When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Los Angeles Convention Center
Why Los Angeles Convention Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC) stands as a premier destination in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, renowned for hosting conventions, trade shows, exhibitions, and meetings of all sizes. Spanning over 720,000 square feet of exhibit hall space and 147,000 square feet of meeting rooms, the LACC offers versatile and expansive facilities that can accommodate a wide array of events, from intimate meetings to massive conventions. A notable feature is the 64 column-free meeting rooms allowing flexible and obstruction-free layouts, complemented by a newly renovated 299-seat presentation theatre for presentations and lectures. The center's commitment to innovation is exemplified by its status as one of the most technologically advanced venues globally, notably equipped with 5G capabilities for seamless connectivity. Beyond its size and technology, LACC emphasizes environmental responsibility, holding the prestigious LEED® Gold certification and GBAC Star® accreditation, showcasing sustainability initiatives such as solar power installations and a rooftop community garden. This dedication to eco-friendly practices makes it an attractive meeting point for environmentally conscious events. Located conveniently within Downtown Los Angeles, the convention center benefits from proximity to cultural, business, and entertainment hubs, making it a dynamic place not just to hold events but also to meet up with friends and colleagues. Its design includes striking glass and steel pavilions that create a unified and aesthetically pleasing environment, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. With ample event space, cutting-edge amenities, and an eco-conscious approach, the Los Angeles Convention Center is a top choice for hosting and gathering in Southern California.
Here's what people think of Los Angeles Convention Center
As of recent, Los Angeles Convention Center holds a 4.5-star rating based on 11962 reviews.
User reviews consistently rate the Los Angeles Convention Center highly, with an average of 4.5 stars from over 11,900 reviews, reflecting widespread satisfaction. Reviewers frequently applaud the venue's ample and flexible space, noting how well it accommodates varied event sizes and types, from trade shows and expos to business conferences. Many highlight the center's technology, especially the strong Wi-Fi and 5G capabilities, which support event operations smoothly. The modern and clean facilities, including the recently renovated presentation theatre, receive positive comments for comfort and convenience. The LACC's commitment to sustainability also resonates with visitors who appreciate the LEED Gold certification and green initiatives, contributing to a positive overall impression. On the hospitality front, users praise the accessible location in downtown LA, with nearby dining, entertainment, and transport options enhancing the visit. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers on crowding during large events, occasional parking challenges, and navigation difficulties inside the vast facility. A few reviewers mention that services such as parking or concessions can be expensive or underwhelming during peak times. Despite these critiques, most users recognize the venue's large scale and complexity as factors beyond full control. In conclusion, the reviews present the Los Angeles Convention Center as a highly regarded event destination with few drawbacks, particularly valued for its size, technology, and environmental leadership, making it a favorable location to meet up and convene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rene Torres
I visited the L.A. Convention Center during the recent Anime Expo event and was impressed by the sheer size and massive space of the con center. The hallways and corridors were filled with fellow AX attendees heading to the various panels, premiers and screenings available to participate in during the 4 days of the expo. Despite the huge crowds of people going about throughout the con center, there was plenty of space to walk without fear of bumping into someone by accident. The 2 biggest sections of the con center, the South Hall and West Hall, was where the vast majority of attendees went to participate in the many fun activities available to them. Restrooms and water fountains were more farther apart to find but were clearly marked by overhead signs, thankfully. In conclusion, I give high marks to the con center staff for their hard work and dedication to managing the expo.
manish Issar
The anime convention was enjoyable but did not realize that there were way too many people on a given day than the convention center could accommodate with safety. I did not see any measures taken to prevent panic from a stampede if that occurred. Went with my daughter but would have not gone by myself.
Blee Joseph
Anime Expo 2025 was an unforgettable experience! The energy was electric from the moment I arrived—massive One Punch Man banners welcomed you into a world of cosplay, culture, and creativity. The Los Angeles Convention Center handled the crowds well, with plenty of space to explore. The exhibits were next-level (shoutout to the life-size mecha and Ghost in the Shell mural 🔥), and the cosplay community showed out in full force. Whether you’re a diehard otaku or just anime-curious, AX is a must. Already counting down to next year! 🌟🎌👾
Rush Hamden
I recently went to the LA convention Center for a video game expo. I have included the photos of my experience. The only difficulty I had with the convention center was parking. I had to park across the street and down the block, which isn't really so bad, but it meant it would be difficult to get into the car any reason to get some thing or to drop off a purchase. It's a minor inconvenience. Once in the convention Center, I really enjoyed the professionalism of the staff there. I'm not sure if they were affiliated with the video game expo or with the convention center itself, but they were very professional and helpful. The convention center itself did not reek like some other convention centers that I've been to. It was clean and it smelled clean. A short walk up the stairs brought me into the main body of the hall that the expo was in. I didn't purchase any concessions but they seemed reasonably priced. The bathrooms were plentiful and rarely occupied. They were also clean and well-maintained, evidenced by the cleaning staff who were almost posted outside the door continuously cleaning the restrooms. I would definitely go back there again for another expo.
