About AT&T Center
The “AT&T Center” in Los Angeles isn’t a sports arena at all, but a landmark downtown office tower (with a connected low-rise) that once housed large corporations – and today partly serves USC’s City Center campus. Completed in the mid-1960s, the high-rise was designed by William L. Pereira in the International Style. It rises about 452 feet (32 stories) at 12th & Olive Streets . It was originally the Occidental Life Insurance Building (later Transamerica) and became known as the AT&T Center when AT&T acquired it. (Nearby, a second Pereira-designed tower at 611 W. 6th St – now called 611 Place – also became an AT&T facility in the 1980s. That 42-story, 620-ft tower was for a time the tallest building in L.A. and was famous for its blank concrete “logo wall” running the full height .) Today these towers are mostly office space (many of USC’s downtown satellite offices are here) and they anchor what was once a 12‐acre “Occidental Center” complex with underground connections .
Signature features include the clean midcentury design and prominent blank facade that once bore corporate signage (for Citizens Bank and later AT&T) . The building’s cross-shaped plan and white perimeter fins are classic Patterson-era details. It’s part of USC’s downtown presence – the USC School of Social Work, Rossier School of Education and School of Public Policy all have offices in the AT&T Center building (1149 South Hill Street) . The name “AT&T Center” endures locally, but it’s essentially an office and academic hub next to the LA Live/Staples Center entertainment district. Its historic significance lies in being one of L.A.’s earliest high-rises – in fact, when the shorter tower opened it was the first building to surpass City Hall in height – and a symbol of downtown’s 1960s corporate boom.
Events and Programming
Because AT&T Center is primarily an office and university building, public events are very limited. There are no permanent arenas or stages like at Crypto.com Arena; most “events” are USC lectures, meetings or academic conferences. For example, USC occasionally hosts seminars or community discussions in its City Center space, but these are generally by invitation or open only to students and staff. In fact, the USC event calendar for the AT&T Center shows no upcoming public events . In 2020–2025, no concerts, sports games or commercial performances have taken place here. Virtually all major entertainment events in the area instead occur at nearby venues (Staples/LA Live, Microsoft Theater, etc.). In short, this building’s programming is educational and corporate – expect university workshops, professional forums or departmental gatherings, rather than pop shows.
Tickets and Booking
This building does not sell tickets through a box office because it isn’t a public performance venue. If you’re attending a meeting or USC event in the AT&T Center, entrance is typically by invitation or through the university’s campus RSVP system (not general ticket sales). There is no public “ticket outlet” and no online ticket ticketing platform associated with it. In most cases, any conferences or seminars held here are free for approved attendees. (For planning purposes, don’t expect ticket booths or late door sales. Instead, if a USC department is hosting an event here, they will notify registrants via their internal channels.)
Seating and Layout
The tower is arranged as office floors and classrooms, not as a fixed-seating auditorium. It does, however, include a built-in theater: part of the South Park Center complex (where the AT&T Center is) houses a 500-seat proscenium-style theater with balcony . This venue has rows of fixed seats, a stage and foyer, used for USC lectures or community programs. Otherwise, spectators in meetings or classes sit at movable tables or chairs in conference rooms. There is no “general admission” tailgate or lawn area as you’d see at a sports stadium. If you happen to enter the theater, front or center seats give the best visibility. Note that the upper office floors offer panoramic city views – for example, the 611 Place tower (part of this campus) has multiple rooftop terraces with wide views of downtown – but these are not public viewing decks, just building amenities.
Getting There and Parking
AT&T Center sits in Downtown Los Angeles’s South Park neighborhood, roughly bounded by 10th/12th (Olive/Hill) and the 110 freeway. By car, it’s easily reached via the I-10 or I-5 on the south and the I-110/Hwy 110 from the east . Exiting at 10th Street or Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd will bring you into the immediate area. On foot or transit, major hubs are very nearby: the 7th Street/Metro Center station (Metro B/D/Expo lines) is a few blocks northwest, and many Metro buses serve Figueroa and 7th streets. Los Angeles DASH shuttles also run toward USC: the DASH “Downtown” route connects USC’s campus to the South Park area (50¢ fare) . For rideshares, drop-off is usually allowed on South Olive or South Hill just outside the building entrances.
