The top 30 Southern California concert spots

(Paul Rogers / For The Times)

Masonic Lodge/Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Opened: 1899
Capacity: 150 (in the Masonic Lodge). Outdoor lawn can hold thousands.
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Dawes (June 2), Butch Walker (June 16-17, 19), Allen Stone (June 18), Wye Oak (July 29).
Transportation tip: Free on-site parking.
Basics: The Masonic Lodge is within Hollywood Forever Cemetery. The lodge's second-floor main room is an otherworldly place to see music. When lighted by only candles, the venue seems beamed in from Transylvania — in a good way. The cemetery also hosts the occasional outdoor performance on its grand lawn.
Grade: A. Any venue that also houses the remains of artists including Johnny Ramone, Hattie McDaniel, Kim Fowley, Woody Herman, Peter Lorre, Darla from "The Little Rascals" and Jayne Mansfield has got a huge dose of proverbial mojo. Any concert here feels special – and usually is.

6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038

(323) 469-1181

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Hollywood Bowl

Opened: 1922
Capacity: 17,000+
Operator: Los Angeles Philharmonic Assn.
Summer highlights (so far): Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga (May 30-31), Ed Sheeran (June 24-25), Basement Jaxx, Bootsy's Rubber Band, Tuxedo (June 28), Elvis Costello, Steely Dan (July 13), Erykah Badu, St. Vincent (July 30).
Transportation tip: The terrific shuttle-bus service is your best bet. Otherwise, endure either stacked parking or a long hike from Hollywood & Highland.
Basics: The outdoor amphitheater is one of the great joys of Los Angeles. Bring a picnic or grab sushi and a bottle there, watch the sunset with the stars while the bandshell glows.
Grade: A. The best outdoor concert-going experience in Southern California (with much respect to the Santa Barbara Bowl). The only downside? The tradeoff for the inexpensive seating up top is notably inferior sound. The result is a constant reminder that you're in the cheap section.

2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068

(323) 850-2000

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The Wiltern

Opened: 1931
Capacity: 1,850
Operator: Live Nation
Summer highlights (so far): Best Coast (June 27), Jason Isbell (Aug. 12), George Ezra (Aug. 14).
Transportation tip: Take the Metro Purple Line to Wilshire/Western; venue is across the street.
Basics: For rising bands, few Los Angeles midlevel bookings confer status like a sold-out gig at the Wiltern. General-admission shows are a drag here.
Grade: C. Cavernous space designed as a movie theater. The five-tier space is a hassle. Pity those who want a second drink or need to use the bathroom. Once you abandon your hard-earned spot you'll won't get it back without a glare or an elbow.

3790 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010

(213) 388-1400

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Los Globos

Opened: mid-1930s (as an American Legion hall).
Capacity: 350 (upstairs), 500 (downstairs).
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): No Joy (June 16), Mark Sultan (of King Khan & the Barbeque Show), Isaac Rother (July 2).
Transportation tip: Street parking is your best bet, but since it's right on Sunset a rideshare might be easier.
Basics: A club that hosts a mix of Latin, hip-hop, punk rock and disco, Los Globos has a different vibe depending on the hour and the day.
Grade: B. Sound system and acoustics problematic in the small room; ground-floor space great for bass-heavy tracks. Overall, the two rooms have a renegade feel to them.

3040 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

(323) 666-6669

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Mayan

Opened: 1927
Capacity: 1,700
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): The Mountain Goats (June 3), The Story So Far (Aug. 2), Django Django (Aug. 6).
Transportation tip: Drive and park. It's near both the Orpheum and Ace Hotel.
Basics: This trippy old theater features a lobby called "The Hall of Feathered Servents." What else do you need to know? In addition to concerts, a mezzanine club within books some of the city's hottest salsa, cumbia and merengue DJs.
Grade: B-. Atmosphere is A+. Sound and acoustics, far less so.

1038 South Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

(213) 746-4674

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The Smell

Opened: 1999
Capacity: 130
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): David Scott Stone, Prissy Whip (June 7), Caves (June 14), The Lovely Bad Things (June 26).
Transportation tip: You'll score points with the kids if you skate there. Otherwise drive or rideshare.
Basics: The best punk club on the West Coast hosts multi-act experimental bills a few times a week. Super-relaxed atmosphere, all ages, all vegan, no booze.
Grade: B. Sound bounces off the brick. Eardrums buzz. Feedback rules. What more do you need?

