How to Save on Concert Venues in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its dynamic music scene, historic venues, and diverse lineup of live performances. From intimate jazz clubs to large-scale arenas like the Long Beach Arena and the Toyota Arena, the city hosts everything from indie rock bands to major touring artists. But with rising ticket prices, service fees, and parking costs, attending concerts can quickly become expensive—especially for frequent attendees or those on a budget.

This guide is your comprehensive resource for saving money on concert venues in Long Beach. Whether you're a local resident, a student, or a visitor planning a weekend getaway, learning how to access discounted tickets, leverage loyalty programs, and time your purchases strategically can help you enjoy world-class performances without overspending. This tutorial breaks down actionable steps, best practices, proven tools, real-world examples, and frequently asked questions—all designed to maximize your savings and minimize stress when planning your next live music experience in Long Beach.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research Venue Schedules and Tour Announcements Early

The foundation of saving money on concerts begins long before tickets go on sale. Start by monitoring official venue websites and artist social media channels. Long Beach venues such as the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, The Pike Outlets Amphitheater, and The Coffee House often announce upcoming events weeks or even months in advance. Subscribe to their email newsletters and enable notifications on their apps to receive early alerts.

Many artists and promoters use presales tied to fan club memberships, credit card partnerships, or venue loyalty programs. For example, if you’re a fan of a specific band, joining their official fan club may grant you access to presale tickets up to 48–72 hours before the general public. These presales often have lower service fees and better seat selection, giving you a significant financial and positional advantage.

2. Use Verified Ticketing Platforms and Avoid Resellers

Always purchase tickets through official sources: the venue’s website, the artist’s official site, or authorized resellers like Ticketmaster, Live Nation, or AXS. Avoid third-party resellers such as StubHub, Vivid Seats, or SeatGeek unless you’re comparing prices as a last resort. These platforms often inflate prices by 50–300% due to demand and dynamic pricing algorithms.

When using official platforms, look for “Fan to Fan” resale options. These are managed by the venue or primary ticketing company and cap markups at a reasonable rate (usually 10–20% above face value). This ensures you’re not overpaying while still having flexibility if your preferred seats are sold out.

3. Leverage Student, Military, and Senior Discounts

Many Long Beach venues offer discounted tickets for students, active military personnel, veterans, and seniors. These discounts are often hidden—don’t assume they’re unavailable. For example, the Long Beach Arena frequently provides up to 20% off tickets for students with a valid .edu email address or ID card. Military personnel can often access special pricing through the Armed Forces Entertainment program.

To claim these discounts:

• Visit the venue’s “Tickets” page and look for “Discounts” or “Special Offers.”
• Call the box office directly and ask, “Do you offer any student, military, or senior discounts for this event?”
• Bring valid identification to the venue on the day of the show—some discounts are only honored at the will-call window.

Even if the website doesn’t advertise a discount, it’s worth asking. Many venues have unlisted promotions for local residents or community groups.

4. Attend Midweek or Off-Peak Shows

Concerts held on weekdays—especially Tuesday and Wednesday nights—are typically cheaper than Friday or Saturday performances. Venues want to fill seats during slower periods, so they often lower prices or offer bundled deals. For example, The Coffee House in Downtown Long Beach frequently runs “Midweek Music Nights” with $10–$15 cover charges for local acts, compared to $25–$40 on weekends.

Additionally, shows scheduled earlier in the evening (7–9 PM) are often priced lower than late-night events (10 PM+), which attract premium crowds and higher demand. If your schedule allows, choosing a Tuesday 8 PM show over a Saturday 11 PM show can save you 30–50% on ticket costs.

5. Bundle Tickets with Local Deals

Long Beach has a thriving local economy with many businesses offering concert-themed promotions. Restaurants, hotels, and shops often partner with venues to create bundled experiences. For instance:

• “Concert & Dinner Deal”: A restaurant near the Long Beach Performing Arts Center might offer a three-course meal for $35 with a ticket stub.
• “Stay & Rock”: A nearby hotel may offer a 15% discount on rooms for guests with a concert ticket.
• “Parking Pass + Ticket”: Some venues partner with parking garages to offer discounted parking rates when you show your ticket.

