Friendly staff, pretty venue, top-notch acts. It was disappointing that the doors didn't open earlier (before the show). And, once we were allowed in, the food kiosks weren't ready to sell us dinner! No salads could be purchased because they were out of forks. (Seems to food service manager might need some retraining or better deputies.) Still, it was a lovely night with friendly folks who were SO happy to be back at public events quasi- post-COVID. Definitely support them and check out their line-up! (Consider bringing some of your own food, just in case they're not ready to serve you...) read more

I went to The Mann on Saturday night for Jaws with the Philadelphia Orchestra. I had first seen an advertisement on a billboard, and thought it sounded fun. When I got a promotional email about it a couple weeks later, I took it as a sign and bought tickets. There is a lot of language about how the shows are rain or shine and not all seats are covered. This scared me into spending over $50/each for covered seats. We arrived and I was really impressed with the cleanliness of the venue, variety of food and beverage options, and helpfulness of the staff. Our seats were in a balcony box which an usher helped us locate. It started out as a beautiful night, so when we needed a drink refill, we decided to relocate to the grassy area which is perfect for a picnic. Tip for lawn seaters: bring bug spray! We probably would have been fine had we stayed in our seats, but once we moved to the open air we were eaten alive. We made it almost to the end of the movie before the skies opened up, forcing us under cover. There were a lot of empty seats so we actually just grabbed the first ones we saw in a covered area. Ushers didn't seem to stop anyone from doing this though I'm sure it would be a different story with a more crowded event. My only complaint about the entire evening is that we had a hell of a time trying to access an Uber. There was traffic everywhere after the show and we had to walk in pouring rain across a soaked field to get to the main street where we'd have an easier time getting a car. Not sure if there's much that can be done about this but it's worth mentioning for anyone who plans to use a ride sharing app. I would definitely love to visit The Mann again for another casual event like the one we attended, but I'd likely chance it with the less expensive lawn seats. There's nothing like sitting outside on a beautiful summer night while enjoying some entertainment! read more

The mann is an institution in Philly, they attract a great lineup of music year after year. Most recently we saw the philly orchestra with a choir do the soundtrack to the lord of the rings as the movie played in the background. It was really outstanding.!!!! in the pasty I have recently seen Sigur Ros here as well at the city line stage which is at the top of the hill. To be honest it's just OK here. The city line stage if good, but it's sort of a makeshift stage with OK sound. The amphitheater is better but views are limited from the lawn and it only sounds soso. Funny thing is, hard core philly-philes will tell you it's the best place in the world t see a show. It's worth the experience and see what you think. I prefer classical music here by far. I am a big fan of the Philly orchestra and have to say the Kimmel might be the best sounding theater in the world....no lie!!! read more

Highmark Mann - Music Venues Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Fairmount Park has much to offer, and among its jewels is the Mann. Indeed, the Mann is one of our favorite music venues during the summer. The acoustics and sound system are terrific even if you are seated outside of the pavilion. On a recent visit, we saw Josh Groban--OMG, what a talent--and had such a thrill stargazing as he sang "Vincent" ("starry, starry night"). The views of Center City skyline are not half-bad either. If you have not ventured here for a performance, do yourself a favor and give it a try. P.S. If you arrive early, you can snag free street parking. read more

See all

Sound: The Mann Center has a nice sound system. In the seats the bass can be booming. But on the lawn it's well balanced. Comfort: The seats are fairly comfortable and the lawn is great in the summer. Just bring a comfortable blanket. Food/Drink: They have a good variety of beers and the food trucks at the top of the hill make the food selection great. Skip the concession stands near the stage. Overall: I really enjoy coming to the Mann Center. It's easily accessible and the parking is good. Great experience when they have a full day event. read more

Soap box, public service announcement first if you visit clean up after yourself. Iwould be a regular here if I lived in the area the seating is good, they are looking to upgrade but for if it changes the price of tickets I'd say don't. They allow picnics/food to be brought in even though they have food stalls, how generous. They allow byob even though they serve on site, again how generous. It was disappointing to see people leaving empties at their seats. They have staff handing paper towel for hand drying in the restroom, which is surprisingly clean, how nice. They have a water station so you can quickly fill your water bottle, how generous that you are not required to purchase water. I saw Star Wars with the philharmonic and it was incredible, a sold out show, I swear the wind picked up at the best of moments. The crowd cheered, laughed and heckled Vader at the same time. Parking is free for bikes, paid for cars....I hope it goes all to the venue for the great amenities they provide. read more