247 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

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Staples Center

Opened: 1999
Capacity: 19,000-plus
Operator: AEG/Goldenvoice
Summer highlights (so far): Mana (June 18-19), BET Experience (June 25-27), Taylor Swift (Aug. 21-22, 24-26).
Transportation tip: Easiest and cheapest to park east of the arena in an independent lot.
Basics: Multi-use arena that can be adapted to house concerts. Because the venue is also home to the Lakers, Clippers and Kings, concerts are sporadic.
Grade: D. Seeing a concert at Staples Center is a drag, and it takes a seriously charismatic artist like Taylor Swift or Beyoncé to conquer the room. Unless fans pony up for floor seats, the echoey venue will frustrate ear drums. Worst, it's nearly impossible to connect with a performer in such a cavernous room. (Unless, of course, you're Sade.)

1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

(213) 742-7100

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Walt Disney Concert Hall

Opened: 2003
Capacity: 2,200-plus
Operator: Los Angeles Philharmonic Assn.
Summer highlights (so far): Off season
Transportation tip: To avoid parking hassles, take the Metro Red or Purple lines to Civic Center/Grand Park station. Otherwise the on-site lot is convenient.
Basics: The home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic hosts the occasional nonclassical performance in this exquisite Frank Gehry-designed hall. Rarely in the summer, though, when its other property, the Hollywood Bowl, takes precedence. Acoustically and architecturally, no other room in the city compares.
Grade: A+.

111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

(323) 850-2000

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The Roxy

Opened: 1973
Capacity: 500
Operator: Independent (booked by Goldenvoice).
Summer highlights (so far): Laibach (June 1), Todd Rundgren (June 3-4), Alice Smith (June 25), Melt-Banana, Torche (July 31).
Transportation tip: This is the Sunset Strip. On the weekend you will pay at least $20 to park. Uber it or, heaven forbid, take the No. 2 bus.
Basics: The Roxy was born of a partnership between producer Lou Adler and Elmer Valentine, with investments from David Geffen, artist manager Elliot Roberts and L.A. music connector Peter Asher. It's been a cornerstone of music culture ever since. Get there early for a good spot or, better, call in a favor from your industry friends and access the VIP.
Grade: A. Intimate space, walls rich with history, excellent sound system and site lines.

9009 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

(310) 278-9457

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Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

Opened: 1981
Capacity: 16,000-plus
Operator: Live Nation
Summer highlights (so far): Lady Antebellum (June 27), Smashing Pumpkins, Marilyn Manson (July 9), Ice-T, the Game, Rakim, more (July 18), Darius Rucker (Aug. 1).
Transportation tip: Head to the venue an hour earlier than you think you should. After all, you're likely taking I-5 into Orange County.
Basics: Want to see hot-ticket commercial country music? This is the place.
Grade: B-. Cookie-cutter, utilitarian outdoor amphitheater.

8808 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618

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Fox Theater

Opened: 1931
Capacity: 2,000
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Lord Huron (July 9), Danzig (July 11), Future Islands (Sept. 24).
Transportation tip: It's 30 miles from downtown.
Basics: A cultural hub in quaint downtown Pomona, the Fox is a multiuse venue that occasionally has concerts. It's also a block away from the Glass House, another good Inland Empire club.
Grade: A*. Good news: Distance from the city filters out the poseurs. Bad news: It's kind of a long drive. (*Disclosure: because I'm a poseur, I've been to the Fox only once, to see Nine Inch Nails. Trent Reznor trucked in his own system.)

301 S Garey Ave, Pomona, CA 91766

(877) 283-6976

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Greek Theatre

Opened: 1930
Capacity: 5,800-plus
Operator: Nederlander
Summer highlights (so far): Robert Plant (June 2), Tedeschi-Trucks Band, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Willie Nelson & Family (July 18), Alabama Shakes (Aug. 13), Ramon Ayala (Aug. 22).
Transportation tip: Park and grab dinner at one of the many Los Feliz restaurants that offer free shuttles to and from the venue.
Basics: The classic Griffith Park outdoor amphitheater is one-third the size of the Hollywood Bowl, but the tight confines helps ignite energy. Currently operated by Nederlander, the Greek's contract is up for renewal. Both Nederlander (in partnership with AEG/Goldenvoice) and Live Nation are pitching serious upgrades.
Grade: B. The Greek is iconic, but few could argue it hasn't been in need of attention. Here's hoping the venue's sound system and infrastructure benefit from the protracted process of naming an operator.

