About Jerry Moss Plaza
Jerry Moss Plaza is an open-air civic plaza at The Music Center in downtown Los Angeles. At roughly 35,000 square feet (expanded to about 48,000 sq ft after renovation), it serves as a “plaza for all” connecting the Music Center’s theaters to Grand Park (www.musiccenter.org ) (www.musiccenter.org ). It features gardens, an iconic fountain (and public art), and sweeping views of Grand Park, City Hall, and Bunker Hill. When the plaza re-opened in 2019, it became the campus’s “fifth venue” (www.rios.com ) – just as important as the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Mark Taper Forum, Ahmanson Theatre and Disney Concert Hall. In 2020 it was renamed Jerry Moss Plaza after a $25 million gift by philanthropist Jerry Moss (co-founder of A&M Records) to fund free and low-cost arts programs (www.musiccenter.org ). The redesign by Rios (Clementi Hale) made the plaza fully accessible (raised to one level) and has been widely praised for blending mid-century design with new public amenities (www.musiccenter.org ). Its mix of drought-tolerant landscaping, historic lighting, fountains and interactive LED art give it a unique urban character. In fact, the original Music Center sunken courtyard (which Jerry Moss Plaza reimagines) was once called “the largest open, landscaped area of any downtown in the United States” (www.musiccenter.org ). This spacious, versatile plaza is now a cultural hub in Los Angeles, embodying Moss’s vision of free, diverse arts experiences for all Angelenos.
Events and Programming
Jerry Moss Plaza hosts a broad range of free and low-cost events year-round. During summer months it is best known for its free outdoor concerts under the stars. Starting in 2022 The Music Center launched the annual “Live at The Music Center” concert series on this plaza. Grammy winners and local legends have headlined these Labor Day–weekend concerts: for example, Ozomatli in 2022 (www.musiccenter.org ); Latin music stars La Marisoul and Eliades Ochoa in 2023 (sanmarinoweekly.com ); disco icons Sister Sledge (with Sledgendary) in 2024 (www.musiccenter.org ); and bassist-vocalist Esperanza Spalding in summer 2025 (www.broadwayworld.com ). All of these headliners performed to free, all-ages audiences (no ticket needed, just RSVP). The plaza also supports ticketed ethnic/world-music concerts. The Music Center’s “Summer SoundWaves” series, for example, brought world-renowned artists like Oumou Sangaré, Luciana Souza and Chief Adjuah to the plaza (www.musiccenter.org ).
The plaza is also home to the Music Center’s popular Dance DTLA program – a summer Friday-night dance party series. For over 20 years (20th season in 2024) Dance DTLA has offered themed nights (Bollywood, Afro-Beats, Salsa, Reggaeton, Disco, etc.) free for the public to dance together (culture.lacity.gov ) (www.musiccenter.org ). Thousands of Angelenos gather on Friday evenings to groove to DJs or live bands under the stars. When not in full-season swing, the plaza hosts occasional family events and festivals – from small pop-up dance classes and film screenings to celebrations of cultural heritage. In short, visitors can expect everything from jam band concerts and dance parties to community gatherings and film nights, reflecting the diversity of LA’s arts scene.
Because Jerry Moss Plaza is outdoors and operates mainly in good weather, most events happen spring through fall (and are scheduled around heat or rain). Even in winter, the venue is used for special celebrations or civic gatherings; for example, it hosted a tribute concert to Jerry Moss himself at the nearby Mark Taper Forum in 2023. In general, festival-style concerts and weekly dance nights dominate the plaza’s calendar, with free or very low admission. Typical ticket prices for paid events are modest ($10–$25). Free events often require an online RSVP but do not sell tickets.
Tickets and Booking
Most events at Jerry Moss Plaza are free or low-cost. For the free “Live at The Music Center” concerts and Dance DTLA nights, no paid tickets are required – attendees simply register (RSVP) through The Music Center’s official channels and arrive early. For example, the Sister Sledge concert in 2024 required an RSVP but did not sell tickets (www.musiccenter.org ). Even without an RSVP, arriving early usually secures entry. Low-priced ticketed events (like Summer SoundWaves) are sold in advance through The Music Center’s box office or onsite Welcome Center. It’s best to check The Music Center’s website or newsletter for on-sale dates. Popular events can fill up, so register or buy tickets as soon as they go on sale (often a few months ahead for summer series). Day-of sales depend on the show; free events allow entry until capacity is reached, and paid shows sometimes have a limited ticket booth at the Welcome Center before doors open.
