Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl sits in a canyon off Highland Avenue, a short climb north of Hollywood Boulevard. The seats rise up the hillside in a long curve facing the white concentric shell, and on a clear night you can see the Hollywood sign from the upper rows. The LA Phil has played summer seasons here since 1922, and the same stage books pop tours, film-score nights and the occasional dance music headliner.

Picnicking is half the point. You can bring your own food to any show, and the grounds have picnic areas that open hours before the music. What you can drink depends on the night. At an LA Phil show you can carry in wine and beer, but at a lease event, which the Bowl's calendar marks with special house rules, outside alcohol stays home and drinks are sold inside. Keep your bag or cooler small enough to fit under your seat.

Getting here takes planning. The lots are stack parked, so nobody leaves early, and parking can sell out before the show. The Bowl points people to its Park & Ride buses and to the Metro B Line, with a free shuttle from Hollywood/Highland for riders who tap a Metro card. Rideshare drop-off is in Lot C, at 6655 Odin St. Skip the side streets, since parking in the neighborhood can earn you a ticket.

Seats far up the hill are a real hike, so wear good shoes and bring a layer, because the canyon cools off fast after sunset.