Parking is limited to city lots and garages. There are several public parking options around the building. For example, one large lot at 12th & Olive charges roughly $12 per day, and the “AT&T Garage” at 1133 S. Olive St. offers an early-bird flat rate (~$15 on weekdays if you enter before 9am) or about $20 all day . The USC City Center parking lots (at corner of 12th & Olive and elsewhere) also allow pay-by-the-day parking (around $12–$20). Expect standard downtown pricing. If arriving from farther away, note that Union Station (Amtrak/Metro) is about 4 miles north; many visitors simply take a taxi or shuttle from Union Station to Downtown LA where this building is located.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, you’ll find a typical office tower lobby with security. This building has 24-hour security and controlled access – be prepared to show ID or sign in at the front desk when visiting . During office hours, visitors may need a campus or guest badge. Inside, the decor is modern office style (a lobby renovation was completed in the mid-2000s ). There are elevators to all floors, and the entire facility is equipped for disabled access (ramps, handicapped elevators, ADA restrooms, etc.) as with any contemporary office high-rise.
Look for a small cafe and services on the lower levels. For example, USC’s City Center lobby area includes a Market Café (garden level) and a FedEx/office supply outlet in the lobby . During business hours you can grab a coffee or snack at the café. Vending machines are often available off the lobby as well. Restrooms are on each floor, though public restrooms are generally only in the lobby or conference areas unless you have floor access. There is no general coat-check or merchandise shop (you’ll often see only multi-purpose conference rooms and office suites). Free Wi-Fi is sometimes available as part of USC’s network in public areas, or you may use personal mobile data (cell service is good on site).
Nearby Amenities
AT&T Center is only a block or two from the lively L.A. Live entertainment district. Immediately adjacent is the JW Marriott/Marriott Marquis/Ritz Carlton complex (LA Live) which has numerous restaurants – for instance, Wolfgang Puck’s WP24, Yard House, Katsuya and Tom’s Urban. Within a few blocks you’ll also find casual eateries like Starbucks (at L.A. Live), the Fenix Hotel (social lounge), and plenty of quick-service options in the Crypto.com Arena concourse. For pre-event dining or drinks, consider sports-bar style places like Dave & Buster’s or LA Live’s ESPN Zone. If you prefer something quieter, the Gaslamp Plaza across the street (near Crypto.com) has sandwich shops and fast-casual diners.
Hotels are plentiful. The L.A. Live tower complex (across the street) contains the Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, and Marriott Marquis – all high-end accommodations with on-site fitness centers. The Westin Bonaventure (a landmark multi-tower hotel with mirrored atrium) is just four blocks north on Figueroa. On-and-off Strip just a mile north is the Omni Los Angeles (standard business hotel). For economy lodging, downtown has mid-range options like SpringHill Suites and Holiday Inn Express along Figueroa. When arriving early, you’ll find that many visitors walk from these hotels or take short rideshares. Late night options after 10pm are limited to hotel bars around LA Live or a handful of downtown bars on Spring and Figueroa.
What Makes This Venue Special
Unlike typical concert halls, the AT&T Center’s uniqueness comes from its history and architecture. It’s a striking example of mid-century modern skyscraper design in L.A. – at 42 and 32 stories, these towers were among the city’s first to challenge City Hall’s height . The large blank concrete façade (still visible on 611 W 6th) reflects an era when corporate names were proudly displayed on buildings . William Pereira’s influence (who also designed LAX and other local landmarks) gives the complex a timeless international look, with sleek vertical fins and geometric form. It was part of a 12-acre “Occidental Center” that included connected towers and underground walkways – a precursor to today’s SkyWalks in downtown LA .
Another special aspect is that, instead of entertainment programming, what draws people here now is the blend of campus and city. USC’s City Center location makes this building a unique meeting point between academia and urban life. Generations of USC students and local professionals have studied and worked here, connecting downtown business with higher education. The 500-seat theatre (rare for an office building) also occasionally hosts lectures or film screenings, giving it a small cultural flair . In essence, this venue is loved by architecture buffs and urban historians more than by concert-goers. It stands as a quiet icon of Los Angeles – a testament to downtown’s heritage and USC’s outreach into the city.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The AT&T Center is fully wheelchair accessible. All lobbies and meeting areas are equipped with ramps and elevators, and restrooms are ADA-compliant. USC provides special accommodations for students and visitors with disabilities (just ask campus security or the front desk for assistance). Blind or hearing-impaired visitors may request help from the security desk if needed.
