Hollywood Bowl
Iconic outdoor amphitheater hosting diverse musical acts, famous for its picnic tradition and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Hollywood Bowl
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic outdoor amphitheater hosting diverse musical acts, famous for its picnic tradition and stunning views.
"The Hollywood Bowl offers a magical experience with its picnic tradition and world-class performances under the stars."
🚗 Shuttle is Your Friend
Skip parking stress! Use the park & ride shuttles from various lots. Easy and saves hours.
🧺 Pack a Feast
Bring your own food & drinks! It's a tradition and saves money. Check rules for specifics.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Under the Stars Concerts
Main Amphitheater
Experience world-class music and performances in a stunning outdoor amphitheater setting. A truly magical LA night.
Picnic on the Plaza
Concert Hall Plaza
Bring your own feast and drinks to enjoy before the show. A beloved tradition for many concertgoers.
Iconic Architecture
Amphitheater Structure
Admire the distinctive shell-shaped stage and the beautiful architecture of this historic venue.
Planning Your Visit
Picnic Perfection
Beat the Traffic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Shuttle is Your Friend
Skip parking stress! Use the park & ride shuttles from various lots. Easy and saves hours. +1
🧺 Pack a Feast
Bring your own food & drinks! It's a tradition and saves money. Check rules for specifics. +1
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the rush, enjoy your picnic, and explore the venue. Worth it for a relaxed experience.
⬆️ Use Side Entrances
Avoid main entrance queues. Side entrances can be much faster for entry.
Tips for a newbie at a Hollywood Bowl concert?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Shuttle is Your Friend
Skip parking stress! Use the park & ride shuttles from various lots. Easy and saves hours. +1
🧺 Pack a Feast
Bring your own food & drinks! It's a tradition and saves money. Check rules for specifics. +1
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the rush, enjoy your picnic, and explore the venue. Worth it for a relaxed experience.
⬆️ Use Side Entrances
Avoid main entrance queues. Side entrances can be much faster for entry.
📱 Ride-Share Smartly
Lyft/Uber drop-off is convenient, but pickup can be tricky. Plan ahead!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hollywood Bowl for its iconic atmosphere, the joy of picnicking under the stars, and the diverse range of high-quality performances. The stunning outdoor setting and the tradition of bringing your own food and drinks are frequently highlighted as major positives. However, some guests find the parking and exit process to be a significant drawback, and certain 'leased' events have stricter outside food and alcohol policies than expected.
"The best concert venue in the world. I love love this place. I’ve been there for many concerts, and I always enjoyed my time there. It’s wonderful. Beyond amazing. I love to go there for summer nights. And for the parking spot, the best thing to do is to reserve your spot in two days before the concert and when you arrive you are secure. Summer is so fabulous in Hollywood bowl."
Sevda Asl
"Beautiful valley venue. Be forewarned that air traffic can occasionally come by during a quiet set of music. Definitely not a grand concert hall, but a great opportunity to see great works in a more casual setting."
John L
"I travel a lot and think the Hollywood Bowl is my favorite venue in the country. Sound system is great. Great for picnics before the show or bring it in with you and munch away during the show. You can even bring your own booze so you don’t have to pay exhorbatant venue pricing. Seats are a bit uncomfortable, but you can rent a cushion for $1."
M S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Many visitors recommend using the park & ride shuttle services from various lots around the city, or taking public transport like the Metro Red Line to Hollywood & Highland and walking up. Ride-sharing is also an option, but be mindful of pickup logistics. +2
While parking is available, it's often stacked and can lead to significant delays exiting after a show. Most advice suggests avoiding self-parking at the venue if possible. +1
Shuttles typically run from designated parking lots, such as the LA Zoo or Ovation Hollywood (Hollywood & Highland). Check the Hollywood Bowl website for the most current shuttle routes and schedules for your specific event.
Yes, if you're staying nearby, walking up Highland Avenue is an option. Some visitors find it a pleasant walk, especially if they arrive early.
