About The Novo
The Novo is a modern indoor music and events venue located within the L.A. Live entertainment complex in Downtown Los Angeles. It opened in November 2008 as Club Nokia and was rebranded The Novo (formerly “Novo by Microsoft” under a naming deal) in March 2016 . The name “Novo” (Latin for “to make anew”) was chosen as part of Microsoft’s rebranding of LA Live venues . Owned by AEG/Goldenvoice, The Novo fills a niche between small clubs and larger arenas. It seats roughly 2,354 people (about 2,300 GA) across 59,000 sq. ft. with a 40’×30’ stage . Goldenvoice bills The Novo as an “intimate concert venue” for up-and-coming music acts, cultural shows, comedy and private events . Its sleek two-level design features state-of-the-art acoustics and three full bars . Wolfgang Puck’s catering is exclusive to The Novo, reflecting its place in the upscale L.A. Live district . In short, The Novo is a mid-sized club-like hall that has become an important spot on the L.A. music scene, showcasing emerging artists and special events in a premium downtown setting.
Events and Programming
The Novo’s calendar is packed with concerts and events nearly every night. As an AEG/Goldenvoice venue, it hosts a broad variety of live music – from indie bands and rock to hip-hop, electronic and experimental acts – as well as comedy shows, dance nights and cultural performances. Goldenvoice notes the venue does “over 200 events a year” . Many shows tie into larger festivals (it’s often used for Coachella and Stagecoach sideshows), album-release parties, and club dates for national tours. For example, in spring 2023 Goldenvoice scheduled Coachella-adjacent “Goldenvoice Presents” shows like rapper GloRilla (April 15) and singer SAINt JHN (April 16) at The Novo . Notable past performers span genres: country star Big & Rich did a release show, the Band Camino played there (turning a crypto.com arena concert into an intimate night) , LA rapper The Game has used it for album launch events , and electronic acts like Basement Jaxx have headlined. All-ages audiences are typical (proof of age/ID only needed for alcohol) . Tickets vary by show, but events often have general-admission (standing) on the floor and limited reserved seating on the balcony. Typical ticket prices for standard shows range from around $30 to $70 for general admission, with higher-tier VIP or front-row floor sections costing more. This makes The Novo generally more affordable and accessible than the 20,000-seat arena next door. Recurring bookings include the Goldenvoice “Presents” series and sometimes residencies by local DJ/promoters. Fans searching for things to do in LA will find The Novo at the top “Things to do” lists for concerts due to its steady schedule of acts.
Tickets and Booking
Official tickets for The Novo are sold through AXS (the AEG/Goldenvoice ticketing partner). Presales (to fan clubs or email subscribers) often happen before general onsale. For major shows, it’s smart to follow Goldenvoice or local radio presales. On-sale dates are posted widely and tickets sell fast. If you miss presale, general tickets usually appear on AXS or at the box office. The Novo’s box office opens two hours before doors on show nights and sells any remaining tickets on a first-come basis (they accept cash and credit). There is no guarantee tickets will be available at door, so advance purchase is recommended. Some fans buy “Pit” wristband tickets if offered, which guarantee front-floor access; with GA tickets only, wristbands for the pit are distributed at the door on a first-come basis . In-floor reserved seats (for seated events) are sold by row (row A, B, C…) as needed . General admission (GA) floor tickets do not include a specific seat – they simply allow early entry. Balcony tickets (if offered) grant access upstairs; in GA shows the front 3–4 balcony rows are usually a “VIP box” (reserved for VIP ticket holders) while the remaining balcony seats are first-come first-served . Fans recommend arriving early to get in line, especially for popular shows. Overall, advance online purchase via AXS is easiest – but if you plan to buy at the box office, note it opens 2 hours prior to showtime . Ticket prices vary by act and market demand; seats closer to the stage or VIP packages will cost more than the floor GA tickets. As of recent years, many standard rock/pop shows in the 2,300-capacity Novo have GA tickets in the $40–$60 range, with seats or VIP coming in above that.