What to Bring: Plan to carry a valid photo ID for building entry – even after unlocking, guests usually have to check in at the security desk in the lobby . There’s no strict dress code, but most people on site wear business casual attire since it’s an office environment. If you are attending a USC event, you could bring a light jacket or sweater (conference areas can be chilly).
Security & Bags: Unlike sports arenas, there are no formal bag bans here. Small backpacks and purses are allowed. However, because it’s a secure office tower, keep large or bulky items to a minimum. Security may ask to inspect your bag if you carry electronics or large cases. For safety, cameras and phone photography are permitted in public spaces (you’ll see people taking lobby photos), but filming in meeting rooms or the theater typically requires permission.
Common Mistakes: Many first-time visitors confuse this AT&T Center with bigger venues or with a public “center” complex. Remember that this is a working building, so don’t expect crowds or concessions. If attending a USC function, double-check whether it’s at the South Park Center tower (1150 S Olive) or the nearby City Center building (1150 S Hill) – both have been referred to as “AT&T Center” in the past. Also note that parking is scarce: arriving before 6pm or using Metro can save hassle.
Nearby Transit: Ask your hotel shuttle or rideshare to drop you at “South Hill & 12th.” This puts you at the main lobby. The DASH circulator runs frequently (every 15–20 minutes) along Figueroa and 12th, and several Metro bus lines (4, 10, 14, etc.) stop on 12th St. You can also walk from Metro’s Figueroa/7th station (about 7 blocks north) or Pershing Square station. The building is about a 5-minute walk from Crypto.com Arena (home of the Lakers/Clippers/Hockey), so if you’re coming from a game at Crypto.com you can walk south on Figueroa St. Keep in mind, though, that AT&T Center is not connected to any arena: it’s just in the same neighborhood.
When to Arrive: If you have a meeting or class, it’s best to arrive 10–15 minutes early, especially if you need to sign in at security. If your visit is outside normal business hours (evenings or weekends), check ahead – USC events after 6pm may need pre-registration. Outside USC functions, there isn’t usually any front-desk staff on weekends, so plan your visit on weekdays if possible. Also, traffic can be heavy on nearby freeways in the late afternoon, so allow extra drive time if you’re arriving at 5–6pm.
Is the AT&T Center in Los Angeles an arena or sports venue?
No – the AT&T Center in Los Angeles is an office building (former corporate HQ) and part of USC’s downtown campus. It is not a sports or concert arena like the San Antonio AT&T Center. It does not host ticketed games or concerts on a regular basis . Instead, it houses offices and classrooms, so you won’t find public stadium-style events here.
What is the address of the AT&T Center in Los Angeles?
The AT&T Center is located in Downtown Los Angeles’s South Park district. The primary tower address is near 1150 South Olive Street at 12th & Olive, with the neighboring building at 1149 South Hill Street. (You may see “1149 S Hill St” listed by USC and “1150 S Olive St” listed by real estate sources.) Both addresses refer to the same building complex, just on different sides of the block . If using GPS, search for “1150 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA.”
What’s the best way to get to AT&T Center by public transit?
Downtown LA’s Metro trains run nearby. For example, take the A (Blue) or E (Expo) Line to the 7th Street/Metro Center station, or the B/D Lines to Pershing Square, then walk south to 12th/Olive. Many buses (such as the DASH Downtown route) stop within a block. The DASH “F” shuttle runs between USC and South Park every 10–15 minutes . If you’re leaving Crypto.com Arena or LA Live, it’s only about a 5-minute walk (two blocks south) to the AT&T Center.
Is parking available and how much does it cost?
Yes, there are public lots and garages near the AT&T Center, but spaces fill up quickly. For example, a lot at 12th & Olive is about $12/day. The garage on South Olive (formerly “AT&T Garage”) offers an early-bird flat rate around $15 on weekdays if you arrive before 9am, or ~$20 for all-day parking . Other nearby lots charge roughly $10–$20 per day during events. If possible, consider taking Metro or rideshare to save on parking hassles.
Does the AT&T Center have assigned seating or general admission?
