The Smell Los Angeles
A legendary volunteer-run DIY music venue in Downtown LA, showcasing experimental punk and hardcore bands in an intimate, all-ages setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
When the bands play
The Smell Los Angeles
Best Time
When the bands play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary volunteer-run DIY music venue in Downtown LA, showcasing experimental punk and hardcore bands in an intimate, all-ages setting.
"This place for me, is the real deal. It reminds me a lot of the iconic 924 Gilman Street."
🎯 Embrace the Sweat!
It gets hot and humid inside. Dress in light, comfortable clothes and be ready to move!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking in downtown LA can be tough. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to avoid stress.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 · 226 reviews
Type
Event Venue
Website
thesmell.orgHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Experimental Punk Shows
Experience raw, unfiltered live music from emerging and underground punk and hardcore bands. A true taste of LA's DIY music scene.
All-Ages Atmosphere
A rare all-ages venue where teens and adults can enjoy punk rock together, fostering a unique community vibe.
Grungy, Authentic Charm
Step into a no-frills, volunteer-run space that embodies the spirit of underground music culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the DIY Vibe
Prepare for the Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Sweat!
It gets hot and humid inside. Dress in light, comfortable clothes and be ready to move!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking in downtown LA can be tough. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to avoid stress.
🤘 All-Ages Fun
This is an all-ages venue, so expect a mix of younger and older punk fans.
🎶 Discover New Bands
The Smell is known for showcasing experimental and underground artists. Come with an open mind!
Help Save The Smell! A local music venue that has helped give small bands and teens a place to call home for nearly 20 years is being demolished. Please sign the Petition!
Al's Bar could not be saved. The Smell will not be saved.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Sweat!
It gets hot and humid inside. Dress in light, comfortable clothes and be ready to move!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking in downtown LA can be tough. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to avoid stress.
🤘 All-Ages Fun
This is an all-ages venue, so expect a mix of younger and older punk fans.
🎶 Discover New Bands
The Smell is known for showcasing experimental and underground artists. Come with an open mind!
💰 Cash is King
While some shows might have online tickets, it's always good to have cash for entry and merch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Smell is celebrated as a legendary, volunteer-run DIY venue with a raw, authentic charm and an all-ages policy that fosters a unique community. Visitors appreciate the experimental music and friendly staff, though some note the intense heat, challenging parking, and occasional uncomfortable crowd dynamics.
"Don’t come expecting a regular venue. This is a grungy hole in the wall down a back alley with tons of charm. The staff couldn’t have been nicer. It gets hot in there so get ready to sweat a bit, especially if you’re jumping around. Glad to see this LA culture staple still going."
Open Format
"Great diy venue with a cool sort of underground vibe. The volunteers are always friendly and you can guarantee some interesting music."
Taylor Frost Peyote Radio
"This place for me, is the real deal. It reminds me a lot of the iconic 924 Gilman Street. I’ve been going to punk shows since the 80s and I love venues like this. Community ran spaces like this are rare and precious."
Nandi La Sophia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Smell is located in downtown Los Angeles. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft due to parking challenges. Public transportation, including buses and the Metro, is also an option for reaching the downtown area.
Parking near The Smell can be difficult and often involves street parking or paid lots, which can be expensive. It's highly recommended to plan for alternative transportation.
For a stress-free concert experience, consider using a ride-sharing app or the Metro. This avoids the hassle of finding and paying for parking in the busy downtown area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Smell operates primarily as a music venue, so hours are dictated by show schedules. It's best to check their social media or website for upcoming events and their specific times.
Ticket prices vary depending on the band and event, but shows at The Smell are generally affordable, reflecting its DIY ethos. Expect prices to be in the single digits or low double digits.
Yes, The Smell is proudly an all-ages venue, welcoming fans of all ages to experience live music.
Often, you can purchase tickets at the door for shows at The Smell, but it's always a good idea to check the specific event details in case of pre-sale or limited capacity.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
The Smell is known for its focus on experimental, punk, hardcore, and other underground genres. You'll find a diverse range of DIY bands. +1
While it's an all-ages venue, some reviews mention a mix of ages and crowd dynamics. It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and attend with friends.
Comfort is key! Given the energetic shows and the venue's nature, casual and comfortable clothing is recommended. Be prepared to sweat.
Yes, there are restrooms available, though some reviews humorously note they add to the venue's unique charm.
Many bands performing at The Smell will have merchandise available for purchase, so bring cash if you want to support them directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed, but it's always best to be respectful of the performers and other attendees. Professional recording may require permission.
Focus on capturing the raw energy of the live performances and the intimate, DIY atmosphere. Low-light conditions are common, so a phone with good low-light capabilities can be useful.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit