Burbank, California Travel Guide

Explore Burbank, California's Media Capital, where Hollywood magic meets outdoor adventures and vibrant cultural experiences.

Nestled in the heart of California, Burbank is a charming city known for its rich history in the entertainment industry. Often referred to as the 'Media Capital of the World', Burbank is home to many famous studios including Warner Bros. and Walt Disney Studios. Visitors can take studio tours to get a behind-the-scenes look at film and television production. Beyond its cinematic allure, Burbank offers a variety of outdoor activities. The city boasts beautiful parks, like the Wildwood Canyon Park, where you can hike and enjoy stunning views of the San Fernando Valley. For those interested in shopping and dining, the downtown area offers a mix of unique boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Burbank also has a vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Burbank International Film Festival. The Starlight Bowl is a popular venue for outdoor concerts and performances, providing entertainment under the stars. Whether you're a movie buff, a nature lover, or someone looking to explore local culture, Burbank has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Burbank.

Book studio tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Visit the Magnolia Park area for unique vintage shops and trendy cafes.
Take a hike at Verdugo Mountains for panoramic views of Burbank and beyond.
Check out the local events calendar for festivals, concerts, and community gatherings.
Use public transport or rideshare services to navigate the city easily.

Explore Burbank: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Burbank

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Santa Monica Pier

Discover the charm of Santa Monica Pier, where history meets entertainment along the stunning California coastline.

4.6

Universal CityWalk Hollywood

Explore Universal CityWalk Hollywood, a vibrant entertainment destination with shopping, dining, and exciting attractions for every traveler.

4.6

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Experience the ultimate thrill at Six Flags Magic Mountain, where adrenaline meets family fun in the heart of Valencia, California.

4.5

The Getty

Explore The Getty, an iconic art museum in Los Angeles, featuring breathtaking architecture, stunning gardens, and world-class art collections.

4.8

Best landmarks in Burbank

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Hollywood Sign

Explore the historic Hollywood Sign, an iconic symbol of the American entertainment industry, and enjoy breathtaking views of Los Angeles.

4.6

Los Angeles Union Station

Explore Los Angeles Union Station - a historic transportation hub with stunning architecture and vibrant culture in the heart of downtown LA.

4.5

Burbank Empire Center

Uncover shopping delights and entertainment at Burbank Empire Center in California, where retail therapy meets culinary experiences and fun activities.

4.4

Smoke House Restaurant

Indulge in the best American cuisine at Smoke House Restaurant in Burbank, featuring iconic garlic bread and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.

4.5

Best restaurants in Burbank

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

In-N-Out Burger

Discover the iconic In-N-Out Burger in Baldwin Park—where fresh ingredients meet fast food perfection in California.

4.7

Castaway

Experience fine dining with stunning valley views at Castaway Burbank - where exceptional steak meets fresh seafood.

4.6

Smoke House Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality at Smoke House Restaurant in Burbank, California – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.5

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse

Discover BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in Burbank – where gourmet cuisine meets handcrafted beer in an exciting sports-friendly atmosphere.

4.3

Best bars in Burbank

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Castaway

Discover Castaway in Burbank - a culinary gem offering prime steaks, fresh seafood, and breathtaking views for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.6

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse

Experience the perfect blend of delicious food and craft brews at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in Burbank, a must-visit for food lovers and sports fans alike.

4.3

Yard House

Experience the vibrant flavors and extensive beer selection at Yard House, Burbank's go-to destination for New American cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Barney's Beanery

Experience the lively ambiance and diverse American cuisine at Barney's Beanery, a favorite Burbank hotspot for locals and tourists alike.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Burbank

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Story Tavern

Discover the flavors of America and Britain at Story Tavern in Burbank, where great food meets a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

The Good Nite

Experience the ultimate night out at The Good Nite, where karaoke, comedy, and live music create unforgettable memories in North Hollywood.

4.3

The Blue Room

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Blue Room, Burbank's go-to cocktail bar for creative drinks and a friendly atmosphere.

4.4

Skinny's Lounge

Discover the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Skinny's Lounge, North Hollywood's premier night club for unforgettable nightlife.

4.0

Best shops in Burbank

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Downtown Santa Monica

Experience the vibrant culture, shopping, and dining in Downtown Santa Monica, a coastal gem perfect for every tourist's itinerary.

4.6

Citadel Outlets

Experience the ultimate shopping destination at Citadel Outlets, where luxury brands meet unbeatable prices in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Ovation Hollywood

Explore Ovation Hollywood: A premier shopping and entertainment destination where glamour meets excitement amidst the iconic Hollywood backdrop.

