I've been lucky enough to see 5 ("technically" 6) game show tapings in my young lifetime.
The first one was experienced filled - as I was playing as a contestant on Wheel in '97. I was lucky enough not to be selected until the Thursday show, so I could soak up the experience. I actually found that the set was a reasonable size.
I didn't get a chance again until I lived in Europe. I saw the French game show "Questions pour un champion" this time two years ago, and I have to say it was my fave experience. I got to see four shows being taped, and in between shows the audience (50 or so) got to get up and mingle around, have a bite to eat, wander onto the set, and take some pictures
I found that it was a very relaxed atmosphere. I think they've got it figured out - very calm people that work there. Although they did think it was bizarre that Canadians were in their audience!
I saw two BBC game shows in 2002 as well : Weakest Link (primetime) and Liar (soon to be in the US?). WL was cool because I got to see Anne in person. Also I had a bit of a rapport with the warm up guy (former host of UK Double Dare). My only wish is that I would have brought something for Anne to sign. Liar, taped at White City (more central to the city than Pinewood Studios) is a very nice atmosphere as well. There's a full restaurant/bar there (so yours truly had a drink before the taping to loosen up) and they let you wander around somewhat after the show is done, talking to the contestants.
I finally saw TPIR this past summer (mid-July; and Rod was taping that day). It's an experience unlike the others because you have to be there ridiculously early. And the energy inside that studio is unlike anything I've ever seen. I found that the set, like many others, was small! I was lucky enough to ask Bob a question during the commercial which was a personal thrill. I hope to go back again sometime in 2005.
And, the "technically" taping: Canadian Idol. But that really doesn't count, does it?
Cheers,
Ryan