Visiting the Hollywood Bowl like a PRO

It’s summer and you’ve been thinking about catching a show at the Hollywood Bowl but have no idea how to navigate, I’m here to help!

There is nothing more iconic in Los Angeles than listening to the L.A. Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl! Led by world renowned conductor Gustavo Dudamel, you can see your favorite musical artists accompanied by the L.A. Phil or even watch your favorite film while listening to a beautiful live score! It’s truly an experience you don’t want to miss out on. I recently attended the opening night of the 2022 season and had the most incredible time. I had attended to a few other shows previously and I noticed there is definitely a culture of HOW to see a show at the Bowl. As you’re walking in you can definitely tell the newbies from the seasoned attendees. If it’s your first time walking in, you might feel like you missed a memo. Consider this your memo, here is how to visit the Hollywood Bowl Like a PRO…

Parking: Parking anywhere in Hollywood / Downtown LA is daunting. Everyone drives so there are tons of cars and VERY limited parking. Arrive early to avoid circling and missing your show. UPDATE FOR 2024 SEASON…

Our favorite place to park is Lot D because it is a close walk to the Bowl. An easy walk along Highland Ave then take the tunnel that takes you straight to the front of the Bowl. Cars are stacked parked so there is no early leaving and it might take a little while after the show for you to be able to get your car out, just take your time exiting. However, parking is now PREPAID only and price has gone up significantly, $45 for LA Phil presented events and $55 for lease events. Lot C is now just a transportation hub for rideshare drop off and pick up so the amount of parking spots are reduced.

You can now park at the Ford theatre for $35 if you don’t mind the hike. It is about 15 minute walk and you will have to cross a freeway under pass and might be a little much for the anxious.

There are various Park and Ride services available. There are many lots where you can conveniently park and take a shuttle straight to The Bowl. You do have to pre-purchase the shuttle ticket which runs about $7 roundtrip per person.

You can also take an Uber or Lyft and get dropped off and picked up at the transportation hub ( 6655 Odin St. L.A. 90068 )

Another suggestion is parking at Hollywood and Highland Ovation and walking ( about 25 min walk ) or taking a short uber / lyft up to the bowl.

Food: While there is plenty of food and drink available for purchase at the Bowl, I found that it was very pricey and the tacos we ordered were not great. Listen, I hate to give a bad review but I have to be honest! They were cold and the flavor lacked, for $15 for two small tacos, I expected much more. Here is my tip… Bring your own food AND drink! At the Hollywood Bowl you are welcome to bring your own food and drink! Some events are “leased” and alcohol is not permitted during those events. Just make sure you look out for “special house rules” on their calendar. But other than that, you can bring in wine bottles and your own beer as long as your picnic basket fits under your seat. Save a little money and pick up your favorite tasty picnic items and bring them along with you!! There are so many places to sit and enjoy your picnic around the Hollywood Bowl or enjoy it in your seat.

I hope you will visit this iconic Hollywood landmark, you can only find here in L.A!

Congratulations to the Hollywood Bowl on 100 years!! If you’d like to see the grand finale of the opening performance of their 100th season, click the YouTube video below! Yes!!! we have a YouTube channel now!! Don’t forget to like and SUBSCRIBE!!