Redlands Bowl
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Redlands Bowl

4.7
·1k reviews·Redlands, United States

A historic outdoor amphitheater offering free summer concerts, symphonies, and performing arts for the community.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect temperature for outdoor shows

CrowdMedium
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Redlands Bowl

Redlands Bowl

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect temperature for outdoor shows

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic outdoor amphitheater offering free summer concerts, symphonies, and performing arts for the community.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Grateful for the magic of the historical Redlands Bowl—bringing world-class entertainment to our community."

Vertical photo
TIP

🪑 Bring a Seat Cushion

Benches can be hard; a cushion makes enjoying the show much more comfortable!

⏰ Arrive Early for Seats

Popular shows fill up quickly. Get there early to secure a good spot on the benches or lawn.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free Summer Concert Series

Free Summer Concert Series

Main Amphitheater

Experience world-class music, dance, and theater under the stars, all for free! A true community treasure.

Historic Amphitheater

Historic Amphitheater

Main Amphitheater

Soak in the ambiance of this beloved, century-old venue, a cornerstone of Redlands' cultural scene.

Community Gathering Spot

Community Gathering Spot

Lawn and Seating Areas

Enjoy picnics and shared experiences with friends and family in a welcoming, open-air setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Prime Seating

The Redlands Bowl offers free summer concerts, but seating fills up fast! Arrive early, especially for popular acts, to snag a good spot on the benches or the limited lawn area. Consider bringing a cushion for comfort.

Donations Keep the Magic Alive

While entry is free, the Redlands Bowl relies on voluntary donations to continue its century-long tradition of free performances. Cash or tap donations are accepted, so bring a little extra to support this community gem.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect temperature for outdoor shows
Crowd
Medium
When
Weeknights
Why
Fewer crowds than weekends
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This week we rolled out our barbecue trailer to the Redlands Bowl golf tournament. We are happy to support this important event which raises funds to continue to provide free summer concerts at the Redlands Bowl. ##redlands
@redlandspoa
68 likes • 2K views

🪑 Bring a Seat Cushion

Benches can be hard; a cushion makes enjoying the show much more comfortable! Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early for Seats

Popular shows fill up quickly. Get there early to secure a good spot on the benches or lawn. Reddit

Love these Redlands Bowl Beauties !!! #redlandsbowl #redlands #inlandempire
@mercedez.speaker
5 likes • 128 views
Redlands Bowl, California wait til the end!! fantastic performance 👏 #danielemmet #amymanford #redlands #redlandsbowl #redlandsca #timetosaygoodbye
@fitbunny74
8 likes • 687 views

💰 Support with Donations

Entry is free, but donations are crucial! Bring cash or use tap to donate. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Enjoy your own food and drinks, or grab snacks from vendors. Reddit

Angeline the Baker. See you in Southern California Tues 7/1 at Redlands Bowl for Bluegrass Under the Stars! ✨✨ Full band with Laura Orshaw on fiddle. Come on out! . . . #rebeccafrazier #flatpickingguitar #redlandsbowl #californiabluegrass
@rebeccafraziermusic
143 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🪑 Bring a Seat Cushion

Benches can be hard; a cushion makes enjoying the show much more comfortable! Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early for Seats

Popular shows fill up quickly. Get there early to secure a good spot on the benches or lawn. Reddit

💰 Support with Donations

Entry is free, but donations are crucial! Bring cash or use tap to donate. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Enjoy your own food and drinks, or grab snacks from vendors. Reddit

🚫 No Seat Saving

Be courteous and don't save seats for others; it's strictly enforced. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Redlands Bowl for its tradition of free, high-quality summer entertainment and its historical significance. The community atmosphere and diverse performances are highlights, though some note the need to arrive early for good seats and the potential for hard benches. Occasional comments mention a mixed vibe from some patrons and staff, but overall, it's celebrated as a cherished local treasure.

"First time at the bowl since we moved to the area and it was great . It was full but everyone was polite and we found seating. Next time I know to arrive early. The music and visuals were lovely and relaxing since it was the perfect temperature to be outside."

Sophie J

"Bring friends and family along with a picnic or buy snacks from event vendors (and seat cushion as the benches are wood) and enjoy an outstanding venue under the stars with exceptional music/performances. A delight for all ages and one of Redlands many charming delights."

Danelle Taylor

"Feeling so grateful for the magic of the historical Redlands Bowl—bringing world-class entertainment to our community and reminding us of the power of shared experiences. In times like these, gathering under the stars with music and connection feels like a true gift. 🎶✨ #RedlandsBowl #CommunityJoy"

Daniela Bumann

What People Like

Free summer concerts
Historical venue
Community atmosphere

What People Dislike

Hard benches
Crowded for popular shows
Occasional staff attitude

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Redlands Bowl is situated in downtown Redlands, California, near the historical library and Lincoln Shrine. Its address is 20 West Highland Avenue, Redlands, CA 92373. Reddit

Free parking is available at the mall on Citrus Avenue or in the lot across from the mall, also on Citrus. Reddit

Information on public transportation routes serving downtown Redlands can be found on local transit authority websites. It's advisable to check schedules in advance.