Highmark Mann - Music Venues Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

See all

I was at The Mann Center for Broadway's Best. Our tickets were amazing and the view was perfect. Although the venue is outdoors, there are ceiling fans if you are in the house. It made the humid night much more bearable. I loved that for this event you could bring your own picnic, including BYOB. The one mistake we made was we didn't bring cups to pour our canned drinks in. None of the locations will give you a cup (including if you buy a bottle water and ask for a cup with ice). The only way you can get a cup is if you buy a beer or wine (for a smaller cup). These aren't anything fancy. Just plastic cups that you could buy anywhere. Not even reusable plastic cups. That did turn us off a bit, especially considering how hot it was. It was also difficult to find the location for Lyft pick ups. There were signs, but they didn't really lead anywhere. It was quite confusing and no one was able to properly direct us. Luckily, our Lyft driver found us on the side of the road easily. Parking was $25 if you wanted to pay. read more

Really, this is a 4.5 star review, and I'm writing it because I scoured the internet trying to get info about the Mann before buying tickets for a show. Now it's my turn to share. Terrace seats. Yes, they're good. I wasn't sure if they would be. Higher up in the terrace you can see the lawn screen. I was in the first row, so I couldn't. The sightview is good. You are up high enough that people standing/dancing on the walkway in front you are not much of a visual interference. One issue is that, at my show anyway, people from the lawn area wander down and stay there to get a better view. The security team works hard to stop this, but it doesn't work very well. While they're trying, the sound of them shouting is a little disruptive, but it's also kind of entertaining. I know people just want to cut loose and enjoy themselves, but it IS distracting. At times I did feel like screaming, "Stop smoking and go back to the lawn, hill people!" At other times, their ridiculous hippie frolicking was kind of fun to watch. The venue is smaller than I imagined, based on photos and maps. I figured it was all sprawled out, but it really isn't. It's only a short walk from the gate to the food trucks at the top of the hill. You're not far from anything. And it's lovely. You park in the grass, so don't wear heels and do wear bug spray. Beer is pricey. I knew that going in. But you get a much smaller cup of beer than you get at Wells Fargo, for example. The lines for drinks isn't bad, but the lines for food are long. So long, in fact, that people waited for 10-15 minutes only to abandon their place in line and give up. This explains all the tailgating in the parking area. Having a bite to eat and an affordable drink before the show is not a bad idea. Parking. We arrived a little over an hour before the start of a sold out show and had no idea if that was early or late, as far as a good parking spot goes. Turns out it was pretty perfect. Granted, we left during the encore (so rude, I know, babysitter emergency) but we got out of there in four minutes. Had we stayed to the end... Eesh. I can imagine the place is a total mess to exit, even if you're in a good spot. And they tell you where to park. You have no say. So try to get there early. I would say if you want to feel close to the performer and have that immersive, no-distractions concert experience, spring for covered seats. If you want a festive summer concert experience with great sound, gentle breezes and great people-watching, the lawn or terrace is for you. The sound was great everywhere. You could actually hear what the performer (in this case Paul Simon) was saying when he talked, which is pretty rare at a concert. All in all, it's a great venue and I hope to return again soon. read more

Highmark Mann - Music Venues Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

See all

Pretty nice venue. Kinda reminds me of Susquehanna Bank Park on Camden with the majority of the seating being a roofed outdoor section and a small grass section. Went here to see a j. Cole concert. I found parking outside the venue which saved me $15 and the headaches of waiting in traffic after the let-out. Of course like any other venue, they sold expensive food and beers. They did have a Baby's Icecream stand. Every seat in house was a pretty good one. Bathrooms were somewhat clean. read more

Highmark Mann - Orchestra A row P at the j. Cole/wale show - Music Venues Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Pokemon Orchestra!! A good amount of lawn parking. Watch out for birds that will poop on you during the show! We sat in the B section even though it's undercovers. Everyone was wondering if people were throwing things or what was dropping during the show until intermission. read more

