Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to California

Movies and live shows

You want to bridge the gap between a night at the theater and a show that keeps the energy going.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
San Francisco Symphony image 1
San Francisco Symphony image 2
San Francisco Symphony image 3
View all

Davies Symphony Hall offers amazing acoustics and a beautiful, upscale design that creates an intimate yet grand atmosphere. The venue features wide seats and comfortable aisles, with elevated seating providing great views from almost anywhere. The energy is often magical and engaging, especially during live orchestral performances accompanying films.

Live orchestral music plays alongside movies like Ratatouille and Indiana Jones, creating a strong synchronization between the score and visuals. These events combine visual arts and musical arts to make orchestral music more accessible and engaging.

Concerts feature fabulous musicians conducted by notable figures like MTT and Blomstedt. Attending includes access to dressed rehearsals and sometimes involves navigating narrow stairs.

People are saying

"The Symphony delivered a world-class performance; it was magical."

"I loved watching movies with live orchestral music; it was magical."

"The live shows here are world-class and always amaze me."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky; arrive at least 30 minutes early to find a spot.

2

Free street parking is available nearby after 6pm.

3

The venue has excellent service dog accessibility.

02
The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park image 1

Outdoor music venue offers 360-degree views of water and cityscape with excellent sound quality. Atmosphere feels open and lively, especially during general admission shows without assigned seating. Comfortable seating and stunning sunsets create a memorable live music experience.

Movies play alongside a live symphony at summer concerts, creating a unique experience. Big screens show films like Raiders of the Lost Ark and Marvel movies with the orchestra scoring live.

Beautiful venue by the water hosts a variety of concerts including collaborations with the orchestra. It offers a perfect setting for live music and special events like summer concerts featuring movies.

People are saying

"Watching the Symphony here felt magical with ocean breezes and open skies."

"You'll love the amazing views of the bay and downtown."

"Watching movies with the symphony playing live was a cool experience."

Good to know

1

They add a mandatory 22.5% service charge for each drink.

2

Parking through ParkWhiz is easy, but arrive early due to limited spaces.

3

There are multiple food options available for various dietary needs.

03
Balboa Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic performing arts theater offers intimate ambience with beautiful architecture and excellent acoustics. Comfortable seating and great sightlines create a cozy yet elegant experience. Lobby and concession areas fill up quickly during intermission, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Silent movie nights feature an organist playing an original score live alongside the film. The event offers a full theatre organ experience that enhances the classic silent films.

An intimate venue with a spectacular setting hosts small-scale rock concerts and other live performances like plays. It suits concerts that benefit from a close, personal atmosphere.

People are saying

"The seats for the performing arts are so comfortable."

"I loved the silent movies with live organ accompaniment."

"I found it to be a spectacular and intimate venue for concerts."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby with discounts for event attendees.

2

Reservations for parking are recommended to ensure availability.

3

The restrooms at the Balboa Theatre are not easily accessible.

04
Red Hill Park image 1

Spacious park with lush green grass, mountain views, and a large pond featuring ducks and turtles. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, ideal for unwinding or meditating. Amenities include playgrounds for all ages, sports fields, picnic areas with grills, and newly renovated pickleball courts.

Outdoor movie events happen regularly, including movie nights for children. The city organizes these movies in the park occasionally, creating a casual community vibe.

Summer concerts happen regularly in the park, creating a lively atmosphere. Concerts in the park offer a great way to enjoy music outdoors.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be beautiful with gorgeous views."

"I loved the movie in the park events."

"I enjoyed the great summer live shows here."

Good to know

1

Red Hill Park hosts summer concerts every year, perfect for family gatherings.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially during events, so arrive early.

3

The lake in the park lacks safety barriers, so supervise children closely.

05
Dos Lagos Amphitheater image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor venue offers intimate atmosphere with great views of a man-made lake and sunsets. Seating provides excellent sightlines where no seat feels bad, complemented by food trucks and live music performances. Family-friendly environment includes playgrounds and safe, well-lit parking.

Beautiful and relaxing setting combines eating, drinking, and watching movies. The environment supports an excellent movie experience outdoors.