Seating and Layout
The Novo has a distinctive two-level layout. The main-floor area is a large open hall in front of the stage, usually used as a standing room/general admission “dance pit.” On the second level is a balcony with rail-front seating and drink rails. There is also a small VIP lounge box at the far front of the balcony. According to the official LA Live information, the total capacity is about 2,354 people : roughly 1,458 standing on the main floor and 896 in the balcony (212 premium seats plus 684 regular balcony spots) . In other configurations the floor can be arranged for seated theatre-style shows (about 400 seats) or banquet events (300–400) . For concert events the typical setup is full GA floor (with a few rows of seating if a seated show) and an open balcony. The balcony’s front rows are normally VIP tables or seats, while the rest are general seating. If you have a balcony ticket, the venue treats most of it as open seating (“you get a balcony seat” means you choose any chair row) beyond those first VIP rows . There is elevator and stair access up to the balcony, and restrooms on both levels . Customers note that although it’s “not that big” , it feels comfortable: plenty of elbow room to dance on the floor and good line-of-sight from the balcony. Acoustically, The Novo is praised for being “crisp” and “clear” (designed with state-of-art sound in mind ), though heavy dancing can sometimes make the balcony floor vibrate a bit during a big bass-drop moment . Generally the best view is either in the center of the floor near the stage or centered on the balcony. Off to the far sides of the floor can crowd surf or wall-block the view, whereas the balcony offers a broad overview. The 40'x30' stage is raised but not very high, so even from the back of the main floor you can often see performers. VIP ticket holders will have priority floor access or tables in the VIP lounge (the first balcony rows) . For accessible seating, The Novo provides ADA viewing platforms (house-left on floor and balcony) and wide elevator access . Overall, The Novo is designed as a flexible space: for live shows it is mostly standing with a modest raised seating balcony, offering both an energetic club vibe (on the floor) and a more spacious perch (upstairs).
Getting There and Parking
The Novo’s address is 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, located in the L.A. Live entertainment district of Downtown’s South Park neighborhood. It sits adjacent to the Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) and Microsoft Square. By car, follow signs for L.A. Live/Staples Center and park in the L.A. Live garages. The L.A. Live East and West Garages (access via Olympic or Chick Hearn Ct/Figueroa) together offer over 2,300 spaces. Both garages typically charge about $10 for 2 hours, up to around $40 for the day (with an overnight special of ~$15 after 9pm) . These lots open about 2½ hours before showtime and close ~1 hour after the show , so plan to arrive early. Valet parking is also available at the West Garage for added convenience . To save time, AEG recommends buying prepaid parking passes when you purchase your concert tickets . Note that rates in private nearby lots vary widely. Street parking is limited and metered on surrounding streets (e.g. Figueroa, Flower, Olympic) and can be challenging on event nights. For public transit, The Novo is very accessible. The Metro A and E Lines stop at Pico/Eighth station, just one block north of The Novo . From Pico Station it’s an easy 5-6 minute walk west on Pico Blvd and north to the venue. Several Metro buses also serve L.A. Live: routes 28, 30, 81, 460 and the Silver (J) Line have stops near the complex . In addition, the LADOT DASH local F route loops along Figueroa Street and stops adjacent to LA Live . Rideshare drop-offs are typically on Figueroa Street near Olympic Blvd (follow local signs). Because traffic can be heavy after events, many locals prefer the Metro or pre-arranged Lyft/Uber. If using Metrolink trains, riders can transfer at Los Angeles Union Station to the Metro A/E lines and exit at Pico. Once you arrive at L.A. Live, follow the venue signs or escalators up to Level 2 to find The Novo entrance (it’s inside the arena complex, one floor above street level) .
