About The Lodge Room
The Lodge Room is a 500-capacity live music venue and nightclub in the Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. Housed on the second floor of a restored 1923 Masonic lodge building, it retains original features like ornate cherry-wood paneling, mystic murals on the walls, and even a hidden trap door (www.jankysmooth.com ) (lamag.com ). It opened in 2017 under owner Dalton Gerlach, who envisioned an independent, all-ages concert hall by reviving this historic space (www.latimes.com ) (www.jankysmooth.com ). The venue shares its home with Checker Hall, a Mediterranean-inspired bar and restaurant, giving patrons a chance to enjoy “dinner and a show” under the same roof (www.lodgeroomhlp.com ) (www.jankysmooth.com ). Described as one of the prettiest live-music rooms east of downtown, The Lodge Room’s blend of vintage architecture and modern sound makes it a standout on the L.A. music scene (www.latimes.com ) (lamag.com ).
Events and Programming
The Lodge Room hosts an eclectic mix of live concerts and performances nearly every week. Its calendar spans genres from indie rock and electronic to metal, jazz, and hip-hop, reflecting Highland Park’s diverse music community. For example, recent lineups have featured L.A.’s own Cut Chemist, underground hip-hop icon Chali 2na, psych-rock band Mystery Lights, and many more (www.songkick.com ) (www.jankysmooth.com ). The venue also books niche acts – everything from neo-classical composers and ambient artists to hardcore punk and heavy psych – often promoted by local collectives like Desert Daze or Art Don’t Sleep. Beyond music, The Lodge Room occasionally hosts special events and themed nights, including panel discussions (e.g. music-industry Q&As) and cultural gatherings. Staff emphasize that artists appreciate the space’s intimacy and aura: even major names like Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins) and comedian Dave Chappelle have chosen this 500-seat hall for intimate gigs, and bands like Deerhunter or Feist have used it for special return performances (www.jankysmooth.com ). In an average year (pre-pandemic), the club produces well over 150 shows and dozens of private events, drawing fans from across L.A. to this distinctive venue (www.latimes.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Lodge Room shows are sold through official outlets and the venue’s box office. Shows usually go on sale weeks in advance and can sell out for popular artists, so it’s wise to check announcements early. Presales or fan-club offers are rare for an independent club, but following the venue’s social media or buyer (e.g., promoters like Sid the Cat) can alert you to new events. Ticket prices vary by act – many indie and local shows range from about $20–$30, while bigger names or special events may reach $40–$50. There is often a limited number of “day of show” tickets released at the door, but for most gigs, advance purchase is recommended. In all cases, tickets can be purchased via authorized ticket sellers or at the Lodge Room box office (if available). On the day of a show, a campus-style box office typically opens an hour or two before doors to pick up will calls or buy remaining tickets. For sold-out shows, plan ahead; once sales end online, only luck or eBay-scalpers remain (skipped here). Always verify with the venue’s official announcements to avoid scams.
Seating and Layout
The Lodge Room’s main hall is a simple rectangular space with a stage at one end and a bar and small eating area (Checker Hall) opposite. There is no permanent balcony – the entire room shares a single-level floor. For most concerts the audience is general admission standing room, though some events (jazz nights, theater, or special seated performances) may place extra chairs in front. When seats are available, they line the rear wall or sides, so arriving early can secure a front-row chair if offered. The stage is raised only a few feet, so even the back half of the floor has a good view in this intimate room. Acoustically, the wood-paneled walls and high ceiling help spread sound, so the center-front typically has the best balanced mix. From side spots or farther back you still experience full audio and can step forward through the crowd as music hits. Near the ceiling hangs the venue’s iconic star-shaped chandelier and original wall murals – these do not obstruct views but add to the atmosphere. Unless a show is specifically advertised as “seated,” assume standing admission. Many fans prefer at least mid-floor positions to feel the energy, while those who want to lean on the bar or sit usually gather on the periphery of the hall adjacent to the built-in seating and table space. There are VIP/dressing areas behind a hidden side door at stage level for performers, but these are off-limits to the public (www.eventective.com ).