The Mann Center for the Performing Arts (full moniker) opened in 1976 in West Fairmount Park. It is one of the finest outdoor music venues in the USA, with room for about 14,000 people, both inside under the roof, and outside on the grass knoll. There is no question that it brings life to this part of the city, especially at night, when the sound from a loud band or orchestra can be heard well into the surrounding streets of West Philly. I was there the other night with my teenage son, who was attending his first concert. A right of passage from one generation to the next, I was transporting him to see/listen to Kid Cudi (Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi), a rap, reggae, original actor and hipster, where I had previously gone to see Stevie Ray Vaughan, Roger Daltry and Robert Cray. I was happy to be passing the baton. The venue hasn't changed much in the past 40 years. It is still an awesome place to listen to music, and mix with like-minded heads. The place was sold out and had the expected carnival atmosphere before, during and after the show. There was enough haze generated to give everyone within a half mile a contact high. Everyone inhaled. The show was great. Kid Cudi is a first rate musician and showman. He played for about 90 minutes, despite coming on stage about an hour late. His band was tight, and all the singers, lights and stagecraft contributed to a first rate experience. Wasn't sure I would like his style, but he was way better in person than listening to him on recordings or watching his videos. He had everyone moving and shouting for more. Most of the main boulevards in the nearby park were closed to traffic, and it took a while to find our way to the parking area and the main entrance. There was a heavy police presence in the park just in case, but they did not interfere in any way with the happening. At the end of the evening, my son and his friend were exhausted from all their singing and dancing, not to mention the inebriants in the air. They had a great time, and scored Kid Cudi T-shirts as memorabilia. Just hope The Mann is around when my grandchildren are ready to boogie! read more

I've been to the Mann a few times and have found it a fine place to catch a show or a concert, but I wanted to specifically shout out a wonderful usher. My friend and I arrived at the Robyn show last night JUST as a crazy storm hit and everyone was brought under the roof. We were soaked, confused as to what was going on and where we should go and an usher named Marilyn was extremely helpful, courteous, and pretty much made our night better. I know staff don't often get praised when they deserve it, so I really wanted to highlight her here. Again, the venue is great, but kudos to a terrific staffer who is VERY good at her job! read more

A great idea... if the weather is nice. When it's like 90 degrees and humid there's no climate control, and this place gets really really packed. You're taking a gamble with the lawn seating, since there's nothing to shield you on rainy days. When the temperature eventually cools later, it becomes a nice summer night. There's beer, cocktails, and Rita's water ice on premise at an upcharge, but that's to be excited. The performance itself was really great. We came for Harry Potter, and half the time I had to remind myself that the music was from a live orchestra! Will definitely visit again. read more

I love the Mann Center. When I am able to see a show here I am always happy. Ample parking. ($20 a pop though). The venue is clean. Many food and drink options. Love the skyline stage as well. read more

This was my first time at the Mann Center for a Robert Plant concert. My companions and I were dropped off, and we were not given any trouble by the people collecting money for the parking. It was $25 to park, which I thought was pretty high for not being in the actual city. My concert friends told me last time it was $30 to park for when they went to see the Grease concert a few weeks prior. They also mentioned the concessions were more expensive that visit. I'm guessing the more popular the concert, the "less expensive" the parking and concessions are. The employees at the gates, concession stands, and ushers were pleasant enough. The bathrooms were clean. The venue was beautiful. I enjoyed seeing the city skyline at night. If you're going to order food, I recommend going to the upper level where the food trucks are. The negative came after the concert. There were no police escorts or anyone from the Mann properly directing traffic out of the place. My fiancé was at a stand still in the Mann for 20 minutes trying to pick us up. He ended up pulling over onto the grass, and we walked to him then waited for the traffic to die down since it was crazy there. It rained the previous night so the whole place was muddy, and there were giant ditches in the ground that you could twist your ankle on. If you do come to the Mann Center, I recommend waiting in the parking lot before trying to rush out right away because you won't get very far. read more

See all

This music and event pavilion has by far the worst coffee I've ever tasted. Disappointed.