Inside the Venue
Upon entry to The Novo, expect tight security and bag checks. Only small purses or bags (no larger than 14"x14") are allowed . Prohibited items include outside food/drinks, weapons, selfie sticks, large banners, professional camera equipment (unless you have a media pass) and recording devices . Acceptable ID is government-issued and not expired, required for any alcoholic purchases . The venue itself feels modern and lively. As noted by visitors, it is compact and “intimate, two levels” . The decor is sleek with dark walls, a second-floor balcony and a spacious standing area. There are three main bars (one at the back of the floor and two upstairs) serving beer, wine, cocktails and hard seltzers . For example, a 2022 review mentions “bar areas that serve hard seltzers and beers” and an upstairs bar . There is no on-site kitchen for full meals during concerts, but the bars sell snacks and beverages. Restrooms are plentiful and located on both floors along the house-left side[ . Accessibility is well-considered: all restrooms have accessible stalls and there are unisex ADA restrooms on each level . An elevator on the left side also reaches the balcony for wheelchair access. If you need a sign language interpreter, The Novo’s ADA info page suggests emailing them two weeks ahead . The atmosphere inside is energetic – the floor audience often dances and jumps, and one reviewer even noted the crowd made the balcony floor “shake” at times . Sound quality is frequently praised; another visitor said it had “amazing sound” and ample space to dance on the floor . There is no formal coat check, so avoid bringing bulky outerwear or check it at your hotel or car. (Lost and found after the show goes to the venue’s operations office; items held 14 days, then donated .) Merchandise tables for artists’ T-shirts and souvenirs are usually set up near the entrance or in the concourse on the main floor. Note that photography is discouraged – no flash or recording devices are allowed , though many fans quietly take phone photos. Lastly, it’s cashless or card: bars accept credit/debit cards and the venue sells drink tickets via card. In short, The Novo inside feels like a polished nightclub/concert hall: energetic, with modern bar facilities, easy restroom access, and ADA accommodations throughout.
Nearby Amenities
The Novo sits in the heart of L.A. Live, so plenty of dining and lodging options are within easy walking distance. Right next door (same address, 800 W Olympic Blvd) is the upscale JW Marriott Los Angeles hotel, which houses award-winning WP24 by Wolfgang Puck on the 24th floor (great for cocktails/dinner before a show). The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott and the new Omni hotel are all connected by pedestrian skyways in the L.A. Live complex. For restaurants, the L.A. Live plaza and the surrounding blocks have many choices:
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar – A casual pub serving burgers, pizza and comfort fare; very close to The Novo entrance .Fleming’s Steakhouse – An upscale steak and seafood place at the Marriott, just steps away .Fixins Soul Kitchen – Southern-style BBQ and soul food in the JW Marriott lobby .Katsuya L.A. Live – Trendy Japanese sushi/robata grills right across the street .Cafe Fig (Cake & Coffee) – Italian-American cafe for pizza, paninis and wine (in the Fig Restaurant Group, just a block east on Figueroa) .Yard House, Del Frisco’s or Tom’s Urban – (in neighboring blocks L.A. Live and South Park) – casual chains for burgers, beer or American eats.Barbareno’s Javier’s – Slightly farther on Figueroa for upscale Mexican cuisine (about a 5-minute walk).Rooftop Bars – WP24 Bar (24th floor of JW Marriott) and Trick Dog (a popular cocktail bar on 7th Street, a few blocks east) offer drinks and city views if you arrive early or stay late.
For hotels: besides JW Marriott and Ritz (both part of L.A. Live), several downtown hotels are nearby: The Line, Ace Hotel, and Hotel Figueroa are within a 10-15 minute walk and useful for visitors. If you’re driving, note that LA Live lots fill quickly; the nearby street parking lots on 9th/Figueroa can also be pricey. It’s wise to plan arrival at least 1 hour before showtime. Nightlife around L.A. Live generally thins after 11 pm since most bars close at 2 am; after-concert eateries might include late-night donuts or pizza places downtown. Rideshare pickups can be busy after a show, so you might walk a few blocks to a quieter street corner or use the large Atlantis Rideshare lot at 7th St. & Flower (sometimes used by LA Live). Many fans report it’s easiest to leave when traffic eases 30-60 minutes after the show, so a late dinner or drinks in the area first is a common plan.