Overview
The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is one of the most historically significant sports venues in the United States. Located in the Exposition Park neighborhood of South Los Angeles, the stadium opened in 1923 and has hosted an extraordinary range of events over its century-long life, including the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympic Games, two Super Bowls, and a World Series.
The Coliseum serves as the home of the USC Trojans college football team and has also been home to two NFL franchises over the years — the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Raiders — with the Rams returning to play there during a transitional period in the 2010s. It is also scheduled to serve as a venue for the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.
Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1984, the stadium underwent a major renovation completed in 2019 that modernized its facilities while preserving its iconic peristyle arch and Olympic torch. The renovation added improved seating, upgraded concourses, new amenities, and the United Airlines Gate — a dramatic new main entrance. The stadium's capacity is approximately 77,500 for football.
The surrounding Exposition Park campus adds significant value to any visit, hosting the California Science Center, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the California African American Museum, and the Rose Garden, all within easy walking distance.
Before You Go
Tickets
Tickets for USC Trojans games and other events are sold through official team or event channels. Purchasing early is advisable for high-demand matchups. Verify ticket policies and seating charts on the official USC Athletics or Coliseum website before buying.
Entry and Security
The Coliseum enforces a clear bag policy for most events. Only approved clear bags meeting size requirements are permitted. Prohibited items typically include outside food and large bags, though policies can vary by event — confirm specific rules on the official event page before attending.
Parking and Crowds
Parking is available on-site and in surrounding lots, but spaces fill quickly on game days. Pre-purchasing a parking pass is strongly recommended. Traffic in the area can be significant before and after events; allow extra time.
Visas
For entry requirements to the United States, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official US Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov) for the most current guidance specific to your nationality.
Getting There
From Downtown Los Angeles
The Coliseum is approximately 3 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles. Driving takes roughly 10–20 minutes outside of event congestion, though event-day traffic can extend this considerably.
By Metro Rail
Los Angeles Metro is the most practical option on event days. The Expo Line (E Line) stops at Exposition Park / USC station, which is a short walk from the stadium. Check metro.net for current schedules, fares, and any service adjustments on event days.
By Bus
Several LA Metro bus lines serve the surrounding area. Verify current routes and stops at metro.net.
By Rideshare
Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are widely available throughout LA. Designated pickup and drop-off zones are in place on event days; confirm their location through the Coliseum's official event communications, as these areas can change.
Things to See & Do
Attend a USC Trojans Game
The primary draw for most visitors is a USC Trojans college football game during the fall season (typically September through November or December). The atmosphere inside the historic venue is genuine and energetic, particularly for rivalry matchups.
Explore Exposition Park
The park surrounding the Coliseum is a destination in its own right. The California Science Center houses the Space Shuttle Endeavour — a remarkable artifact on permanent display. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County features extensive exhibits on California history, dinosaur fossils, and the natural world. The California African American Museum offers rotating and permanent exhibitions exploring African American art, history, and culture. Admission policies and hours for each institution vary; verify on their respective websites.
The Peristyle and Olympic Torch
The iconic peristyle colonnade at the east end of the stadium and the restored Olympic cauldron are significant architectural and historical landmarks worth seeing, even from the exterior on non-event days. Access to the interior without an event ticket is not generally available to the public — verify with the venue.
Special Events
Beyond football, the Coliseum hosts concerts, international soccer matches, and other large-scale events throughout the year. Check the official Coliseum calendar at lacoliseum.com for current programming.
Food & Drink
Inside the Stadium
The 2019 renovation significantly expanded and upgraded the Coliseum's food and beverage options. Concourse stands offer a range of options from standard stadium fare (hot dogs, nachos, pizza) to more varied local vendors and craft beer selections. Prices reflect typical major US stadium standards — verify current offerings on the Coliseum's official event pages.
Near Exposition Park
The immediate neighborhood around the park has limited sit-down dining options, so most visitors plan meals before arriving or rely on in-stadium concessions. Vermont Avenue and Figueroa Street nearby have casual dining options including Mexican food, fast-casual restaurants, and neighborhood spots. Explore options via a current map or review platform, as the local dining scene evolves.
University Village (USC Area)
The University Village shopping and dining complex adjacent to the USC campus, just north of Exposition Park on Figueroa Street, has a broader selection of chain restaurants and cafes that are popular on game days. Expect long waits before kickoff.
Practical Information
Accessibility
The Coliseum offers accessible seating sections, accessible restrooms, and designated parking areas. Travelers with mobility requirements should contact the venue directly or check accessibility information on the official Coliseum website well in advance to make appropriate arrangements.
Weather
Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate. Football season (fall) is generally mild and comfortable, with temperatures typically in the 60s–80s°F (roughly 15–27°C). Evening games can be cooler, so bring a light layer. Rain is uncommon during fall but possible from November onward.
Contact and Information
- Official site: lacoliseum.com (verify current URL)
- For USC Athletics events: usctrojans.com
- Emergency services in the US: dial 911
Mobile Connectivity
Cell service can be strained inside large stadiums during events. Download tickets, maps, and transit information before you arrive.
Safety
The Coliseum and Exposition Park are generally considered safe during events and daytime hours, with a substantial security presence including LAPD personnel and private security staff on event days. Standard urban common-sense precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secured, and stay in well-lit, populated areas.
The broader South Los Angeles neighborhood has historically had areas of concern, particularly at night. Visitors who are unfamiliar with the area are advised to travel directly between transit stops, their vehicle, and the venue rather than wandering unfamiliar streets after dark. Using Metro or rideshare services rather than walking long distances after evening events is a practical step.
Bag checks and security screening are standard at all entry gates. Arrive with enough time to clear security without rushing, particularly for high-demand events when lines can be long.
