You've finally scored tickets to that one show at the Bowl. Maybe it’s a classic LA Phil night or a bucket-list rock reunion. Then the reality of Los Angeles logistics hits you. Driving all the way into the Cahuenga Pass sounds like a nightmare because, honestly, it is. If you've ever been trapped in the "stacked parking" purgatory at the venue, watching people eat an entire second picnic in their cars while waiting for the exit to move, you know the pain.
That is why parking at LA Zoo for Hollywood Bowl concerts has become the go-to strategy for locals who actually want to enjoy their night. It’s one of those "if you know, you know" situations. You get the benefit of a massive, easy-to-navigate lot and a dedicated shuttle that bypasses the worst of the Highland Avenue gridlock.
The Logistics of the Zoo Shuttle (Line 672)
Let’s talk about how this actually works. The LA Zoo lot is officially designated as Bowl Shuttle Line 672. It’s located at 5333 Zoo Drive. Most people get confused between "Park & Ride" and "Bowl Shuttle."
Park & Ride lots are scattered across the county—like Torrance or Chatsworth—and have very specific, timed departures. If you miss your bus, you're out of luck. The Zoo lot, however, is a Bowl Shuttle location. This means the buses run continuously. You don't have to stress about a 5:15 PM sharp departure.
- Free Parking: Unlike the $30 to $50 you’ll drop at the venue, parking here is free.
- The Schedule: Shuttles start running 2.5 hours before the show. They usually depart every 15 to 20 minutes.
- Location: Look for Section C of the LA Zoo parking lot. You can’t miss the signs and the staff in neon vests.
- The Return: The last bus usually leaves the Bowl about 20 minutes after the final encore.
What it Costs in 2026
Prices have ticked up slightly over the years, but it’s still the best bargain in town. If you buy your shuttle tickets in advance—which you absolutely should do via the Hollywood Bowl website or Ticketmaster—it’s roughly $12.45 round trip (including fees).
If you’re a "play it by ear" type and show up without a ticket, you can pay at the lot. It’s usually $15 cash (exact change is your best friend here) or card. Pro tip: if you have a valid Metro TAP card and you actually used it to ride a bus or train in the last two hours, you can often ride the shuttle for free. Staff at the Zoo lot will verify your TAP usage, so don't try to pull a fast one with an empty card.
Why the Zoo Lot Beats Driving to the Venue
Driving to the Bowl is a gamble. Even with a pre-paid parking pass, you are entering a world of "stacked parking." This means cars are packed in bumper-to-bumper. If you're in the back, you aren't leaving until every single car in front of you moves.
When you choose parking at LA Zoo for Hollywood Bowl, you are choosing freedom. The shuttle drops you off at the top of Lot B. It’s a short walk to the main gates. When the show ends, you walk back to that same spot, hop on a bus, and let someone else navigate the traffic.
I’ve seen people complain about the wait for the return shuttle. Sure, if you leave exactly when the last note fades along with 17,000 other people, there will be a line. But it moves fast. They have a literal army of buses waiting.
The "Hidden" Perks of the Zoo Lot
There’s something weirdly peaceful about the Zoo lot at 5:00 PM. The zoo-goers are heading home, and the concert crowd is just arriving. It’s huge. You will always find a spot.
Many regulars use this lot as their pre-game staging area. Since the Zoo closes at 5:00 PM, the lot starts to empty out just as the Bowl staff starts setting up. You’ll see people popping their trunks, sharing a quick snack, or finishing a bottle of wine before hopping on the bus. It’s a much more relaxed vibe than the frantic energy of the Hollywood & Highland garage.
Realities and "What Ifs"
Is it perfect? Nothing in LA is. If there is a massive accident on the 101, the shuttle will sit in that traffic just like everyone else. However, the buses often have access to bypasses and dedicated lanes that your Prius does not.
One thing to watch out for: Leased Events. The Hollywood Bowl has two types of shows. "LA Phil" shows are the standard season. "Leased Events" are usually the big-name touring acts (think Coachella headliners). For leased events, the shuttle prices can sometimes be higher, and the rules about TAP cards might change. Always double-check your specific concert page.
The Return Trip Scramble
When the concert ends, the exodus is real. Follow the signs for "Shuttles" toward Lot B. Do not get in the "Park & Ride" lines by mistake. Those are the buses going to long-distance spots like Lakewood or Pasadena. You are looking for the Zoo Shuttle line.
If you have mobility issues, there are accessible carts that can take you from the gate to the shuttle area. Just ask any staff member. The buses themselves are wheelchair accessible, which is a major plus.
Making the Most of Your Trip
If you want the smoothest experience possible, aim to arrive at the Zoo lot about two hours before showtime. This gives you plenty of time to park, get through the shuttle line, and still have an hour at the Bowl to find your seats and enjoy your picnic.
Remember that the Bowl allows you to bring your own food and wine for LA Phil-presented events, but for "Leased Events," they usually ban outside alcohol. Check your ticket! It would be a tragedy to haul a nice Cabernet all the way from the Zoo only to have security take it at the gate.
Actionable Next Steps for a Stress-Free Night
- Book Now: Go to the Hollywood Bowl website and buy your "Bowl Shuttle" tickets for the LA Zoo lot today. Do not wait until the day of.
- Check the Artist: Verify if your concert is an LA Phil production or a "Leased Event" so you know the alcohol and picnic rules.
- Pack Light: You’ll be carrying your bags from your car to the bus, and from the bus to your seats. A rolling cooler is a lifesaver.
- Charge Your Phone: You'll need it to show your digital shuttle ticket and your concert tickets.
- Arrival Time: Target 5:30 PM for a 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM show. This is the sweet spot for avoiding the "last-minute" bus rush.