4.4

The Grove

Discover The Grove in Los Angeles, a premier shopping and dining destination with luxury boutiques, diverse restaurants, and an enchanting outdoor atmosphere.

4.6

Explore Burbank on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Burbank, mapped for you.

Burbank Essentials

Burbank is easily accessible by air via the Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), which is located just a few miles from downtown Burbank. The airport offers numerous domestic flights and is a convenient alternative to the larger Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Alternatively, you can fly into LAX and take a shuttle, taxi, or rental car to Burbank, which is approximately 30 miles away. Amtrak and Metrolink trains also service the Burbank area, providing a convenient rail option.
Burbank is well-connected with various transportation options. The BurbankBus offers local bus routes that connect major points of interest within the city. For longer distances, the Metrolink and Amtrak provide regional rail services. Taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and car rentals are readily available. Walking is also a pleasant option in the downtown area, which is pedestrian-friendly.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and you can find them at banks, convenience stores, and shopping centers. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case of emergencies.
Burbank is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and always be aware of your surroundings. Neighborhoods such as parts of North Hollywood and certain areas near the airport may have higher crime rates. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and keep your belongings secure.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Burbank has several medical facilities, including Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city. The Burbank Police Department is also available to assist with any safety concerns.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Burbank has a relaxed dress code, especially in tourist areas. Religion: Do respect places of worship and religious customs. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on buses or trains. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Californians are generally friendly and informal. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and cafes. Don't forget to tip your server, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Burbank like a local, visit the Burbank Farmers Market held every Saturday, where you can find fresh produce and local goods. Explore the unique shops and eateries in Magnolia Park. Take a stroll along the Chandler Bikeway, a popular spot for walking and cycling. Don't miss the opportunity to catch a live taping of a TV show at one of the city's many studios, such as Warner Bros. Studio or NBC.

When is the best time to visit Burbank?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Burbank

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Burbank. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [hey]
- GoodbyeLater
  [ley-ter]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pleez/no wuhr-ees]
- Thank youThanks
  [th-anks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [ex-kyooz mee/my bad]
- How are you?What's up?
  [wuts up]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [gud.you]
- Do you speak English?Speak English?
  [speek ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I dont get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [kan eye see the men-yoo]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I dont do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [im lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [im sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just bro-zing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too prye-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [kan yu do bet-ter]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [wuts the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [haf ten]
- MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fiv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the addy]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you map it?
  [kan yu map it]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Burbank

Burbank was named after David Burbank, a dentist and entrepreneur from New Hampshire. In 1867, he purchased over 9,200 acres of land in the area, which was primarily used for sheep farming. The town was officially established on May 1, 1887, when the Providencia Land, Water, and Development Company, which Burbank was a part of, began selling plots of land.
The Southern Pacific Railroad arrived in Burbank in 1876, which significantly boosted the local economy and population growth. The railroads made it easier to transport agricultural products and attracted a variety of industries to the area. This development was crucial in transforming Burbank from a sleepy farming community into a bustling town.
One of the most significant cultural landmarks in Burbank is the Warner Bros. Studio, established in 1923. The studio played a pivotal role in the development of the American film industry and has produced countless iconic movies and TV shows. The presence of Warner Bros. helped to establish Burbank as a major hub for the entertainment industry.
During World War II, Burbank became an essential site for the aviation industry, particularly due to the presence of the Lockheed Aircraft Corporation. Established in the late 1920s, Lockheed's Burbank facilities produced numerous aircraft for the war effort, including the famous P-38 Lightning fighter plane. This industrial boom brought jobs and economic growth to the city.
In the 1960s, Burbank attempted to modernize its downtown area by constructing the Golden Mall, a pedestrian-friendly shopping area that opened in 1967. Although it was initially popular, the mall eventually struggled to compete with larger shopping centers and was redeveloped in the late 1980s. The site is now home to the Burbank Town Center.
Burbank is known as the 'Media Capital of the World' due to its significant contribution to the television industry. In addition to Warner Bros., major studios like NBC, ABC, and Disney have established production facilities in the city. Shows like 'The Tonight Show' and 'Ellen' have been filmed in Burbank, further cementing its status as a key player in the entertainment world.
Originally known as United Airport when it opened in 1930, the Bob Hope Airport (now Hollywood Burbank Airport) has served as a crucial transportation hub for the Los Angeles area. Named after the famous comedian and actor Bob Hope in 2003, the airport has grown to accommodate millions of passengers each year and continues to play a vital role in the region's connectivity.
In recent years, Downtown Burbank has undergone significant revitalization efforts to attract both locals and tourists. A variety of new restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues have opened, creating a vibrant urban center. The area hosts numerous events, including film festivals and street fairs, which celebrate Burbank's rich cultural heritage and community spirit.