Events at The Mayan, Los Angeles, California

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The Mayan

Los Angeles

About The Mayan

Downtown LA’s iconic Mayan Theater – popularly known simply as The Mayan – is a historic concert hall and nightclub rooted in 1920s “Mayan Revival” architecture. It opened Aug. 15, 1927 as a lavish movie palace and stage theater, debuting with George Gershwin’s musical “Oh Kay!” . Today, it seats about 1,500 people (roughly 900 if seated concert-style) . The venue is noted for its rich Pre-Columbian decorative scheme: the exterior facade features carved stone serpent heads and warrior figures in full headdress (representations of the war god Huitzilopochtli) , and a replica Aztec-calendar chandelier hangs above the main auditorium . This elaborate Mayan/Aztec motif – part of a broader 1920s fascination with exotic revivalist design – makes The Mayan uniquely photogenic and is cited as one of Los Angeles’s most distinctive architectural landmarks . The City of Los Angeles even designated the theater a Historic-Cultural Monument in 1989 . Over the decades the space evolved from stage plays to films (including Spanish-language movies mid-century) and back to live entertainment. In 1990 owners Sammy Chao and Daniel Sullivan renovated it as the “Club Mayan” nightclub, preserving the ornamentation while converting the auditorium back to a single large hall . After more than 35 years as a dance-and-concert venue, The Mayan remains a beloved part of LA’s music scene, known for blending its colorful heritage with modern nightlife.

Events and Programming

The Mayan hosts a very eclectic mix of programming. Most weekends feature late-night club/dance nights with DJs, throwback dance parties (80s nights, Latin Afro-Caribbean nights, college throwbacks, etc.), and weekly specialty shows like Lucha VaVoom (a cult burlesque-wrestling extravaganza). It also stages stand-up, performance art, and comedy-music mashups on occasion. In addition, the hall is used for mid-size concerts: everything from indie rock, pop and hip-hop to K-pop and jazz. Recent headliners include electronic and house DJs (Dillon Francis in late 2023 , Insomniac’s WORSHIP EDM tour in March 2023 ) as well as indie and international acts. For example, British crossover star Jai Paul played The Mayan in Sept. 2023 , Colombian trap artist Mora performed in April 2023 , and the 5-member Korean boy band MCND sold out its LA stop in Aug. 2022 . The versatile booking has ranged from alternative singer-songwriters (e.g. Bombay Bicycle Club) and experimental jazz (Brazil’s Hermeto Pascoal in June 2023 ) to theme club nights and seasonal spectacles. Lucha VaVoom de La Liz in particular became a near-residency act on many Saturdays; their “Cinco de Mayan” shows and summer extravaganzas filled the calendar through 2025 . In short, the venue alternates between high-energy dance parties (often with cover charges of $10–$20 for club nights) and ticketed concerts (typically $20–$100 depending on the artist). The nightclub is known for embracing camp and inclusive fun, while concert programming remains on the punchier/alternative side. Whatever the event, Philadelphia Weekly notes the crowd is passionate – “when you step in the ring, you keep on going because you feel the people” during Lucha nights – reflecting a communal, immersive vibe. Most shows push the sound and lights with a professional PA and rig (as suits a large dance floor and balconies), so fans describe loud, lively acoustics and thumping bass appropriate for EDM or rock sets. (Side note: The 1948 rumor that Marilyn Monroe appeared here is legendary local lore, adding to the club’s colorful history .)

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for concerts and special events at The Mayan are sold well in advance through official outlets. Check the venue’s website or recognized ticket sellers (such as Ticketmaster/TicketWeb/Eventbrite) for on-sale dates. In many cases popular shows will offer advance presales and almost always sell out weeks ahead. For club nights and bar events, some parties (especially on Fridays and Saturdays) may allow guest lists or pay-on-door entry if space permits. The Mayan does have a physical box office at 1038 S Hill St (same building) where you can inquire about tickets; historic listings show a 213 phone number (Box Office: (213) 746-4287 , Club Mayan switchboard (213) 746-4674 ). However, most guests simply buy tickets online and use mobile entry or will-call pick-up. There is usually no single central box office kiosk; if off-sale or day-of door sales occur, they are announced through event pages. Ticket prices vary by tier. Concerts might have assigned seating or GA, with early-bird and VIP (balcony) vs. general admission pricing. For large events like Lucha VaVoom, ticket tiers ranged around $69–$93 . Regular nightclub entry is often much cheaper (or even free before 10pm with RSVP), and bottle-service VIP tables can be reserved for groups. In fact, The Mayan’s site promotes “bottle service” upgrades to book a table under the balconies or to the side of the floor . To get the best seats or spots, arrive early on concert nights (doors often open 1–2 hours before showtime). For the very popular themed parties, RSVP or guestlist strategies (contacting promoters or using club apps) can sometimes get you free or line-bypassing entry. Note that door times are generally around 9–10 PM on club nights, but for concerts or wrestling shows doors may open as early as 7 PM. Always carry a valid ID as some events enforce a 21+ age limit (most weekend club shows are strictly 21+) and invariably require age checks at entry. Payment-wise, expect to buy tickets ahead via credit card; at the venue, the bars accept credit/debit – though it’s wise to have some cash for small purchases (e.g. coat check or late-night miles from rideshares).