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Novo’s uniqueness comes from its blend of corporate polish and indie-club vibe. Architecturally, it was designed by Gensler (as part of the L.A. Live development) with high-tech sound systems and LED lighting (for example, it installed state-of-the-art Philips Vari-Lite fixtures in 2024) . The acoustics are intentionally tuned for live performance , making it a go-to spot for artists who want high quality sound in an intimate setting. Historically, the location marked a key phase in downtown’s rebirth: when Club Nokia opened in 2008 (and later became The Novo), the South Park neighborhood was still emerging. The LA Times notes that L.A. Live (anchored by the neighboring arena and The Novo) has been “crucial to downtown’s resurgence,” sparking billions of dollars in new development of hotels, restaurants and residences in the formerly run-down area . The Novo itself has quietly hosted hundreds of thousands of fans – noted at 250,000 per year even back in 2016 – and it provides a home for many acts that wouldn’t fit in giant arenas. Over the years artists appreciate The Novo because it offers a festival-like production in a cozy space: bands often remark that crowd energy feels immediate and personal. Notable moments include bookend shows by Bek’s Joshua Light Show at opening, Waka Flocka Flame christening the new name in 2016 and intimate fanclub shows by stars like The Weeknd (during Goldenvoice-hosted afterparties). Locals love it because it brings national and international artists to downtown without the wall-of-fame distance of a huge arena – you feel close to the stage no matter where you stand. A longtime promoter calls L.A. Live’s corridors and bars “turnkey” for big events (like NBA All-Star or Grammy parties) , and The Novo is a key piece of that ecosystem: when A-list stars descend on L.A., you’ll often find surprise pop-up shows or DJ parties at The Novo. In sum, The Novo’s signature is its hybrid identity: an upscale, tech-savvy concert hall that still packs the communal thrill of a warehouse gig. It matters to L.A.’s cultural scene because it draws fans downtown midweek and weekends, energizing a district full of bars and restaurants and contributing to the city’s 24/7 nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is fully ADA accessible . All entrances work with wheelchairs and strollers, and there are designated wheelchair platforms on the floor and balcony (house left) . Elevators connect the Level-2 lobby to the balcony, and the LA Live East Garage below the venue has ADA parking with elevator access up . Service animals are welcome, and for hearing-impaired guests The Novo offers assistive-listening devices (just ask staff at the entrance). If you require sign-language interpretation, email [email protected] at least two weeks in advance .
What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring as little as possible to gigs. Small purses or clear plastic bags (smaller than 14″x14″) are allowed . Backpacks, large totes, food/snacks, and any liquids (other than a small sealed water bottle) are prohibited . You must be over 21 with valid ID to buy alcohol (even beer/wine); in fact, the bar area and any lounge access are strictly 21+ on show nights . To speed entry, have your ID and tickets ready for scanning. Although phones/cameras are not officially banned, selfie sticks and professional camera gear are. It’s wise to leave full-sized DSLRs or video cameras at home, as security will not allow them . Most small pocket cameras and smartphones are fine (no flash video). No smoking or vaping is allowed inside; use the designated smoker patio outside if needed.
Arrival and Doors: The Novo box office opens about 2 hours before the show . Doors (entry) are typically 60–90 minutes before curtain time (check your ticket). Even if you have a ticket, getting there early is advisable: a reviewer specifically noted the venue is “fairly small” and recommended arriving early to get good spots . When you approach L.A. Live on event days, follow signs and security directions. Many visitors report that to reach The Novo you must follow the signs “Arena Level 2” or “L.A. Live/The Novo” and take an escalator or elevator up from the main concourse . If confused, venue staff are stationed near escalators to guide you up to the right level. As a rule, expect intesive security screenings (metal detectors, bag checks) prior to entry.
Mistakes to Avoid: In past shows some guests learned the hard way not to block the aisles or stand right up against the stage barricade before a show starts – you can always move up once the band begins, but if obstructions are in your way, get a different vantage spot. Also, don’t rely on quiet nearby transit late at night: last trains/buses shut down around 1–2 AM so plan a backup ride. Finally, note that the club does not allow re-entry once you leave, so plan ahead before you enter (the block with food trucks and snack stands is outside, before security). If bringing kids, know that while all ages are admitted, the atmosphere can get loud and crowded – earplugs for children or sensitive adults can help with banging drums or heavy bass.
Dress Code and Atmosphere: There is no formal dress code at The Novo – fans wear everything from T-shirts and sneakers to dress shirts and dresses. Comfort is key since you’ll likely stand or dance; closed-toe shoes are recommended near the stage. Many fans wear band T-shirts or festival outfits. A light sweater or jacket might be handy if the building is air-conditioned, but most people dance enough to stay warm. Overall, the vibe is casual but energetic. If you’re coming to dance in the pit, dress freely (some fans even bring small cross-body bags for phone/wallet). If you prefer a more laid-back view, you might lean on the balcony rail with a drink. A review captures it: “Two levels, plenty of room to dance… Great location” . Expect a happily diverse crowd – people of all ages (sometimes teens up to older adults) enjoying the music together.