The Metro Red Line is a popular choice, with a station at Hollywood & Highland. From there, it's a walk up to the venue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are primarily sold through Ticketmaster, the official ticketing partner. You can also find them on the Hollywood Bowl's official website. Be wary of unofficial resellers.
Yes, the Hollywood Bowl offers a range of seating options, from general admission 'bench' seats in the upper sections to premium box seats and super seats. Seat views can vary significantly.
For most LA Phil-presented events, you can bring your own food and sealed wine/beer. However, 'leased' or special events may have different policies, prohibiting outside food and alcohol. Always check the specific event details. +1
The venue typically opens its doors 90 minutes before the show's scheduled start time. Arriving earlier is recommended to enjoy the picnic areas.
The Hollywood Bowl generally allows small bags and purses. Larger backpacks or oversized bags may not be permitted. It's best to check the venue's official website for the most up-to-date bag policy.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for most events, but professional cameras with detachable lenses are usually prohibited. Flash photography is often discouraged during performances. Always check the specific event's policy.
The iconic shell stage itself is a must-capture. The views from the upper seating areas offer a great panorama of the venue and the city lights. The plaza areas are also great for pre-show ambiance shots.
Tripods and other professional camera equipment are typically not allowed for general admission attendees to ensure clear sightlines for everyone.
Golden hour before sunset offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the venue. During the show, the stage lighting creates dramatic photo opportunities.
Short personal videos are usually permitted, but professional filming or recording of the entire performance is typically prohibited. Check the specific event's rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep little ones happy, and consider bringing cushions or blankets for added comfort in the bench seating areas. Arriving early allows time for kids to explore the plaza and get settled before the performance. Check the schedule for family-oriented performances like 'Disney at the Hollywood Bowl' for a guaranteed hit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for upper-level bench seating, which is generally the most affordable. Combine this with using shuttle services or public transport instead of paying for parking or expensive ride-shares. Many visitors find that a well-planned picnic and smart transportation choices make a Hollywood Bowl experience accessible even on a tighter budget.
couples
Consider booking seats with a good view to enhance the romantic atmosphere. Arriving early allows you to find a cozy spot for your picnic and soak in the surroundings before the main event. Many couples find the blend of music, food, and the iconic venue to be an ideal way to spend an evening together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hollywood Bowl Picnic Tradition
When packing your picnic, think about items that travel well and are easy to eat. Sandwiches, wraps, charcuterie boards, and pre-made salads are popular choices. Don't forget cutlery, napkins, and a bottle opener if needed. While many events permit outside alcohol, it's crucial to check the specific rules for your event, as 'leased' events may have restrictions.
This picnic culture not only adds to the unique atmosphere of the Hollywood Bowl but also offers a more budget-friendly option compared to purchasing food inside the venue. It's a chance to socialize, relax, and savor the anticipation of the performance under the Southern California sky.
Navigating Transportation to the Bowl
Several alternative transportation methods are highly recommended. Shuttle services are a popular and convenient option, running from various park-and-ride locations throughout Los Angeles. These shuttles are designed to drop you off close to the venue, significantly reducing travel stress. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also viable, with designated drop-off and pick-up zones, though planning for pickup can be essential.
For those who prefer public transit, the Metro Red Line to the Hollywood & Highland station is a common choice, followed by a walk up the hill to the Bowl. This option is often favored by those looking to avoid traffic altogether. Regardless of your chosen method, arriving early is key to a smooth and enjoyable experience, allowing ample time for transit and settling in before the show begins.
Understanding Hollywood Bowl Seating and Views
Bench seating is the most common in the general admission sections, often requiring you to bring cushions for comfort. The Super Seats and Prime View sections offer enhanced comfort and better sightlines. For a truly premium experience, box seats provide a more intimate setting with dedicated service. It's highly recommended to check Hollywood Bowl seat view charts online before purchasing tickets to get a realistic idea of what to expect from your chosen section.
While the acoustics are generally excellent throughout the venue, the visual experience can vary. The iconic shell stage is visible from most seats, but the distance and angle will differ. Many attendees find that even the further seats offer a fantastic atmosphere, especially when combined with the picnic tradition and the magical outdoor setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit