About Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall
The Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall is a historic entertainment complex in downtown Los Angeles (665 W. Jefferson Blvd). Designed in a lavish Moorish Revival style by noted architects like G. Albert Lansburgh, John C. Austin and A.M. Edelman, it opened in 1926 after the original Shrine Temple burned down (www.shrineauditorium.com ) (www.historictheatrephotos.com ). The massive venue (Al Malaikah Temple of the Shriners) originally seated around 6,700 people (www.laconservancy.org ). Today the main auditorium holds ≈6,300 seated fans, featuring North America’s largest proscenium arch stage (www.shrineauditorium.com ) (www.laconservancy.org ). An adjacent 54,000-sqft Expo Hall extends capacity (up to 5,000) for concerts and special events (www.shrineauditorium.com ) (soundforums.net ). Its signature oriental-style domes and Moorish interior (complete with ornate arches, an electric “circus tent” sky ceiling and a 5-ton chandelier) make the Shrine a uniquely ornate backdrop for performances (www.historictheatrephotos.com ) (www.historictheatrephotos.com ). Recognized as an L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument and on the National Register of Historic Places, the Shrine has been a focal point of L.A.’s cultural scene for a century (www.laconservancy.org ) (www.historictheatrephotos.com ). Over the decades it has hosted everything from Oscar/NBA awards galas and ballet to film shoots – Willy King Kong (1933) and A Star Is Born (1954, 2018) were filmed here (www.laconservancy.org ) (www.historictheatrephotos.com ). Today the Shriners-own building is operated by Goldenvoice/AEG (since 2013) and continues to honor its heritage by hosting high-profile award shows, festivals and big-name concerts.
Events and Programming
Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall stages a very broad range of events. It’s famous for awards ceremonies – the Academy (Oscars) and Screen Actors Guild Awards were held here for decades (www.uscannenbergmedia.com ) (www.historictheatrephotos.com ) – as well as occasional movie premieres. Concerts are now the mainstay: rock, pop, hip-hop and electronic acts often play here. Recent headliners have included Billie Eilish, Björk, Lana Del Rey, Tyler The Creator, My Chemical Romance, ODESZA and Fred Again.. (who set an eight-night residency record in 2023) (www.the360mag.com ) (edm.com ). EDM and DJ nights (Subtronics, Layton Giordani), alt-rock (Grizzly Bear, Waterparks), indie and K-pop (EXO’s Kai) have all graced its big indoor halls. The Expo Hall is used for large standing-room events (festivals, residencies like LCD Soundsystem or concert series) and also for conventions, expos or corporate banquets. Theatre and dance occasionally appear too (film festivals, touring ballet/orchestras, comedy shows). In short, almost every month brings something new – from stadium-rock tours to family film screenings. Typical concert ticket prices range roughly from $30 on up to $100+ for top acts, depending on seating level and artist demand. (Major awards shows often aren’t open to public ticket sales, but limited seats for Guild members were lottery-based.)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Shrine shows are sold through its box office and official online channels (the venue works with AXS.com and related promoters). Watch local listings or the Shrine’s own announcements for on-sale dates. Popular acts often offer advance fan-club or newsletter presales, so signing up early can help secure seats. For most events, a general public sale follows (usually in Pacific Time, and often 10am or noon on sale day). Buying directly from the shrine’s authorized outlets is safest – the venue warns that tickets from unknown resellers are not guaranteed and may be void (www.shrineauditorium.com ). There is no charge for purchasing at the Shrine box office (if you’re near USC, it’s on site) and it may open around show day (subject to event). Doors typically open 45–90 minutes before showtime – arriving early ensures time for ticket scanning and security lines. Tickets are sold as final (non-refundable) (www.shrineauditorium.com ). If an event is canceled by the promoter or venue, refunds are issued through the original purchase point (in practice AXS processes refunds automatically (www.shrineauditorium.com )). For sold-out shows, you might try the door: occasionally a few “day-of” or standby tickets become available, but that’s not guaranteed. VIP/boxed seating and general-admission (standing) tickets may be offered for certain concerts – check the event specific seat map. Higher tiers like Box seats or VIP packages will have higher prices. Lastly, all tickets are PST-based in scheduling; check times carefully to match LA local time.