The building itself has no general admission area. It does include a 500-seat theatre (with fixed seating) at the University’s South Park Center, but that space is used primarily for lectures or screenings. Otherwise, any meeting rooms or classrooms in the tower use moveable chairs. There are no stadium bleachers or “floor seats.” If you do attend a conference in the theater, seats are like a small lecture hall (meaning arrive early for front rows).
How would I get tickets to an event at AT&T Center?
Generally you cannot “buy” tickets here. Since no public concerts or games are held, there is no box office or ticket vendor. If USC or another organization hosts a seminar or lecture, entry is usually by RSVP or invitation through that organization’s website. Check the USC event calendar or contact the USC department hosting the event for details. In practice, events here are usually free, but by appointment only – there’s no walk-in ticket sales for general audiences .
What are the building’s hours and when should I arrive?
As an office building, the AT&T Center is open weekdays, roughly from 7:00am to 6:00pm (USC offices often close by 5pm). If you have a meeting or class here, plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign in with security. (Security staffing may be reduced after-hours or on weekends.) If you’re attending a scheduled workshop or lecture, confirm the start time – USC events in this building often begin on the hour. There are no live performance start-times to worry about, but traffic can be heavy, so allow extra commute time in the afternoon.
Are there any age restrictions or dress codes at AT&T Center?
Not really. Because it’s a professional/academic building, any event here is usually open to adults and well-behaved children (such as a family member touring USC). There are no formal age limits unless the event itself specifies one. Dress is generally business casual (think what you’d wear to a USC office or classroom). You won’t see anyone in jerseys or concert T-shirts, but no one will turn you away in smart jeans. Just avoid overly casual attire (e.g. swimwear) since this is not a casual entertainment venue.
Is AT&T Center wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Being a modern high-rise, the building has elevators and ramps everywhere. All entrances, restrooms, and meeting rooms are ADA-compliant. USC proudly accommodates students and visitors with disabilities, so if you need an elevator badge or assistance finding accessible routes, security or staff can help. The 500-seat theater also has wheelchair spaces. In short, you can expect full wheelchair access throughout the facility.
Where can I eat or get coffee inside or near AT&T Center?
Inside the building, there’s a small Market Café on the lower level and a FedEx/Office merchant in the lobby . For a proper sit-down meal, walk one block north to the L.A. Live complex where you’ll find restaurants (like Yard House, Katsuya, Tom’s Urban and Wolfgang Puck’s WP24) and casual cafés. There’s also a Starbucks at L.A. Live. If you walk a few more blocks you’ll encounter additional downtown spots – but as a rule, plan to leave the building for most dining. NS restaurants operate late; many close by 8–9pm on weekdays.
Does AT&T Center have Wi-Fi or cell service?
Yes. Mobile phone service (4G/5G) is available throughout the building. USC provides Wi-Fi access on shared floors if you have a USC login; otherwise, you can use your personal cellular hotspot or data plan. The theater and conference rooms usually have sound systems and projection, since they are used for presentations. For example, the theater is equipped with professional AV (the PA and lighting rigs needed for lectures), though exact specs aren’t publicly posted.
What companies or tenants occupy AT&T Center?
Historically, big names have leased space here. The 2006 Los Angeles Business Journal notes Transamerica Occidental Life (the original developer) held hundreds of thousands of square feet at the AT&T Center . AT&T itself used to occupy the building when it owned it. Today, much of the space is rented to USC (for its schools) and other office tenants. The building owner has routinely signed multi-year deals with large firms – for example, Transamerica committed to a 10-year, 260,000 sq.ft. lease in 2006 . You can find smaller professional offices there as well.
Why is this building called “AT&T Center” if it’s in Los Angeles?
The name comes from AT&T’s ownership. After Crocker-Citizens (later Transamerica) built the tower, AT&T purchased it in the 1980s. During AT&T’s tenure, the building was branded with their logo (the wall still reads “AT&T”). Hence locals call it AT&T Center. Even though AT&T moved out years ago and the property is now known by addresses (like 611 Place or USC City Center), the old name stuck. Essentially it means “the building where AT&T had its offices.”
Are there similar “AT&T Centers” in other cities?
Yes, but not in Los Angeles. The most famous AT&T Center is the arena in San Antonio, Texas (home of the Spurs). This L.A. AT&T Center is unrelated – it just shared the corporate name. In other cities, AT&T has sponsored theaters or parks, but in L.A. this name refers only to the downtown office tower described above.
