When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
L.A. Live
Why L.A. Live is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
L.A. Live is a dynamic entertainment complex located in the South Park neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles that offers an unparalleled experience for meeting up with friends and enjoying a variety of activities. Spanning over 5.6 million square feet, this vibrant district features a blend of sports, concerts, dining, and cultural attractions that cater to diverse interests. Whether you're catching an event at the iconic Crypto.com Arena, exploring the interactive exhibits at the GRAMMY Museum, or simply enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants, L.A. Live provides a lively atmosphere perfect for social gatherings. Highlights include live music venues such as the Microsoft Theatre and the Novo, unique experiences like Lucky Strike bowling lanes, as well as seasonal special events like the LA Kings Holiday Ice. With plenty of entertainment options, comfortable hospitality spaces, and convenient access to public transit, L.A. Live is a premier destination to relax, have fun, and connect with friends in the heart of Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of L.A. Live
As of recent, L.A. Live holds a 4.6-star rating based on 5052 reviews.
User reviews consistently reflect high satisfaction with L.A. Live’s energetic environment and diverse entertainment offerings. Positive reviews frequently highlight the exceptional variety of venues such as top-notch concert spaces, a wide selection of restaurants, and fun activities like bowling and cinema, all fostering a great place for group outings. Many appreciate the integration with sports events at Crypto.com Arena and the ease of access via public transit or nearby parking options, making visits smooth and enjoyable. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional overcrowding during major events and higher prices in certain dining and entertainment venues, which can impact the overall experience. A few users have also cited difficulties with navigating the complex due to its size. Despite these points, the majority of feedback praises L.A. Live for its vibrant atmosphere and the exciting mix of entertainment choices available. Overall, reviews confirm L.A. Live as a top-tier destination in Los Angeles for social outings, offering memorable experiences and a lively setting that repeatedly draws visitors back.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lorenzo Warfel
ONE OF LA's BEST ENTERTAINMENT HUBS! I'm a massive fan of L.A. Live, I've come here with family to hang out before many hockey games at Crypto. and I've also been here during trips to AX at the LACC. L.A. Live is the one of most exciting places you can be in DTLA, it transforms from event to event. I had the pleasure of attending a couple weeks ago during AX's beer garden and it was a blast. The energy was great and I never felt in danger! L.A. Live has lots of security and people, so you never really feel alone, even during solo trips. I love the food options we get to enjoy here in L.A Live from the Lazy Dog, which has an excellent bar and brunch, to Smashburger which is quick, easy, and delicious. If you're in the area for a game but can't buy a ticket, Tom's Watch Bar is right across from Crypto Arena, so you can still get the game day vibes! Obviously, my Yelpers can tell you I'm a sucker for entertainment. L.A Live has superb venues for both large and more intimate events. My favorite venue in the area is the Peacock Theater, it's comfortable, stylish, and modern! Oh, and every seat in the house is great! The Novo also has a soft spot in my heart because it's also very comfortable. I've seen several shows here, and the bars are very sleek along with the decor. Yes, I love Crypto tooo, but the seats are to tight, so not as much as the other two venues. You'll find many hotels surrounding the L.A. Live area, you'll also notice the immense JW Marriott right behind Peacock which offers incredible views, hospitality, and food. Parking is almost $50 bucks so be prepared for that surprise at the parking garage. I recommend taking public transportation or a shuttle when traveling to L.A. Live.
Martha D
A spectacular place. I went for Stray Kids! A tremendous concert. The first time in my life I've seen a concert of that magnitude. Everything was clean. The bathrooms, the food, and the drinks were a 10.
Alfredo Silva
First time here, love the place! Great open space with really good restaurants.
Adati Tarfa
Great location! Movies and things to visit. Great place to eat and with good food and entertainment about. Extremely clean and safe because there are people around and cameras as well.
D T (琳)
This place is the cleanest area in downtown LA, some nice restaurants here. It was nice to see Kobe Bryant and her daughter's statue outside the arena, unfortunately ongoing construction is blocking the view of the main Kobe Bryant standing statue.
How to reach L.A. Live
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Website: None
Why L.A. Live may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering your friends at L.A. LIVE offers an exceptional blend of entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences that few places can match. Located in downtown Los Angeles, this vibrant complex has become the city's definitive hotspot for live events and socializing, boasting a remarkable rating of 4.6 from over 5,000 reviews. Whether you’re into sports, music, or simply hanging out somewhere lively and dynamic, L.A. LIVE serves as the perfect rallying point for groups of all kinds. It combines a unique atmosphere—electric yet approachable—with ample options to suit diverse interests, making it an ideal location for forging memorable moments together. The convenience of free parking during lunch hours, world-class venues, and the buzz of downtown LA injects an energy that elevates any meetup from routine to remarkable. Additionally, the availability of comfortable accommodations onsite means your group can extend the fun long after the events end. Choosing L.A. LIVE for your next outing guarantees a multifaceted experience where every friend will find something exciting, whether seeking action, culture, or relaxed enjoyment.
What activities are available at L.A. LIVE for groups?