2700 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

(323) 665-5857

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Hollywood Palladium

Opened: 1940
Capacity: 3,700
Operator: Live Nation
Summer highlights (so far): Meghan Trainor (July 24), Awolnation (Aug. 10), Rise Against (Aug. 13-14).
Transportation tip: Hollywood parking hassles are the norm. Your best bet is to park by the ArcLight and walk, or take the Metro Red Line to the Hollywood/Vine station.
Basics: The gorgeous venue opened in the big-band era with a dance set by Tommy Dorsey and his Orchestra, featuring a young singer named Frank Sinatra. By the '80s the venue was hosting heavy-duty punk, metal and new-wave bands. Revived in 2008 by Live Nation with a concert by Jay Z and DJ AM, the Palladium has been gussied up.
Grade: C. Built as a big-band dance hall, the Palladium is architecturally stunning and features a great dance floor, but it's a tough room to engineer. Save a few sonic sweet spots, fidelity suffers.

6215 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

(323) 962-7600

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Troubadour

Opened: 1957
Capacity: 400
Operator: Troubadour
Summer highlights (so far): Nneka (June 7), Vetiver (June 26), Lianne La Havas (July 7), Built to Spill (July 13-15), Pokey LaFarge (July 24), Rasputina (July 31).
Transportation tip: Free street parking on Civic Center Drive.
Basics: Born as a folk club, the Troubadour hosted career-defining gigs by artists including Joni Mitchell, Elton John, Linda Ronstadt, the Eagles, Love and dozens of others. In 1962, Lenny Bruce was arrested for using the word "schmuck" onstage.
Grade: A+. The Troubadour is the best club in Los Angeles for a reason. There's an intimacy here between artist and crowd – and the club packs 'em in tight. Excellent sound system, perennially good bookings.

9081 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069

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Theatre at Ace Hotel

Opened: 2014
Capacity: 1,600
Operator: Ace Hotel
Summer highlights (so far): Kids in the Hall (June 2), Nite Jewel (June 28), The Bird and the Bee (July 12).
Transportation tip: Located in the hopping south downtown district, parking can be pricey. Best to ride-share.
Basics: Theatre at Ace has quickly established itself as a cultural hub. In addition to select concerts, the venue hosts film- and visual art-related events.
Grade: B+. Retrofitted big theater has good but not great, sound. Steep seating grade makes for intimate experience.

929 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015

(213) 623-3233

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Teragram Ballroom

Opened: 2015
Capacity: 600
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Spoon (May 31), Television (July 2), Rodrigo Amarante (July 28), Nick Waterhouse (Aug. 29).
Transportation tip: Surface lot parking abounds.
Basics: The newest addition to the insurgent downtown Los Angeles venue scene, the Teragram is the first West Coast project of Michael Swier, who founded the respected New York promoter Bowery Presents in 1993. It's downtown's newest live-music venue.
Grade: TBD. The Teragram opens with Spoon on May 31.

1234 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

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The Regent

Opened: 2014
Capacity: 1,100
Operator: Spaceland Presents/Goldenvoice
Summer highlights (so far): Metal Alliance Tour (June 9), Calexico (July 7), Shellac (July 15), Say Anything (July 28).
Transportation tip: Easy to find a $10 lot nearby.
Basics: The theater was formerly occupied by a seedy porn movie house.
Grade: B. Good site lines downstairs, but upstairs VIP section is less accommodating. Because the venue is new, it's still tweaking its sound system — while reportedly trying to reach a detente with a noise-complaint-filing neighbor.

448 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

(323) 284-5727

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Orpheum

Opened: 1926
Capacity: 2,000
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Woody Allen's New Orleans Jazz Band (Aug. 8), "American Idol" Live (Aug. 20), Primus (Sept. 19).
Transportation tip: Surface lots are your best bet, but they're pricy in this neighborhood.
Basics: Over the decades, the theater has hosted performances by Duke Ellington, the Marx Bros. and Count Basie. Bonus: The video for Guns 'n Roses' "November Rain" was shot here.
Grade: B. Nice old venue in downtown's theater row. Quality sound, even if the venue often feels as if it needs a good scrubbing.

842 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014

(877) 677-4386

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Hotel Cafe

Opened: 2000
Capacity: 165
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Jim Bianco (June 6), Mandolin Orange (June 13), Jihae (June 24), Dead Rock West (July 16).
Transportation tip: Surface lots abound, but parking near the ArcLight is easiest.
Basics: Known as the Los Angeles launching pad for rising young acts, the Hotel Cafe has hosted acts including Katy Perry, Mumford & Sons, Sia, Ed Sheeran and Lana Del Rey long before they hit pay dirt.
Grade: A. An intimate, dimly lit room, excellent sound system and a newly expanded bar combine to create a stellar showcase space.

1623 1/2 North Cahuenga Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028

(323) 461-2040

(Paul Rogers / For The Times)

El Rey Theater

Opened: 1936
Capacity: 770
Operator: Goldenvoice
Summer highlights (so far): Sam Prekop (June 8), Seinabo Sey (June 9), Robert Glasper (June 17), Ryn Weaver (July 13), Melody's Echo Chamber (Aug. 21).
Transportation tip: Park for free in a secret metered parking lot on Cochran just south of Wilshire.
Basics: Designed as a first-run movie house, the theater was reconfigured as a music venue in the mid-1990s. It's a majestic space, and the place to see acts on their way up.
Grade: A. Elegant rectangular room with nice stage, fancy chandeliers and excellent sound.

5515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

(323) 936-6400

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The Fonda

Opened: 1926
Capacity: 1,200
Operator: AEG/Goldenvoice
Summer highlights (so far): Bomba Estereo (June 6), Joey Bada$$ (June 13), L7 (July 17-18).
Transportation tip: As a rule, avoid Hollywood parking. Take the Metro Red Line (Hollywood/Vine stop), call a ride-share or, worst case, hitchhike (nearest major highway is U.S. 101).
Basics: A simple but elegant room built for theatrical performances, the Fonda is a midsized venue with a great feel to it. It's not the flashiest hall in town, but the atmosphere is relaxed. Note: You can watch the opening acts from the rooftop bar, where a big screen projects the performances.
Grade: A. One of the best-sounding rooms in the city, with clear site lines and easy access.

6126 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

(323) 464-6269

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Largo at the Coronet

Opened: 1989
Capacity: 280
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Ron Sexsmith (June 2), the Lonesome Trio feat. Ed Helms (June 16), Susanna Hoffs & Friends (June 18), John C. Reilly & Friends (July 7).
Transportation tip: It's West Hollywood. You're on your own.
Basics: Largo is its own scene and hosts an ace array of folk and avant rock amid a schedule that also features excellent comedy nights. Regulars include Jon Brion, Fiona Apple, John C. Reilly, Tom Brosseau and Princess, a Prince cover band co-founded by comedian Maya Rudolph.
Grade: A-. Excellent seated theater featuring crystal-clear sound. Largo has moved a few times, but wherever it lands it's an artist's paradise. Points deducted for the uncomfortable seating, which feels like it hasn't been updated since Bertholt Brecht premiered "Galileo Galilei" here in 1947.

366 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048

(310) 855-0350

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The Forum

Opened: 1967 (renovated as concert venue in 2014).
Capacity: 17,000-plus
Operator: Madison Square Garden
Summer highlights (so far): U2 (May 26-27, 30-31, June 3), Phish (July 25), Boston, REO Speedwagon (July 26), Mumford & Sons (Aug. 17-18)
Transportation tip: Save money and headaches by parking at an off-site surface lot and walking a few blocks.
Basics: The former home of the Lakers reopened in 2014 after a major renovation. Now a full-time concert venue, it's the best place in Los Angeles (or, more accurately, Inglewood) to see your favorite superstar act.
Grade: A. Though it's a vast space that's difficult to engineer, the Forum's reinvention as a full-time concert arena is a godsend. Unlike the multiuse Staples Center, the Forum's dedicated mission means better sound in a more comfortable atmosphere.

3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90305

(212) 465-6741

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The Observatory/Constellation Room

Opened: 2012
Capacity: 550 (Observatory); 300 (Constellation Room)
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Neutral Milk Hotel (May 29), Alkaline Trio (June 4-7), Bootsy Collins & DJ Quik (July 2), Barrington Levy (July 14), Django Django (Aug. 7).
Transportation tip: Fly from Bob Hope Airport in Burbank to John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana. (Just kidding; drive from Los Angeles; free on-site parking for early birds.)
Basics: Orange County venue in heart of Santa Ana serves as a booking pit stop for acts gigging Los Angeles proper. Also on site is the Constellation Room, a smaller space.
Grade: B+. Relaxed vibe, easy parking. Perfect for compact music festivals of the indie rock, hip hop and metal varieties, but it's a tough room to mix.