Seating and Layout
The Shrine Auditorium is a proscenium theatre with orchestra (ground floor), a single balcony (“loge”), and private box sections. The “pit” refers to the front orchestra/floor area; for rock or EDM shows this is often general admission standing just in front of the stage. These pit spots are closest to the performers and have the most energy – they are the “best bets to be up front” for live concerts (www.rateyourseats.com ). Other front-floor seats in the orchestra section also offer a great view if you prefer sitting. The side boxes (on both left and right of the stage) are premium booths – smaller capacity but more space and privacy (www.rateyourseats.com ). For the “best of both worlds”, many fans like the loge (balcony) center sections: they give a broad perspective of the stage and are usually good for sightlines. In general, avoid extreme edge seats (which can feel off-angle) and very rear or high-corner spots (some upper-rear areas have steeper steps). Thanks to a recent $2M concert sound upgrade (L-Acoustics K2 line array), audio coverage is excellent throughout (soundforums.net ) (www.the360mag.com ), so even seats farther back or in the balcony will still have clear sound. (By comparison, the expo hall is a flat room: if attending an Expo Hall concert, expect mostly GA standing or added rows of chairs – there is no fixed balcony there.) In sum: pit/orchestra front is best for energy, boxes are luxurious, loge seats give a full view, and sound is strong almost anywhere in the house.
Getting There and Parking
The Shrine is at 665 W. Jefferson Blvd, next to USC. It’s easily reached by public transit: take the Los Angeles Metro Expo Line to the Jefferson/USC station (about a 5-minute walk east to the venue) (www.shrineauditorium.com ). Several Metro bus lines also run along nearby Figueroa and Jefferson, and USC’s campus routes stop within blocks. Many attendees use rideshare – the recommended drop-off/pick-up point is the venue address (665 W. Jefferson) (www.shrineauditorium.com ). If driving, allow extra time for traffic. Several pay-parking options exist on-site: the Shrine’s own lots (Shrine West Lot on W 32nd St, North Parking Structure at W 32nd & Figueroa, and the USC Shrine Structure) are closest. On event days these lots usually charge around $25–30 per car (www.parkme.com ). (Off-duty USC parking is also sometimes available for permit holders.) Street parking is very limited and often restricted – plan to arrive 30–60 minutes early if you intend to use the venue lots. After shows, outbound traffic can back up, so patience or rideshares (which can queue at driveways) are advised. For out-of-town guests, major freeways I-110 and I-10 are nearby (the Jefferson off-ramp on I-110 is convenient). Hotels are a short drive away (the Ritz-Carlton LA is ~6 blocks north), and LA’s airport (LAX) is about 12 miles west via I-10.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, expect standard concert security: ticket scanners, metal detectors, and bag checks. The Shrine is a cashless venue (www.shrineauditorium.com ), so only bring cards or mobile payment (no cash for food/drink or merch). Small purses or clear bags are allowed; large backpacks or outside food/alcohol are prohibited (www.shrineauditorium.com ). Once inside, the atmosphere is typically festive and ornate – the lobby and interior halls showcase rich Moorish decor. Concession stands and bars line the lobby and rear, offering beverages (cashless bar with special drink deals on event nights, e.g. $8 cocktails (www.shrineauditorium.com )) and standard concert snacks (hot dogs, pretzels, pizza, etc.). The Shrine has multiple bathroom banks on each level; handicapped-accessible restrooms (with stalls) are on the main floor (www.shrineauditorium.com ). Merchandise tables for artists usually appear in the main lobby or mezzanine concourses – you can pick up t-shirts or CDs before/after the show. There’s no formal coat check (coats are not specially handled, and strollers/small chairs are not permitted (www.shrineauditorium.com )), so pack light. Cell service is generally usable, though Wi-Fi is limited. For any special needs, there are elevators on the north and south lobbies (www.shrineauditorium.com ) and accessible seating (house right in the balcony) available – the venue explicitly provides ADA seating by request after purchase (www.shrineauditorium.com ). In short, the Shrine offers a grand historic atmosphere, fully modernized tech/backend (power, rigging), and typical arena comforts in an old-venue shell.