Dave Wu
The LA Auto Show has a rich history—running since 1907, it’s long been one of North America’s marquee automotive events . But over the past few years, it’s seen a significant shift: luxury brands and several OEMs have scaled back or pulled out, opting for alternative platforms like CES for EV and tech reveals.
How to reach Los Angeles Convention Center
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Why Los Angeles Convention Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the Los Angeles Convention Center with your friends?
When considering the ideal venue to gather with friends for an unforgettable meetup, the Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC) stands out as a premier choice. Situated in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles, this iconic location offers a perfect blend of expansive event spaces, convenient amenities, and proximity to entertainment and dining hotspots that transform any gathering into a lively, memorable experience. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from nearly 12,000 reviews, the LACC is proven to consistently deliver quality and satisfaction for all types of group occasions.
Rallying here means stepping into one of the largest, most versatile convention centers in the United States, boasting over 720,000 square feet of exhibit space and more than 147,000 square feet of meeting rooms. The vastness of the facility allows groups — whether small friend circles or large family meetups — to enjoy privacy and comfort without feeling crowded. Its location at the doorstep of the LA LIVE entertainment complex offers endless post-event options, from concerts and sporting events to restaurants and bars, making it easy to extend your day together. Whether your group is attending a trade show, concert, special event, or just gathering for a social occasion, the LACC combines an accessible urban setting with world-class amenities to make your meetup seamless and fun.
Moreover, ample parking for over 5,600 vehicles, including electric charging stations, and convenient public transit connections minimize hassle and stress on arrival and departure. Inside, modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi, onsite catering, business services, and comfortable lounges ensure that both relaxation and productivity are well-supported. This makes the Los Angeles Convention Center not only a venue for events but an exceptional social hub where friends and family can connect, explore, and create lasting memories.
What kinds of activities can you do at the Los Angeles Convention Center?
The Los Angeles Convention Center is designed to accommodate an incredibly broad range of activities, making it a dynamic destination for group meetups. With five major exhibit and special event halls totaling over 760,000 square feet, it hosts everything from major trade shows, conventions, expos, and concerts to sports tournaments and cultural festivals. These halls can be subdivided or combined with movable walls, giving groups flexibility on how to organize their space, whether it's a large gathering or intimate sessions.
Guests who visit the LACC can enjoy attending highly popular and diverse events, including comic conventions, tech expos, fashion shows, food festivals, and fan meetups, providing endless entertainment and interaction opportunities. For more casual group visits, the facility’s three onsite food courts — Taste Market, Compass Café, and Galaxy Court — provide varied dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals, ideal for refueling and socializing throughout the day. Additionally, the center’s 299-seat theater often hosts lectures, presentations, and performances that groups can experience together.
Outdoor event spaces like Gilbert Lindsay Plaza offer over 88,000 square feet for open-air activities, live performances, or relaxed social gatherings. Adjacent to the LACC, the vibrant LA LIVE district presents additional venues for group fun such as cinemas, bowling alleys, music venues, and a myriad of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. The synergy of indoor and outdoor options means any group can customize its visit — from leisurely strolls and casual meals to immersive event participation and nightlife adventures.
For groups interested in sports or special events, the center hosts major basketball, hockey, and esports tournaments, often accompanied by fan zones and interactive experiences inside and outside the facility. This makes LACC not just a convention center but a multifaceted experience provider where every meetup can be tailored, exciting, and packed with memorable activities.
Why is the Los Angeles Convention Center perfect for a group meetup?
The LACC is perfectly suited for group meetups because it combines space, flexibility, accessibility, and urban excitement, creating an ideal environment for socializing and shared experiences. First, with over a million total square feet of combined indoor and outdoor space, groups never feel cramped. The well-designed layout includes separate halls and meeting rooms that offer privacy or can be opened up for larger gatherings, making it easy to accommodate groups of any size.
Another strength is the center's accessibility. It’s located within walking distance of 12 hotels, over 300 restaurants, and multiple transit stations, including Metro Rail and major bus routes. This means group members can arrive via car, public transportation, or even electric scooters and still find ample parking or charging facilities. The nearby L.A. LIVE entertainment complex also provides unmatched opportunities for post-meetup activities, including live concerts, comedy shows, sports events, and nightlife — all within walking distance.
