This is specific to the concert I just saw at the Shrine Expo Hall (the adjacent theater is a completely different venue under the same roof- many of you might not realize that) Here goes...I don't want to say many bad things about this venue because I have been to many a concert experiences here that I have loved despite its drawbacks (if you don't like general admission concerts or you expect a luxury box option, this isn't the place for you) and despite the easy comparisons to new, modern venues where it falls short (which I already mentioned). So for a true historic, traditional great time out, see a general admission concert at the Shrine Expo Hall. It is decently maintained (better in recent years) and the staff is very friendly including the security staff outside the venue that does a really good job of being friendly while enforcing their entry policies properly. Inside security staff are also very friendly and respectful too. They don't feel like concert gestapo at all! Thank you! Their concessions staff is very polite and all work very hard at making the drinks quickly and moving the line rapidly also. The venue is rich in historic significance and you can see that before the lights go down by exploring the awesome exterior Moroccan themed turrets and archways and the detail that went into everything before you go in. More of the same with the interior. The carpets and paint look new. The bathrooms are well maintained, and the light fixtures and details inside are beautiful (do yourself a favor and look around before you stare at the stage). Look up before the lights go down. The ceiling detail and the balcony wrapping around the expo hall U-shape on the 2nd floor has some truly incredible detail work and carving inlays. Yes, it's cavernous, but you don't have to squish your way to the front to have a great experience. The sight lines everywhere are great, the sound is very good (well, it gets a bit heavy on the bass the further back you go), and even at full capacity, you can find room to move. Easy exiting too as they open up a huge bank of exit doors that lead directly out to the street. Easily accessible via public transit from the west side or downtown via the Expo Line, exit the USC/Jefferson station. It's $3.50 round trip versus the $20 - $30 charge to park nearby at some of the adjacent USC structures (plus your gas expense). And probably takes you less time on Light Rail to get there. Now that USC University Village is open about a block away at Jefferson and Hoover you are also within safe walking distance of some great, affordable, casual places to grab a meal and a drink before heading in. BIG LITTLE KNOWN BONUS: Their on site box office is open every Thursday from 12pm to 5pm where you can buy tickets with NO FEES in person for upcoming available shows. Have fun!