Kia Forum: History, parking, seating and fun facts

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Inglewood –– just ten miles from Santa Monica –– the Kia Forum stands as a beacon of entertainment and culture. With its rich history and instantly recognizable design, the Forum has hosted thousands of legendary concerts and major sporting events.

The circular arena — often referred to as “The Fabulous Forum” — was built for just $16 million and designed by Charles Luckman to resemble a Roman coliseum. It was originally home to the Los Angeles Lakers and Kings, while also hosting tennis, boxing, and major events like the 1984 Olympic basketball tournament. During the Lakers’ “Showtime” era, the venue became one of the most famous arenas in the country.

Over time, however, music became the Forum’s true legacy. Aretha Franklin performed the Forum’s first concert in 1968.  Today, with a capacity of 17,500 it continues to host many of the biggest names in popular music, including Olivia Rodrigo, Rush, Ariana Grande and Elton John.  

Brief History

• The building was opened in 1967 and nicknamed “The Fabulous Forum” by Lakers broadcaster Chick Hearn
• After the Lakers and Kings moved to Staples Center in 1999, the Forum was briefly owned and operated by Faithful Central Bible Church, who used it for worship services.
• The Forum was purchased in 2012 by Madison Square Garden for $23.5 million.  MSG reportedly invested $50 million to renovate the site.  The Forum reopened in January 2014 with six sold-out shows by The Eagles.
• Microsoft billionaire Steve Ballmer acquired the property in 2020 for $400 million.
• On September 24, 2014, the Forum was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• The venue was first known as The Great Western Forum (1988 – 2003), then The Forum presented by Chase (2014-2022).  Automaker Kia purchased the naming rights in 2022.

Iconic Moments

1976:  Paul McCartney & Wings record songs for live concert album, Wings Over America.

1981:  Diana Ross films Diana television special which includes performance with Michael Jackson.

1982:  Queen performs final U.S. show with Freddie Mercury.  Kings defeat Edmonton Oilers to win Stanley Cup in “Miracle on Manchester” game. Lakers win first of five NBA championships at the Forum.

1989:  Neil Diamond sets all time attendance record with 10 sold out shows.

1991:  Chicago Bulls win first NBA championship

1999:  Kings play final NHL game at Forum before moving to Staples Center.

2004:  Madonna performs Re-Invention World Tour, which is filmed for documentary, I’m Going To Tell You A Secret.

2009:  Michael Jackson rehearses at the Forum for his final concerts in London.  After his death on June 25, 2009, some of the footage appears in the documentary, Michael Jackson: This is It.

2011:  Prince performs first of 21 shows at the Forum.

Seating Chart

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Driving to the Forum

The Kia Forum is located on the corner of Manchester Blvd. and Prairie Ave.

From 405 North: Take the Manchester exit, proceed east on Manchester Blvd.

From 405 South: Take the Manchester/Florence exit, proceed east on Manchester Blvd.

From 110 North/South: Take the Manchester exit, proceed west to Prairie Ave. 

From 105 East/West: Take the Prairie Ave exit and proceed north on Prairie Ave.

Parking & Transportation

• Onsite parking is available via entrances on Prairie Avenue and Kareem Court.
• Parking is first-come, first-served; saving spaces is not allowed.
• Tailgating, grilling, and loitering in parking lots are prohibited.
• Guests must enter the venue within 30 minutes of the event start time or leave the lot.
• Dedicated ride-share pickup and drop-off is located in Lot H (near Pincay Drive and Prairie Avenue)

Know Before You Go

• The Kia Forum is a cashless venue and accepts debit and credit cards only.
• Only service animals are permitted inside the arena.
• Guests should arrive early for high-demand events, as security lines can be long.
• Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted.
• Many events allow one factory-sealed bottle of water or an empty reusable bottle — check your specific event for details.

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