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Scenic views and performing arts in Los Angeles

You want your cultural experiences to be framed by a view that matches the drama of the stage. The setting should be as compelling as the performance.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Barnsdall Gallery Theatre image 1
Barnsdall Gallery Theatre image 2
Barnsdall Gallery Theatre image 3
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Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater sits atop a hill within a park, offering spectacular city views and an intimate, cozy atmosphere. The space combines historic charm with excellent sound quality, creating a relaxing and engaging environment for shows.

Spectacular views stretch across the city from the top of the park, including clear sights of the observatory and Hollywood sign. The Barnsdall Gallery Theatre offers a cute, intimate setting with beautiful city views atop its hill.

An intimate, old school theater sits atop a hill with views of the city. The space is cozy yet surprisingly big, accessed by a steep staircase and an elevator to the theater level.

People are saying

"This intimate theater offers beautiful views and a cozy vibe for performing arts."

"The nice view from the top of the hill is spectacular."

"The scenic views from the top of the hill are spectacular."

Good to know

1

Parking at Barnsdall Gallery Theatre is very limited.

2

There is a steep staircase to reach the theater.

3

The venue is not easily accessible for those with mobility issues.

02
The Ford image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor hillside setting creates a picturesque, intimate theater with excellent acoustics and comfortable seating featuring padding and cup holders. The venue offers a relaxing atmosphere with no bad seats and a tropical park-like backdrop, insulated from nearby noise. Free shuttle service and convenient parking support easy access despite some crowding.

Every seat offers a great view thanks to the venue's intimate size. Even the back rows provide an amazing view of the stage.

An intimate outdoor theater offers great views even from the back. Picnics are welcome with tables for food near the seating area, enhancing the experience for movies, plays, and concerts.

People are saying

"It's an awesome, intimate outdoor theater for performing arts."

"It's a beautiful and intimate venue."

"You get great views from almost any seat here."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Ford can be very limited, so arrive early.

2

You can bring your own food and drinks to The Ford.

3

Expect heavy traffic and parking challenges on event days.

03
The Orpheum Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater with vintage charm and palace-like grandeur offers an intimate setting and excellent acoustics. Every seat provides a good view, enhancing the live music experience. A separate lounge and bar area add modern convenience to the classic atmosphere.

Balcony views feel like watching a Broadway play. Most seats offer excellent stage views with no bad spots unless blocked by a tall person. The venue's impressive architecture adds to the overall visual experience.

Classic architecture and beautiful old building design create a memorable setting. The theater offers fantastic sound quality and great sight lines from every seat, including the balcony.

People are saying

"This historic theater's ornate architecture is just beautiful."

"The seats here are really comfortable."

"The architecture here is beautiful, with impressive scenic views all around."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, but it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The bars close half an hour after the show starts, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect limited legroom in the seating area due to close row spacing.

04
Ovation Hollywood image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall offers striking cityscape views including the Hollywood sign from multiple levels. Atmosphere blends festive energy with refined dining spaces, featuring interactive entertainment like dance performances, photo opportunities, and a large arcade. Central courtyard and open-air park provide relaxed spots amid lively activity.

Upper floors offer breathtaking views of the Hollywood sign and Hollywood Hills. The Walk of Fame is clearly visible, adding to the stunning scenery from the restaurant and mall areas.

The theater offers a grand cinematic history and hosts major events like the Oscars. It features a beautiful indoor-outdoor design with shops and restaurants nearby.

People are saying

"This mall has tons of parking, even underground."

"You get a great view of the Hollywood sign from here."

"I found easy parking near the Performing Arts complex."

Good to know

1

Parking validation is available at shops and restaurants, reducing fees to $3.

2

Events typically end between 7 and 8 PM, so plan accordingly.

3

Impromptu performances and photo opportunities with characters occur during events.

05
Dolby Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater combines vintage glamour with modernized design and art deco details. The atmosphere feels elegant and nostalgic, with exceptional acoustics that enhance live concerts and orchestra performances. Seating arranged in vertical levels offers good views from all areas, supporting an immersive experience.

Views include Hollywood Sign and the boulevard. A poolside bar at the attached hotel offers impressive sights. Sunset views of the Walk of Fame stand out.

A perfect size venue with a great sound system enhances every performance. Shows like Shen Yun and Cinderella feature outstanding costumes and ballet dancers that bring the theater experience to life.

People are saying

"The performing arts experience here is amazing and beautiful."

"I loved visiting this historic landmark, the home of the Academy Awards."

"I enjoyed the great scenic views of the Hollywood Sign."

Good to know

1

Parking at the Dolby Theatre is challenging, especially during events.

2

Reservations are required for guided tours of the Dolby Theatre.

3

Outside food and drink are not allowed inside the theatre.

06
El Rey Theatre image 1
Event venue

Small historic theater offers an intimate setting with excellent acoustics and classic old school style. Spacious, comfortable seating and great sound system create a cozy atmosphere for concerts. Multiple bars and a dance floor add to the lively energy.

