring Southern California. Here are some popular day trip destinations within easy reach:
The iconic TCL Chinese Theatre is just a short drive from Burbank
| Destination | Distance | Travel Time | Highlights |
| Hollywood | 7 miles | 15-30 minutes | Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Sign |
| Downtown Los Angeles | 12 miles | 25-40 minutes | The Broad, Grand Central Market, Walt Disney Concert Hall |
| Santa Monica | 20 miles | 35-60 minutes | Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, beach |
| Disneyland | 40 miles | 45-75 minutes | Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure |
Travel Tip: Traffic in Los Angeles can significantly impact travel times. Plan day trips during off-peak hours (avoid 7-10 AM and 3-7 PM on weekdays) for the most efficient travel.
Explore Beyond Burbank
Make the most of your Southern California adventure with convenient transportation:
Practical Tips for Visiting Burbank
Make the most of your Burbank visit with these helpful tips from locals and frequent visitors:
Burbank Town Center offers three levels of shopping and dining options
Getting Around
- Rent a car for maximum flexibility
- Use rideshare services for short trips
- The BurbankBus connects major destinations
- Downtown area is very walkable
Money-Saving Tips
- Visit during shoulder season for better rates
- Book studio tours in advance for discounts
- Look for hotel packages that include attractions
- Many outdoor activities are free or low-cost
Local Etiquette
- Respect filming locations and “quiet on set” signs
- Celebrities value their privacy – be respectful
- Tipping 15-20% is standard at restaurants
- Dress is generally casual but neat
“Burbank is where old Hollywood meets the modern world. When you stroll the streets, you can’t help but wonder which iconic movie star once walked the same path before heading to shoot the next big movie that would shape our culture.”
Ready to Experience Burbank?
From world-famous studio tours to vintage shopping, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights, Burbank offers a perfect blend of Hollywood glamour and small-town charm. Whether you’re a film buff, shopping enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or foodie, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in this vibrant Southern California city.
As the true heart of the entertainment industry, Burbank gives visitors a genuine look behind the Hollywood magic while providing all the amenities and attractions of a premier destination. Start planning your Burbank adventure today and discover why this city is much more than just a neighbor to Hollywood—it’s where the real movie magic happens!
Plan Your Burbank Adventure Today!
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