Pasadena Civic Auditorium

The Pasadena Civic Auditorium faces Green Street in the middle of downtown Pasadena, a block south of Colorado Boulevard. It was dedicated in February 1932, deep in the Depression, and the convention center grew up around it in the 1970s. The house holds 2,997 across the main floor, a loge and a balcony, and the painted ceiling is worth a look before the lights go down.

Television knows this room well. The Prime Time Emmys were held here for more than twenty years, and these days the NAACP Image Awards, the Daytime Emmys and America's Got Talent tapings use the stage. Between broadcasts you'll find touring concerts, ballet companies, comedians, holiday shows and local graduations. Upcoming nights below range from a K-pop tour to a Christmas orchestra.

Driving is easy by LA standards. The garage sits right under the building and is shared with Hotel Dena. Put 175 S Euclid Ave in your map for the most direct entry. Expect $18 to $25 flat, card or tap only, and note the 6 foot 6 inch height limit if you're in a van. Overflow garages on Green Street and Marengo are a two-minute walk. Without a car, take the A Line to Del Mar and walk north to Green.

Keep your bag at 11 by 14 inches or smaller, because there are no lockers. No outside food or drinks get in, and cameras aren't allowed, though phone photos are fine at most shows. Every person needs a ticket, lap-sitting toddlers included. You can usually step out and come back in, as long as Guest Services scans your ticket on the way out. Watch your inbox for the venue's Know Before You Go email, since rules shift by event.