Being a relatively warm region, the State of California happens to be the perfect location for live performances. No wonder that the number of open-air concerts here is higher than in Wisconsin or South Carolina. Once you decide to attend one of the music or theatrical events here, you will be surprised by the variety of options along the beachside and downtown. Below, you will find the top seven most memorable outdoor venues for concerts in California.
1.Humphreys Concerts By The Bay – San Diego, CA
Img source: Buffettnews
Humphreys Concerts By The Bay is well-known as a premier location for live music concerts in an outdoor setting. Since 1982, the venue has hosted local and international stars like Miguel and Willie Nelson. The acoustic ambiance and surrounding nature make it a perfect location to enjoy musical and theatrical entertainment across a wide variety of genres. More than 1,400 people can enjoy the show here. Thanks to the nearby restaurant and hotel, your visit to Humphreys can be a full package event.
2241 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
+ 1 619-220-8497
2.Levitt Pavilion Pasadena – Pasadena, CA
Img source: Latimes
Levitt Pavilion Pasadena was established as part of the venture philanthropy project of the Levitt Foundation. Eventually, it has turned into a strategically important venue where more than 50 concerts are conducted during the summer months. Concerts feature local artists and entertainers in such genres as Jazz, Latin, Children’s entertainment, Rock, Pop, Classical, R&B, and many more. By the way, most live performances can be viewed free of charge. As a result, more than 75,000 people visit the place every summer.
85 E Holly St, Pasadena, CA 91103
+1 626-795-9311
3.Santa Barbara Bowl – Santa Barbara, CA
Img source: DesignArc
Located in the foothills of Santa Barbara, The Santa Barbara Bowl has more than 4,500 seats. The venue is open for visitors from April through October, with about 30 concerts per season. The Santa Barbara Bowl is mainly managed by the not-for-profit Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation. The views of the Channel Islands and Downtown Santa Barbara create a delightful atmosphere under the stars. Jason Isbell, Rebelution, and John Legend are often hosts of the local concerts.
1122 N Milpas St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
+1 805-962-7411
4.Vina Robles Amphitheatre – Paso Robles, CA
Img source: Vina Robles Amphitheatre
Since 2013, the Vina Robles Amphitheatre has become one of the largest outdoor venues for arts and entertainment in San Luis Obispo County. Being designed in the California style, it allows all guests to join a unique and intimate concert adventure. The concert season takes place from April through November. It features the top-tier acts from Train, Barenaked Ladies, Joe Bonamassa, and Pink Floyd. Apart from music concerts, the visitors can also have some fun at Steve Martin and Martin Short’s show. More than 3300 seating options all within 150 feet from the stage, including lawn seating, make events accessible for everyone.
3800 Mill Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
+1 805-286-3680
5.Starlight Bowl – Burbank, CA
Img source: Latimes
Starlight Bowl is an amphitheater situated in Burbank, California. Originally established in 1950, it has become a popular place for public gatherings. Today, it has 3,000 seats in the pavilion and 2,000more on the lawn. The total capacity makes it possible to host concerts of local stars and different social events. The Starlight Bowl’s landscapes, green picnic area, and cozy seating are complemented by the high-quality family entertainment throughout the summer.
1249 Lockheed View Dr, Burbank, CA 91501
+1 818-238-5397
6.Hollywood Bowl – Los Angeles, CA
Img source: Discover Los Angeles
It has been a while since Hollywood Bowl became one of the 10 best live music venues in the United States by Rolling Stone magazine. A bandshell serves as the home to hundreds of events annually. With more than 17,500 seats, Hollywood Bowl is suitable for massive concerts of local and national stars. These include Daryl Hall & John Oates, Alanis Morissette, Russ, and Steely Dan who host the location at least once a year. If you are a fan of classical music, you will often find the orchestra performances in the Hollywood Bowl’s program.
2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
+1 323-850-2000