Seating and Layout
Jerry Moss Plaza has no fixed seating – it is a flat, open lawn. For concerts and festivals, attendees stand or bring their own seating. Small folding chairs (typically up to 18 inches high) and blankets are allowed (www.broadwayworld.com ). Grass-height chairs are ideal. (Much taller camping chairs are not permitted at Music Center events.) Because it’s an open space, early arrival will get you closest to the stage or performance area. For best views, aim for center in front of the stage; however, sound and sightlines are generally good across the lawn. The plaza is wide and shallow rather than long, so you can approach from many directions. There are no obstructed sections, but large groups can block views, so consider arriving a bit early to secure a spot or finding a perch on the perimeter steps if it fills up.
For those seeking extra comfort, a limited number of padded seats or a small bleacher section are sometimes set up by event producers (especially for older audiences). Check the event’s rules: some paid concerts may offer a reserved “lawn club” or VIP area near the front. Wheelchair-accessible viewing is available at ground level and ramped access. Since the space is flat, the acoustics are open-air: sound engineers bring in professional line-array speakers to cover the area. In general, the vibrantly landscaped design (trees and gardens) helps temper echo and create a relaxed vibe, but wrap up layers as temperature can drop after sunset.
Getting There and Parking
Address & Location: Jerry Moss Plaza is part of The Music Center complex at 135 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles (facing Grand Park and a block from City Hall). It sits between Grand Avenue and the neighboring park. The historic plaza stairs and new escalators (the “Terri and Jerry Kohl Stairs”) connect Grand Avenue to the plaza (www.musiccenter.org ).
Public Transit: The plaza is extremely transit-friendly. The Metro B (Red) and D (Purple) subway lines stop at the Civic Center/Grand Park station (underneath City Hall), just a short walk away (www.broadwayworld.com ). The new Regional Connector also puts the Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill station (A/Blue and E/Expo lines) within a few blocks north (www.broadwayworld.com ). Multiple DASH buses run through downtown (routes stopping at Grand Ave & Temple Blvd). For example, DTLA’s DASH D, F and S buses are easy options. Many Metro buses (lines 2, 4, 10, 68, etc.) serve nearby Grand Avenue and First Street. If coming from Union Station, you can take the Metro Red Line one stop south to Civic Center.
Metro: Red/Purple Line – Civic Center/Grand Park (0.1 mi)www.broadwayworld.com )Bus/Shuttle: DASH routes (Downtown Dash, Big Blue Bus D), Metro local lines on 2nd/1st St.Rideshare/Taxi: Drop-off and pickup can be done on Grand Ave or 1st Street. The plaza entrance is near the cabs stand at Music Center Drive (off 1st). Expect heavy crowds around showtime, so allow extra time.
Parking: Street parking in downtown LA is scarce and often metered. The safest bet is the Music Center’s own garages. Self-parking is available at the Music Center’s main campus garage (135 N. Grand Ave) and the Walt Disney Concert Hall garage (111 S. Grand Ave) for a flat fee (usually around $10) (www.broadwayworld.com ). The main garage takes cash only, while the Disney Hall garage takes cards and cash (www.broadwayworld.com ). A valet service runs on Hope Street (enter off 1st St) at about $23 per vehicle (opens 2 hours before events) (www.broadwayworld.com ). Due to limited parking, public transit or ride-shares are highly recommended for evening events (www.broadwayworld.com ) (www.broadwayworld.com ). If driving, note that lots fill early on concert nights. Nearby pay lots (like at Grand Park) often charge more ($20+).
