The Director’s Cut – Iconic LA filming locations
Written byLA and movies go hand in hand. From the production studios in Hollywood, to infamous celebrity retreats in Malibu, the City of Angels is no stranger to the silver screen. But while LA is arguably the entertainment capital of the world, the city itself rarely gets the credit it deserves. From dystopian sci-fi epics, to quintessential midwest streets, LA has always been able to look , and feel, like any place in the world.
We’ve put together a list of some of Hollywood’s favorite filming locales to explore, all just a short Uber away.
Quality Cafe – 1236 West 7th Street, Los Angeles, California. From the outside, this is a place you’d probably walk right by. But the classic diner interior has been in about every movie ever made. It’s timeless booths and visible kitchen make this location a Hollywood staple
As seen in: Training Day, Old School, Gone in 60 Seconds, Catch Me if You Can
Union Station Main Lobby – 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. On most days it’s where train-goers wait for their ride, but you’ll recognize this iconic art deco space from some of your favorite movies and TV shows.
As seen in: Can’t Hardly Wait, The Dark Knight Rises, Pharrell’s “Happy” music video
Santa Monica Pier – 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401. Behind the ferris wheel and carnival games, take a stroll to the end of the famous Santa Monica Pier and you’ll recognize the vantage point from more than a few famous films and TV shows.
As seen in: Forrest Gump, Titanic, Iron Man
Johnie’s Coffee Shop – 6099 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Johnie’s is another Hollywood location staple with starring roles in some of the most iconic modern Hollywood films of our time. While the coffee shop is permanently closed, you could always order some UberEATS and find the perfect Instagram filter for your post.
As seen in: The Big Lebowski, American History X, Reservoir Dogs
The Shelley Building – 757 S New Hampshire Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005. Take a journey to Koreatown in Los Angeles and what will you find? Jerry Seinfeld’s Manhattan apartment building. The facade has barely changed since filming so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. Extra points for finding a killer loaf of Marble Rye in the area.
As seen in: Seinfeld
Gamble House – 4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103. Pasadena is one of Hollywood’s favorite locations because it can look like anywhere. In addition to being a historic landmark, Gamble House was also the location of Dr. Emmett Brown’s Mansion from Back to the Future. Just make sure your Uber driver keeps it under 88 on the ride over.
Griffith Observatory – 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027. Even if there was never a single film or TV show shot here, it’d still be worth a visit. With unparalleled views of the city and stunning architecture, it’s no wonder the Griffith Observatory has been a Hollywood location darling for years.
As seen in: The Rocketeer, The Terminator, La La Land