Movie Locations You Can Actually Visit In Los Angeles

Why pay money for a studio tour when you can immerse yourself in your favorite movie location? The sprawling city of LA has been the site of many blockbusters, arthouse and cult classic movies over the years, which makes sense, why spend money moving out of the city if the film doesn’t require it? Indeed, many guests of the Miyako Torrance spa will find that cafes, bars, landmarks and streets still being used today have in the past moonlighted as iconic movie locations. 

This blog will explore some of the best publicly accessible movie locations in Los Angeles, providing a unique insight into the world of movie locations and exemplifying just how iconic a city Los Angeles can be as it’s burnt into the public imagination. Whether you’re utilizing the Miyako’s California hotel offers for business or a sightseeing trip, you’ll probably stumble upon one of your favorite movie scenes locations, of which some of the following may be top of your list.

Griffith Observatory

Not only is this an iconic location from films such as La La Land and Rebel Without A Cause, but the Griffith Observatory is a must-visit attraction thanks to its stunning views over the Hollywood Hills and its planetarium, featuring prominently in a key scene of the Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling musical. Whilst you’re there, check out the exhibitions on technology and science in the adjoining museum, well worth a visit and free of entry charge.

Union Station

Union Station has been featured in a great many classic Hollywood movies including interiors in Blade Runner and exterior shots in the Dark Knight Rises. Union Station has a unique art deco and mission revival style that reflects its truly Californian roots. Other films that have featured this beautiful central station include Pearl Harbor and a wealth of neo-noir films (including the suitably titled Union Station) that capitalize on its angular facade. 

Randy’s Donuts

Randy’s Donuts on Manchester Boulevard is probably most memorable for being parodied in the Simpsons episode Treehouse of Horror VI as Lard Lad, the giant donut of which is used as a destructive weapon. Randy’s Donuts however, has been seen in more than just animation, being a setting in movies such as Mars Attacks and Iron Man. If you’re looking for desert after a long day of visiting attractions in Torrance, then Randy’s Donuts also do a tantalizing apple fritter.

Point Dume 

Point Dume is a bit of a drive away for guests of the Miyako Hybrid Hotel In Torrance, but if you don’t mind a drive along the Pacific Highway, the beautiful beaches of Malibu await. Among the sights and attractions in the area is Point Dume, a serene beach surrounded by eroding cliff faces, and an iconic stand in for post-apocalyptic New York. The ending scene of the original Planet Of The Apes sees Charlton Heston fall to his knees in despair in the surf of this beautiful beach, a moment often mimicked by visitors.