Great views exist from every seat in the theatre. Tables on the balcony offer a clear vantage point, and the venue feels intimate with excellent sightlines all around.

Old school theater style creates an intimate setting with plenty of street parking nearby. Fast-track entry makes attending shows easy and convenient.

People are saying

"It's a great intimate venue, small and personal."

"I thought the old theater had a cool, classic vibe."

"It's a cool old theater with a classic vibe and amazing sound."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited around the venue, so consider using rideshare services.

2

The venue has only one men's restroom stall, which can lead to long waits.

3

Ticket prices are reasonable, making it accessible for most attendees.

07
The Bellwether image 1
Live music venue

Medium-sized live music venue offers an intimate setting with great sound quality and excellent stage views from all areas. Spacious patio with smoking and non-smoking sections complements the classy, old-school vibe. Semi-circle balcony and lounge spaces provide comfortable spots to enjoy performances.

Upstairs patios and balconies offer great views of downtown with comfortable seating and a smoking section. Every vantage point provides a perfect view for photos and enjoying the cityscape.

A cozy theater with great sound offers an intimate setting for shows. Seating lacks tiers or slopes, which affects sightlines compared to larger venues.

People are saying

"It's a fantastic and intimate venue for seeing a band."

"It's an awesome venue for seeing a concert."

"The balcony offers great scenic views."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Bellwether costs $15 for the closest lot across the street.

2

Arrive early to secure good parking and avoid long lines.

3

The venue has no seating; expect a standing-only crowd during events.

08
The Belasco image 1
Event venue

Historic small venue with vintage decor and intimate layout offers great views from anywhere inside. Atmosphere feels classic and vibrant, with a lively crowd enjoying live music and dancing. Outdoor patio and multiple bars add relaxed social spaces to the experience.

Small, intimate venue offers great views from anywhere inside. The second story dining area provides a beautiful vantage point, though front row seats can block views if people stand.

A beautiful old theater with a classic, intimate vibe hosts a mix of local and classic artists. Seating options vary, supporting different attendance styles for diverse performances.

People are saying

"It's a great, intimate venue for live music shows."

"It's a beautiful, historic theater perfect for intimate performing arts."

"The intimate venue offers great scenic views from anywhere."

Good to know

1

VIP access allows early entry, skipping the line of fast pass holders.

2

There is no elevator to reach the balcony seats.

3

Expect high drink prices, with beers costing around $16.

09
Level Los Angeles - Downtown South Olive image 1

Spacious suites offer spectacular city views and feel like a luxurious home from home. Amenities include a huge gym with Peloton bikes, a pool area with sauna and barbecue, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Noise from the city and a strong marijuana scent are noticeable throughout the hotel.

Units offer panoramic city views from large terraces and balconies. Sunsets and sunrises over the Golden State are visible from high floors, creating a spectacular skyline backdrop.

An outdoor movie theater sits on the roof terrace, offering open-air screenings. The space also includes a basketball court and a rooftop pool, creating a lively spot for performances and gatherings.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so friendly and went above and beyond."

"The views from the 26th floor were beautiful, including sunsets."

"The outdoor theater is a cool place for performing arts."

Good to know

1

Outdoor movie nights are hosted most nights, providing a unique experience.

2

The hotel may host events without prior notice, which could disrupt your stay.

3

Happy Hour at the rooftop bar offers great deals, especially in the evenings.

10
The Novo image 1
Event venue

Spacious event venue with intimate vibe and excellent sound system. Features full bars on each level and a large balcony offering great views. Atmosphere balances cozy proximity to performers with upscale, sleek design.

Great views come from every seat, with the balcony offering a standout perspective. Small screens on the sides provide close-up views to enhance the experience.

Beautiful and very intimate theater space creates a close connection to performances. The venue offers a nice setting for live shows with a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a great intimate venue with awesome stage views."

"You get a great view from anywhere, whether on the floor or balcony."

"The sound quality for performing arts here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited during events; consider using public transport or rideshare.

2

No outside food or drinks are allowed inside the venue.

3

Metal detectors are in place at the entrance for security checks.

11
The Fonda Theatre image 1

Classic early 1900s theater offers an intimate and cozy setting with beautiful vintage decor and historic artwork. The venue features a lively rooftop lounge and a prohibition-era speakeasy with a unique tunnel for drink delivery. Sound is powerful with heavy bass, creating a bold live music experience.

Balcony seats provide comfortable seating with a perfect view. The rooftop lounge and roof terrace offer great views of Hollywood Blvd and the Pantages, enhancing the atmosphere.

Beautiful artwork and classic early 1900s design create a gorgeous, intimate theater setting. The balcony offers comfortable cushioned seating and about five VIP couches sit in front of the main seats.

People are saying

"The rooftop offers a great view and a place to hang out."

"The performing arts here are in a beautiful, historic theater."

"I found it to be a very good venue."

Good to know

1

Seating is first come, first serve, so arrive early for the best spots.

2

Parking next door costs $25, while on-site parking is $40.

3

The venue does not have a gender-neutral bathroom available.

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