L.A. Live / Nokia Theater

L.A. Live / Nokia Theater Review

Filling the void that was a no-man's-land except for the legendary Staples Center sports arena, enter the mammoth L.A. Live/Nokia Center to enjoy an evening of entertainment without driving all over town—a rare occurrence in Los Angeles!

The first thing that you'll notice as you emerge from the parking lots is the giant LED screens and sparkling lights. But there's also a happy buzz here as people head out to dinner before or after a sporting event, award ceremony, or concert at the Nokia.

For a unique experience head to the wildly entertaining interactive Grammy Museum—a space that brings the music industry's history to life; there's the Conga Room, a Latin-focused nightclub owned by Jimmy Smits, Jennifer Lopez, and Paul Rodriquez; hipster Lucky Strike bowling lanes complete with a café, bar, and billiard tables; the 14-screen Regal Cinemas; and in winter, an ice-skating rink.

There are also more than 10 restaurants and eateries here including Los Angeles favorite Katsuya, the spot for sizzling Kobe beef platters and sushi so good it's addictive (the crab rolls are not to be missed). If you're enjoying yourself so much you hate to leave, the JW Marriott/Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Spa and Ritz-Carlton Residences are adjacent to the property. And for a bit of L.A. glitz and glamour, know that this venue is home to various award shows including the Emmy and ESPY awards.