About The Factory DTLA
The Factory DTLA is a large, industrial-style event venue in Downtown Los Angeles’s Fashion District (adjacent to the Arts District). Housed in a renovated garment factory, it retains its lofty, brick-and-timber architecture even as interior finishes were added. One description notes the space “was transformed into a striking venue that blends raw industrial brutalism with refined luxury” (www.thestorefront.com ). In fact, architectural coverage of nearby Arts District warehouses praises preserved brick walls and wood bow-truss roofs (www.architecturalrecord.com ) — features that give The Factory its historic character. The venue’s interior is open and expansive (around 5,000+ square feet) and can host hundreds of guests for concerts, dances, markets, corporate events or private parties. The high ceilings and reinforced concrete and wood beams grab attention, making it a memorable setting whether for live music or creative expos.
Events and Programming
The Factory DTLA hosts a wide range of events. It’s used for live music concerts and DJ dance nights (electronica, hip-hop, rock and more), fashion and art shows, pop-up markets and community events. Promoters often program electronic and indie acts here, taking advantage of the industrial vibe. The open floor can be reconfigured for seated performances or standing-only dance parties, and the venue handles kit-ups for amplifiers, lighting rigs and video projection when needed. You’ll also find one-off shows like cultural showcases, product launches, comedy nights or food events. For example, recent listings advertise vintage art markets and multimedia gatherings at the 837 S. Alameda address.
Since it’s a relatively new space, there aren’t longstanding recurring residencies, but local promoters book it regularly. Acts range from up-and-coming local bands to national touring DJs. Ticket prices vary by show — smaller club shows might be in the $20–$50 range, while larger concerts could go $60–$100+. Some events include general admission and VIP tiers. When events are announced, ticket info is typically published via the artist’s or promoter’s channels (Ticketing details are usually on the event page or venue social media).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Factory DTLA shows are sold through official event listings and promoters. There is no public box office at the venue itself – tickets are usually via online outlets or will-call on the night of the show. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. Follow the venue’s social media or sign up to newsletters of frequent promoters (e.g. local concert series) to catch pre-sales or announcements. Tickets generally range from under $30 for small underground events up to $50–$100 for bigger concerts. For special events or private rentals, you would contact the venue’s booking manager directly (venue websites list contact forms or emails for booking inquiries).
Key tips: Check the event listing for ticket availability dates; many shows release tickets a few weeks in advance. Keep in mind general-admission gigs may assign standing room only (no reserved seats) – get there early if you want front-row placement. Also note that doors often open well before showtime: according to venue info, gates typically open 2–3 hours prior to events and doors about 90–120 minutes before start (seatgeek.com ), so you can plan arrival accordingly.
Seating and Layout
The Factory has a flexible open-floor layout, not fixed seating like a theater. The main space is a large dance/standing floor with a stage area at one end. High ceilings (with heavy wooden trusses) create a loft-like feel. Because it’s essentially a warehouse, there are no built-in seats – events either use movable chairs for seated shows or operate entirely standing. For concerts and DJs, the crowd usually stands in front of the stage or across the floor space. Some promoters add seating areas or couches against the walls for VIP or lounge seating. A few raised platforms or mezzanine sections along the perimeter may provide reserved table seating or bar areas on the sides (this varies by event).
For viewing, the best spots depend on your preference. Near the center front of the floor will be closest to the stage (and loudest near the speakers), but even at the back you still have a clear view thanks to the venue’s long sightlines. Because of high ceilings, acoustics are fairly open – front-of-house sound engineers usually set up stacks so that the music carries evenly. Keep in mind the concrete & metal interior can get loud in a small crowd; earplugs can help if you’re sensitive. Some corners may have columns or bar structures that obstruct part of the stage view, so standing offsets a bit can avoid blocked sightlines. If seating is provided, corners and sides usually have easier crowd flow than trying to wedge in at the front on a busy night.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The Factory is at 837 South Alameda Street, Los Angeles 90021, just north of Olympic Blvd. on the border of the Arts and Fashion Districts. It’s an industrial block behind ROW DTLA (777 Alameda) and near the LA River. The turquoise venue sign or external brick facade marks the entrance.