Check the venue’s “Plan Your Visit” page or search “[Venue Name] + Long Beach deals” on Google. Local blogs like Long Beach Post or Visit Long Beach often publish these partnerships weekly.

6. Join Venue Loyalty Programs

Most major venues in Long Beach operate loyalty or membership programs that reward repeat attendees. For example:

• The Long Beach Arena’s “Arena Insider” program gives members early access to tickets, exclusive merchandise discounts, and birthday perks.
• The Pike Outlets Amphitheater offers a “Pike Pass” for $49/year, granting members $5 off tickets to select shows and free entry to summer concerts.

These programs are usually free to join. Sign up using your email and phone number. Even if you only attend two or three shows a year, the cumulative savings on tickets, parking, and concessions can easily offset any annual fee.

7. Watch for Last-Minute Ticket Drops

Many venues release unsold tickets 24–48 hours before the show at discounted rates. These are often listed on the venue’s website under “Last Minute Deals” or “Flash Sales.” Some platforms, like Ticketmaster, even have a “Waitlist” feature that notifies you if tickets become available at a lower price.

Set up alerts on your phone or email for your favorite artists and venues. Use browser extensions like “Honey” or “Capital One Shopping” to track price drops automatically. If you’re flexible on seating, consider buying tickets in the back rows or upper levels—these are often the last to sell and can be 40–60% cheaper than front-row seats.

8. Use Cashback and Reward Apps

Several apps offer cashback or points when you purchase concert tickets. For example:

• Rakuten: Offers 2–5% cashback on Ticketmaster purchases.
• American Express Membership Rewards: Cardholders can redeem points for concert tickets through Amex’s online travel portal.
• Fetch Rewards: Scan your ticket receipt after the show to earn points redeemable for gift cards.

Combine these with credit cards that offer travel or entertainment rewards. Even if you’re not using a premium card, basic rewards cards can earn you 1–2% back on every ticket purchase. Over time, this adds up—especially if you attend multiple shows annually.

9. Attend Free or Low-Cost Community Events

Not all concerts in Long Beach require a ticket. The city hosts dozens of free live music events throughout the year:

• Long Beach Jazz Festival (June): Free outdoor performances at the Long Beach Convention Center.
• Friday Night Live at the Pike: Free concerts every Friday night during summer months.
• Beachside Serenades: Acoustic sets at Shoreline Village every Sunday afternoon.

These events feature local talent, emerging artists, and sometimes even regional headliners. While they may not have the production value of a sold-out arena show, they offer an authentic, immersive experience with zero ticket cost. Plus, you can bring your own food and drinks, avoiding expensive venue concessions.

10. Carpool or Use Public Transit to Avoid Parking Fees

Parking at Long Beach venues can cost $10–$25 per vehicle. Multiply that by multiple attendees, and it adds up fast. Save money by:

• Using the Long Beach Transit bus system, which has routes directly to major venues.
• Taking the Metro C Line to the Willow Street Station and transferring to a local shuttle.
• Organizing a carpool with friends—splitting gas and parking costs reduces individual expenses.
• Using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft during off-peak hours, which can be cheaper than parking fees.

Some venues, like the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, offer discounted parking if you arrive before 6 PM or after 10 PM. Always check the venue’s parking page for time-based rates and validation options.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

The most successful concertgoers in Long Beach don’t rigidly stick to one date or artist. Instead, they maintain a list of 5–10 preferred performers and monitor their touring schedules. When an artist announces a Long Beach date, they check multiple venues for availability, compare pricing, and consider alternative dates. Flexibility allows you to choose the most affordable option without sacrificing the experience.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Before you even begin searching for tickets, determine your maximum spending limit. Include ticket price, parking, food, drinks, and transportation. Once you hit your limit, stop browsing. Avoid impulse buys driven by FOMO (fear of missing out). A $150 ticket might seem like a bargain until you realize you’ve spent $300 total after fees and parking.

Verify Event Details Before Buying

Always double-check the date, time, venue, and seating section before completing your purchase. A common mistake is buying tickets for “Long Beach Arena” when the event is actually at “Toyota Arena”—two different locations with different pricing and parking rules. Misreading the venue name can lead to unexpected costs and travel delays.

