Concert Guru

The Hollywood Palladium, opened on Halloween of 1940, is a legendary Los Angeles venue that was renovated as recently as 2008 into its current iteration.  With a capacity of 4,000, between the open-floor GA standing room only floor as well as the mezzanines that provide VIP seating, the Palladium has that old-school venue vibe with a modern twist.

Located on Sunset Boulevard, with the Hollywood sign as a backdrop, this venue is what you'd probably think of when it comes to a true Los Angeles concert venue.

First impressions from outside of the venue might make you think it's seen better days, but that is certainly not the case once you step inside.  When entering through the main entrance in the front, you'll walk through an entryway with metal detectors before proceeding into the main  foyer.  Restrooms are located to both the left and also down the hallway to your right.  There is also the main bar located a little further inside to the left.  Additionally, there is a stairway to the left up the mezzanine level.  (The VIP pre-show entrance is around the corner on Argyle Avenue, which will lead you into the hallway to the left side of the main entrance inside near the bar.)

Once inside the main floor, there is a slightly elevated platform to the right, with a small bar.  To the left there is a stairway leading up the mezzanine level, along with a small bar.  Walking behind this VIP seating area, you'll find a doorway leading outside to the smoking area on the mezzanine level.  Even if you're not a smoker (and don't mind the smell) this is a nice area to hang out with some seating available, to relax before the show, or between artists, without having to leave the venue.  Drinks are permitted to be taken out to this area as well.

The main GA standing room only floor of the venue covers a little over 11,000 square feet, so there's ample room to spread out without being too cramped.  

*Guru Tip*:  For a relatively cheap, and delicious, bite to eat before or after the show, take the short 10 minute walk over to Trejo's Cantina, located on the corner of North Cahuenga Boulevard and Selma Avenue.  (Danny Trejo is known to show up from time to time and is incredibly friendly, so don't be afraid to say hi if you see him there.)

Scores

Getting There:  6/10

Public transportation in Los Angeles can be challenging and confusing, so my opinion is to grab an Uber if you're not familiar with traversing the city.  However, keep in mind that the venue is located approximately 22 miles from LAX at the base of the Hollywood Hills, which can take 30-40 minutes (on a good day), so this may not be your cheapest option if you're not staying, or live, near the venue.

Production Quality:  10/10

With the fairly recent renovations, there was certainly no expense spared to bring the iconic venue up to date with the best lighting and sound quality for concerts for years to come.

Cleanliness:  8/10

While certain parts of the venue might appear a bit dated to some, overall the Palladium is a very clean venue from top to bottom.  Though, watch your step as you're leaving, as patrons tend to leave empty cups scattered across the GA standing room only floor area throughout the show.  (Do your part and take your garbage with you to the nearest garbage can.  There is definitely no shortage of them in the venue around the perimeter of the floor and mezzanine.)

Staff:  10/10

Every member of the staff that I personally interacted with was incredibly helpful and polite. They're definitely what you'd expect from a professional and well-run venue.

Food/Drink Options:  4/10

All of the bars in the venue carry all of the same drink options.  While options are somewhat limited, they are all name brands and you'll have plenty to choose from.  Food options are pretty limited to chips and pretzels, so if you're in need of a full meal, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance of the venue, as you're in the middle of the city of Los Angeles.

Other Amenities:  7/10

While wifi is offered for free, I did find it to be spotty.  However, the venue itself didn't affect my cell signal, so not the biggest deal breaker.  I did find the outdoor smoking area on the mezzanine level to be a very cool, and unexpected, touch.  It's definitely rare to find any outdoor area at a concert venue, especially one that allows for re-entry.  While the views aren't anything to write home about, it's just a nice place to hang out pre-show and between sets.

Parking:  1/10

No on-site parking means...use that SpotHero app!

Overall:  8/10

The Hollywood Palladium is an iconic venue, with great sound and lighting, a cool outdoor area, and just an overall great place to see a show.  I'm sure there might be another renovation in due time, but as it is now, it's a really awesome place to catch a concert that I wouldn't hesitate visiting again.