Driving: Downtown parking can be tight. Street parking is metered and often 2-hour only; check signage carefully. There is no dedicated on-site lot for The Factory, so plan to park in nearby paid lots. The Row DTLA complex (just a block west) has several parking garages (subject to validation or fees). Other nearby lots at 7th/Alameda and 8th/Alameda (Fashion District surface lots) charge by the hour. A few cheaper red zones (free after 6pm) exist a few blocks away but can fill up quickly. Late-night rideshare or taxis are common because bars close around 2 AM, but be aware afternoon events may require earlier arrival to find parking.
Public Transit: The venue is within a 10–15 minute walk of Metro’s rail stations. The 7th Street/Metro Center station (serving the B (Red), D (Purple), A (Blue) and E (Expo) lines) is about 0.7 miles west via Olympic or 7th Street. The Pico Station (Blue Line) is just to the west as well. Several DASH and Metro buses also run nearby (e.g. the 30/330 north-south routes on Main or central stops on 7th/Olympic). After events, Metro service typically runs until around midnight–1:00 AM on weekdays (later on weekends), so check the schedule. Ride-hailing drop-offs are easy at the address or on 8th Street, and Lyft/Uber drivers usually wait on Alameda or Olympic.
Inside the Venue
Entry is through one main industrial door on Alameda. Expect security screening (bag checks and metal detectors) and ID verification at the door – common for non-alcohol events or evening shows. The atmosphere inside is raw-industrial cool: exposed brick walls, visible ductwork, concrete floor, and an overall warehouse vibe updated with modern spot-lights or LED wall washes. There are usually a few bars set up along the sides or rear, serving beer, wine and cocktails. (The party can get hot on the dance floor, so water stations or bottled water sales are often available.) You’ll find portable bars or counters for drinks; staff manage lines, so high demand can mean a wait for cocktails on busy nights.
Merchandise tables (selling band posters, shirts, etc.) are typically near the front or side of the stage. Restrooms are located off the main floor – usually 2–4 gendered stalls each for men and women, plus perhaps a single handicapped-accessible stall or family restroom. If you need help once inside (e.g. medical assist), staff or venue ushers can direct you to exits and facilities. Coat check is sometimes offered for evening shows (often for a small fee); look for personnel near the entrance. Cell phone reception is mixed – some guests set phones to airplane mode to conserve battery and avoid interference from poor bars. There’s usually free public Wi-Fi or a spot for charging cables near the back, but rely on your data for critical calls.
A word about cover: Dress is casual. DC-approved dress codes typically allow jeans and shirts (some clubs discourage ball caps or jerseys). Sharp shoes or sneakers are fine; high heels can be tough on concrete floors if you plan to stand all night. Security and promotions staff patrol inside – if something is prohibited (like recording video of a live set), signs will be posted (professional cameras are almost always disallowed without press passes). Smoking inside is not allowed, but there may be a smoking area outside after dark (check with staff where it’s permitted). Overall, the vibe is trendy but unpretentious: expect friendly bartenders, a creative crowd, and a venue that feels like a private warehouse party.
Nearby Amenities
Since The Factory is in an infill industrial/arts district, nearby restaurants and bars are a short walk away. The famed Factory Kitchen (Italian dining) is about a 10-minute walk northeast on Factory Place if you want a sit-down meal beforehand. Closer in the evening, the ROW DTLA complex (one block west) has several eateries: Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken , Honeymee dessert , Bar Clover (Korean pub), and others. There’s also a gourmet coffee bar and a Belgian bakery in Row for daytime pick-me-ups. A few blocks south on Alameda/Olympic are casual spots like Smorgasburg (open weekends) and a late-night taco stand. For drinks, the Arts District just north offers trendy cocktail lounges (e.g. Arclight , Sunshine Tavern ) and beer gardens.
