When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Palace Theatre
Why Palace Theatre is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Palace Theatre is a historic and culturally rich venue that offers a unique and memorable place to meet up with friends. Established in the early 1920s, the theatre is renowned for its opulent Renaissance Revival architecture and has a fascinating history as a centerpiece of cultural life. Guests can enjoy not only top-quality performances ranging from live shows to musical events but also soak in the grandeur and ambiance of a venue that once hosted legends like Harry Houdini. The theatre's elegant design, historic significance, and commitment to the arts make it an ideal gathering spot for those who appreciate sophistication and entertainment. Whether attending a live performance or simply spending time in this beautifully restored landmark, friends will find a welcoming atmosphere that fosters shared experiences and cultural appreciation. Highlights include its well-preserved décor, historical significance as one of the area's premiere performance venues, and its continued role in delivering exceptional entertainment.
Here's what people think of Palace Theatre
As of recent, Palace Theatre holds a 4.5-star rating based on 295 reviews.
Reviews of the Palace Theatre consistently highlight its beautiful and historic setting, enhancing the overall experience for patrons. Many users praise the venue for its excellent acoustics, comfortable seating, and the stunning visual appeal of the interior, which enriches the enjoyment of their chosen performances. Positive feedback often emphasizes the theatre's charm, well-organized events, and the warm, nostalgic atmosphere that adds to the experience. Reviewers frequently mention the professionalism of the staff and the quality of shows as high points. On the flip side, some negative reviews note issues such as limited visibility from certain seats due to the venue's architectural layout and occasional concerns about ticket pricing. A few patrons have expressed disappointment with early show closures or technical difficulties during performances. Overall, however, the Palace Theatre maintains a strong reputation with a 4.5-star average rating from nearly 300 reviews, making it a beloved destination for both performances and social gatherings. The positive reviews clearly outweigh the negatives, reflecting consistent satisfaction by attendees and making the theatre a top choice for entertainment and cultural events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Racquel Annd
Loved seeing Macy Gray here. Did quick turnaround trip to see her. The place has a damped smell of sorts but its also old. It's Easy to get to from the airport. A Lyft RIDE from the airport to the theater took about 30 min or so(traffic) and cost about 52$ not including tip.
Rodrigo “funning”
I went for a comedy show and it was entertaining. The venue is a bit older but still a solid spot for a viewing. Where I was sitting I still had a solid view of the performer and I was on mezzanine area. The acoustics were great and overall it was a good venue. The only thing I would bring up is the seats in front of you may be a little cramped so you’ll probably have to stand up every time someone wants to get out of an aisle. Other than that, it was good. I’d definitely come back here for other shows in the future.
A. L. Connor
Tonight we attended the fifth show in Sasha Colby's STRIPPED Tour. I love an old architectural theatre. It makes me feel like I'm in a different time, a time when people dressed up and went to shows on a regular basis. The theatre was grand and had the cornices and details that you can't help but take pictures of. I would definitely go to another show here. The Sasha Colby show however...we waited for almost an hour after its start time for the show to begin. After the wait, I did hope the show would be spectacular. It was entertaining enough which is what you want but so much more should have gone into this production. The stage was generally bare and the backdrop was a large sheet that was strung up. She moved a folding chair and table around the far too large (for her show) stage. She did have a few good costume changes which were also done on stage. I would not attend another one of her shows but I would love to see a more dynamic performer command this impressive stage and theatre.
Tristan Torgersen
Great venue, really enjoyed the soft seats and beautiful interior here. Sound CAN be an issue if they haven’t set up the speakers correctly, so be careful even on the ground level.
Charles Hughes
I attended a concert here a few weeks ago. Sadly, the establishment has seen better days. However, the people that worked as staff were very nice and you can easily see the magic that was once there. It's just needing a little touch-up. This is a great venue to see any performer.
How to reach Palace Theatre
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Why Palace Theatre may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the Palace Theatre with your friends? This historic venue offers a uniquely charming atmosphere that makes gathering with friends or family not just an event but an experience. Unlike modern multiplexes, the Palace Theatre has a character steeped in history, combining its vintage architecture with modern comfort and technology. Imagine stepping into a beautifully restored space that has seen over a century of performances, where every seat feels intimate and every detail — from the plush seating to the excellent acoustics — enhances the shared experience. Whether you’re coming for a live show, a movie, or a special event, the vibe at the Palace encourages lively conversations, shared excitement, and lasting memories. Its location downtown means you can easily extend your meetup with dinner or drinks nearby, turning a simple outing into a full evening of fun and connection. The friendly staff and smooth logistics, like efficient will-call service and accessible parking, remove typical hassles, allowing your group to focus on enjoying the moment together. For anyone looking to host a meetup that’s both special and sociable, the Palace Theatre stands out as a top choice for making meaningful connections in a warm, inviting setting.
What activities can you enjoy at the Palace Theatre with your group? The Palace Theatre offers a broad range of entertainment that perfectly suits group outings. Primarily, it shines as a venue for live performances — from local acts to well-known touring productions — offering everything from music concerts to theatrical plays. Its stage has hosted dynamic shows like the acclaimed "Recycled Percussion," which adds an energetic vibe to any night out. Besides live events, the theatre screens current Hollywood films in classic cinema style, making it ideal for movie nights with friends or family. The sound system and acoustics are also repeatedly praised for their clarity and impact, so whether it’s a concert or a film, the audio experience draws you deeper into the moment and heightens group enjoyment. The venue boasts bar service before shows, which gives groups a chance to mingle and relax together in anticipation. Beyond entertainment, the Palace Theatre offers options for private rentals, great for meetups that want their own tailored experience, such as private screenings or celebrations. The surrounding downtown area features numerous restaurants and bars, providing easy options for pre- or post-show meals and drinks, perfect for extending your group’s gathering well beyond the theatre seats.