I was here recently for the Ben Folds and Cake concert, which was the first time seeing a show here. The venue is very nice... essentially it is a covered stage with a very high roof and seating area with open sides so you can look out into the park but still have protection from the weather. When you first walk in they have an area for vendors to sell beverages and food. We did have to pay for parking which I guess isn't unexpected. Overall I enjoyed the atmosphere.. Philadelphia is a great place for music and this place is one of the reasons why. read more

My experience at the Roots Picnic located at the Mann Center on June 1, 2019, was a horrific experience. There was an altercation on the Main Stage where a stampede broke out. Hundreds of people began running towards the picnic area where I was laying on a blanket with a friend. We had to run out the way. Many were trampled, children were separated from the parents and many were hurt. This in itself is bad enough, but the venue's response to this situation was abhorrent. There was no communication between the venue and the guests. Many guests were injured but the venue did not communicate where the guests should receive first aid, nor did the venue inform the guests where to retrieve lost items or notify us on what caused the stampede. The only announcement that was made was that missing children should report to the stage under the yellow ATM sign. No other announcements were made. Everyone was scared and confused and didn't know what to do or where to go. After the stampede, the park grounds were littered with debris. Food, water, soda bottles, napkins, shoes, broken cell phones, car keys, purses and other personal items of the terrified patrons littered the grounds. The park looked like a war zone. What made the situation worse is that the venue began to continue the concert as if nothing took place! Music began to rail, a DJ began to perform. I was in complete shock! People were hurt, bleeding and some having panic attacks and we still did not know what caused the situation! The park was now filthy and we could not sit. We felt unsafe and bewildered by what took place at the Mann Center. We asked several staff members what caused the stampede. We heard rumors from the stage collapsing, to a fight near the stage. We decided to speak with someone of authority voice our concerns and leave the venue. Once we arrived at the exit, we spoke with a staff member who told us what took place at the stage. We were told that there was a fight, a gun was waved, and a person was stabbed! We went to the box office to receive a refund and were told that the police deemed the scene safe, the concert will continue and therefore we will not receive a refund. People were still injured and didn't receive first aid. Guests could not find their personal belongings and a decision was made that the show would continue? Not only was there chaos at the park, how can an event be safe if the security at the entrance of the park allows individuals in with guns and knives? We left the venue shocked, by not only what took place, but by the way the guests were treated in the aftermath. The guests were treated inhumanely by the Mann Center and am appalled and traumatized by the experience. read more

Attended an event at the Mann tonight and it was a disappointment. Parking poor communication pulled into multiple lots that were already full was a nightmare trying to turn around to get out. Finally parked about a mile away for $25. Seating study a map of the space before you go because trying to find someone to direct you to your seats is almost impossible. We sat in the balcony section which was extremely hot. Probably ok on a cooler night view of stage was good. Security didn't see much at all and honestly if you had any type of issue finding someone that worked there that could help would be a challenge. It really is a nice space I think the main issue is really just lack of staff! read more

The Mann experience was terrible. Ran out of handicapped parking. Only 2 rows. Everything is up hill. Only a few ppl directing traffic jam to get in. In addition, walking on the grass is terrible and dangerous. Numerous holes some a foot deep you can't see them bec of the grass filled in. I sprained my ankle. Not enough restrooms. One of the worst venues I've been to.These people do not care about the people, just the $. read more

Nice venue. What you'd expect for a big city outdoor pavilion. I get that concerts aren't cheap anymore at a place like this. But $25 for parking...it's just too much. The Mann is just taking advantage. Period. Pigs. Then I pay $30 for a small wrap, a hotdog, a Pepsi and a water. Ok...I get it...everyone overcharges at venues. At least let the hot dog not be a cold dog on a stale hard bun, and the fries be warm. Just lousy staffing that doesn't care. Make a bunch of everything, and let it sit to sell. No...not at $30...think a bit, or get a real warmer. Inexcusable for a pricey night out. Don't get the house food when you walk in like I did...head up top for the food trucks. Even pricier, but it looks fresher and better quality. read more

Watching Star wars with my hubby & son and those FABULOUS Philadelphians. Our orchestra is better than the one who accompanied the original film! Did I mention that our Philadelphia Orchestra is FABULOUS? read more