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: All entrances (Main Entrance on Grand Ave, or the Hope St side) lead to flat, wide pathways with room for crowds. For ticketed events, show your tickets or RSVP confirmation at entry. For free concerts, lines often form along Grand Avenue or at the plaza gates; doors typically open 60–90 minutes before the show. Security screening (bag check and metal detector) is standard for larger events. Guests are asked to limit bags to small purses or clear bags and to leave prohibited items (weapons, large coolers, drones, etc.) behind. No outside alcohol or glass containers are allowed (www.broadwayworld.com ); only empty or sealed water bottles are permitted. Service animals are welcomed, but pets and smoking (including vaping) are not allowed.
Atmosphere and Features: Inside the plaza, you’ll find a relaxed festival-like atmosphere under open sky. Folk, rock, jazz or world music might be playing, and people often bring their own chairs or picnic blankets. The design intentionally invites mingling – there are walkways through garden areas and plenty of space to dance. The centerpiece is a low reflecting pool/fountain area (though the original Lipchitz “Peace on Earth” fountain sculpture has been relocated nearby) (www.musiccenter.org ). Restored historic globe light fixtures illuminate the gardens at night, giving a vintage touch. Adding a modern twist, two large 12’×20’ LED screens display live video art that reacts to visitor movements in real time – a playful interactive installation by yU+co (www.musiccenter.org ). The Lisa Specht Welcome Center (a new lobby at one corner of the plaza) has an information desk and a huge touchscreen that visitors can use to find schedules, maps and venue guides (www.musiccenter.org ).
Food, Drink and Amenities: The plaza offers several dining options. Abernethy’s (full-service seafood restaurant) and Mullin Wine Bar (smaller bar menu) sit ready for pre-show meals (www.musiccenter.org ). During festivals or concerts, food trucks and pop-up stands often line the perimeter, offering everything from tacos and salads to craft beer. Inside, permanent restrooms (recently added by the renovation) are clean and ADA-accessible. A limited coat and bag check is usually available at indoor venues of The Music Center, but outdoors one generally keeps belongings with them. Merchandise kiosks may appear for big events (selling t-shirts or CDs of the performers). If you need assistance, festival staff in bright volunteer shirts or The Music Center staff in the plaza can help point you to water fountains, phone charging stations or first-aid.
Nearby Amenities
Jerry Moss Plaza sits in the heart of DTLA, so a variety of bars, restaurants and hotels are within easy walking distance. Immediately adjacent is Grand Park (great for a pre-show picnic or children’s play). Two blocks east is Little Tokyo, where you’ll find sushi bars, ramen shops, izakayas and late-night dessert spots. A few blocks southeast are Broad and 3rd streets, home to destinations like Grand Central Market (famous food hall), Otium (contemporary American), and popular Mexican spots in the Arts District. On Grand Avenue itself are casual eats like The Original Pantry (American diner, 24/7) and Broadway Deli.
Amazing rooftop bars (e.g. Perch Downtown on Spring St) and breweries are a short drive or a 15–20 minute walk away. For concertgoers looking for parking or transit nearby: the Metro Red Line and the Union Station hub are both a single stop north, and Union Station has an Amtrak/Metrolink connection for regional travel.
Hotels: Several downtown hotels are steps away. The JW Marriott and the Westin Bonaventure are two historic high-rise hotels bordering the Music Center campus (excellent for combining theater shows and plaza concerts). The Omni Los Angeles Hotel is one block south. More budget-friendly lodging (e.g. YWCA, hostels, or the Residence Inn by Marriott) line the streets around 5th & Flower. Many of these offer weekend concert packages. It’s wise to book early on performance nights, as events can coincide with theater ticketholders crowding DTLA.
What Makes This Venue Special
Jerry Moss Plaza is unique for blending community, art and history in one space. Architecturally, the renovation preserved the Music Center’s original modernist landscape and updated it with an accessible twist – it is now completely barrier-free from street to plaza (www.musiccenter.org ). One enters through mirrored-glass welcome centers flanked by cascading water features, and the first view is often the iconic fountain (centerpiece) framed by palm trees and City Hall in the background. The juxtaposition of restored classic globe light poles and sleek new steel/palm landscaping gives the plaza a “mid-century meets modern-day LA” vibe.
