Studio City’s name reflects a major focus of this community. Since Mack Sennett (producer of early Charlie Chaplin movies) first moved Republic Films here in 1920, this ultimate company town has become home to a roster of major studios and production companies. Its location has made Studio City one of the most ideal places to live and work for executives, young professionals and emerging talent in the entertainment industry. Cahuenga Pass on the east connects directly to Hollywood; Laurel Canyon and Coldwater Canyon carry those commuting to and from the Westside communities. Close by is Burbank, location of more studios and the employers of many who live in Studio City. Ventura Boulevard, running east/west, is a main thoroughfare for shopping and a diverse selection of restaurants catering to the studios. Notable among the many ethnic offerings is a section called “Sushi Row,” where some of LA’s most popular and well-known sushi restaurants were founded. Laurel Canyon is a main artery winding through the neighborhood hills on the southern end of the city to the northern areas of the San Fernando Valley.

In contrast to the busy city boulevards are the shady, tree-lined residential streets. Think sitcom homes: The Brady Bunch, Malcolm in the Middle, and Gidget were all filmed in Studio City neighborhoods. Tucked into the southern hills are the showcase homes of Hollywood celebrities. On its eastern border lies the affluent area of Toluca Lake, also home to many in the entertainment industry, then and now. Many parks and facilities serve the community, with space for tennis, baseball, playgrounds and barbecues. The annual Arts and Crafts show held every year on Ventura Boulevard draws large crowds, admiring the hand-made work of local artists. The nearby Universal Studios amusement park, studio tour, shopping walk, and Amphitheater are high on the list of must-sees for locals and tourists alike. Tucked into Coldwater Canyon is Tree People Park, a visionary endeavor to bring conservancy, technology and connection to the natural spaces that coexist and sustain our urban areas. The Mark Taper Amphitheater, located within the park, is a unique venue for theater, lectures, and concerts.