Arts & Entertainment • The Wiltern Theatre

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General Information

NFT Map: 7

Address: 3790 Wilshire Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90010

Phone: 213-388-1400

Box Office: 213-380-5005

Ticketmaster: 213-480-3232

Website: www.livenation.comvenues/14361/the-wiltern

Overview

The Wiltern is undeniably one of LA’s most beloved landmarks, with its trademark blue neon sign and imposing marquee watching over Wilshire Boulevard. With its omnipresent line snaked around the building, the Wiltern looks like the hottest concert venue in town. A $1.5 million renovation in 2002 knocked out the lower level’s 1,200 permanent seats to make room for a first-come, first-served general admission area. So when Death Cab for Cutie or Feist come to town, you can guarantee every indie-loving teenager from LA to the OC will be lined up for that prime pit spot. Don’t worry, there is permanent seating available in the balcony for those who prefer to rock from their chairs.

The building’s Art Deco architecture is so snazzy that the place was declared an official City of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, and its moderate size makes it a great place to catch a band before they hit arena status. As the Wiltern is located in the heart of K-town, you can follow up that perfect Black Keys show with some delicious Korean barbeque and raucous karaoke.

How to Get There—Driving

Any number of east-west streets will take you to Western Avenue. The Wiltern is at the corner of Western and Wilshire. From the 10, exit at Western Avenue and drive north until you reach Wilshire Boulevard. The venue will be on your right. From the 101, use the Santa Monica Boulevard/Western Avenue exit and take Western south to Wilshire.

Parking

There are a number of parking lots in the area and limited street parking on and around Wilshire Boulevard. A large parking structure is available right behind the theater, which can be accessed from Oxford or Western. Lots generally charge between $8 and $20.

How to Get There—Mass Transit

The Metro Red Line is a convenient and inexpensive way to reach the Wiltern and avoid paying for parking. The Wilshire/Western station is just across Wilshire from the theatre. A number of buses also access the Wiltern. Bus 720 runs along Wilshire Boulevard, while buses 207 and 357 run on Western Avenue. Routes 18 and 209 also stop near the theater.

How to Get Tickets

Buy tickets online or by phone through Ticketmaster. Or, skip the exorbitant fees and go straight to the box office—it’s open three hours prior to showtimes.