Culturally, it has already seen some historic moments. Its renaming honored Jerry Moss, who famously started A&M Records and later became a major arts donor. In 2023 The Music Center even hosted a tribute featuring Dionne Warwick and Stevie Wonder celebrating Moss’s career – emphasizing the plaza as a living monument to his legacy. Because of Moss’s gift, the plaza now essentially operates as a free neighborhood amphitheater. Music Center leadership and local officials often highlight that the plaza “brings the diversity of Los Angeles to life” by giving every community access to live dance, music and film (www.musiccenter.org ).
Performers love playing here for its scenic urban backdrop and laid-back crowd. Local bands and dancers appreciate that it is literally open to the city: the barriers between performer and audience are low. The atmosphere can shift from casual daytime yoga or family picnics to an energetic disco dance floor at night. Longtime Angelenos recount how the original plaza was the “town square” of downtown, and the updated Jerry Moss Plaza continues that tradition – now enhanced with technology. The big LED screens, in particular, are a hit: children and adults alike giggle as their silhouettes morph into art on screen (www.musiccenter.org ). In short, this plaza is special because it’s more than a venue – it’s an everyday civic living room for downtown LA, a place where high art mixes with street dance and where simply being there feels uniquely Angeleno.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The plaza was rebuilt for inclusivity. There are no steps between the street and the stage area – even the fountains and gardens are surrounded by smooth ramps and walkways. All areas used by the public (including the newly added restrooms) are ADA compliant. Service and assistance animals are welcome (www.broadwayworld.com ). Wheelchair and companion seating – often on the plaza perimeter – are available at performances.
What to Bring: Sunscreen and a hat for afternoon events; a light jacket for cool nights. A portable charger for your phone can be handy, since event lines outside may not always have power outlets. Small folding chairs or a blanket (under 18" tall) can make any lawn concert more comfortable (www.broadwayworld.com ). You may bring unopened bottled water and snacks. Do not bring glass, alcohol, or awkwardly large items. Backpacks and strollers are allowed but may be searched. Umbrellas are discouraged, as they block others’ views (raingear is fine if a show goes on).
Lines and Doors: For popular free shows, people often line up well before doors open. Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early for a good spot; for major acts or Friday nights, consider 1–2 hours early. Once inside, seating is unassigned – there’s no coat-check so keep valuables on you. The plaza floor can be uneven in places (watch for cable ramps), so avoid high heels or flip-flops if you plan to move around. The lawn itself is occasionally uneven, so mind where you step after dark.
Rules of the Space: Cameras and good cheer are welcome, but respect performers’ requests on recording. Flash and professional cameras might be restricted at some shows (check the event credits). Also remember only service dogs are permitted; otherwise it’s a dry plaza (no smoking or vaping anywhere). Dress is always casual but neat; you will see concert T-shirts mixed with summer dresses and jeans. After events, neighborhood restaurants usually stay open late – consider bar-hopping on Second Street or getting a late-night bite in Little Tokyo before heading home.
Common Mistakes: Don’t assume every event is rain-or-shine. Outdoor concerts may be canceled or postponed if weather turns bad – check The Music Center’s site for cancellations. Don’t expect the music to be amplified like an indoor theater: sound carries differently outdoors, so sit up front if clarity matters (bass tends to push toward the back). And don’t skip RSVP! While free shows don’t always require a ticket, reserving online confirms your spot and often speeds entry (www.musiccenter.org ). Finally, avoid circling for parking; if possible, use transit or park early.
What is the capacity of Jerry Moss Plaza?
Jerry Moss Plaza is a large open-air lawn rather than a fixed-capacity theater. It spans roughly 48,000 square feet after renovation (www.musiccenter.org ). For events, the plaza can comfortably hold a few thousand people standing or seated on the lawn. There are no official seat counts, but events like free concerts regularly attract crowds in the low thousands.
Is Jerry Moss Plaza indoors or outdoors?
Jerry Moss Plaza is entirely outdoors. It is a landscaped courtyard plaza open to the sky. There is no roof or enclosed seating. You’ll stand or sit on the lawn or steps under the sun or stars. Plans for shows and events always note that they are outdoors and subject to weather.