Coat/Luggage: The Novo does not have a cloakroom or large locker area. Leave bulky coats and luggage in your car or hotel. A few patrons have used nearby hotel coat checks (for a fee) if attending multiple venues that night. For valuables (phone, wallet), you may bring a small bag or keep pocket-sized items on you. The lost & found is handled by the venue staff after each show; call 213-765-7009 within a few days if you think you left something behind .
Insider Tips: One popular tip is to snag a spot on the right side of the front balcony – it offers a truss-protected railing and a direct line to the stage with less neck-craning than the far left. Another is to pace yourself at the bar: lines may form at intermission, so some fans pre-order a couple of waters/drinks at the start to avoid missing songs. Also, though it sounds obvious, check your phone before entering as service can be spotty inside (it’s mostly underground). Lastly, remember The Novo’s concert policy: no discounts on last-minute door sales, so if you want in, get there online or as soon as the box office opens. Many locals say that feeling of rocking out in a smaller hall (versus the big Crypto.com Arena) is “totally worth it” – one TripAdvisor poster simply said “I would still recommend getting there early … Enjoy!” .
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity and layout of The Novo?
The Novo’s total capacity is about 2,350 . For concerts it’s mostly general admission: approximately 1,458 people stand on the main floor and about 896 are in the balcony (212 leather stadium seats plus 684 general balcony spots) . It has two levels (floor and balcony) and a small VIP lounge. It can also be arranged for seated theater style (about 400 seats on the floor) or banquet events (300–400 people) .
How do I buy tickets for a show at The Novo?
Tickets are sold through official channels (AXS) when shows are announced. Look for Goldenvoice or venue presales, then general onsale. The Novo box office (at L.A. Live) also sells tickets starting 2 hours before each show . To avoid scalpers, always buy from authorized sources. For hot shows, sign up for email alerts on Goldenvoice or AXS to know the exact sale time.
When do doors open and when should I arrive?
Doors usually open 60–90 minutes before the advertised showtime (check your ticket for exact info). The Novo’s box office opens 2 hours prior to showtime for ticket pickup . We recommend arriving early: the venue fills up quickly and getting in line early means you can secure a spot near the stage or good balcony seats. Many fans suggest coming at least one hour before doors to ensure you’re ready when they open .
Is The Novo an all-ages venue and what about drinking?
Yes, The Novo is all-ages – anyone can attend concerts here. However, alcoholic beverages are restricted to guests 21 and older with a valid, government-issued photo ID . If you plan to have drinks, bring your ID. The VIP lounge is 21+ only . Children and teens are welcome as long as they can be supervised in a concert environment (parents should be aware it can get loud and crowded).
Where is The Novo located and how do I get there?
The Novo’s address is 800 W Olympic Blvd (inside the L.A. Live complex in Downtown L.A., near Crypto.com Arena). It is easily reached by car or transit. Nearest Metro Rail is the Pico/Eighth (Expo) Station – about a 5–6 minute walk west and north . Metro bus lines 28, 30, 81, 460 and the Silver Line stop at L.A. Live . For driving, use the L.A. Live East or West Garages; they open ~2.5 hours before the show and charge roughly $10 for 2 hours up to ~$40 max . Rideshare drop-offs typically use Olympic/Figueroa.
What is the parking situation around The Novo?
L.A. Live’s own garages (East and West) are the most convenient. The East Garage (850 spaces) and West Garage (1,500 spaces) are used by all L.A. Live venues . Expect to pay about $10 for the first 2 hours or $40 all day . The lots open ~2½ hours before showtime and close ~1 hour after the event . You can also buy prepaid parking through AXS when ordering concert tickets to guarantee a spot . Nearby private lots exist but may charge more. Street parking is very limited on event nights.
What items can I bring or not bring into The Novo?