3503 S Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, CA

(714) 957-0600

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Echo/Echoplex

Opened: 2001 (Echo), 2006 (Echoplex)
Capacity: 350 (Echo), 660 (Echoplex)
Operator: Spaceland Presents
Summer highlights (so far): Ryley Walker (June 2), Gary Wilson, Puro Instinct (June 28), Landlady (July 8), Little Boots (July 15).
Transportation tip: Mostly metered parking. Save time (but not money) by using a rideshare or park for free on Glendale near Echo Park Lake.
Basics: Born in the shadow of the lauded Silver Lake club Spaceland, the Echo and Echoplex are hubs of independent music in Los Angeles.
Grade: A (Echo), C (Echoplex). The upstairs Echo is an excellent club space; even at capacity most have a good view. The Echoplex downstairs is more cavernous and can be a challenging room for short people. But Nine Inch Nails' gig in 2009 and the Rolling Stones' set in 2013 confirmed that exquisite sound is possible.

1822 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

(213) 413-8200

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Bootleg Theater

Opened: 2006
Capacity: 150
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): The Do (May 28), Joni Mitchell tribute (June 10), Spain (June 19).
Transportation tip: Free lot nearby, but it's often full. Park on Beverly.
Basics: Many days the Bootleg hosts theatrical performances, but a regular aspect of its offerings are booking by longtime indie promoter the Fold.
Grade: B. The music room is raw but comfortable — except when it gets crowded. Then it gets difficult to access the bar, go to the bathroom — or move at all.

2220 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90057

(213) 389-3856

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Club Bahia

Opened: 1974
Capacity: 400
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Lo-Fang (May 27), Hamilton Leithauser (June 11), No Te Va Gustar (July 7), Wye Oak (July 30).
Transportation tip: Easy valet or street parking available.
Basics: The long-running Latin music venue on Sunset books its own shows and DJ nights on the weekend but in 2014 signed on with Live Nation to produce national touring acts on weeknights.
Grade: B+. A longtime host to salsa and merengue music in Los Angeles, Bahia retains the '70s vibe of its birth, with low-budget discothèque lighting but a sturdy-enough sound system to energize the dance floor.

1130 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90012

(213) 250-4313

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Nokia Theatre/Club Nokia

Opened: 2007
Capacity: 2,300 (Club Nokia), 7,100 (Nokia Theatre)
Operator: AEG/Goldenvoice
Summer highlights (so far): Ciara (May 30), D'Angelo & the Vanguard (June 8), Miguel (June 26), Jurassic 5 (July 9), Juanes (July 31-Aug. 1), Aretha Franklin (Aug. 2).
Transportation tip: Easiest and cheapest to park east of the arena in an independent lot.
Basics: Part of the monolithic L.A. Live complex in south downtown, the two Nokia venues host music, comedy shows, "American Idol" finales and the occasional awards ceremony.
Grade: C (Nokia Theatre), B (Club Nokia). The design of the Theatre feels dystopic, and acoustically the room sounds dead. The club is less a club than a small theater. It doesn't have great acoustics, either, or any vibe.

800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015

(213) 765-7000

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Conga Room at L.A. Live

Opened: 2008
Capacity: 1,000
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Los Amigos Invisibles (May 29), Grupo Niche (July 9), Los Van Van (Aug. 13).
Transportation tip: On-site parking lots are expensive; better to find a neighborhood surface lot.
Basics: Part of the L.A. Live complex, this salsa dance club and Latin music venue is co-owned by celebrities including Jimmy Smits, Sheila E. and will.i.am. It books upscale DJs, release parties and concerts and has a padded dance floor for maximum comfort.
Grade: A. Terrific dance floor, swank room, warm sound system.

800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015

(213) 745-0162

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Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock

Opened: 1927
Capacity: 225
Operator: Independent
Summer highlights (so far): Girlpool (June 1), Gardens & Villa (June 26).
Transportation tip: Street parking along Colorado usually not an issue.
Basics: A northeast Los Angeles arts hub that hosts music a few times a month, the center is booked by FYF Presents. As such, the venue has hosted a stellar roster, including No Age, Holly Herndon, Dan Deacon, Junip and dozens of others.
Grade: B-. The space has so-so acoustics, so it's tough to get good sound. When a show sells out, which they often do, sight lines can be tough, especially for the shorter among us.

2225 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041

(323) 226-1617