🎬 Holidays Made Here | A Trip to Stars Hollow — Take Two 🎬
No Available Tours, A Little Luck and Movie Magic
While my mom and I had a blast on the first day for the Holidays Made Here, we quickly realized we probably won’t do another opening day. It was far too crowded and harder to get pictures/see everything, unless you waited a couple hours.As soon as we returned from the first trip, I was ready to go again. And after getting a few Gilmore-themed items for Christmas, like our matching “Where You Lead, I will follow” sweatshirts and Loungefly backpacks, we joked that we had to go again. And we had to take my dad, since he hasn’t been on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in about a decade.
Throughout the week, we kept checking just in case any tickets became available. But, all of the calendar dates were blocked out. So, the chances of being able to go this weekend were pretty slim. Then, my dad called down first thing in the morning, around 8:15 or so, but there was nothing available. He called again the following hour and three seats were available.
Thankfully, we’d already started getting ready, so we were able to jump into action and hit the road. We made it down to LA in less than two hours — Parked, went through the line of security and were able to get on a tour in just minutes.
The Backlot Tour
The best thing about the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is that it’s unscripted and no two tours are alike (as I think I’ve mentioned before). Our tour guide last time was a little too sarcastic with everything and focused more on the films and TV shows he enjoyed, more than the ones the guests shouted out at the beginning.Our tour guide this time had “much knowledge,” as Rory Gilmore would say, about all things Warner Bros., pointing out certain locations from scenes on “Friends,” “Gilmore Girls,” “Big Bang Theory” and more.
This was one of the tours where I felt like I learned new facts and trivia, or just more about the filmmaking process, in general.
George Clooney was originally going to play the part of “Jack” Frost in the Warner Bros. holiday film, and the studio molded the snowman face to look like Clooney’s. When Michael Keaton was cast in the role, they didn’t change the snowman face. Take a look, you won’t be able to unsee it;
John Travolta was originally supposed to play the part of “Forest Gump,” but had the choice between that and “Pulp Fiction.” He ultimately went with that one, and the rest is history;
He talked about the filming of the scene from “The Big Bang Theory” when Sheldon takes the additional 20 seconds of “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and an angry mob chases him;
How they’ll cover a street with a blackout tarp to make it seem like nightfall versus filming late into the night, adding more time and costing more money;
And many other facts as we rode through the lot.
Since there wasn’t any filming on the lot, being that it was a weekend, we were able to visit different things than we have the past couple times I’ve been there (which was during the week). We visited The Hangout, a sports-themed restaurant that’s supposed to be located in Beverly Hills, on the show “All American.” It’s fun to see sets in all their glory, paying attention to all the details and care that goes into it, from the doorknobs and menus to pictures on the walls. Everything really does tell a story. I also try to take it all in as we see it, because there’s a good chance the next time we go to Warner Bros., I’ll be obsessed with that show next. Ha!
We spent more time around the other New York City backlot streets and walked around more than our last tour a couple weeks ago. We were also able to visit “George and Mandy’s First Marriage” soundstage, which is also “The Big Bang Theory” stage. It’s Warner Bros.’ Longest-lasting sitcom now, surpassing “Friends” by a couple seasons. Our guide talked more about the sitcom process, filming in front of a live studio audience and how you can get tickets from 1iota.com. It’s true! I always see this one pop up now; If you’re a fan of sitcoms, it’s always a great experience, though it is a long day.
We also went through The Jungle, Warner Village and past the generic office/hospital/anything you need it to be building, among other things from our favorite shows and films.
The tour was only about 50 minutes, and before we knew it, we were pulling into the Stage 48 area.
Welcome to Stars Hollow
Again, it was time for the moment we were most excited for — Stars Hollow.📍Lorelai’s House
They didn’t film inside the house, nor is most of the furniture and accessories the ones that were used on the show, but it’s fun to feel like you’re still one of the main characters on the show and get a feel for what it was like to be on the show or imagine that Stars Hollow is a real place.
It’s also connected to Sookie’s house, which was just mind boggling to me the first time I learned this news. And I know I’m not alone in that! Ha. All that TV magic.
Lorelai’s house features a gift shop through Sookie’s side, the Coffee, Coffee, Coffee concession stand in the front yard, other photo opportunities, including the Jeep and Gilmore mailbox, and plenty of tables and chairs, in case you just want to hang out for a bit with a cup of coffee or pastry.
📍Sookie’s House
You can decorate cookies at Sookie’s house or pose with the deep fried turkey from “A Deep Fried Korean Thanksgiving,”which is in its pot on the Several of the tables were already filled, so I just took a picture on the steps of the house. It’s dressed up for the occasion on the outside!
Up next…
📍Kim’s AntiquesMy mom and I walked through Kim’s Antiques last time, so I just took more time documenting outside and asking my mom to film me walking to the porch.
It’s also in the prime area of my favorite view for Stars Hollow. It gives that first glance, as you turn from Lorelai’s down Sookie’s street. You can see the high school, the church, the gazebo and the tip of Luke’s, just from standing about midway down the street. At night, it’s absolutely radiant.
