Casino VIP Backstage Tour

Step back 90+ years to an era when Big Band leaders were king and “talkie” motion pictures were the latest fad. Walk the back halls and dressing areas where world-famous musicians and Hollywood legends prepared for the performances that would make the Catalina Casino one of the most exciting entertainment venues in the country.

Explore the places most locals have never been: The Catalina Casino building is a working theater, ballroom, and concert hall to this day. Focusing on the cultural history of the building, this one-of-a-kind tour brings you unprecedented access to backstage areas that were closed to the public for more than 70 years. You will experience this historic building like never before. Visit the green rooms used by Errol Flynn and Cary Grant, walk across the stage where Benny Goodman played before thousands of adoring fans, and see the editing room where Cecil B. DeMille viewed the rushes of the day’s movie shoot.

Enjoy an intimate casino tour experience: To make the most of your time in the building, we keep the tour group small – under 25 guests. To make the most of your visit your ticket may include extra time in the building based on the daily schedule.*
*Includes general Casino admission during scheduled business hours. Hours and availability may vary daily based on special events and maintenance closures.

For your safety, you should be in good health & free from high blood pressure, heart, neck, or back problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this tour. Due to the backstage access points, you will be climbing a combination of stairs and ramps, therefore this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Please consider the Discover the Casino Tour as an alternative.

This is a walking tour, so you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes. This Catalina Island tour takes place indoors, with the exception of some time on the balcony overlooking Avalon. You may wish to bring a light sweater, however you will be climbing stairs and ramps which will warm you right up in the cooler months. Please do not bring large bags or backpacks with you – they may become cumbersome on this walking tour. Don’t forget your camera. Gratuity is not included in your ticket purchase, but always appreciated.

Casino Building Box Office
Avalon, CA 90704

Do I need a reservation for the Casino Behind-The-Scenes Tour?

While reservations are not required, they are recommended. Getting your tickets in advance will save you time once you are on the island. This tour is a small group tour, so it does tend to sell out quickly.

Are there restrooms available on the Casino Behind-The-Scenes Tour?

There are restrooms available outside of the Casino Building on the ground level. Please make sure to use them before your tour begins – you will not be able to use the restrooms inside the building.

How far is the starting point of the Casino Behind-The-Scenes location from certain areas?

Walking time to common locations:

• Cabrillo Mole Area: 15-20 minutes
• Basketball/Volleyball/Old Ben Park Area: 12-15 minutes
• Green Pleasure Pier/Island Tour Plaza: 7-10 minutes
• Casino Building: 1-2 minutes
• Descanso Beach: 3-5 minutes

Is there food provided with my admission on the Casino Behind-The-Scenes Tour? Can I eat and drink while on tour?

Food & beverage are not provided with your admission on tour. As this is an historic building, food is not permitted on tour, but bottled water is welcome.

Still have questions? Visit our FAQ page.