Are tickets required for Jerry Moss Plaza events?
Most events on Jerry Moss Plaza are free or low-cost. For free concerts or festivals, no paid ticket is needed though an online RSVP or free registration may be requested. For example, Sister Sledge's 2024 show was free and did not require a ticket – just an RSVP (www.musiccenter.org ). Ticketed events (like some concert series) have low-priced tickets sold online or at The Music Center. Always check the event listing to see if you should RSVP or purchase a ticket.
Can I bring my own chair or blanket?
Yes. The plaza allows small portable chairs and blankets for lawn seating. Chairs must be low-profile (no taller than 18 inches) as specified in the concert rules (www.broadwayworld.com ). Blankets, picnic rugs and backrests are also fine. These personal seats help ensure that you and others have a good view, since there are no permanent seats. However, large camping chairs, stools, or those with large frames are not permitted.
What is the closest Metro station?
The nearest Metro rail station is Civic Center/Grand Park, serving the B (Red) and D (Purple) lines, just across Grand Avenue from the plaza (www.broadwayworld.com ). Additionally, the Gold Line’s Union Station is one stop away (north) on the Red Line. The Regional Connector also provides access via Grand Avenue Arts/Bunker Hill station (A/Blue and E/Expo lines) just a few blocks north (www.broadwayworld.com ). Several Metro and DASH buses stop on nearby streets, making transit very convenient.
Where can I park and what are the fees?
Street parking downtown is limited. The Music Center’s own parking is easiest: the main campus garage (135 N Grand Ave) and Disney Concert Hall garage each charge a flat fee (typically about $10) (www.broadwayworld.com ). The main garage is cash only; the Disney Hall garage takes cards too (www.broadwayworld.com ). A valet lot on Hope Street (enter off 1st St) is about $23 per car. Valet opens ~2 hours before shows (www.broadwayworld.com ). These fixed rates are often the cheapest option. Nearby paid lots charge more. For evening events, public transit or rideshare is generally recommended.
Are there food and drink options inside the plaza?
Yes. Abernethy’s (a seafood-focused restaurant) and Mullin Wine Bar are permanent on-site venues (www.musiccenter.org ). They serve meals and beverages before and during events. During concerts and festivals, food trucks or pop-up stands (tacos, snacks, beer gardens, etc.) often line the outer plaza. The Music Center does not allow outside alcohol, but there are concession stands and vendors selling drinks. You may bring sealed non-alcoholic beverages from outside.
Are there restrooms at Jerry Moss Plaza?
Yes, there are permanent restrooms on the plaza, built during the 2019 renovation (www.musiccenter.org ). These ADA-accessible facilities are free to use during events. They are clean and well-maintained, located near the Abernethy’s restaurant and welcome center. If a restroom is closed, you can always use facilities inside the nearby Dorothy Chandler Pavilion lobby.
Is Jerry Moss Plaza accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Absolutely. The entire plaza was redesigned to be wheelchair-friendly (www.musiccenter.org ). It’s all on one level with gentle ramps replacing stairs. The escalators and lifts at the Grand Avenue entrance lead directly to the plaza. Accessible parking is available in the Music Center garages. The venue provides ADA seating areas and the welcome center kiosk can provide assistive-listening devices if needed. The Music Center staff explicitly state that they “welcome all” visitors including those with mobility limitations (www.broadwayworld.com ).
Can I smoke or vape at Jerry Moss Plaza?
No. The Plaza (and all Music Center campus grounds) is a smoke-free environment. Smoking or vaping of any kind is prohibited outdoors on the plaza. If you do smoke, you must leave the plaza boundary to do so. This rule helps keep the air clear for all attendees and prevents health issues around food and family areas.
Are outside chairs and blankets permitted for concerts?
Yes. Bringing low-profile chairs and blankets is encouraged so you can sit comfortably on the lawn. The official rule is that chairs must be no taller than 18 inches (www.broadwayworld.com ). Blankets, cushions and low stools are fine. Just be mindful of others’ sightlines (don’t put a chair right in front of people in the seats or lawn behind you). Make sure any chair meets the venue’s height restriction. You may also bring a small cooler or picnic bag (non-glass, no large open containers), but alcohol itself is not allowed.
