The Gibson Amphitheatre is an iconic performing arts venue. Found in the Universal City area of Los Angeles, it was originally built as an outdoor venue and opened in 1972 with a production of Jesus Christ Superstar. When cold weather forced the show to close, the Gibson Amphitheatre, originally known as the Universal Amphitheatre, was remodeled and converted into an indoor facility. This conversion, among other things, resulted in improved acoustics. In addition to being known for its excellent acoustics, the Gibson Amphitheatre is known for its sightlines. Regardless of where patrons sit, they can expect to enjoy good views of the stage. The amphitheatre has large screens on both sides of the stage that only lend to the viewing experience. Unfortunately, fans of the Gibson Amphitheatre won’t be able to see too many more shows at the iconic, mid-size venue. It is slated to be closed and demolished in order to make way for a new theme park area that will be known as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Los Angeles Times stated that the Gibson Amphitheatre will close in September 2013, though the venue has events scheduled until November 2013.

Hotels Near Gibson Amphitheatre

The address for the Gibson Amphitheatre is 100 Universal City Plaza. This puts the venue within the realms of Universal CityWalk and within close proximity of any number of Los Angeles hotels, especially those hotels that are found in the Universal City area. Examples of hotels that are located in Universal City proper include the Hilton Los Angeles Universal City Hotel and the Sheraton Universal Hotel. These hotels are actually within walking distance of CityWalk. Those who wish to expand their area lodging horizons can also consider such nearby hotels as the Boulevard Hotel & Spa, the Clarion Inn at Universal Studios Hollywood, and the Beverly Garland Holiday Inn. Numerous other hotels, including those that are found in such areas as Burbank and Hollywood, are only a few miles from the Gibson Amphitheatre. The same goes for a variety of motels, so the lodging options are quite complete for those who want to stay within easy reach of the venue. Some of the hotels in the general Universal City area offer free shuttles to CityWalk. Such is the case with the Marriott Burbank Hotel and the Beverly Garland Holiday Inn, for example.

Gibson Amphitheatre Seating Chart

The Gibson Amphitheatre has two main seating levels. The first level, or lower level, can accommodate 3,900 people. The second level, or mezzanine, has 2,189 seats. All of the seats at the Gibson Amphitheatre are within 150 feet or less of the stage, so the views are agreeable regardless of where patrons sit. Of course, those seats that are centrally located and/or closer to the stage tend to command the highest ticket prices. Special "Season Seats" are available at the Gibson Amphitheatre. These seats allow for admission to every show, or at least a series of shows, and also come with exclusive amenities. Examples of Season Seat amenities include exclusive VIP entrance and exit, premium parking access, and backstage lounge access. Also worth noting is the Live Nation Skybox. This exclusive seating area can accommodate twelve guests and also comes with a variety of amenities, such as access to the backstage lounge, a private bar, and private in-suite restrooms.

Los Angeles Map

Gibson Amphitheatre Parking

Anyone who rents out the Live Nation Skybox or who purchases Season Seat tickets for the Gibson Amphitheatre is treated to premium parking access. For everyone else, parking should be easy enough to come by. The CityWalk area features parking lots and parking garages. Parking fees apply at Universal CityWalk. Valet parking is available for an added fee. It is also possible to take a taxi or limo to the Gibson Theatre, in which case you don’t have to worry about parking. Another option is taking the subway. A Metro Red Line station can be found at Universal City. From this station, travelers can hop on a free shuttle bus that will transfer them to Universal CityWalk. On most days, the shuttles run every fifteen minutes from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.