As the largest natural amphitheater in the US and seasonal home of the L.A. Philharmonic, The Hollywood Bowl has been a Los Angeles Institution since the 20s. Tucked into the Hollywood Hills, the bowl refers to the landscape around it, not to its iconic ringed stage. The shell structure was rebuilt in 2003 and the acoustics are stunning - even with nearly 18,000 seats. It's only open from June to September, but sitting outside among the hills makes you forget you're in a city of four million people.Parking and public transportation at The Hollywood Bowl Parking at the Bowl itself is quite limited and prices are steep. Most spots are tandem, so you don't leave until the person in front of you does. There are also public city buses and a few nearby lots with shuttles, but one of the best options is the Park & Ride. 14 parking lots cover the L.A. metropolitan area where you can catch a bus to and from the venue. Pre-purchase tickets for a lower rate, or pay cash onsite. Check all parking options and prices.Getting tickets at The Hollywood BowlEven if you go through the Hollywood Bowl website, your ticket purchase will be directed to Ticketmaster which levies a service fee. Tickets purchased at the box office are sold at face value, but popular concerts sell out quickly. Best to arrive before the box office opens on the day tickets go on sale if you want to avoid fees, but the safest bet is to purchase online.Types of concerts at The Hollywood BowlThe Playboy Jazz Festival is a two-day event that's been running for more than 30 years, and is one of the Bowl's most popular shows. Prefer indie world music? Local radio station KCRW puts on a great World Festival series that includes eclectic artists spanning different genres. For a more traditional experience, the Los Angeles Philharmonic graces the stage for several performances throughout the season, as do top music acts from yesterday and today (think Journey and Carrie Underwood). There are even sing-alongs to popular musicals, proving there really is something for everyone.Other places to visit near The Hollywood BowlThere aren't many restaurants or attractions nearby because the Bowl is kind of tucked away, but Yamashiro is worth a trip for its sweeping views and Japanese setting. Their sushi and Asian-fusion menu is pricey, but they've been in business for more than 100 years so they're doing something right. The Bowl also has several food options onsite. Choose from sit-down restaurants like The Wine Bar and Rooftop Grill or have food delivered to your box seat- if you're lucky enough to sit in one. The best option, however, is to eat at one of the picnic areas. Bring your own food or pick up provisions onsite. Picnic tables surround the parking lot and are first come, first served. Meet up with friends and don't forget the wine! Alcohol is permitted in the picnic areas and inside the amphitheater.Where to stay near The Hollywood BowlThere are a few hotels on Highland Ave. that are walking distance to the Bowl, but unless a concert is the only activity on your itinerary, best to stay down the hill (The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel or Loews Hollywood Hotel are good options). With a Metro Red line roundtrip ticket you can take a free shuttle from the Hollywood & Highland station, or just pay the shuttle fee if you aren't riding the Metro. It's a great way to stay in the heart of Hollywood with easy access to the Bowl. Alternatively you can pick a hotel near one of the Park & Ride locations.Insider tip for visitors to The Hollywood BowlMorning rehearsals are FREE and open to the public! The Philharmonic is usually tuning up Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon during the summer season, but call 323.850.2000 for availability, including top acts. Parking is also free. Bring a pastry and a cup of coffee to enjoy the best freebie in town.Author's bio: Shelley Graner is a Los Angeles native, food lover and travel writer who has visited more than 30 countries. She writes for various travel blogs, including her own.