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How to See a Concert at the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is an institution in Los Angeles. It is the largest natural outdoor amphitheater in the country, and probably the most famous. It was named the top outdoor venue in the country for seven straight years by "Pollstar" magazine. The Bowl is at 2301 North Highland Avenue near the Hollywood Freeway. It does have some parking issues that make attending concerts there a little complicated.

Instructions

    • 1

      Get tickets through the normal outlets or at the box office. It has box seats in groups of four or six surrounded by wood partitions; stadium-style plastic seats with built-in cup holders; and bench seats that go to the back of the theater. The Bowl is so large that cheap seats in the nosebleed section are available for even the most popular concerts. Huge viewing screens on the sides make it easier to deal with those cheap seats.

    • 2

      Pack a picnic dinner. It's tradition for patrons to bring their own food, but you must consider how long a walk you will have to the theater. Don't bring a heavy meal if you're forced to walk a long distance from the car or a public transportation drop-off point. Some concerts also have policies on what kind of food and drink can be brought into the venue. Picnic spots are first-come, first-served. You must arrive early if you have a favorite spot you want to claim.

    • 3

      Pack seat cushions if you take the less expensive bench seats. They do rent them at the Bowl, but if you have room, bring your own.

    • 4

      Take alternative transportation to the bowl. Parking around the bowl is limited. The parking is stacked, and no early exits are permitted. The Hollywood Bowl site says more than a third of its patrons use its Park & Ride and Bowl Shuttle systems. Check the website for updated routes and prices. The Metro lines No. 156 and No. 222 also run to the bowl.

    • 5

      Check the concert policy regarding children. Children 2 and up must have a ticket and a seat. However, the Hollywood Bowl does recommend that children not attend regular evening concerts.

    • 6

      Dress in layers or bring a blanket. Cold air naturally collects there at night even when it is hot during the day.

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