Seating and Layout

The Mayan’s interior still reflects its 1920s theater layout. There is one main floor directly in front of the stage (usually standing-room concerts or packed dance floor), and at least two balcony levels wrapping around the sides and back. For dance nights, the entire audience is typically standing on the main floor; for seated concerts, the front few rows or balcony may have folding chairs. The historic details (columns, murals, ornamental niches) remain largely intact. Best viewing varies by event type. If you want to be in the thick of it, stand near the stage on the main floor (though expect crowding and moshing at energetic shows). Balcony 1 (the lower balcony level) offers a higher vantage with direct sightlines to the performer, and often allows seating. The upper balcony provides a bird’s-eye view – less intimacy but a full overview of the spectacle (and often better acoustics without warped low frequencies). Note that, because of ornate columns and the hall’s trapezoidal shape, extreme side seats may have partial obstructions; center-aisle or near-center balcony seats generally have the clearest view. (Historically the theater seated 1,491 , so the sightlines were designed to be thoughtful; most patrons life up front now anyway.) There is no fixed VIP seating aside from bottle-service tables along the sides of the stage floor or at table-included sections in front of the stage on balcony level. Sound-wise, reviewers say the club system is powerful but can be all-immersive; if volume is an issue, back-of-balcony seats tend to be quieter. Overall, The Mayan’s multi-tier design means every vantage is pretty close – the stage never feels far in a small-to-mid venue – but balcony seats give a bit more room to breathe between dancers. Keep in mind that there are stairs to both balconies and no escalator; if mobility is a concern, request a seat near the floor (ground level) when available. Floor vantage spots fill up fast on popular nights, so if you need a front-lock wait time, get in line early or climb to the front balcony for a guaranteed view.

Getting There and Parking

The Mayan is located at 1038 South Hill Street in downtown Los Angeles (next door to the historic Belasco Theater). The neighborhood is South Park/Downtown, roughly between 10th and 11th Streets. It’s very centrally located: only a few quick blocks east of Broadway and west of Olive. Metro rail access is convenient. The closest subway stop is Pershing Square Station (Red/Purple Line) at 4th/5th and Hill – only 5 blocks north of The Mayan, a short 5–10 minute walk straight down Hill Street. The 7th Street/Metro Center station (serving Red, Purple, Blue, Expo lines) is also nearby (3 blocks west on 7th St) and connects to much of LA. Several MTA buses stop within a block or two: Metro lines 4 and 10/48 run along Hill Street (stop at 6th/Hill or 9th/Hill), and the Southbound #81 runs on adjacent flower or 7th corridors . The city DASH (short-range buses) and other crosstown routes also serve 7th/9th/Figueroa nearby. In short, public transit & rideshare are easy: request a drop-off at “10th and Hill” or simply at the venue address. For drivers, street parking is very limited in the immediate area. Instead, there are many paid lots in the blocks around The Mayan. For example, parking services list a lot at 1045 S. Hill St and another at 1025 S. Hill (only ~150–200 feet away) for ~$20–$25 during events . Additional garages are on Broadway, Olive, Main, and Ximeno just one block north or south. Using apps like SpotHero or reading nearby garage signs is advised. Valet parking isn’t standard, but several nightclubs nearby offer valet (you could try the adjacent Belasco or music-venue valets). If you must street-park, arriving hours early on weekdays or catching a meter on nearby Veteran’s Park (Hartford Ave.) can work, but for weekend shows count on paying a garage. Note that the area (South Park) is mostly urban with high-density lots; it’s not a residential block so 2-hour limits are rare – mostly pay lots. Always budget extra time for traffic and parking lines on big event nights.

