What is the capacity of The Mayan?
The Mayan’s total capacity is about 1,500 people. In a seated (concert or theater) setup it holds up to roughly 900; the rest is wide open dance floor. Historically it had 1,491 seats when it opened (www.cinematreasures.org). For standing-room dancing events it can fit around 1,500 comfortably (www.bizbash.com).
How do I buy tickets, and can I get them at the box office?
Most tickets are sold online. Check the venue’s official site or event pages (Ticketmaster, Eventbrite, etc.) for on-sale announcements. Some tickets may be available at the door (especially if the show isn’t sold out), but there isn’t a staffed public box office window during shows. You can call the number (213-746-4674) for general info. For big events, it’s wise to buy in advance; Day-of sales depend on remaining availability.
What are the parking options near The Mayan?
Street parking is scarce, but there are many paid lots nearby. Examples include a lot at 1045 S. Hill St and 1025 S. Hill St (just around the corner), which charge about $20–$25 for events (www.bestparking.com). Other garages on Broadway, Olive, and Main are within a block or two. We recommend reserving a spot on an app (SpotHero, ParkWhiz) or arriving early to find a garage space. Metered street parking exists farther out (8th St, Figueroa, etc.), but don’t rely on city meters as a plan. In short: plan to pay for parking at a nearby lot or garage.
What is the nearest public transit?
The Mayan is very transit-accessible. Metro rail’s Pershing Square Station (Red/Purple Line) is at 5th/Hill (a quick 6-block walk north). The 7th Street/Metro Center stop (Red/Purple/Blue/Expo) is at 7th/Flower, about 3 blocks west. Multiple buses run right by (e.g. Metro #4 and #10/48 stop at 6th & Hill) and DASH circulators frequent DTLA. For late runs, the Metro Red line runs until ~1am nightly, and certain bus routes are 24-hour. Uber/Lyft drop-offs are easy on 10th or 11th St near Hill. In summary: taking the subway to Pershing Sq or 7th St and walking several blocks is the simplest way.
Where are the best places to park?
The closest lots are on Hill Street one block away (1045 S. Hill and 1025 S. Hill). Those are convenient and well-lit. Other options within 0.2 miles include garages on Broadway (Blackstone Court at 1019 S. Broadway) and on Olive or Main. These will show up in parking apps if you search around 10th & Hill. Prices hover around $15–$25 for the evening. Avoid parking too far east of Hill or west of Broadway, as the area is mainly commercial. Valet is typically not provided specifically for The Mayan, but some adjacent clubs may offer it for events.
Are the shows seated or standing? Where should I sit or stand?
It depends on the event. Most dance and club events are all general admission standing on the main floor. Concerts may offer some folding chairs at front or balcony. In general, the busiest vantage for a concert or DJ show is the floor near the stage (great energy, but crowded). For clearer views, move to the first balcony level – the first row of seats at the edge gives an unobstructed look over the crowd. The upper balcony is quieter and a bit far from the stage, but safe and less crowded. Try to arrive early to claim a good spot: front-center on the floor or front balcony is ideal. Avoid extreme side positions if possible, as ornate columns can block peripheral sightlines.
Is there a coat check or lockers?
Yes, The Mayan offers a coat check at the street-level lobby coat stand (usually a few dollars per item). There are no self-service lockers. Valuables should be kept on you or stored (the coat check attendants are usually reliable for jackets and small items). Since the club can get hot, many people check coats even if they’re short on time. Just make sure to retrieve it before closing (the venue will typically page lost items announcements when it closes).
Is The Mayan wheelchair accessible?
The main floor is wheelchair-accessible via a ramp by the entrance. There is an elevator that reaches the ground level and possibly the first balcony. However, the upper balcony/listener’s gallery is up stairs only. Accessible restrooms are located on the lower floor. We recommend calling the box office in advance to confirm wheelchair seating availability or any special accommodations.
Can I re-enter after leaving?
Policy can vary by event, but generally there is no guaranteed re-entry. If you leave, your best bet is to ask security – sometimes they’ll stamp your hand or mark your ticket for a quick return. However, since many older shows are sold by ticket, if you try to come back after having left, they may treat you as any new person at the door (especially after peak entry time). If you plan early arrival, it’s safer to stay inside. For late-night venue entry, security is relaxed about water/food runs, but official re-entry should not be counted on unless it was noted at ticket purchase.
Are photos or videos allowed?
Usually simple phone photos and videos (no flash) are tolerated for personal use. Comply with any announcements: for some headliner shows (especially K-pop or special tours) photography might be restricted. Obviously, no tripods or professional cameras without press passes. The club is generally laid-back about smartphone snapshots. (Note: The Mayan’s walls and lights make great backgrounds for Insta-photos, so expect many patrons posing for pictures.)
Is there an age limit or dress code?
Most nights (especially weekends) are 21+ because liquor is served. If an event is 18+, it will be clearly advertised that way. Otherwise assume 21+. As for dress code, there is none strict. Guests usually dress up a bit compared to casual daily wear – think nightlife attire. In older press coverage it was noted the club favored “colorful” or fashionable outfits (www.latimes.com). Today, anything from jeans and a nice shirt to dresses is fine. The key is to look neat and feel comfortable dancing. Obviously no sportswear, flip-flops, or gang-affiliated attire will be turned away.
Does The Mayan serve food/drinks?
The Mayan is primarily a bar/nightclub – they serve a full bar (beer, wine, cocktails) all night. Expect drink prices similar to most LA clubs. There is no in-house restaurant. Sometimes during big events local food trucks or stands are parked outside; also, several restaurants within a block offer take-out (tacos, pizza, etc.) which you can grab and take in. Just don’t try to bring outside alcohol or big meals inside. Water is sold at the bar; you may see staff or volunteers handing out free bottled water on very hot nights (stay hydrated!).
Is smoking allowed inside?
No. Los Angeles banned indoor smoking years ago, so The Mayan is completely smoke-free. If you must smoke, step outside. There is bike parking out front as well as sidewalk space but note: smoking or vaping inside will get you escorted out.
Why is it called The Mayan?
It’s named after the “Mayan Revival” architectural style. When it was built, designers went all-in on Aztec/Mayan motifs (serpents, pyramids, glyphs, etc.), so the theater was christened the Mayan Theater to match its decor. In the 1990s, the nightclub owners shortened it to “The Mayan.” The name has nothing to do with any local tribe – it purely refers to the ancient Mayan theme of the building’s artwork and design.
Is The Mayan closing for good?
Yes. In mid-2025 the operators announced that The Mayan’s run will end with its final scheduled event on September 13, 2025 (www.cinematreasures.org). This was due to a combination of post-pandemic economics and rising costs. After that date, the venue is slated to stop hosting club nights. The building will remain (as an LA Historic-Cultural Monument) but the current nightclub operations will cease (www.cinematreasures.org) (www.latimes.com). If you plan to visit, check the official calendar – your chance to see The Mayan live may be in its very last summer of shows.