Only small bags or purses (no larger than 14"x14") are allowed . Prohibited items include outside food/drink, alcohol, drugs, large bags or backpacks, weapons, glass bottles, banners, selfie-sticks, and any recording devices (like GoPros) . Also leave your umbrella and laser pointers at home . You may take a smartphone or small camera (no tripod/flash) for photos. Service animals are permitted with documentation; no other pets.
Is there accessible seating or entry at The Novo?
Yes. The Novo has ADA-compliant entrances (all entries have no steps) and an elevator to the second level . Wheelchair viewing platforms are located on the left side of the main floor and on the left balcony . All restrooms have accessible stalls, and there are single-occupancy ADA restrooms on each floor . If you need accessible seating tickets, contact AXS Guest Services at 888-929-7849 when the show is announced. The venue staff will accommodate wheelchairs and scooters, and ADA parking is available in the East Garage right below the lobby .
Are there any bag or security policies I should know?
Yes. Expect security screening (metal detectors and bag checks) at the door. As mentioned, bags must be small . You cannot bring outside food or drink, large signs, or professional camera gear . The venue is all-ages, so there is no dress code, but avoid clothing with excessive metal or accessories that trigger detectors (belt buckles, chains may need to be inspected). The Novo does not allow re-entry, so once you enter make sure you have everything with you. If you have coats, use a coat check located in the Crypto.com Arena (Staples) level (there is a paid coat-check outside Staples; The Novo itself does not have its own). Keep pockets empty of prohibited items to speed your entry.
Where can I get food or drinks inside The Novo?
The Novo has full bars on-site (one each on the main floor and two upstairs) serving beer, wine, sodas, bottled water and cocktails . Drinks are competitively priced compared to similar clubs (expect ~$8–10 for beer or non-alcoholic drinks, more for cocktails). The venue does not cook hot food, but some shows have pre-event concessions in the concourse. For easy dining, walk outside to the LA Live plaza where numerous restaurants (Lazy Dog, Katsuya, etc.) are minutes away. You may also grab snacks at the bars (some sell pretzels or candy). Remember: no outside food/drink allowed past the entrance.
Are there restrooms and other facilities inside the venue?
Yes – restrooms are located on all floors and are easily accessible (on house-left side) . There are standard multi-stall toilets and sinks, plus single-occupancy accessible restrooms on each level. The floors are generally kept clean, but during busy shows lines can form, so consider using them during breaks. In addition, there is an ATM in the concourse area (Crypto.com Arena commons) if needed. The Novo provides full lighting and sound rigs for performers, and offers Wi-Fi in the lobby (vendors alter it often, so don’t rely on it for streaming during the show!). Merchandise tables for touring artists are typically set up near the entrance or just outside, where fans can buy T-shirts or records.
Is there public transportation near The Novo?
Yes. Metro Rail’s E Line (Expo) stops at Pico/Eighth station, one block north of The Novo . Take the E (Santa Monica/Azusa) or A (Long Beach/Azusa) Line to Pico Station, then walk west on Pico and north on Figueroa to reach LA Live. Metro bus lines 28, 30, 81, 460 and the Silver (J) Line serve stops around LA Live . The DASH F local bus runs along Figueroa with stops adjacent to LA Live . These are reliable options especially for evening shows (last trains/buses usually run past midnight, so check schedules.)
What should I do if I lose something at The Novo?
All found items are turned in to the operations office nightly. If you lose an item, call the venue at 213-765-7009 the next business day . Staff will check the lost-and-found. Any unclaimed items are held for 14 days (after which they are donated) . IDs and credit cards left behind are shredded after 14 days for security. TIP: if your phone was found, the venue security often sends it to either Cisco Easy Pay (lot E) or the Crypto.com Arena Guest Services; you can try those as well.
Who books shows at The Novo?
The Novo is booked by Goldenvoice, AEG’s Southern California division (the same promoter that runs Coachella and Stagecoach) . Goldenvoice’s talent buyer, Jeff Shuman, handles AEG’s club venues including The Fonda, the El Rey, and The Novo . In practice, that means top touring acts and festival spin-off shows appear on Goldenvoice Presents bills. If you see “Goldenvoice” on a flyer, it’s probably at The Novo or another local AEG venue.