Next on the agenda…
📍Stars Hollow Scavenger Hunt
From the Kim residence, I could see the Scavenger Hunt booth and wanted to do it. This fun activity includes riddles and puzzles centered around Gilmore Girls, and if you solve all the clues, you’ll get a 25th anniversary Gilmore Girls ornament. It costs $10 to do. I would have loved to do it, but my mom had just bought the ornament, so I wasn’t sure that it was worth another $10 when there was still so much to see (and potentially buy).
📍Stars Hollow Gazebo/Snowman Contest props/Stars Hollow sign
Across the street from the Scavenger Hunt booth and Stars Hollow High School is the iconic gazebo in all its glory, covered with fake snow and Christmas decorations for festive photos. We posed for a family photo with this one and had some fun with it. We went back for photos at the gazebo itself a little later. I got a couple solo photos, then my mom and I took one together, too. We also had to get a family photo by the Stars Hollow sign. We love our traditions!
Thank you, next…
📍Stars Hollow Books/Le Chat Club
Stars Hollow Books is mostly Chilton themed gear (backpacks, sweatpants, sweatshirt), some of the Life and Death Brigade tributes and Gilmore cast books, like Lauren Graham’s and Kelly Bishop’s books. It’s also the only spot (that I’m aware of) that still has the Stars Hollow buttons featuring Team Dean, Team Jess or Team Logan. I already have a couple of Team Jess so I figured I’d try to complete my set this time. Since we bought a dog collar for my dog, Rory, (at the Le Chat Club kiosk) and they didn’t take cash, my mom paid in Stars Hollow Books. With each purchase, you’re able to choose a button. I went with Dean.
Sidenote: I know it’s unpopular opinion, and I’m no longer Team Dean either. Dean was far from perfect, but I did love him as a teenager myself (mostly because of Jared Padalecki, yes).
I just don’t think I’ll ever be Team Logan because I don’t feel like he ever grew up or changed. Sure, he became the guy that Rory needed, at least most of the time that he and Rory were together (or the second time they got back together), but then A Year in the Life just completely killed that illusion. He was still messing around on Odette to be with Rory. We’ll hold that full discussion for another day. Just some thoughts!
Onward we go…
📍Smoothie Bar
I’d seen some of the smoothie photos since our last trip and they looked good! After reading the menu, which has a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, from the Founder’s Day Punch to smoothies galore, I wanted one. They all sounded delicious, but I went with The Babette, which is a peach smoothie with a peach ring candy and topped with gold glitter. It was just as refreshing and tasty as it looked. My mom ordered The Lorelai, which was a strawberry smoothie, colorful sprinkles and a pop tart to top it off. They come in a cute plastic commemorative cup that says Gilmore Girls and the year.
They also serve sodas and water if the fancy drinks aren’t your thing!
Onto the next one…
📍Doose’s Market
We stopped in Doose’s Market for some shampoo and other necessities (just kidding). But, we did go in for a few minutes just to look around more on the opposite side of the store than we did last time. There weren’t as many people, and they’d also sold out of the Doose’s Market bag.
📍Luke’s Diner
Yes, we did this last time but you can’t go to Stars Hollow and not stop at Luke’s. We only waited about 30 minutes or so (if even that long this time around). Now, the kiosk and cashier is outside, so you can order and pay, before getting into the diner set. It allowed a lot more room for people to stand and give more freedom to explore and take photos this time. They still take your photo
We also met the background actor, Robert Lee, who was one of the waiters (or Cesar’s?) at Luke’s throughout the series run. He was so nice! We took a picture with him at the table, then as we were walking around and getting ready to leave, he mentioned that he’d be going on break in about 10 minutes, so he’d be around in the store, to answer any questions we might have.
📍Stars Hollow Library
After you exit Luke’s, you end up in the Stars Hollow Library, which has different merchandise than some of the others, including all things Stars Hollow, Luke’s Diner gear, Al’s Pancake World hats shirts and bags and other fun souvenirs like Stars Hollow postcards and more.
We ended up not sticking around that much longer. And then, of course, as we’re driving home, I started thinking of all these things I could have asked Robert, or talked about when it came to the show and some of the other gigs he’s had over the years. Maybe there will be another opportunity next time!
📍The Dragonfly Inn
While The Dragonfly Inn wasn’t actually filmed on the lot (it was filmed at the Warner Bros. Ranch just down the street from the main lot), they’ve recreated the look and feel inside the former “Growing Pains” house exterior. It does have the same warm, inviting and cozy vibes that you’d imagine The Dragonfly would bring.
There’s a store dedicated to all things Dragonfly Inn, like bathrobes (that looked very cozy), teacups, placemats and dining decor, pillows and more. My favorite part was the tree decked out in pink and purple Gilmore Girls ornaments. There are all kinds of fun props and decor to get into character with, whether you’d like to work behind the desk at The Dragonfly Inn or hang out as a guest with some of the New England tourist books.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sit at the actual dining room set from the Gilmore residence (Emily & Richard’s), along with the family portrait of Emily, Richard and Lorelai, as a young girl; Rory sitting with her book that was gifted to Richard; and the giant portrait that Emily decided to have done for the living room after Richard died (in A Year in the Life).