L.A. LIVE is a playground packed with activities designed to appeal to diverse groups and create shared experiences. Sports fans can revel in attendance at the Crypto.com Arena, home to the Lakers and Clippers, where electrifying basketball games offer a communal cheer session. Music lovers can catch live concerts or explore the GRAMMY Museum, which celebrates music’s evolving legacy across genres and eras. For a more playful, competitive vibe, the Lucky Strike bowling alley invites groups to enjoy bowling, arcade games, billiards, and more, creating fun and friendly rivalry in a stylish setting. Movie enthusiasts can watch the latest blockbusters in the complex’s theaters, turning a casual night out into a cinematic event. Meanwhile, the Conga Room presents Latin-inspired music and dance nights, where groups can indulge in lively rhythms and social dancing. This variety ensures that whatever your group's interests, L.A. LIVE offers multiple complementary ways to enjoy your time together under one roof.
Why is L.A. LIVE perfect for hosting group meetups and social gatherings?
L.A. LIVE’s design and abundant features cater perfectly to group meetups, offering convenience alongside entertainment. With over 20 restaurants and bars, groups can tailor their dining experience ranging from casual bites to fine dining with scenic skyline views, such as at the Wolfgang Puck’s WP24 rooftop restaurant. These varied culinary options accommodate different tastes and dining styles, fostering comfortable, communal eating experiences. The complex’s accessible layout and ample event spaces, over 4 million square feet, make it easy to host events from casual friend gatherings to large celebrations or corporate meetups. The energy of downtown LA combined with first-class catering and customizable entertainment ensures every group encounter can be tailor-made for impact and enjoyment. Moreover, the availability of ADA-compliant facilities and family-friendly environments underscores its inclusivity for all group types. Parking solutions like free weekday lunch parking enhance the logistical ease, a critical factor for group meetups. Altogether, these elements make L.A. LIVE not just a venue but a full-service social hub.
What makes dining at L.A. LIVE unique for groups?
Dining at L.A. LIVE is a social highlight that combines culinary variety with an unforgettable atmosphere. The complex houses a broad spectrum of restaurants and bars, which allow groups to pick from international cuisines, lively bars, upscale eateries, or laid-back lounges. This flexibility means each meetup can feel personalized, whether you’re after a vibrant spot for cocktails before a show or a more intimate restaurant for conversation and a full meal. Notably, the Wolfgang Puck's WP24 offers not only exquisite food but also panoramic views of the city skyline, ideal for celebratory gatherings or a chic night out with friends. The option to dine while enjoying live entertainment or easily transitioning to other onsite activities helps create a fluid night of fun and connection. In addition, various dining spots offer group-specific perks or reservations, supporting a seamless and stress-free experience. This combination of quality, choice, and ambiance at L.A. LIVE elevates dining from a simple meal into a memorable group event.
What cultural and entertainment venues enhance the L.A. LIVE experience?
Cultural and entertainment venues at L.A. LIVE add depth, making it a place of exploration and grandeur beyond just fun and dining. The GRAMMY Museum stands out as a dynamic space where group visits can turn educational, interactive, and inspiring, showcasing musical history through unique exhibits and special events. Adjacent venues such as The Novo offer live performance spaces hosting top artists and shows, ensuring groups can experience cutting-edge entertainment close to the heart of the action. For art appreciators, nearby iconic landmarks like The Broad and Walt Disney Concert Hall offer additional excursions into world-class art and architecture, outside the immediate L.A. LIVE campus but within easy reach. This proximity to so many cultural hotspots creates a comprehensive entertainment district perfect for groups who want to mix socializing with artistic engagement. Whether your group values music, art, or cutting-edge performances, L.A. LIVE serves as a captivating central hub.
How does L.A. LIVE accommodate convenience and comfort for group visitors?
L.A. LIVE prioritizes visitor convenience and comfort, making it exceptionally suited for visiting groups. One prized feature is the availability of structured parking with weekday free parking during lunch hours, an uncommon luxury in downtown Los Angeles, which helps groups avoid logistical headaches. The area is ADA accessible and family-friendly, ensuring that visitors with different needs can enjoy the site comfortably, no matter the composition or size of their group. Additionally, several world-class hotels are part of the complex, allowing groups to extend their stay and continue the excitement into the night or the next day without the hassle of long commutes. Visitors can also benefit from online tools and visitor centers that provide up-to-date information on parking, dining, and events to help plan visits efficiently. The blend of these practical amenities alongside the entertainment and dining options creates a worry-free experience, enabling groups to focus fully on enjoying their time together.
Why is L.A. LIVE considered a premier destination in downtown Los Angeles?
L.A. LIVE is considered the premier downtown Los Angeles destination because it concentrates multiple entertainment, dining, cultural, and hospitality experiences into a singular vibrant campus. Over the past two decades, it has transformed an ordinary part of the city into a pulsating entertainment vortex that rivals iconic places like Times Square in New York. Its positioning around the Crypto.com Arena ensures sports fans experience heart-pounding live events, while music lovers and party-goers find constantly rotating concerts, club nights, and immersive cultural activities. The comprehensive planning, continuous investment in high-quality venues, and the presence of world-renowned restaurants and attractions have propelled L.A. LIVE to front and center in LA’s social and cultural landscape. For groups looking to experience the excitement and diversity of LA in one place, L.A. LIVE offers unmatched convenience and energy, epitomizing the city’s spirit of creativity and celebration.