Yes, biking is a great option for locals. Secure bike parking availability should be confirmed with venue staff upon arrival.

For popular shows, arriving at least an hour or more in advance is recommended to secure good seating, especially if you prefer benches. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Redlands Bowl hosts free summer concerts and performances. Voluntary donations are highly encouraged to support the venue. Reddit

Admission to the Redlands Bowl is free. However, donations are accepted and appreciated to help fund future performances. Reddit

The Redlands Bowl primarily operates during its summer concert series. Specific event times vary, so check the official schedule for details. TikTok

No, the Redlands Bowl does not allow seat saving. All seating is first-come, first-served. Reddit

The Redlands Bowl is a family-friendly venue, and there are no age restrictions for most performances. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Redlands Bowl offers bench seating and a limited lawn area. Bringing a seat cushion is highly recommended for comfort. Reddit

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own picnic. There are also vendors selling snacks like popcorn, ice cream, and drinks. Reddit

Restrooms are available near the Gables House. Reddit

The Redlands Bowl features a diverse range of performances, including bands, symphonies, theater productions, and talent from shows like America's Got Talent. TikTokReddit+1

Accessibility information for individuals with disabilities should be confirmed directly with the venue. It's generally a welcoming outdoor space.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but professional photography or videography may require special permission. Check with the venue for specific policies. TikTok

The amphitheater itself, especially during a performance with stage lighting, offers great photo opportunities. The surrounding park-like setting is also picturesque. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted at public venues like the Redlands Bowl to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to assume they are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Evening performances usually have stage lighting that can create dramatic effects for photography. TikTok

Filming entire performances for distribution is usually prohibited. Personal recording for memories is often permitted, but always check venue guidelines.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Redlands Bowl is a fantastic, family-friendly destination offering free entertainment that kids of all ages can enjoy. The open-air setting and diverse performances, from musicals to concerts, provide engaging experiences. TikTokReddit It's a great place to introduce children to the performing arts in a relaxed, accessible environment. Remember to bring blankets or cushions for comfortable seating on the lawn or benches, and consider arriving early to find a good spot where kids can have a bit of space. Reddit

Packing a picnic is a great way to keep little ones happy and fed, though vendors are also available. The community atmosphere is generally welcoming, and the free admission makes it an ideal outing for families looking for affordable fun. Reddit The historical significance of the venue adds an educational element, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Redlands Bowl is an absolute gem. The fact that all summer concerts and performances are free to attend is a major draw, allowing visitors to experience high-quality entertainment without spending a dime on admission. Reddit This makes it an excellent option for those looking to maximize their travel experiences while minimizing costs. TikTok

While entry is free, remember that the venue relies on voluntary donations. Contributing what you can is a way to support this incredible community resource. Reddit To keep costs down further, pack your own snacks and drinks for the evening. This avoids the expense of purchasing from vendors and allows you to enjoy a picnic under the stars. Reddit The accessibility and affordability make the Redlands Bowl a must-visit for any budget traveler exploring the Redlands area.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Free Entertainment

The Redlands Bowl stands as a unique institution, having provided free entertainment to the community for over a century. This commitment to accessibility is a cornerstone of its identity, making world-class performances available to everyone. The venue relies heavily on voluntary donations, a tradition that underscores the community's dedication to preserving this cultural asset. Reddit

This historical venue has hosted a remarkable array of talent, from local bands and symphonies to touring artists and Broadway productions. It's a place where memories are made, with many long-time residents sharing stories of attending shows with family for generations. Reddit The Redlands Bowl is more than just an amphitheater; it's a symbol of community spirit and the enduring power of shared artistic experiences. Reddit

Recent performances have included bluegrass artists, theatrical productions like 'The Little Mermaid,' and even acts featured on 'America's Got Talent,' showcasing the diverse programming that keeps the Bowl vibrant and relevant. TikTokReddit+2 The ongoing support from the community ensures that this tradition of free, high-quality performing arts will continue for years to come.

Planning Your Visit: Tips from Attendees

Attending a performance at the Redlands Bowl is a delightful experience, but a little planning goes a long way. Many visitors emphasize the importance of arriving early, especially for popular summer concerts, to secure the best bench seats or a spot on the lawn. Reddit Bringing a comfortable seat cushion is a frequently cited tip, as the wooden benches can become hard during longer performances. Reddit

While the Bowl offers a magical atmosphere, it's also a place where community participation is key. Voluntary donations are vital for its operation, so attendees are encouraged to contribute what they can, either in cash or via tap payment. Reddit The venue also has a strict policy against saving seats, promoting a fair system for all attendees. Reddit

For those looking to enhance their experience, packing a picnic is a popular choice, allowing for a relaxed evening under the stars. Alternatively, vendors are often on-site selling snacks and refreshments. Reddit The Redlands Bowl is a place that fosters connection, making it an ideal destination for families, friends, and solo visitors seeking quality entertainment and a sense of community. Reddit

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