Nearby Amenities
Located in the University Park neighborhood, the Shrine is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and pre-show options. Just steps away (within half a mile) are campus-oriented eateries: for example, the USC University Club (American fare, upscale) and campus buffet McKay’s are highly-rated (www.los-angeles-theatre.com ). For quick casual meals, you’ll find taco stands, burger joints and ethnic fare on nearby streets: local favorites include Pupuseria Jiquilisco (Salvadoran pupusas) (aviewfrommyseat.co.uk ), El Chalateco (pupusas/tacos) and Tijuana Dogs (gourmet hot dogs) (aviewfrommyseat.co.uk ) (aviewfrommyseat.co.uk ). Bars and coffee shops are plentiful too – for brunch or coffee try Birdies Chicken & Donuts or 10e (Mediterranean coffee and cocktails) just a few blocks north (aviewfrommyseat.co.uk ) (aviewfrommyseat.co.uk ). If you prefer sit-down dining, the USC campus area has everything from pizza to sushi. For late-night and quick bites, gas stations and convenience stores are near Figueroa & 32nd. Nearby hotels (Ritz-Carlton Downtown, JW Marriott/LA Live) make an easy overnight option. In general, arrive an hour early if you’d like a leisurely dinner or drinks before the show. If you stay late, note that rideshare or taxis at night can vary – plan your return transit (Metro runs until late, but some lines slow down after midnight).
What Makes This Venue Special
The Shrine’s blend of history and spectacle makes it iconic. Architecturally it stands out with its golden onion domes and richly decorated Moorish interior (www.laconservancy.org ) (www.historictheatrephotos.com ) – few West Coast halls can match its exotic flair. The scale is grand: its 100×37-foot proscenium arch and 192×72-foot stage were once unmatched (www.historictheatrephotos.com ), allowing huge sets or even circus animals onstage (true story: elephants were driven in through the giant stage doors during old circus shows (www.historictheatrephotos.com )). Its storied past adds lore: it hosted the Oscars until 2001, dozens of Grammys and Emmys, and recent big premieres (Star Wars: The Last Jedi held its world debut here in 2017 (www.historictheatrephotos.com ) (www.historictheatrephotos.com )). Legend names have played here – Sinatra, Hendrix, Springsteen and Bruce Willis (in dance outfit) all performed on this very stage (www.shrineauditorium.com ) (www.the360mag.com ). Even USC’s basketball team called it home (they practiced on its stage) (www.historictheatrephotos.com ). In recent years, Goldenvoice’s renovation has added state-of-the-art sound/lighting while preserving the vintage charm (www.the360mag.com ) (www.the360mag.com ). The brand-new underground “Shrine Speakeasy” bar (for artists) is modeled on the same Moorish style (www.the360mag.com ), highlighting the hall’s unique fusion of old-world elegance and modern concert comfort. Fans and performers alike note its “vibe” – walking into the Shrine feels like stepping into a bygone era of Hollywood glamour, yet experiencing today’s cutting-edge shows. That combination of historic grandeur and live-music energy is what makes the Shrine special in L.A.’s concert scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is fully wheelchair-accessible. Elevators connect the lobby to the balcony (www.shrineauditorium.com ), and designated ADA seating in the balcony (house-right) is available – contact the box office or AXS when ordering tickets to reserve spots. Accessible restrooms have ramps and stalls on the main floor (www.shrineauditorium.com ), and there are marked ADA parking spaces in each Shrine lot (www.shrineauditorium.com ). Sign-language interpreters or other aids can be provided with at least 2 weeks’ notice (email [email protected] (www.shrineauditorium.com )).
