Hollywood Bowl

This gorgeous outdoor amphitheater has been hosting concerts since the LA Philharmonic first played here in 1922. Nestled in an aesthetically blessed fold in the Hollywood Hills, the 18,000-seat venue can bring out the romantic in the terminally cynical. It's the summer home of the LA Philharmonic (who host free weekday open rehearsals; call the venue for more info), but it's hosted everyone from the Beatles to Big Bird, and today mixes classical concerts with all manner of rock and pop.