My recent trip to Hollywood included an unforgettable night at the Hollywood Bowl for the LA Philharmonic's "Maestro of the Movies" show. Here’s a glimpse into my experience and some tips to make your visit to this iconic venue smooth and enjoyable.
The LA Phil also plays indoors at the Dinsey Concert Hall from October to April.
An Evening at the Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl, a famous amphitheater nestled in the Hollywood Hills, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. This open-air venue, surrounded by the Hollywood Hills and the famous Hollywood Sign, is a perfect setting for a night under the stars.
The Show: Maestro of the Movies
The LA Philharmonic's "Maestro of the Movies" is a spectacular event. While the legendary John Williams usually conducts the show, he couldn’t make it this time due to health issues.
The evening featured some of the most iconic film scores, played live by the orchestra. The energy was palpable as the orchestra brought to life classics from movies like "Star Wars," "Superman," "1984 Summer Olympics Theme," and “The Pink Panther.”
As the music played, we watched clips from these iconic movies. My favorites were the "Pink Panther" and "Star Wars." The sight of people young and old waving their lightsabers as the "Star Wars" score resonated through the amphitheater created a surreal ambiance.
Tips for Visiting the Hollywood Bowl
Navigating the Bowl
You've booked your tickets and arranged for parking or public transportation; now that you're at the venue, how do you get to your seat?
- Security: First, you'll need to go through security. They will inspect your bags, and then you'll go through the x-ray. The process is similar to airport security but much easier. You can keep your small items like wallets and phones with you. They are only interested in large bags.
- Climb to Seating Areas: After security, there's a steep climb to the seating areas. You can use the escalators to ease the trip, but they get very crowded. I prefer to walk up. If you can’t make the climb, ask for assistance. They provide wheelchairs if needed, and an elevator is available.
- Restrooms: Don't go to the restroom during intermission—it is impossible. Although skipping one of the performances is difficult, that would be the most convenient time for a bathroom break.
Seating
The Hollywood Bowl offers a variety of seating options:
- Box Seats: These are the most comfortable and offer the best views but are also the most expensive.
- Super Seats: Located in the middle section, these offer good views at a moderate price.
- Bench Seats: These are the most affordable and are located at the back. Bring a cushion for added comfort.
Show Times
The Hollywood Bowl schedule varies, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Arrive early to avoid traffic and to have enough time to settle in.
Gates usually open 2 hours before the performance starts, giving you ample time to explore the venue and enjoy a pre-show picnic. The "Maestro of the Movies" show on Saturday started at 8 PM and ended at 10:30 PM.
Parking
Parking at the Hollywood Bowl can be challenging, but you can reserve a spot well in advance. We used “park and ride” to avoid the crunch. We parked the car at the Lakewood Center and took the bus to the show. Here are some options:
- Lot A (Blue): Closest to the entrance but fills up quickly.
- Lot B (Green) and Lot C (Red): A bit further away but often have more availability.
- Park & Ride: Consider using one of the many Park & Ride lots located around Los Angeles. Shuttle buses run regularly and can save you the hassle of parking.
- Stack Parking: Be aware that many parking lots use stack parking, meaning your car may be blocked in until the end of the show.
Transportation
Public transportation is a convenient option:
- Metro: Take the Metro Red Line to the Hollywood/Highland Station. From there, it’s a short walk or shuttle ride to the Bowl.
- Bowl Shuttle: Shuttle buses run from various locations around Los Angeles. This is a stress-free way to get to the venue without worrying about parking.
Food and Drinks
You can bring your own food and drinks to the Hollywood Bowl. Many people enjoy a picnic before the show.
There are also numerous food stalls and restaurants within the venue if you prefer to buy your food there.
Don’t forget to bring a blanket or cushion to sit on the grass and enjoy your meal.
You can also order picnic boxes in advance. You can skip the lines when you get to the venue and pick up your prepared meal.
Be aware that food and drink inside the Hollywood Bowl is not cheap. For example, if you order a picnic box, it will cost you $48.
We had a light dinner before we left home and brought snacks and drinks with us in backpacks. We avoided the lines and saved a lot of money.
Final Thoughts
My night at the Hollywood Bowl for the LA Phil's "Maestro of the Movies" was a magical experience. The combination of beautiful music, a stunning setting, and Hollywood charm made for an unforgettable evening.
With some planning, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this iconic venue. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Hollywood Bowl is a must-visit destination for any music or movie lover.