What to Bring (and Not): You may carry in small purses or cameras (phones and simple digital cameras are fine), but large backpacks, food or open drinks are not allowed (trakle.com ) (www.shrineauditorium.com ). Dressing in layers is wise – the auditorium can get chilly before the crowd fills seats. For concerts, wear closed shoes suitable for standing or dancing on the floor. Note: children 7 and under are required by policy to wear ear protection (Venue enforces this for safety) (www.shrineauditorium.com ), so bring kid-sized muffs or approved plugs if attending with little ones. Service animals (dogs, etc.) are permitted on-site; other pets are not (www.shrineauditorium.com ). The Shrine strictly prohibits weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs, video/audio recording gear, large signs/flags, and similar items (www.shrineauditorium.com ).
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t buy tickets from scalpers or random online sellers – invalid tickets won’t be honored (www.shrineauditorium.com ). Don’t show up too late: once doors open (about 45–90 minutes pre-show), lines form rapidly. Since the venue is cashless (www.shrineauditorium.com ), don’t waste time looking for cash; use cards/mobile pay for all purchases. Avoid wearing bulky hats or costumes that block others’ view. If you bring a coat or large bag, check it into your car or leave it at home – there’s no free coat check and oversized items are banned (www.shrineauditorium.com ).
Age and Price Info: Almost all Shrine events are all-ages (kids are welcome with an adult). Some concerts may have 18+ age restrictions (especially those with late hours or heavy content), so verify age limits on your specific ticket. Ticket prices depend on the act: smaller local shows might have $20–$30 tickets, whereas big-name tours or special events will charge more (often $50–$100+). Box seats or VIP packages (if offered) are pricier. Children typically count as any attendee and need their own tickets (except babes-in-arms if policy allows).
Getting to Your Seat: Ushers are stationed in the lobby to guide you to your section. The house is large but wayfinding is straightforward: signs mark each balcony section and row. Clue: Rows in the loge usually start with “L” and boxes are labeled. If you need assistance seating, just show your ticket to a staff member – there are extra hands for helping with strollers or wheelchairs. Note that late seating during a live show can be limited (for safety), so it’s best to be seated before the performance begins.
Enjoying the Show: The Shrine’s camera policy means you can snap casual photos with your phone or small camera, but no professional equipment or flash photography is allowed during performances. (Recording is also forbidden.) Most attendees/tablets will use their phones with courtesy lighting off. Feel free to cheer and dance during music acts – it’s a lively crowd environment. Finally, check the weather forecast: the auditorium is fully indoors, but if attending an outdoor event on the grounds (Shrine sometimes hosts outdoor festivals), plan accordingly. Otherwise, the Shrine’s climate control keeps the interior comfortable year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I buy tickets to shows at the Shrine?
Tickets are sold through the Shrine’s official box office and authorized online sellers. On-sale dates and presales (e.g. venue newsletter or artist fan club codes) are announced on the Shrine’s official site or social media. Buying direct is safest – the venue warns that invalid tickets from third parties won’t be honored (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). You can also try the box office on show day (if tickets remain).
What is a typical ticket price range for concerts here?
Prices vary widely by event. For most mid-size acts and local bands, expect tickets in the $30–$60 range. Big touring artists or special events can run $75–$125 or more, depending on seating (front or VIP packages cost extra). Kids’ tickets, if offered, usually cost less. Note all prices are Pacific Time listings, and remember taxes/fees may apply at checkout.
Where is the Shrine Auditorium located?
The address is
665 W. Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007 (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). It sits on the USC campus (University Park). You’ll see its distinctive brick façades and white-domed towers. Entrance doors are on Jefferson Blvd. It’s marked on GPS and visible on the corner of Jefferson & Manchester/34th.
Is parking available at the Shrine, and how much is it?
Yes. The Shrine has several event parking lots: the West Lot (W 32nd St), the North Garage (32nd & Figueroa), and the USC Shrine Structure (adjacent). On performance nights you’ll typically pay about
$25–$30 per vehicle (
www.parkme.com ). Uber/Lyft dropoff is at the venue’s Jefferson Blvd entrance (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). We recommend arriving early, as spaces fill up fast. (There’s little to no free street parking, and nearby campus lots are usually reserved.)