Inside the Venue

Upon arrival, expect typical club security screening at the door. The staff is friendly but firm: ID is checked instantly (21+ for most nights unless specified all-ages). Bring a government-issued photo ID even if you only plan to watch (you might be carded if you order alcohol or even when going in, as The Mayan is primarily a bar/nightclub environment). Patrons report that backpacks and large bags are not allowed; small purses/wallets are permitted. There is often a metal detector or pat-down line during major events, so try to travel light. The interior atmosphere retains its 1920s grandeur – moody emerald and gold hues, towering columns painted like stones, and lots of relievo artwork on the walls and ceiling. On club nights you’ll find pulsing colored lighting bathes this backdrop, with foggers on fog machines making the murals swirl in the haze. After entering, you’ll be on the main floor. Two full bars line the sides of the floor (one to your left entering, one to your right near the stage) serving cocktails, beer and wine – expect slightly above bar prices (often $12–$15 for cocktails). There is no kitchen, so the only food is what independent vendors might bring to the lobby (some nights local taco or slider stands set up outside the front door or at 11th St, especially on summer events). Restrooms are on both end of the floor – one set near the entrance and one set closer to the stage. On concert nights there is usually a merch table in the lobby or upstairs selling show T-shirts. Seating is minimal on the floor; after the stage is the open dance pit. Upstairs on the first balcony level (accessible by two main staircases), much of the perimeter is lined with banquette seating and small tables. Those VIP areas are generally reserved for bottle-service parties, but any concertgoer can climb up and grab a folding chair at the rail. A coat check is offered coat check (for a small fee) near the front doors on chilly nights – useful for storing jackets since the dance floor heats up quickly. Most visitors say the air-conditioning is adequate but not cold; wearing comfortable clothes and shoes is wise because once the crowd piles in it can feel very warm. Connectivity-wise: cell reception at street level can be spotty (the solid brick walls attenuate phone signals), but you can usually get a text or two between sets. There is no official Wi-Fi for guests, so rely on your own data or go to nearby cafes first if you need it.

Nearby Amenities

The Mayan is surrounded by a bustling nightlife and dining district. For pre-show meals or drinks you’re spoiled for choice. Just steps away is the Belasco complex, which houses an upscale Mexican restaurant/bar called “Good Times at Belasco” (great for hearty tacos, margaritas and decor) on the ground floor. A block to the west on Broadway are a cluster of Downtown staples: *Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse* (luxe dining; expensive but reliable for steak and seafood), *Blue Cow Kitchen & Bar* (casual American comfort food) and *48 Degrees* (seafood), all within 5–10 minutes’ walk. A few blocks northwest is *Manhattan Beach Post* (for seafood) and *Bloodhound* gastropub, plus *Wurstküche* (German sausages/beer) on 7th St in the Arts District – all popular pre-game spots. Closer on Hill/7th you’ll also find pizza/pasta at *Drago Centro* and boba coffee shops for a quick pick-me-up. For late-night eats right after the show, Los Angeles has 24-hour diners (like *Frolic* on 6th & Flower) and fast food at 7-Eleven on 9th/Flower. Rideshare and taxis can be found on 10th or Broadway; or simply head toward Figueroa Blvd or 7th where there are more nightbus routes. If you’re visiting from out of town, some nearby hotels include The Ritz-Carlton (Grand) a few blocks north (at 7th/Grand), the Marriott’s Sheraton Grand on Olive, the hip Ace Hotel Downtown (Broadway), and the Millennium Biltmore (Grand Ave) for historic elegance. All are within easy Lyft/Uber distance for late hours. In any case, plan to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before showtime to park or wait for public transit, and wear something comfortable for the walk of a few blocks. After showtime, the neighborhood stays lively – many post-show patrons spill into lounges and casual bars like *Station 1640* or *Lost Knight Lounge* nearby. If you've had more drinks than you should, the DASH bus lines and late-night Metro on 7th still run until about midnight or later, but at minimum Uber/Lyft is plentiful Downtown even after bars close.