Getting There and Parking
The Lodge Room’s address is 104 N Avenue 56 (at Figueroa Street) in Highland Park, just north of Eagle Rock Boulevard. If you’re driving, note that parking at the venue is very limited. A small private lot behind the building is sometimes used, but regular patrons usually look for street parking. Residential side streets near Figueroa may have spots (watch for L.A. street cleaning schedules and permit zones), and Pay-by-Phone or ParkLA meters line Figueroa and York Blvd nearby. It’s best to arrive an hour or more early to find a space on the block or just around the corner. Rideshare drop-offs are common on Figueroa; just agree on Avenue 56 as the pin. If taking public transit, the Los Angeles Metro provides access by bus and rail. The Metro L (Gold) Line stop at Highland Park (York Blvd & Marmion Ave) is about a 15-20 minute walk south. From there or from Eagle Rock station, hop on Metro Bus 81 northbound on Figueroa – it stops at Figueroa/Avenue 56 one block from the venue. Metro Bus 83 (also on Figueroa) and some Glendale Beeline routes stop within a few blocks. Additionally, Metro Micro (on-demand shuttles) covers Highland Park and can drop you within the local zone for a building permit fare (www.metro.net ). Late-night options are limited: if the show runs past midnight, be prepared to leave soon after for the last eastbound bus on Figueroa or arrange a car pick-up.
Inside the Venue
When you enter the Lodge Room, you’ll find a warm, old-school atmosphere. Entry is on the second floor of the historic lodge building, typically via a broad staircase (wheelchair lift access is available for ADA compliance (www.eventective.com )). Expect lines at busy shows; a ticket scanner is at the door, and all bags and jackets are lightly checked by security. ID may be checked if the event is 21+ (most Lodge Room shows are all-ages, but some special events or cellar shows may restrict minors). Once through, the main room opens up with a full bar on one side serving craft beers, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks during concerts. The venue’s menu often includes appetizers or dishes from Checker Hall (upstairs at adjacent tables) – you can grab small bites or have a sit-down meal there before or during breaks. Bathrooms are located in the back of the hall near the merch area; two or more restrooms make lines manageable. Coat check is sometimes offered at larger events (occasionally staffed by volunteers), though many simply drape their coats along the rows of benches on the side walls. The entire room has a friendly, communal vibe: fans and even strangers often chat while DJs or soundchecks warm up. Merchandise tables for bands are typically against the back wall or by the entrance. Since The Lodge Room has Wi-Fi and mobile service, you can usually text or stream small clips (though big crowds can hurt cell signals). DJs or in-house audio mixers operate from a corner or back booth (the lighting and sound equipment are professional level). Overall, expect a relaxed, boutique concert experience: staff are known to be welcoming, bartenders are friendly, and cell phone use with music off is generally tolerated.