Can I take public transit to the Shrine?
Absolutely. The L.A. Metro Expo Line (light rail) stops at the Jefferson/USC station, which is about a 5-minute walk from the Shrine (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). Several Metro buses also service USC area. There is no official shuttle, but the campus is very walkable and well-signposted. For taxi or rideshare, drop-off is at 665 W. Jefferson Blvd (
www.shrineauditorium.com ).
What is the seating layout inside the auditorium?
The Shrine Auditorium is a proscenium theater with ground-floor orchestra seating and one balcony (Loge). In front of the main seating is the “Pit” (a standing room area near the stage) for many concerts. There are also private boxes on either side near the stage. For the best view of stage action, center floor or mid-balcony is recommended. Pit/orchestra front is best for proximity and energy (
www.rateyourseats.com ), while Loge balcony seats are great for a panoramic sightline. Everywhere in the hall has good sound coverage after recent upgrades.
Can I bring a camera or recording device?
You may bring small hand-held cameras or phones for personal photos (flash off), but professional cameras, video recorders, tripods, and similar gear are
not allowed (
trakle.com ) (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). The Shrine enforces a strict no-recording policy. Simple point-and-shoot or smartphone photos are usually fine, but always check the event rules (some concerts even forbid any photography for artistic reasons). Drones, GoPro setups and audio recording equipment are prohibited at all times.
Are outside food or drinks allowed?
No. Outside food and beverages are strictly forbidden by venue policy (
trakle.com ) (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). No snacks, bottled water, coolers, etc., may be carried inside. The facility provides concession stands and bars (cashless credit payment only (
www.shrineauditorium.com )) where you can purchase drinks or snacks. If you have special dietary or medical needs, plan to eat beforehand or let staff know; only sealed prescription items are typically allowed.
Is the Shrine wheelchair and ADA accessible?
Can I leave a coat or stroller at the door?
No, the Shrine does not offer a free coat or stroller check. Large items (oversized bags, strollers, chairs, blankets) are not allowed inside (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). If you do not want to carry a coat, consider leaving it in your car. (You can usually park very close on event nights if arriving early.)
What time do doors and shows start?
Show start times vary by event, but many rock/pop concerts begin around 7:30–9:00 PM. Doors typically open ~45–90 minutes before the posted show time (though some big acts or award shows may have earlier VIP entrances). Always double-check your ticket for “doors at” time. Arriving at or before doors open is wise, to allow time for entry lines and finding your seat.
Is the Shrine all-ages? Are children allowed?
Yes, almost all events are all-ages (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult and with a valid ticket (kids under 8 may need a ticket or else be small enough to share a lap; check the event policy). One caution: for very young children (under ~7–8), the venue requires hearing protection (no loose earplugs; use fitted earmuffs). If in doubt, check the event info – very few concerts have outright age bans, but music content and length may not suit very young kids.
What amenities (food, drink, merchandise, etc.) are available onsite?
Inside the Shrine you’ll find concession stands (beer, cocktails, soda, snacks, hot dogs, etc.) and merchandise tables for artists. Everything is credit-card only (no cash) (
www.shrineauditorium.com ). Bars may run drink specials (e.g. $8 featured cocktail nights (
www.shrineauditorium.com )). There is no in-house restaurant, so plan to grab a bite before or after the show nearby. Restrooms are located on every level (downstairs and balcony). Wi-Fi is not reliably provided, so rely on cell service if needed.
Are there any steep stairs or difficult areas to navigate?
The main floor (orchestra) is mostly flat; the balcony has inclined seating. There are wide staircases up to the balcony, but elevators are available in the lobbies for wheelchairs or those unable to climb. The aisles are fairly roomy (though of course crowded at intermission). If you need special seating arrangements, contact the venue in advance. All entry points are at ground level, so accessing the auditorium is not difficult. Venue staff are typically very helpful with guiding patrons.