What Makes This Venue Special

The Mayan stands out for its rare architectural style and deep cultural footprint. Unlike generic clubs, this is a genuine 1920s movie palacetheater rescued and repurposed, so it feels more like a living museum. Its elaborate Mayan/Aztec-themed décor – designed by artist Francisco Cornejo – is literally unmatched in Los Angeles. As Cinematreasures writes, “every square inch” of the interior is painted in hieroglyphs and symbols: the lobby is a “Hall of Inscriptions,” the foyer a “Hall of Feathered Serpents,” and the 1,491-seat auditorium is ringed by Mayan motifs . The massive central chandelier (a replica Aztec calendar stone) is alone worth the trip. In practical terms, this means every event has a dramatic, almost spooky atmosphere, with gargoyle-like figures watching from the walls. The venue has featured in local lore and pop culture (it quietly appeared in films like *“Blade”* and was long rumored to be haunted by showbiz ghosts). It has also hosted historic non-music events: in the Great Depression it was a stage for progressive theater, during WWII it screened Mexican films and supported the local Latino community, and in the 1940s it famously became a burlesque house (Marilyn Monroe herself is rumored to have ridden a carousel onstage there in 1948). In modern times, artists love The Mayan because it’s intimate yet grand. Musicians appreciate the state-of-the-art sound system hidden in a vintage shell; club-goers love that a night out here feels like stepping into a different world. Even in official announcements, city and press extol the venue’s mix of historic charm with nightly excitement . The final reason it’s special: it’s one of the last large-scale, late-night spaces in Downtown LA dedicated to underground and alternative culture. Its impending 2025 closing (Sept 13, 2025 is the final planned event ) has made locals treasure it as one of the “kings of DTLA nightlife.” In short, The Mayan matters because it’s more than a room – it’s a living piece of LA history that has continually reinvented itself for music and dance.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The venue has a flat-floor entrance (no steps up from street level), and an elevator or ramp allowing wheelchair access to the orchestra level. However, only the main-floor area and the first (lower) balcony are wheelchair-accessible – the upper balcony and stage are not. Restrooms have some handicap stalls on the ground floor. If you need wheelchair seating or other ADA services, call the venue ahead of time to arrange. What to bring/not bring: Essential items are ID, ticket, and small cash/credit for drinks. Avoid bringing large bags or tripods – security usually prohibits backpacks. Transparent tote bags (purse style) are allowed. Umbrellas are also discouraged inside (especially near lights). Cameras: Point-and-shoot cameras and smartphones for personal use are normally OK, but professional photography (detached lenses, video rigs, flash) is forbidden unless you have press passes. (At most concerts you’ll see friends filming on phones; just don’t block aisles or fight the venue lighting.) Common mistakes: Arriving too late – even shows advertised “doors at 8pm” may fill to capacity quickly, especially on Saturdays. Try to get in a half-hour early to find parking or pick up tickets and claim a spot. Also, failing to coat-check bulky coats is common: on cold nights lines can form fast when coats are only $3–$5 to store. If you stay late, remember the last train/bus times or have a ride app ready; DTLA buses wind down around midnight. Age restrictions: Most nights are 21+ due to liquor laws. Unless a show is explicitly all-ages (rare), assume you must be 21. They are strict – no underage entry. If you are under 21, check for a daytime private event (sometimes schools rent it) or seek an alternative venue. Dress code: There is no strict code, but upscale casual is safest. Avoid gym wear or flip-flops on popular nights. Historically the club welcomed “colorful” attire (1990s reports even joked it preferred fashionably dressed patrons), but these days anything clean and neat goes. If you dress to impress a bit (nice jeans, dresses, button-down shirts) you’ll fit right in. There’s no need for formal wear – just be comfortable dancing. Provided amenities: The venue has ample bar service but no kitchen, so eat beforehand if you need a full meal. There is a coat check, a gift shop area (usually a table selling band merch or posters), and multiple restrooms. Floors are wood or concrete, so shoes are advised; high heels are allowed (it’s a nightclub after all) but wear something you can dance in. Water fountains are not available inside; bottled water at the bars is your friend. There is no on-site ATM that guests have found, so bring enough cash. Insider tips: If you’re visiting for the final run, note that The Mayan announced a “last Saturday” celebration each week through Sept 13, 2025 – these might have special themes or guest DJs. For big-name acts, check whether balcony tickets (if any) or balcony standing room is offered; those are often the last to sell out. On busy nights, lines often form around 10th St – police manage flow, but consider arriving via side street (10th or 11th) to avoid big crowds at the front entrance. If you plan to use rideshares after midnight, ask your driver to wait inside Brookdale parking or on 11th if the block is closed – dropping off on Hill itself can be congested. Finally, if visiting for photography or a tour, look into special open-house days (sometimes the Los Angeles Conservancy or Doors OpenLA have held backstage tours in past years, tapping into its landmark status). Otherwise enjoy: whether you duck under the balustrade on a dance floor or hang back on the balcony, the theatrical vibe is the real attraction.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 . For standing-room dancing events it can fit around 1,500 comfortably .

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 . 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 . 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 . 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 . 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.

Events at The Mayan, Los Angeles, California

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