Hollywood Bowl (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hollywood Bowl?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can attend daytime rehearsals, community concerts, and run around picnic lawns, yet steep bench seating, evening noise, and alcohol around may tire or overstimulate some kids.
Positives:
- Family-friendly zones: Picnic areas and benches let kids move and spread out safely.
- Free kid activities: Morning rehearsals and the Museum give free entertainment before showtime.
Challenges:
- Steep seating access: You must climb several steps to reach most benches and picnic tables.
- Loud volume: Concerts can be very loud. Bring child ear protection if needed.
What is Hollywood Bowl?
- An open-air amphitheater nestled in the Hollywood Hills, defined by a semicircular band shell and radial hillside seating
- Opened in 1922, the facility seats nearly 20,000 and blends architectural form with natural terrain
- Serves as the summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and hosts a broad spectrum of musical genres
What is so special about Hollywood Bowl for with kids?
- Outdoor amphitheater with live music under the stars
- Designated picnic tables and shady park spaces for kids
- Free LA Phil rehearsals introduce children to orchestral music
- Nearby museum offers hands-on history on non-show days
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Arrive early to explore picnic areas, visit the museum, and find seats before the concert.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hollywood Bowl
Pre-show picnic at picnic tables:
Choose picnic area 6 or 7 near the stage. Tables open 4 hours before showtime.
Tip: Bring easy handheld foods and bottled water. Lay a blanket for kids to play safely.
Attend LA Phil morning rehearsals:
Free rehearsals on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 am give kids an up-close look at the orchestra.
Tip: Enter through the box office lot and sit behind the terrace boxes for the best view.
Play and picnic at Highland Camrose Park:
Shaded grassy park just outside the Bowl grounds.
Tip: Pack small toys and snacks. Let kids run before you head in for the show.
Visit Hollywood Bowl Museum:
Free entry on non-show days to see historic photos and instruments.
Tip: Park free until 4:30 pm. Let kids explore displays at their own pace.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hollywood Bowl
- Arrive early: Gates open 2½ hours before most shows. Claim a picnic table and settle in.
- Use lots 6 & 7: These parking lots are closest to the stage and picnic areas.
- Bring cushions: Bench seats can be hard on little bottoms. Cushions boost comfort.
Reviews of Hollywood Bowl
Heather Troutman
I love the Hollywood bowl..cool venue! Buuut...parking is 👎, this is why park and ride bus trips are the best! And the ability to bring food and drinks is great. Lots of hills ( if you have mobility issues or hard time walking,it might be challenging) in all cool place to see a concert!
Ruksana Hussain
Enjoyed many summer concerts and shows here. It is always a fun venue for a performance and if you plan well , you can enjoy a picnic or a meal ahead of the show. A great way to enjoy some fabulous acts in a beautiful location.
Fred Long
The Hollywood Bowl is amazing. I live in San Diego but I come up frequently. One reason is because of the freedom. There are venues in San Diego that will check every orifice of your body to make sure you don't bring in anything they could possibly sell you. The Hollywood Bowl is just the opposite. You can bring your food, your wine, your picnic baskets, and have a really good time. They also have...
Mark Goldsmith
Beautiful venue to see a show and enjoy a picnic outdoors on a warm summery evening with friends. Almost every seat is a good seat. We have a box and it's tight but but we always have a great time and often, we are not familiar with the artist performing which doesn't matter as it is such a great venue to enjoy.
Sevda Asl
The best concert venue in the world. I love love this place. I’ve been there for many concerts, and I always enjoyed my time there. It’s wonderful. Beyond amazing. I love to go there for summer nights. And for the parking spot, the best thing to do is to reserve your spot in two days before the concert and when you arrive you are secure. Summer is so fabulous in Hollywood bowl.
When is the best time to visit Hollywood Bowl (Los Angeles, United States)?
Main concert season runs June–September. Evening temperatures can drop after sunset. Bring a light jacket or blanket.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult concert tickets | USD 100 |
| 2 children’s tickets | USD 60 |
| Parking fee | USD 25 |
| Picnic supplies | USD 30 |
| Total Estimated | USD 215 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Hollywood Bowl
Address: 2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068, USA
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