At Hollywood & Highland Center, the Dolby Theatre is the venue where the Academy Awards have been held since 2001, alongside concerts, live shows and other ceremonies. Its European opera house-inspired auditorium, clear sound and stage views make it worth seeing even when there is no event on. A 30-minute guided tour visits the lobby and stage, with stops in the Dolby Lounge, where you can take a photo with an Oscar. Tour schedules can change around events, so call ahead before making a special trip.
The theater and the Academy Awards
The Dolby Theatre is at Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood. Since 2001, it has hosted the Academy Awards, as well as concerts, Broadway productions and other live events. The auditorium draws attention for its European opera house-inspired design, and its acoustics are a key part of the experience during performances.
For a show, the view matters as well as the sound. Seats in the first 20 rows are recommended; seats farther back may give a less satisfying view. If you are sitting at the end of an aisle, expect to stand to let other audience members pass.
What the guided tour includes
The 30-minute walking tour takes you through several areas of the theater. It starts in the Dolby Lounge, a VIP room where celebrities can relax and have a drink during shows. Tour guests can also take a photo with an Oscar there.
Other stops include the main lobby and the auditorium’s stage. From the stage, you can look across the theater, and the tour may also take you backstage along the route associated with award winners. Access can change when the theater is hosting an event, so check tour availability by phone before traveling specifically for it.
Getting there for a performance
The theater is inside Hollywood & Highland Center, where there are restaurants and shops. If you want to eat before or after a performance, Firefly is mentioned as a nearby option for brunch.
Parking is available in the center’s garage. Choosing a lower level can help you avoid delays when leaving after an event. Food and drinks are available at the venue, though the food selection is not a reason to plan a visit; arrange a meal nearby if that matters to your evening.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long is the Dolby Theatre tour?
The guided walking tour takes about 30 minutes.
What can you see on the tour?
The tour includes the Dolby Lounge, main lobby and auditorium stage, with backstage access along the winners’ walk. You can take a photo with an Oscar in the lounge.
Should I check tour availability before going?
Yes. Tours can be affected by events, so call ahead before making a special trip.
Where is the Dolby Theatre?
It is at Hollywood & Highland Center, at 1810 Highland Ave in Los Angeles.
