Universal Studios Hollywood is home to one of the most iconic backlot sets in television history Colonial Street, famously known as Wisteria Lane from the hit series *Desperate Housewives*. This picturesque cul-de-sac served as the backdrop for the lives of the residents of Wisteria Lane, drawing viewers into a world of suburban drama, mystery, and intrigue. Even though the series concluded in 2012, the allure of Wisteria Lane endures, attracting fans and tourists eager to step into the world of their favorite characters.
Colonial Street The Real Wisteria Lane
Colonial Street, located within Universal Studios Hollywood, is a versatile backlot that has been used in numerous films and television shows since its inception in the 1940s. While it was known as Wisteria Lane during the filming of *Desperate Housewives*, the street has also served as the setting for productions like *The Munsters*, *The ‘Burbs*, *Gremlins*, and *Psycho* . Over the years, Colonial Street has undergone various transformations to accommodate the specific needs of each production, making it a dynamic and ever-evolving set piece.
Famous Homes on Wisteria Lane
Throughout its run, *Desperate Housewives* featured several memorable homes, each belonging to a central character or family. Some of the most notable residences included
- 4350 Wisteria LaneKnown as the Cromwell House, this residence was featured in *Desperate Housewives* and had previously appeared in *The ‘Burbs* and *Dragnet* .
- 4352 Wisteria LaneOriginally the Morrison House, this home was the residence of Mary Alice Young and later the Young family. It was also known as the Leave It to Beaver house .
- 4353 Wisteria LaneThis house served as the home of Susan Mayer and her family, becoming one of the most recognizable locations on the show .
- 4356 Wisteria LaneKnown as Walter’s House, this property appeared in *The ‘Burbs* before being featured in *Desperate Housewives* .
Visiting Wisteria Lane at Universal Studios Hollywood
For fans of *Desperate Housewives*, a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood offers a unique opportunity to experience Wisteria Lane in person. The Studio Tour, included with park admission, takes guests through Colonial Street, allowing them to view the exteriors of the iconic homes. However, pedestrian access to the street is limited. To walk along Wisteria Lane and explore the set up close, guests must purchase VIP Studio Tour tickets, which provide exclusive access to areas not included in the standard tour .
What to Expect on the Studio Tour
The Studio Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how movies and television shows are made. During the tour, guests will pass by Colonial Street and have the chance to see the facades of the famous homes from *Desperate Housewives*. While the interiors of these homes are not open to the public, the exteriors are meticulously maintained to preserve the authenticity of the set. The tour guides provide interesting facts and anecdotes about the productions filmed on Colonial Street, enriching the experience for visitors.
The Legacy of Wisteria Lane
Even though *Desperate Housewives* concluded over a decade ago, the legacy of Wisteria Lane continues to captivate audiences. The set remains a testament to the show’s impact on television and pop culture. In 2025, a new spin-off series titled *Wisteria Lane* was announced, set to launch on Onyx Collective. The series promises to capture the essence of the original show, focusing on the lives of five women living in a seemingly perfect cul-de-sac, mirroring the tone and setting of the original series .
For those unable to visit Universal Studios Hollywood in person, the allure of Wisteria Lane endures through various media. The original series is available for streaming, allowing new generations of viewers to discover the drama and intrigue of suburban life on Wisteria Lane. Additionally, fan communities and online forums continue to celebrate the show’s legacy, keeping the spirit of Wisteria Lane alive.
Wisteria Lane, as portrayed on Colonial Street at Universal Studios Hollywood, holds a special place in the hearts of *Desperate Housewives* fans. Its timeless appeal and the unforgettable stories of its residents continue to draw visitors and viewers alike. Whether through a visit to the set or a rewatch of the series, the charm and drama of Wisteria Lane remain as captivating as ever.