Inside the Convention Center, excellent amenities enhance the overall experience: free Wi-Fi in all lobby and meeting areas keeps everyone connected; onsite catering offers diverse cuisines that can accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions; and dedicated business and support centers allow for any last-minute needs. For families or groups with diverse ages and interests, the center’s clean, safe, and welcoming environment makes everyone feel comfortable and included.
Finally, the LACC’s LEED certification signifies its commitment to sustainability, an increasingly important consideration for socially conscious groups. Its artistic touches, such as the terrazzo maps on the lobby floors, add cultural value and conversation points that enrich the atmosphere. For anyone looking to gather with friends or family in a place that combines practicality, culture, and excitement, the Los Angeles Convention Center offers a comprehensive solution.
What amenities make the Los Angeles Convention Center a convenient meetup location?
The Los Angeles Convention Center is designed with convenience and comfort in mind to cater to the needs of modern meetup groups. One of the most notable amenities is comprehensive parking for 5,600 vehicles, which includes Level-2 electric vehicle charging stations available in the West Hall and South Hall garages. This allows attendees with electric cars to recharge their vehicles while enjoying their time at the center, ideal for longer events or full-day meetups.
Connectivity is another standout feature: the LACC offers free high-speed Wi-Fi in all public and meeting areas. This ensures that groups can easily stay in touch, share moments on social media, or organize activities on the fly. The center also provides essential business center services such as printing, scanning, and shipping, which are invaluable for group organizers managing paperwork, tickets, or souvenirs.
The variety of food options onsite caters to all tastes and schedules. From casual grab-and-go stations to full-service cafeterias, groups can pick and choose meals without leaving the premises. Water refilling stations throughout the venue make it easy to stay hydrated without needing to purchase bottled water constantly, supporting both convenience and eco-friendliness.
Additional amenities include private lactation rooms, wheelchair accessibility, first aid and medical services during large events, and on-site security, all combining to create a safe and inclusive environment. Transportation is also simple with direct access to taxis, rideshares, and the Metro system nearby, making arrival and departure smooth for groups with varied schedules. These combined features elevate the LACC as a venue tailored to meet the logistical and comfort needs of every group.
How does the Los Angeles Convention Center’s location enhance group meetups?
The location of the Los Angeles Convention Center in Downtown LA is a major factor in its appeal for group meetups. It is nestled in a lively urban core just steps away from the bustling LA LIVE entertainment district, which includes sports arenas, concert halls, movie theaters, and over 20 dining options. This proximity allows group members to extend their gatherings beyond the venue itself, enjoying a full day or evening of entertainment activities under one roof or within an easy walking distance.
Being centrally located, the LACC also benefits from excellent freeway access and close proximity to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), just 17 miles away. This convenience simplifies travel arrangements not only for locals but also for friends and family coming from out of town, enhancing the overall meetup experience by reducing transportation stress.
Additionally, the surrounding area includes 12 hotels within walking distance, making it effortless for overnight guests to rest and regroup. The urban environment offers cultural attractions like museums, historic sites, and the allure of Hollywood within reach for those wanting to mix sightseeing with their event attendance.
Public transportation options such as the Metro Rail, DASH bus, and Metro bus systems are easily accessible, providing sustainable alternatives to driving. This connectivity supports environmentally conscious group members and those who prefer not to drive in busy downtown traffic. Overall, the LACC’s location maximizes the social potential for groups by placing them at the heart of one of America’s most vibrant cities.
What types of events can groups experience together at the Los Angeles Convention Center?
Groups gathering at the Los Angeles Convention Center have access to an extraordinary diversity of events that can cater to various interests and preferences. The convention center’s five major halls frequently host massive conventions and exhibitions, such as Comic-Con-style fan expos, tech industry trade shows, and automotive displays, which provide engaging activities and opportunities for group exploration.
Additionally, the LACC is a venue for major sports events, including basketball tournaments and esports competitions. These high-energy atmospheres provide a thrilling outing for friends or family members who are sports fans or gamers. In many cases, these events include interactive zones, photo opportunities, and fan panels that enrich the group experience.
Cultural festivals and art shows held at the center introduce attendees to diverse traditions and creative expressions, making it a culturally enriching venue for groups interested in arts and heritage. For those seeking entertainment, the center’s theater and event spaces regularly host concerts, live performances, and keynote speakers that groups can enjoy together.
The facility also supports corporate meetings, workshops, and private celebrations. Groups can rent meeting rooms or halls to host reunion parties, birthday celebrations, or social mixers with full catering and AV support. The breadth of event types ensures the Los Angeles Convention Center is not simply a venue but a place where groups can bond through shared experiences perfectly suited to their interests.