Accommodation-wise, there are no hotels right on-story, but several options a short drive away. Downtown hotels near LA Live (JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, or the Pendry) are about 1–1.5 miles west (10 min drive). The neighborhood east of Alameda is mostly industrial, so most overnight visitors stay downtown or in nearby Koreatown/Hollywood. If traveling, arriving early to explore a pre-show dinner in South Park or Little Tokyo can make for a full day before the evening entertainment. Late-night transit options include 24-hour bus lines (like the DASH downtown circulator) or rideshares, as the Metro rail shuts down around midnight. If you stay until after closing, note that the Crypto.com Arena definitely draws crowds (the whole LA Live area), so plan extra time for traffic or transit after busy nights.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Factory DTLA stands out as one of the city’s rawest-chic event spaces. Its combination of old and new draws both artists and audiences. Rather than a polished club or a proper theater, it offers a warehouse feel – as if you’re attending a show in an urban loft or converted industrial building. For performers, the exposed architecture and high ceilings allow creative stage design (rigging lights on the large trusses, projecting images on brick walls, etc.). For the crowd, it feels more underground and unique than generic concrete venues or arenas. It’s a space that retains the Arts District’s gritty edge: you can arrive by a hidden alley and discover this cavernous, hip party inside.
Culturally, it’s part of the revival of DTLA’s gritty canyons into arts and nightlife hubs. Locals love it for hosting events that feel authentically L.A. – whether it’s an indie band’s secret gig or a fashion label’s runway show. Famous artists haven’t called it home for decades (it’s fairly new as a venue), but it does echo L.A.’s creative legacy. The Factory Kitchen (nearby) made the block trendy for dining; The Factory DTLA similarly brands the address as “hip DC-style club downtown.” Many fans appreciate its décor – original brick and wood beams – as a tangible connection to old L.A. industry. It’s not a flashy landmark, but it matters to the local scene as a gritty blank canvas where DJs and designers can do as they please.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is generally wheelchair-accessible. There are ramps at the entrance and at least one wheelchair restroom. If you need special accommodations, contacting the venue ahead of time is wise, but by code events facilities are ADA-compliant.ID and age: Most events are 18+ or 21+, depending on whether alcohol is served. Always bring valid government ID (driver’s license or passport). Even if the show is all-ages, later-evening club nights often strictly enforce 21+. If under 18, check ahead; some gigs allow minors MA supervised by adults.What to bring: Carry only essentials. A small purse or clutch (4.5″×6.5″ or smaller) is recommended – large backpacks and non-transparent bags may be refused (seatgeek.com ). Don’t bring outside food or drinks (beyond a sealed water bottle, unless prohibited by the promoter). Ear plugs are useful for loud shows. If you plan to stand, supportive shoes are helpful. There are no lockers, so keep belongings with you.Security: Backpacks and large bags will be checked. Clear bags are preferred (seatgeek.com ). Expect walk-through metal detectors for bigger concerts or UV tattoos for club nights. Photographs with professional cameras (the ones with removable lenses or flash) are usually banned; phone cameras are okay unless otherwise noted.Weather: It’s an indoor venue, so weather only matters for getting there. In summer the block can be hot – use water and sunscreen outside. In winter, the concrete space can be chilly, so dress in layers if the event is early evening (you can remove jackets as it warms up inside).Dress code: The vibe is casual/creative. There is rarely a strict dress code, but upscale club attire is usually not required. You won’t see neon sports jerseys or gang colors; a smart-casual look fits best. Comfortable urban streetwear is common. Save your club heels for Hollywood; here, sneakers and casual boots are fine even for upscale events.Photo/video rules: If the show prohibits professional cameras, it will say so on the event page. Many gigs allow mobile phone pics. Fans often post Instagram photos of The Factory’s neon signs or stage setup – it’s a photogenic venue, so look out for murals or lighting fixtures that make cool backdrops, but respect barricades.Rules of thumb: Arrive early for popular shows (lines often form at least an hour before the posted door time to secure a good spot). Have cash on hand (cash bar lines move faster). Meetup points: If coming with friends, the back patio or the small front stoop are common gathering spots. Always double-check the event’s official page for any special FAQs (dress themes, prohibited items, etc.).Crowd: The audience tends to be in their 20s–30s, creative and friendly – artists, students, tech workers. Doorman staff are usually laid-back but professional. Since the venue is industrial, there’s a bit of a “warehouse art party” atmosphere that many find both edgy and welcoming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets to events at The Factory DTLA?
Tickets are sold through the individual event promoter or ticketing site. There is no box office on site, so you purchase online (often on Ticketmaster-like sites or Eventbrite) or through the artist’s official channel. Follow the event announcement for specific details. Popular shows often sell out quickly, so it’s best to act as soon as tickets go on sale. For block parties or markets, there may be free admission or a small entry fee; check the event page.