Can I bring food and beverages into Jerry Moss Plaza?
You may bring light snacks and bottled water into the plaza. Non-alcoholic beverages (water or soda in sealed containers) are generally allowed. You can also bring a picnic. However, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited at Music Center events (www.broadwayworld.com ). Glass containers and large coolers are not permitted. The site has concessions and food vendors (and restaurants onsite) for food and drink purchases.
How early should I arrive for a free concert?
For free events at Jerry Moss Plaza, arriving at least 1–2 hours early is wise if you want a prime spot. Popular concerts and Dance DTLA nights can draw large crowds. Doors often open 60–90 minutes before showtime, but people line up much earlier in hopes of sitting near the front. If you have a group or want front-row lawn seats, plan to line up well before doors (sometimes even before headliners are announced). Otherwise you’ll be farther back on the grass. In any case, give yourself time for security screening.
Is Jerry Moss Plaza family-friendly?
Yes. Most events on the plaza are family-friendly and all-ages. Children are welcome at concerts and dance nights (though very loud music might be challenging for infants). The open lawn is stroller-accessible, and families often bring children’s chairs or play on the grass. There are usually kids dancing at Dance DTLA and family concerts. The Music Center often programs at least one family-oriented SoundWaves or special show per summer. Just note that some shows might allow alcohol sales, so if bringing minors, keep a close eye on them near beers stands. Otherwise, it’s a very inclusive space for all ages.
What should I wear to an event at Jerry Moss Plaza?
Dress comfortably and for the weather. There is no formal dress code. During summer events guests typically wear shorts, sundresses, T-shirts and sneakers or sandals. If it’s an evening event, bring a light jacket or hoodie as LA nights can get cool. The ground is paved and grassy in parts, so flat shoes or sandals are practical – high heels can sink into the lawn. If you plan to dance, clothes that breathe and allow movement are a good idea. Costumes (retro disco, fun dance outfits) are not uncommon at theme nights. Overall, casual summer attire is perfect for this plaza.
Are there any age or dress restrictions?
Jerry Moss Plaza events generally have no age restrictions – they’re open to all. Some late-night club-style dance nights may be 18+ or 21+ only, but those cases are clearly advertised. As for dress: there’s no formal code, but patrons are expected to dress modestly (no swimwear or excessively revealing outfits). Comfortable casual wear is the norm. The only “do not wear” rule would be anything offensive or disruptive. Otherwise, feel free to wear theme costumes for special nights (like disco or salsa). Check specific event pages if there are any special requirements.
Why is it called Jerry Moss Plaza?
The plaza was renamed in 2020 to honor Jerry Moss and his wife Tina, who donated $25 million to The Music Center (www.musiccenter.org ). Jerry Moss is a local music icon (co-founder of A&M Records) and longtime arts patron. His gift supports free arts programming on the plaza. Naming the space after him recognizes his impact on LA’s cultural scene – the idea being that this plaza continues his legacy of making music and dance accessible to everyone.
Is there Wi-Fi at Jerry Moss Plaza?
The plaza itself does not have guaranteed free Wi-Fi for visitors. Some events may offer Wi-Fi through The Music Center’s network or sponsor Wi-Fi, but do not count on it. Cell phone coverage is generally good in downtown LA, so having a data plan is recommended for navigation or checking event info on the spot. If you need to look up tickets or event details, it’s best to do so before leaving home or use mobile data.
What happens if it rains?
Since Jerry Moss Plaza is outdoors, events are usually weather-dependent. If heavy rain or lightning is in the forecast, outdoor shows may be postponed or moved indoors, and cancellations are possible. The Music Center typically announces weather-related changes on its website and event page. If an event is postponed, paid tickets are often honored for the rescheduled date (if possible). For free events, organizers may simply cancel or try to reschedule. Always check the event’s status the day of the show, and come prepared with rain gear just in case (light rain umbrellas are usually permitted, but avoid using large umbrellas in a crowd).