Buy Tickets in the First 24 Hours of Sale

Contrary to popular belief, tickets don’t always get cheaper closer to the event. In fact, the best seats are often gone within minutes of the presale. Buying early ensures you get the best possible price and position. If you’re unsure about attending, look for venues that offer refundable or exchangeable tickets. Some platforms allow you to resell tickets at face value if your plans change.

Follow Local Music Blogs and Radio Stations

Local media outlets like KCRW Long Beach, The Long Beach Post, and 98.7 KLOS often feature upcoming shows before they’re widely advertised. These sources are invaluable for discovering hidden gems—local bands, underground DJs, or pop-up performances at non-traditional venues like the RMS Queen Mary or the Aquarium of the Pacific. These events are often free or low-cost and provide unique experiences you won’t find on mainstream ticketing sites.

Use Social Media Strategically

Follow venues and artists on Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok. Many artists run contests where followers can win free tickets by tagging friends, sharing posts, or answering trivia questions. For example, a local band might give away two tickets to the next show if you comment “Long Beach rocks!” with a photo of your favorite concert memory. These opportunities are time-sensitive but offer zero-cost entry to high-value events.

Bring Your Own Snacks and Water

Concession prices at Long Beach venues can be 3–5x higher than grocery store prices. A $12 soda and $15 nachos can double your total cost. Most venues allow sealed water bottles and small snacks (check the venue’s policy beforehand). Bring a reusable water bottle and a granola bar to save $20+ per person.

Attend Open Mic Nights and Local Showcases

Before an artist hits the big venues, they often perform at small clubs, coffee shops, or community centers. Places like The Local, The Basement, and The Gypsy Den host weekly open mic nights where you can see rising talent for $5–$10 cover. These shows are intimate, authentic, and often feature artists who later headline at the Long Beach Arena. Supporting local music not only saves money—it builds community.

Tools and Resources

Official Venue Websites

Always start with the primary source:

• Long Beach Arena: www.longbeacharena.com
• Toyota Arena: www.toyotaarena.com
• Long Beach Performing Arts Center: www.lbpac.org
• The Pike Outlets Amphitheater: www.thepike.com/events
• The Coffee House: www.thecoffeehouselb.com

These sites offer the most accurate schedules, discount codes, and parking information.

Discount Aggregators

These platforms scan multiple ticket sources to find the lowest prices:

• SeatGeek: Compares prices across platforms and shows price trends over time.
• TickPick: Offers a “No Fee” guarantee on select tickets.
• Bandcamp: For indie artists, many sell tickets directly with no markup.

Price Tracking Tools

Use these browser extensions and apps to monitor ticket prices:

• Honey: Automatically applies coupon codes at checkout.
• Keepa: Tracks price history for tickets on major platforms.
• Google Alerts: Set up alerts for “[Artist Name] + Long Beach tickets” to get email notifications.

Local Event Calendars

Stay updated with curated listings:

• Visit Long Beach: www.visitlongbeach.com/events
• Long Beach Post Events: www.longbeachpost.com/events
• Eventbrite (Long Beach): www.eventbrite.com/d/ca/long-beach/music--events

Public Transit & Parking Apps

Save on transportation:

• Long Beach Transit App: Real-time bus schedules and fare info.
• ParkMobile: Reserve and pay for parking spots in advance.
• Waze: Avoid traffic and find the cheapest parking near your venue.

Music Discovery Platforms

Find new artists and free shows:

• Spotify Discover Weekly: Personalized playlists based on your taste.
• SoundCloud: Search “Long Beach” to find local musicians.
• Facebook Events: Filter by “Music” and “Long Beach” for grassroots gigs.

Real Examples

Example 1: Saving $180 on a Taylor Swift Tour Stop

Jessica, a Long Beach college student, wanted to see Taylor Swift at the Long Beach Arena. The general sale price was $220. She:

• Joined Taylor’s fan club and secured presale access.
• Used her student ID to get a 15% discount through the venue’s student program.
• Used Rakuten to earn 3% cashback on her purchase.
• Brought her own water and snacks.
• Took the Long Beach Transit bus instead of parking.

Her total cost: $176 (ticket) + $0 (transport) + $0 (food) = $176. She saved $180 compared to buying at full price with parking and concessions.