Why is the Palace Theatre perfect for hosting group meetups? Its combination of historic charm, comfort, and practical amenities makes it ideal for groups. First, the seating arrangement — although slightly narrow due to the theatre's vintage design — gives great sightlines that make everyone feel part of the action, reducing the risk of someone feeling disengaged. The plush seats also ensure comfort for events that run a few hours long. Good accessibility with efficient entry lines and a will-call system minimizes wait times, which is crucial when coordinating several people. The presence of bars and concession stands inside the theatre allows groups to refresh without needing to leave and lose their place, making the evening smooth and enjoyable. Moreover, the Palace Theatre’s downtown location, near ample parking and a variety of eateries, conveniently keeps the entire group together throughout the night. The aged but meticulously maintained environment provides a conversation starter and once-in-a-lifetime feel that bigger, newer venues often lack. This blend of social ease, visual and audio spectacle, and historic ambiance delivers a memorable setting tailor-made for group bonding.
What should you expect from the Palace Theatre’s facilities and service? The Palace Theatre balances old-world aesthetics with thoughtful, modern upgrades. The theater's architecture and interior design evoke classic movie palaces, transporting guests to an earlier era of entertainment. Visitors frequently note the incredible sound system and acoustics, which means live performances and movies alike are crystal clear and immersive. Staff members are known to be friendly and helpful, actively supporting smooth entry processes and addressing guest needs, which enhances the overall experience for groups unfamiliar with the venue. Though the theater is known for being a bit warm and the stairways can cause some bottlenecks during exiting because of the historic layout, many find these minor issues are outweighed by the overall beauty and charm of the setting. The restrooms located conveniently on multiple levels help prevent congestion, even for large crowds. For refreshments, the bar service before shows is a hit, allowing groups to relax and socialize inside the venue before the main event. All these features contribute to an experience that feels both special and user-friendly.
How accessible is the Palace Theatre for groups arriving by car or public transport? The Palace Theatre scores well for accessibility. It features a parking lot directly across the street and ample street parking options within a two-block radius, making it convenient for groups arriving by car. This proximity simplifies group coordination and reduces stress over finding spots in busy downtown areas. The theater’s downtown location also means it’s well served by public transport options, so groups can avoid driving altogether if preferred. The theater's entry points are designed for efficient flow, with staff managing will-call orders effectively and security checks balanced with quick turnaround times. Once inside, the layout allows groups to find their seats easily and gather in pre-show bar areas for socializing. However, the historic nature of the building means navigating some narrow stairways, which groups should keep in mind if they have members with mobility challenges. Overall, it offers a good combination of convenience and classic charm that supports a smooth and enjoyable group meetup.
What makes the Palace Theatre’s location ideal for a meetup? The Palace Theatre’s central downtown location situates it amid an abundance of food and drink options, making it a natural hub for a group outing. Adjacent streets are dotted with a variety of restaurants and bars, perfect for meeting before or after the show to keep the social energy alive. This means your meetup doesn’t have to end when the curtain falls; you can easily move your group for dinner, drinks, or dessert within walking distance. The vibrant neighborhood atmosphere adds to the overall experience, giving your meetup a lively, communal backdrop. For visitors coming from out of town, the area’s accommodation selections make overnight stays easy, allowing friends and family to relax into a full weekend of entertainment. The location further benefits from being in a culturally rich part of town, often near other attractions or events that can be incorporated into your group plans to create a full day or evening outing that everyone will appreciate.
How can you personalize your meetup at the Palace Theatre? The Palace Theatre offers private rental options, which are ideal for groups wanting a tailor-made celebration or gathering. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, corporate event, or just a special night out with friends, renting the space allows for greater control over every detail — from show selection to food and beverage service. This flexibility means your group can enjoy exclusive access to a historic venue, combining private event ambiance with professional theater production quality. The staff are experienced in coordinating these events, ensuring that logistics like seating arrangements, tech needs, and catering are seamlessly handled. Moreover, the theater’s classic décor provides an elegant and memorable setting that makes any occasion feel extraordinary. Even if you’re not renting the whole theater, the venue’s friendly atmosphere and accommodating service create a welcoming environment that encourages groups to engage, celebrate, and make lasting memories together.
What do past visitors say about their group experiences at the Palace Theatre? Reviews consistently praise the Palace Theatre for its warm atmosphere, exceptional sound, and friendly staff — all factors that matter greatly for group enjoyment. Guests point to the theater’s ability to combine historical charm with modern comfort, creating a unique setting that enhances shared experiences. The efficient will-call process and convenient bar service help remove logistical headaches during group outings. Some note that the old building’s narrow seats and stairways require some patience, but this is often framed as a small trade-off for the overall ambiance and quality of the programming. Many visitors highlight the proximity to excellent dining choices as a key benefit for extending meetups into full evenings out. Whether attending concerts, plays, or movies, groups feel valued and well accommodated. This positive feedback underlines the Palace Theatre’s reputation as not just a place to watch a show, but a place to connect and celebrate with friends or family.
In sum, the Palace Theatre is more than just a venue — it’s a destination perfect for group meetups due to its unique blend of historic elegance, outstanding entertainment options, practical amenities, and prime location. It invites friends and family to experience something special together, making any gathering memorable and fun.