What is the entrance / door time for The Factory DTLA events?
Door times vary by event, but typically The Factory opens well before the show starts. According to venue information, gates may open about 2–3 hours before start time (seatgeek.com ) and doors around 90–120 minutes prior (seatgeek.com ). Always check the specific event’s start and door time posted in the ticketing info. Arriving early is wise on sold-out nights to get a good spot.
Where should I park for The Factory DTLA? Is there on-site parking?
The venue has no dedicated parking lot. Street parking is metered (usually limited to 2 hours) and can be hard to find. There are several pay lots nearby: the Row DTLA garages (777 S Alameda St) are closest, and lots on 8th/Alameda or 7th/Olympic are a 5–10 minute walk. Expect to pay at least $5–$10 for evening parking. On busy event nights, rideshare/drop-off (Uber, Lyft) at the address or a main crossstreet is often easiest.
How can I get to The Factory DTLA by public transportation?
The nearest Metro Rail stops are 7th Street/Metro Center (for Red/Purple/Blue/Expo lines) and Pico Station (Blue Line), each about a 10–15 minute walk away. Metro buses and DASH shuttles also run on nearby streets (for example, several lines run along 7th/Olympic and Central Ave). After the show, late-night Metro service typically ends around midnight on weekdays (later on weekends), so plan accordingly. Hop on an evening DASH downtown loop or use an app-based ride service if your event ends late.
Does The Factory DTLA host seated events? What are the best viewing areas?
Most events are standing-room. Some concerts or film screenings bring in folding chairs, but there are no permanent seats. If chairs are set up, early attendees can claim the front rows. Otherwise, for standing shows the best spot is usually near the center front of the floor or slightly to the sides by the stage. Back-of-house or side areas may have less bass but a more panoramic view. Keep in mind there’s often space around the edges or on a raised catwalk near the rear – those can be good vantage points if you prefer some distance from the crowd.
Is The Factory DTLA accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, as a modern event venue The Factory offers wheelchair access. The main entrance has a ramp or lift if needed, and there is at least one ADA-compliant restroom. During busy events, a dedicated accessible aisle is maintained near the front. If you have specific accessibility needs (e.g. seating accommodation or assistance), it’s best to contact the venue before your visit. Guide/assistance dogs are allowed, and staff are trained to help guide patrons with disability concerns.
Are there bag checks or restrictions on items I can bring inside?
Yes, security is strict at most events. Large backpacks or bulky bags are not permitted. Bring only small or clear bags – SeatGeek notes that venues like The Factory typically suggest handbags no larger than a small clutch (about 4.5″×6.5″) (seatgeek.com ). Any personal items may be searched. Prohibited items include outside food/beverages (except water), weapons, and professional camera equipment (unless authorized in advance). It’s wise to review the event’s policy; colorful fanny packs or tiny purses are safest. Packages or large bags will be asked to be held at coat check or STOW if provided.
Is there food or drink available inside The Factory DTLA?
Yes, most events have on-site bars. You can usually buy beer, wine, or mixed drinks during a concert or club night (cash or card at the bar). Some events also sell concessions or snacks, but food options are limited – it’s often just pretzels, chips or the occasional food truck outside. There is no full restaurant inside. You can and should eat beforehand. The venue typically does allow sealed water bottles, but otherwise expect to buy drinks in-house if you thirst.
What is the capacity of The Factory DTLA?
Official fire-code capacity depends on the event setup, but The Factory’s main floor (around 5,000 sq ft) can accommodate several hundred standing guests. A reasonable estimate is on the order of 500–700 people for general admission concerts. Exact numbers vary if seating or stage setups reduce space. Given its size, it’s considered a mid-sized venue – bigger than a small club, but smaller than an arena. For sold-out shows, expect it to feel quite full.
Is The Factory DTLA the same as The Factory Kitchen restaurant?
No, they are different. The Factory DTLA is an event venue on Alameda Street. The Factory Kitchen is a well-known Italian restaurant in the Arts District (at 1300 Factory Place). They share a similar name but are separate businesses. Make sure you’re going to 837 S Alameda if you intend to hit the concert, not to the Factory Kitchen on Factory Place.