Example 2: Free Concert Series on a $0 Budget

Marco, a recent graduate, wanted to enjoy live music without spending money. He:

• Attended “Friday Night Live at the Pike” every week in summer.
• Volunteered at the Long Beach Jazz Festival in exchange for a VIP pass to a free after-party.
• Discovered a local reggae band through Facebook Events and attended their monthly residency at The Local for $5 cover.
• Used Fetch Rewards to scan his ticket stubs and earned $15 in gift cards.

Over three months, Marco attended 14 live shows with zero ticket cost and even earned $15 in rewards.

Example 3: $50 vs. $200—The Power of Timing

David planned to see a headlining indie band at the Toyota Arena. He initially bought a $200 ticket two weeks before the show. Later, he noticed the venue posted a “Last Chance” sale: tickets in the upper balcony for $50. He switched his ticket, saved $150, and still had a great view. He also used a $10 parking coupon he found on the venue’s Instagram story.

FAQs

Can I get free tickets to concerts in Long Beach?

Yes. Many venues offer free concerts, especially during summer months. Events like Friday Night Live at the Pike, Beachside Serenades, and the Long Beach Jazz Festival are free to attend. Additionally, some artists give away tickets through social media contests or local radio promotions.

Are there student discounts for concerts in Long Beach?

Many venues offer student discounts—typically 10–20% off. You’ll need a valid student ID or .edu email. Always ask at the box office or check the venue’s website under “Discounts.”

What’s the best day of the week to buy concert tickets?

Ticket prices rarely change based on the day you buy them, but shows on Tuesday and Wednesday are often cheaper than Friday or Saturday. Buy tickets as soon as they go on sale to secure the best price and seating.

Do Long Beach venues offer payment plans?

Some venues, like the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, partner with Affirm or Klarna to offer installment plans for tickets over $100. Check the checkout page for “Pay in 4” or “Monthly Payments” options.

How can I avoid service fees on concert tickets?

Service fees are unavoidable on most platforms, but you can minimize them by:

• Purchasing directly from the venue’s box office (in person or phone).
• Using loyalty programs that waive fees for members.
• Choosing “Fan to Fan” resale options with capped fees.

Are parking fees negotiable at Long Beach concert venues?

Parking fees are usually fixed, but you can reduce them by:

• Arriving early or late for discounted rates.
• Using public transit or carpooling.
• Using apps like ParkMobile to find cheaper nearby lots.

Can I resell my concert ticket if I can’t attend?

Yes. Most venues allow resale through their official “Fan to Fan” platforms. Never sell on unauthorized third-party sites—this can void your ticket or lead to scams. Always use the venue’s official resale portal.

What should I do if a concert is canceled or postponed?

If an event is canceled, you’ll receive a full refund automatically through your original payment method. If it’s postponed, your ticket remains valid for the new date. Check the venue’s website for updates and contact their box office if you have questions.

Are there any hidden costs I should watch out for?

Absolutely. Watch for:

• Service fees (often 15–25% of ticket price).
• Parking fees ($10–$25).
• Concession markups (food and drinks can cost 3–5x more than retail).
• Delivery fees for e-tickets or physical tickets.

Always calculate your total cost before purchasing.

How early should I arrive for a concert in Long Beach?

Arrive at least 60–90 minutes before showtime if you need to park, go through security, or pick up will-call tickets. For free events, arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good spot. Popular venues like the Toyota Arena can have long lines, especially on weekends.

Conclusion

Saving money on concert venues in Long Beach isn’t about skipping the experience—it’s about making smarter, more informed choices. By researching early, leveraging discounts, using loyalty programs, and embracing free community events, you can enjoy the city’s thriving music scene without straining your budget. Whether you’re catching a world-famous artist at the Long Beach Arena or discovering a new local band at The Coffee House, the key is planning ahead and staying flexible.

The tools and strategies outlined in this guide have helped thousands of Long Beach residents attend more shows, spend less, and create lasting memories. Don’t let high prices deter you from live music. With the right approach, you can turn a $200 concert night into a $50 experience—or even a free one.

Start today: sign up for your favorite venue’s newsletter, download a cashback app, and check the event calendar for this weekend’s free show. The next great concert in Long Beach might be closer—and cheaper—than you think.