Great setting. Easy parking as well. Food at base of concert area is terrible. Didn't see the food up top. Seemed better. My only complaint. Why are beers so big? It's just stupid. Offer 16 oz at min. read more

No food choices available 30 minutes BEFORE the show starts, ever heard of planning ahead! Saw people getting other choices if they waited, no one said anything about waiting for other options, would have been nice to be informed, in addition to the Dixie cup serving of wine for $11, now I know why I don't buy food there!! Very disappointed! read more

Philly Is so dangerous these days, yet my dumbass kids still insist on going into Philly to see concerts. Two more cops shot on the 4th of July. Can't Big Time Rush go to a smaller venue like the Arts Center and just charge more for tickets? Anyway, the Mann is on the outskirts and is in a little safer area than lets say ,the Filmore, which is right in the middle of the car jackings. 4 per day! The kids enjoyed the show. I do like Carlos PenaVega. Seems to be a nice young man. read more

A friend invited me to the Mann for the sold-out show for Fun last night, completely last minute. I'd been dying to go to this show, so I jumped at the chance. The Mann really packs a wallop, sound-wise. I had never had a lawn seat for a concert and I was afraid the acoustics would suffer, but I was totally wrong. I felt like I was standing next to the stage. Fun put on a fantastic show and the Mann has a great screen for everyone who is too high up to see the band properly. The tickets were really reasonable, especially because of the band-- only $30 for the lawn. Definitely worth it. Food- and drink-wise, the Mann's prices were pretty typical arena fare, but there was a "local" beer garden and a few Philly food trucks, which totally stole the show. More variety and tastes? I'm in. My only complaint is the parking. The Mann's in West Philly-- there's really no other place to park, unless you want to leave your car at the Belmont Plateau. Parking's $15, which is a lot of money when you don't have any other choice. Honestly, if you had to pick, park at the plateau and walk over to the arena, just make sure you bring a large group of people, because it's dark. Also, it's an absolute MADHOUSE to get out. I was lucky-- my car was in a spot next to the road, so I got out a little earlier than others. If you have to park in the lot, park as close to the Belmont/Montgomery Ave exit and go that way. It's less backed up than the Belmont/Girard side's exit. read more

The Mann defines summer for me! It's a really fantastic place to see a show. - If you can, drive to the box office to get tickets. The fees to purchase online are RIDICULOUS. - If it's an orchestra show you can bring your own alcohol and food. Definitely worth it! Even if you have lawn seats - bring a blanket, some food, and beer beforehand and have a picnic! - Bring bug spray if you have lawn seats - Hike up the hill. You won't be disappointed. The view is one of the best in Philly. - Parking is pricey and the traffic jam afterwards is a nightmare. Take the SEPTA shuttle. It's usually on time and it's an easy ride. - The line for the bathroom gets ridiculous for the ladies. Keep that in mind - time your visit either just before an intermission. - Beer is pricey, but they are generally large drafts and they have a good selection. read more

The Mann is so close to my house. And by close, I mean a 10 minute bike ride. I've been wanting to go for years, and I can't believe it took me that long! Fireworks will get me just about anywhere, and I love the orchestra, too. All I can say is - about damn perfect. And easy bike up, a blanket on the lawn, and while it was crowded, people were feeling pretty generous and accommodating. We had a nice picnic and a few bottles of wine, and I remembered a pillow to crash out and watch the stars appear. It was filled with children. And while they were really quite behaved, it was filled with children. My guess is that it is less so on a night that doesn't include fireworks, or for non-orchestra performances. I long for the good old days I never experienced, before the Tweeter Center, when the Mann got all the good shows. I'll be coming back. read more

The Lawn. The music. The picnic basket. The Summer. The traffic jam getting outta there. The bugspray (bring some) The Mann. read more