Nearby Amenities
Highland Park is a bustling neighborhood with lots to do before or after a show. Right at Avenue 56 is Good Girl Dinette (110 N. Ave. 56), a casual café known for Vietnamese-style sandwiches, creative brunch dishes and house sodas (laist.com ) – it’s just a block from The Lodge Room and a popular pre-show spot. Along Figueroa Street you’ll find a handful of brewpubs, ethnic eateries, and casual hangouts (look for GoodBoy Cafe, Cafe de Leche, and others within a few blocks). For drinks, the Arts District has expanded here with spots like The Highland Park Bowl (a few miles east) or local craft beer bars on York Blvd. Hotel accommodations are sparse in Highland Park itself, so many attendees stay in nearby districts; Eagle Rock, South Pasadena or the Highland Park Motel (famous for its neon sign) are closest. Otherwise downtown L.A. or Hollywood offer a wider selection. Late-night options include corner markets and 24-hour spots on York Blvd. Since local bus service winds down late, rideshare (Uber/Lyft) and taxi stands are your best bet after the last set. As a rule, arriving at least 30–45 minutes early is smart: it gives time to grab a quick bite or drink at a neighboring café (like GoodGirl) and ensures parking. After the show, nearby bars on Figueroa and York can accommodate any lingering crowd, sometimes with extended happy hours.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Lodge Room’s character comes from its unique blend of history and intimacy. Its walls are literally painted with the past – original murals and a star-studded ceiling remain from the 1923 Masonic era (www.jankysmooth.com ) (lamag.com ). In 1990, L.A. Times writers noted the lodge was “refurbished and added to the National Register of Historic Places,” a testament to its place in community heritage (www.latimes.com ). Unlike cookie-cutter clubs, The Lodge Room feels like stepping into a grand old hall where history lingers in the cherry-wood paneling and Corinthian columns. Yet it’s very much alive: modern lighting and a powerful PA allow artists to transform the mood (one night it might feel like a sacred ritual, another like a Southern gothic dream). Patrons often say it’s the small details – the trap door that opens onstage, the cast-iron bar railing, the warm glow of the star fixture – that make shows feel immersive. Musicians praise The Lodge Room for its “inimitable historical aesthetic” and acoustics, which lend even a stripped-down gig a certain gravitas (www.jankysmooth.com ). Culturally, the venue has become a linchpin of Highland Park’s revival as an arts hub. It draws crowds of all backgrounds to this Northeast L.A. corner, contributing millions to the local economy and providing steady work for dozens of young music professionals – a far cry from its silent years as a closed cultural center. In short, both artists and audiences love The Lodge Room for offering an authentic, offbeat L.A. experience: a place where secret doors and murals meet cutting-edge music, all in a welcoming community space (www.jankysmooth.com ) (www.latimes.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Lodge Room is ADA-compliant. An elevator service or lift is available to reach the second-floor concert hall (www.eventective.com ). Wheelchair spaces can be arranged at the rear of the venue; just notify staff in advance so they can clear an area. What to Bring/Not Bring: Small bags and purses are fine (expect a brief security check), but avoid large backpacks or any weapons. Cameras and smartphones are generally allowed (anti-flash policies vary per show, so follow band or staff guidance). Note that outside food and drink are prohibited; instead, order from the full bar or Checker Hall kitchen. If planning to enjoy cocktails, bring valid ID (21+). Age and Dress: Most events are all-ages, so kids and teens (with adults) are welcome – however, double-check the listing in case a show is 21+. The vibe is casual: jeans, tees and concert attire are normal. There’s no dress code beyond that, though some rock shows draw black-clad fans. Keep it comfortable for dancing or standing. Arrival: Doors usually open 1 hour before showtime, and concerts start on time (often at 8:00 or 9:00pm). Arriving early not only helps with parking but also lets you choose a good spot on the floor or at one of the few wall benches. During busy nights the line can stretch by the stairwell or into the entry hallway. When doors open, tickets will be scanned and you can pick up pre-ordered will-call tickets or wristbands. A coat check may be available (usually for a small fee) if the house fills. Inside the Concert: Be prepared for a warm, energetic crowd. The sound is loud (bring earplugs if you’re sensitive!). If you need a break, you can step aside near the bar area for fresh air – that area also has a clear view of the stage. Support the performers by grabbing merch or buying a drink; these help keep independent venues like The Lodge Room thriving. Common Mistakes: Avoid assuming there’s ample parking – save time to find it. Don’t stand in the way of others; keep aisles clear. If you plan to leave early, note that re-entry is not guaranteed. Finally, always check the venue’s social channels for any last-minute updates (sometimes shows have age limits or start-time changes). By planning ahead using these tips, you’ll enjoy a smooth, memorable experience at this beloved historic concert hall.