If you’re in the mood for afternoon tea, there’s a small dining room much like the show, where you can order finger sandwiches and desserts with your hot tea. There were quite a few people eating in there yesterday. It’s a cooler spot to get away from the crowds and rest for a while.
📍Black & White & Read Bookstore
We didn’t go in the BW&R last time, so we decided to stop by. They do a game of Gilmore Girls trivia - You can win a magnet at the end! There was still 20 minutes before the next game, so we didn’t stay for it, but there was plenty of seating, just like those movie nights and double dates called for. All fun spaces and cozy for hanging out, and who knows? Maybe you’ll meet more Gilmore Girls friends.
📍Stage 48
My dad had never been to Stage 48, and that’s definitely a must. We walked through the holiday exhibit with costumes from Warner Brothers features and through the script to screen sections. Finally, we arrived at the Friends couch/Central Perk set. We’d taken our photo on the couch, shortly after the show ended, so it was fun to have an updated version of that.
We glanced at some of the iconic costumes from Warner Bros. Classics. Dad isn’t a fan of Big Bang Theory, so we bypassed those sets, and made our way into some of the post production/technology areas that allow you to play with some of the tools that Hollywood uses to put the finishing touches on.
We stood in front of the screens for Dobby’s actions, where he mirrors your actions, which was fun. The final room is dedicated to the recording and audio process. This time, I tried recording my own scene. They had options of recording the Holiday Armadillo scene from “Friends” and Luke and Lorelai’s excited snow fall scene.
I’ve watched Gilmore Girls for most of my life, so I thought sure I would be able to ace the Gilmore scene. They play the scene before, then it’s your turn to record. It blows my mind just how fast the cast is able to talk and the rhythm they’re all able to find with one another. It really goes to show just how much goes into writing, scripts and making a production of any size. I had so much fun getting to act out my Gilmore dreams, though!
We also had to stop in the Friends gift shop where my dad and I pretended to play foosball just like Joey and Chandler!
📍DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains Exhibits
They dropped us off at the entrance to the final exhibit and gave us a quick spiel about what to expect for the ending of the tour. We walked through most of the exhibits with the DC costumes and Batmobile Cave, but skipped the Harry Potter/Wizarding World. While he’s not necessarily interested in those things, he still had fun seeing how different everything looks and the attention they’ve put into everything.
📍Warner Bros. Gift Shop
You end the tour in the gift shop! The perfect place to get those last minute gifts or a shirt to memorialize your latest obsession. As we looked around, we realized the store didn’t have some of the Gilmore Girls items we’d originally seen in other shops on the lot. We ended up finding someone who was able to get us back out to the lot. Everyone is so kind and accommodating — We were able to make it back to Lorelai’s house in no time. I got the Rory plaid shirt that says “I really, really love coffee.” And I love it. We went back to the Stars Hollow Library, where my mom picked up the Stars Hollow, CT sweatshirt like I got a couple weeks ago, just in a different color.
We made our way back to the Tour Center/parking garage after that…For real this time! It was another very successful trip.
As you can see, I’m a big fan of Warner Bros. and the Gilmore Girls: Holidays Made Here! There’s still time to visit if you haven’t had a chance - There are still times available on Dec. 31 and Jan.
💭 Overall Thoughts💭
My dad kept commented throughout the day on how everything has changed so much from the last time he’d visited. We’ve been going on the tour since the early days when the tours started in the building across the street (now being remodeled) and you were able to just find parking on the street, the small parking lot (where the tour center is now) or the parking garage underneath the office building.Aside from that, now there’s the Stage 48 building with interactive sets, the much larger gift shop, there’s a bigger Starbucks inside, the parking structure, the extra buildings with the Batmobiles and DC comic action film memorabilia and more. It was only the basic tour that was offered at the time, as well, rather than these additional options, like the Deluxe, the TCM tour or other events like Holidays Made Here, Friendsgiving, Horror Made Here. It’s fun to see how Warner Bros. Studios has continued to expand and create these experiences through the years. I’m so glad to be a fan and that I’ve been able to create so many memories on the lot, even though I have no ties whatsoever to Hollywood. Ha!
All of the staff and crew we encountered were so kind and made sure everyone was having a good time, asked how everything was and made an effort to carry on conversation. They’ve really outdone themselves with this event! I’m grateful for the team and crew who continue to put this event together year after year for the enjoyment of the fans and celebrate those who were on the show.
After the tour, since we hadn’t eaten since breakfast, we decided to have a late lunch/early dinner at Bob’s Big Boy! Can’t go wrong with a Big Boy Burger combo that comes with fries and a salad. I’d started getting a headache since we hadn’t eaten anything since earlier in the morning. I was able to take some medicine and eat, and felt so much better about life!
It was such a great day! So glad we were able to go again and experience the magic.
That’s all for now,
Shelby
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