Things To Do
in Burbank
Burbank sits in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, known for its storied studios and family-friendly neighborhoods. It offers a compact, well-planned mix of shopping, parks, and creative industries with easy access to Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles. The city blends classic California charm with modern dining and entertainment options, making it a convenient base for exploring the wider LA area.
From top film studios to welcoming cafés, Burbank preserves a laid-back vibe while keeping you close to big city energy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Burbank Historical Society Museum, where you can discover the rich history of this charming city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll down San Fernando Boulevard, admiring the unique architecture and vibrant street art. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee at a local café while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
In the afternoon, head over to the meticulously restored Burbank Town Center for some shopping and dining. Choose from a variety of restaurants for lunch, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale options. Afterward, visit the nearby Gordon R. Howard Museum to learn about Burbank's fascinating past through engaging exhibits.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local favorite, such as the famous Porto's Bakery, known for its delicious Cuban pastries. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Burbank Civic Theatre, where local talent showcases their skills. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk through the charming streets, taking in the twinkling lights and cozy ambiance.
Begin your day bright and early at Universal Studios Hollywood, just a short drive from Burbank. Get your tickets and enter the park, ready to experience thrilling rides and attractions based on your favorite movies. Don't miss the famous Studio Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood filmmaking.
After an exhilarating morning, grab lunch within the park, choosing from a variety of themed dining options. Spend the afternoon exploring the various zones, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Springfield, home to The Simpsons attractions. Take time to enjoy live shows and character meet-and-greets for a truly immersive experience.
As the day winds down, savor a nice dinner at one of the restaurants in CityWalk, the lively entertainment district adjacent to the park. After your meal, catch a movie at the cinema or enjoy some live music at one of the venues. Finally, return to Burbank, reminiscing about the exciting adventures you had throughout the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍕Pizza slice | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-7 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown
- Access to LA-area attractions
- Strong dining and media industry presence
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Heavy freeway traffic common in the LA region
- Limited nightlife compared to central LA
- Weather can be hot in summer
- Dependent on car for most attractions beyond walking area
Places to Visit in Burbank
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point for aircraft in flight and runway action with the San Fernando Valley backdrop.
Neon storefronts and pedestrian-friendly streets offer colorful cityscape photography after dark.
Iconic studio exterior views and signage suitable for architectural and film-industry photography.
Vibrant murals and street art along the arts district providing vibrant color contrasts.
Ridge trails offer sweeping valley views and photography of the LA basin from above.
Food in Burbank
Burbank Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A West Coast favorite with carne asada, french fries, cheese, and salsa, commonly found in LA-area taquerias.
Must-Try!
Crispy, juicy fried chicken with gochujang or soy-glaze options, often found in nearby Koreatown and LA area spots accessible from Burbank.
Lightly battered fish with slaw and lime, a coastal staple available at many taquerias and casual eateries.
Popular cafe staple reflecting California produce culture, available in many local cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, street food stalls, and live music in a relaxed neighborhood setting.
LA-area markets with tacos, kebabs, pupusas, and other street foods are easily reachable for a more varied tasting experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Burbank locals value courteous, relaxed interactions; queue patiently, hold doors, and avoid loud interruptions in quiet areas.
Photography of studios and security areas should be limited to public spaces; always respect posted restrictions and security guidelines.
Safety
Tipping in Burbank
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip 15-20% at restaurants, more for exceptional service; tip taxi, rideshare, and bar staff 10-20% as appropriate; round up small bills for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; bring cash for small vendors or farmers markets; digital wallets are common for transit and some venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry heat with long days; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for mornings and evenings to avoid peak heat.
Milder temperatures and thinner crowds; good for outdoor hikes and street photography with golden hour light.
Cool to mild days with occasional rain; pack a light jacket and a compact umbrella for showers.
Blooming landscapes and comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities and photography in parks and gardens.
Burbank at Night
Hiking in Burbank
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic hike above Burbank offering city views and canyon scenery.
Extensive network of trails with city views and iconic landmarks a short drive from Burbank.
Ridge lines with panoramic views of the LA Basin, accessible from nearby neighborhoods.
Moderate hike with views and canyon terrain in the San Fernando Valley foothills.
Airports
How to reach Burbank by plane.
Closest airport, about a short drive from downtown Burbank; convenient for domestic flights and short trips.
Major international hub about 25-30 miles south, connected by highways and ride-share options.
Accessible option further east for domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of family-oriented neighborhoods and entertainment-industry professionals.
Significant Hispanic/Latinx and Asian communities contribute to a multicultural food scene and cultural events.
Many residents work in studios or related media sectors and contribute to a dynamic local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
LA-area culture supports competitive college and pro basketball scenes; many residents follow the Lakers and local school teams.
LA region love for baseball with nearby professional teams and community leagues.
Growing interest with local leagues and outdoor recreation for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burbank.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Burbank and the LA area, vegetarian options abound from plant-based bowls to veggie-focused menus; ask for no meat broth and look for dairy-free options, cheese substitutes, and egg dishes at most cafes and many restaurants.