Concerts happen in a great venue with a safe area around it. Shows are fun and lively, often paired with meals from nearby spots like Friday's and Fat Burger.

People are saying

"The live shows here are great and fun."

"It's family friendly with playgrounds and hangout spots."

"It's a beautiful and relaxing place to watch movies."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at the amphitheater.

2

The concert starts at 7pm, but check for potential delays.

3

Bring seat cushions for comfort as the seating is concrete.

06
Arlington Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic performing arts theater with old-world beauty and stunning decor creates a charming, intimate atmosphere. Comfortable seating and excellent sound quality support a great concert experience. Lack of air conditioning can make the space feel warm during events.

A giant screen and great sound quality make movie showings stand out here. It hosts the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and offers good food and drink options typical of movie fare.

Concerts and theatrical performances happen regularly in a classic venue known for hosting live concerts and blockbuster movies. The space supports a variety of events including movies and concerts.

People are saying

"It's a romantic movie theater with a beautiful, old-world atmosphere."

"The atmosphere for live shows feels like an old Spanish town."

"The interior architecture here is really cool."

Good to know

1

The theatre has no air conditioning, making it uncomfortable during hot weather.

2

Parking can be tricky, but there are several empty lots nearby.

3

The venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts and film festivals.

07
Los Angeles State Historic Park image 1

Large, green park offers open spaces and spectacular downtown skyline views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and laid-back despite occasional train and helicopter noise. Visitors include artists, families, and entrepreneurs enjoying trails, shaded areas, and room for dogs.

Outdoor movie screenings happen regularly, especially during Street Food Cinema events. Movies play at night in the summer, creating a casual spot for watching films under the sky.

Outdoor concerts happen during the summer with a fun atmosphere. The park hosts in-town concerts and festivals along with other special programs like Art in the Park and Reading by Moonrise.

People are saying

"The park offers great views of the city skyline."

"I enjoyed watching movies in the park during summer nights."

"I found the outdoor concerts here to be fun and spectacular."

Good to know

1

Parking costs about $2.50 per hour, or just under $9 per day.

2

Parking for events can be challenging, especially on weekends and holidays.

3

The park often hosts community events and art installations.

08
L.A. Live image 1
Event venue

Event venue combines vibrant neons with electric energy and a lively vibe. Spaces range from comfortable theaters to an ice skating rink and bowling alley, offering varied entertainment. Atmosphere feels upbeat and socially engaging, with plenty of bars and restaurants adding to the buzz.

The movie theater offers a variety of films including matinรฉe showings and premieres. It features a nice setting but sometimes struggles with customer service.

Concerts feature great quality sound and performances. Multiple live shows include concerts, DJs, comedy, and fight nights, all within a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I had a great movie experience watching movies here."

"It's a really lively place with an exciting crowd."

"I found the live shows environment to be lively and fun."

Good to know

1

Parking can be expensive, with rates reaching $45 for a full day.

2

Cash is needed for discounts at some venues within L.A. Live.

3

L.A. Live hosts various events throughout the year, so check the schedule before visiting.

09
Farm House Collective image 1

Outdoor space combines small restaurants, bars, and a large turf area with bean bags for kids to play. Atmosphere stays family-friendly and relaxed, with live music and big screen sports adding energy. Pop-up markets and game areas create a lively, community-focused vibe.

Movie nights feature a large outdoor TV screen on the concert stage and a movie and play area for children with a big flat-screen TV and a fire. Multiple screens exist but only the main screen shows the movie during events.

A small stage hosts punk rock concerts with ample seating. Entry to shows requires a paid ticket.

People are saying

"I found the vibe and atmosphere here really cool."

"They had family movie nights with a play area for kids."

"I went for the punk rock concerts on the small stage."

Good to know

1

Farm House Collective hosts movie nights on select weekends; check the calendar for details.

2

Line dancing events occur on Saturday nights, providing a fun activity for visitors.

3

A pop-up market takes place on weekends, featuring local vendors and unique items.

Discover more

California

Area guide
Loading Map...