Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90305 |
| Venue type | Indoor music and entertainment arena |
| Capacity | 17,505 |
| Opened | 1967 |
| Former name | The Forum |
| Website | thekiaforum.com |
Overview
The Forum opened in 1967 as a sports and entertainment venue and was long known for its distinctive circular design and red exterior columns. It later became the Kia Forum after a renovation led by the Madison Square Garden Company that reoriented the building specifically around live music rather than sports. Steve Ballmer’s ownership group bought the venue in 2020. It sits in Inglewood, next to the Hollywood Park development that also includes SoFi Stadium and the YouTube Theater, and is set to host gymnastics for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Because the building was redesigned for music, its interior prioritizes acoustics and sightlines rather than the multi-purpose layout typical of arenas built primarily for sports.
Seating and Layout
The Kia Forum uses a continuous single-tier bowl rather than separate upper and lower decks divided by a concrete overhang.
- Floor (GA or reserved): The main floor holds either a standing general admission pit closest to the stage or assigned rows extending back toward the mix position. Flat floor seating puts fans at performer level.
- Lower bowl: Sections closer to the floor, such as those in the 101 to 103 and 134 to 136 range, offer strong elevation and direct sightlines.
- Upper bowl: Because the bowl is continuous rather than split into tiers, even higher-numbered rows feel closer to the stage than a typical upper deck in a modern sports arena.
Most touring concerts use an end-stage setup, placing the stage at one end of the arena and closing off the rear sections behind it. Some shows go in-the-round instead, opening the full 360-degree bowl around a center stage. Floor configurations vary by artist, ranging from open standing space to fully seated rows or a mix of both.
Capacity
The Kia Forum holds 17,505 for concerts. The exact number can shift slightly depending on stage dimensions, floor configuration, and how much space a touring production’s sound mixing desk takes up on the floor.
Sound and Production
The venue’s acoustic ceiling and carpeted bowl surfaces were installed specifically to reduce flutter echo, giving touring audio engineers a more controlled sound environment than a typical multi-purpose arena. The structure supports large lighting rigs, LED video displays, and full-scale arena production setups.
Accessibility
Accessible seating platforms with companion seats are available across multiple levels of the bowl. Ramped entrances and elevators serve guests with mobility needs, and accessible parking is available near the main entry plazas. Assistive listening devices and other guest assistance services are available through Guest Services on the main concourse.
Venue Policies
- Bags: Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″, or a small non-clear clutch up to 9″ x 6″. Backpacks of any kind aren’t allowed, and there’s no on-site bag check.
- Tickets: Mobile entry only, through a smartphone app.
- Payment: Fully cashless for concessions, bars, and merchandise.
- Outside food and drink: Not permitted.
- Cameras and recording: Non-professional or disposable cameras are generally fine. Professional cameras with detachable lenses and recording devices aren’t allowed.
- Smoking: Prohibited throughout the venue, including vaping.
- Re-entry: Not permitted once you’ve left.
Because bag rules and other policies can vary by specific event, it’s worth checking the event page on the venue’s site before you go.
Getting There
- Driving: The arena is accessible via I-405 and I-105. Exit at Manchester Boulevard or Century Boulevard.
- Parking: Extensive surface lots surround the arena directly, and passes can often be reserved in advance.
- Metro Rail: The K Line serves the nearby Downtown Inglewood Station, with local bus connections to Manchester Boulevard.
- Rideshare: Dedicated pickup and drop-off zones operate along designated perimeter streets on show nights.
Nearby
The Kia Forum sits near the expanding Hollywood Park district, home to SoFi Stadium and the YouTube Theater. The surrounding area has dining and retail options, along with easy access to Los Angeles International Airport.
Before You Arrive
Plan to arrive 60 to 90 minutes before showtime, to allow for traffic along Manchester Boulevard, parking, and security screening before the opening act begins.
What to bring:
- A smartphone with your digital tickets downloaded
- A credit card, debit card, or mobile payment wallet
- A small clear bag or clutch that meets the venue’s size limits
- A valid ID for age-verified beverage purchases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Kia Forum?
17,505 for concerts.
Where is the venue located?
3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90305.
Does the Kia Forum have upper deck balconies?
No, the arena uses a single continuous bowl without separate balcony overhangs.
Is the Kia Forum a cashless venue?
Yes, all concessions, merchandise booths, and bars accept card or mobile payment only.
What is the best way to get to the venue?
Driving via I-405 or I-105 to on-site parking, or taking Metro Rail’s K Line with a local bus connection, are the most common options.
Are clear bags required at the Kia Forum?
Yes. Clear bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or a small non-clear clutch up to 9″ x 6″ are permitted, and backpacks aren’t allowed under any circumstances.
Can you bring outside food or drinks?
No, outside food and beverages aren’t permitted inside the arena.
How early should I arrive for a show?
Arriving 60 to 90 minutes before showtime gives you time for traffic, parking, and security screening.
More Venues:
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- Rogers Centre
- Comerica Park
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- Petco Park
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