What It Is
The Greek Theatre is an outdoor concert venue tucked into Griffith Park, about a mile below Griffith Observatory. Built in 1930 and modeled after an ancient Greek amphitheater, it holds 5,870 people — big enough for major acts, small enough that there isn't a bad seat. The natural hillside setting, surrounded by trees and canyon walls, gives it an atmosphere that no arena or stadium can touch.
While the Hollywood Bowl is LA's grand outdoor venue, the Greek is its intimate counterpart. The acts tend to be slightly more indie, alternative, and eclectic. The sound is exceptional. The vibe is relaxed. It's the venue locals prefer.
No bad seats. The venue is designed so the furthest seat is only about 100 yards from the stage — compare that to an arena where nosebleed seats can be 300+ feet away. Past performers include Radiohead, Tame Impala, Bon Iver, Florence + the Machine, The National, and essentially every significant touring act of the last 50 years.
What Plays Here
The Greek hosts concerts from roughly April through November. The programming spans:
- Rock & indie — The bread and butter. Radiohead, The National, Bon Iver, Tame Impala, and Florence + the Machine have all played here.
- Pop & R&B — Major pop acts that want an intimate setting.
- Comedy — Stand-up specials are occasionally filmed here.
- Latin music — Major Latin artists regularly sell out.
- Classical & world music — Occasional programming.
The 2025 season schedule is typically announced in spring. Check lagreektheatre.com for the lineup.
The Seating
Pit / Floor
Standing or reserved seats closest to the stage. General admission floor for some shows — check your show, as GA floor changes the experience completely.
Terrace Seats
Fixed seats in the main bowl, excellent sightlines from every row. The sweet spot for most shows — you're close enough to feel connected, far enough to have a clear view.
Upper Sections
Further back but the amphitheater design means even the last row feels connected to the stage. Pine trees line the upper sections and the canyon walls create natural acoustics.
Getting There & Parking
The Hack: Park Below, Walk Up
Park on Los Feliz streets (Vermont, Hillhurst) and walk up Vermont Canyon Road — about 15-20 minutes uphill. Post-show, walking downhill while everyone else sits in parking lot traffic is deeply satisfying.
DASH Shuttle
The DASH Observatory shuttle passes the Greek Theatre. Take Metro Red Line (B) to Vermont/Sunset station, then DASH for 50 cents. Shuttle runs until 10pm — perfect for shows that end before the curfew. For late shows, rideshare home from Vermont and a side street rather than waiting at the main entrance.
Driving & Parking
The Greek Theatre lot at 2700 N Vermont Ave is $20-25. It fills early on major shows. Arrive 45+ minutes before showtime. The lot empties slowly post-show — plan for an extra 20-30 minutes to exit.
Address
2700 N Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (inside Griffith Park)
Food & Drink
Unlike the Hollywood Bowl, outside food and alcohol are not permitted. The venue has concession stands inside — beer, wine, cocktails, hot food. For a pre-show dinner, Los Feliz Village is the move:
Figaro Bistrot — French café with a great patio. 1802 N Vermont Ave.
Alcove Café — Neighborhood favorite with a garden patio. 1929 Hillhurst Ave.
Little Dom's — Italian-American, always reliable. 2128 Hillhurst Ave.
Dresden Room — The classic cocktail bar where Martin & Lewis performed. 1760 N Vermont Ave.
Skylight Books — Indie bookstore café for pre-show browsing. 1818 N Vermont Ave.
Insider Tips
- Bring a jacket. Shows run until 10-11pm and the Griffith Park hills get cold after dark, even in summer.
- The curfew is typically 10:30pm due to the residential neighborhood. Shows usually end on time.
- Arrive early to explore the grounds. Gates usually open 90 minutes before showtime.
- Sound check seats — some shows offer free or cheap access to afternoon soundchecks. Check the venue's social media.
- The Griffith Park hiking trails are steps from the venue. Arrive early and take a short walk before the show.
- Some shows offer lawn passes for limited standing room — cheap and casual if seated tickets are sold out.
Quick Facts
- Opened: 1930
- Capacity: 5,870
- Location: 2700 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (inside Griffith Park)
- Season: April–November
- Outside food: Not permitted
- Parking: $20-25 in venue lot
- Curfew: 10:30pm
- Best transit: DASH shuttle from Vermont/Sunset Metro station (50 cents)
- Famous recordings: Elton John, Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra recorded live albums here
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Greek Theatre smaller than the Hollywood Bowl?
Yes, the Greek Theatre seats about 5,900 compared to the Hollywood Bowl's 17,500. The smaller, more intimate setting is one of its biggest draws.
What is the best place to sit at the Greek Theatre?
The lower reserved sections offer the best views, but the terrace seats higher up provide a great experience at a lower price with a view of the surrounding trees.
How do you get to the Greek Theatre?
The Greek Theatre is in Griffith Park. Driving and parking in the on-site lots is the most common option, but rideshare is recommended to avoid traffic after shows.
