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 limited parking. Arrive early to avoid circling for hours. My favorite place to park is at The Hollywood Bowl D lot. It costs $20 and is a close walk to the Bowl. Walk along Highland Ave and 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. There are various Park and Ride services available. There re 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.

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 … er, not good. 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!!