I attended my first concert at the Mann Center last night. I was extremely confused about how the set up would be so I thought it would be important to mention this first. There are two stages: the main stage and the Skyline stage. Even after asking friends and reading reviews, I was still a little confused about how everything would be set up. As I learned yesterday, the Skyline Stage is a totally different stage within the Mann Center. It is general admission and "standing room only". Rules may vary per event, but for the Sara Bareilles show no chairs were allowed. There are not seats, there were never seats. The seated concerts are at the main stage only. The lawn in front of the Skyline Stage allowed patrons to create their own scene. While some folks, myself included, rushed the stage to get into the front row, the majority of people brought blankets and lounged on the lawn. I like that you had the opportunity to pick your pleasure. Now I'm assuming by the time the main act went on that most people were standing, but if you had the blanket space you could probably remain seated if you were interested in watching the show. This has been said before but while the Mann Center is a venue it is also located in Fairmount Park. Bug spray would be a wise choice. The rules for this vary as well but sometimes you can bring outside food and beverage but for this particular show, it was one unopened bottle of water per person. I didn't eat while I was there but Local 215, Mamma's Meatballs and the Farm Truck were all on site to sell food. There was a craft beer bar all the way back by the bathrooms and the main stage. I didn't take a look but at point my husband came back to our spots with a Dogfishhead 60 Minute IPA that only cost $8. I don't think that's too horrible. The acoustics of the Skyline stage were pretty good. Sometimes you get a blurred sound up close, but the entire concert was crystal clear. The security man working the rail was also pretty chill. My only grip was with my pre-doors experience. An organized line had formed starting at the gate, stretching down to the close edge of the parking lot and then made a turn towards Parkside Avenue. I believe it looped and stretched pretty far out. About 15 minutes prior to the doors opening, everyone got up and rather than staying in line, the single file line fell apart and people moved into multiple lines. I ended up much closer to the gate because of the newly formed multiple lines, but it really wasn't fair to the people who were there before me. However since no one was playing by the basic rules of lining up, I wasn't going to be the one person to regulate a mob or follow the rules. During our wait in line, different door opening times were floating around the crowed. The staff didn't seem too well informed about the times either because we got multiple answers for different staff members. The Skyline Stage is a great place to see a concert and I look forward to returning someday for another show. read more

See all

We went to the Mann this past Saturday, August 15 to catch the John Legend show and arrived at 630 per the advice on the website to try out Crescendo - the Stephen Starr catered tent before the show, so the review is divided into two parts one for the catering tent, the second for the Mann music venue itself. Mann Center Reminiscent of Wolf Trap in Northern Virginia, the Mann is a great venue with a mix of indoor and outdoor space. The stage and orchestra-seating sections lie within a massive, acoustic structure while the terrace-seating and lawns are set behind on the hill with a clear view down to the stage, though it is a bit far away. John Legend looked pretty small from here, but the sound was terrific. We moved a little closer in towards the end of the show and found the sound-quality was richer inside the structure, with more warmth and atmosphere as you could hear the audience singing back. I would absolutely come back for a show here, but the schedule looks a little light from here on out. June and July looked like heavier months. Crescendo This Stephen Starr production is a little more than a suped-up wedding tent with an amazing view of Philadelphia. Beyond it's visual appeal, the catering experience sold as 'fine dining' doesn't quite do it. Pros -Convenient -Decent food -Great and unique view of Philadelphia Cons -Price ($45 pp before expensive drinks) -Food is only decent and choice buffet items run out before end (dessert in our case was the 2nd team) -Terrible Bar - they bill this a full-service bar, but it's really a catering set-up and they stretch a little too far given the alcohol and mixers supply they have to create cocktails they really shouldn't. Case in point, my wife's disastrous margarita - a tepid blend of Cuervo and Sour Mix that sent a shiver up her spine with each sip. Also, fine dining should have more than the choice of red or white when it comes to wine. -Bad service read more

You know what's kind of awesome? Riding your bike on a beautiful summer evening with some fantastic people, some delicious homemade food and a couple bottles of chilled white wine to see a Philadelphia Orchestra performance. With Fireworks! The stage and surrounding structure are beautiful, and fit the wooded surroundings of Fairmount Park quite nicely. Despite it being a corporately funded venue with multiple concession locations, nothing feels too intrusive, and with a fairly lenient carry-in policy and some planning, you shouldn't even need to visit them. My friends and I copped a lawn spot to catch the Philly Orchestra perform a number of Tchaikovsky pieces and we stuck around for the fireworks show at the end. Both were executed very well and contributed to a wonderful evening. The quick breakdown: Pluses -Lovely setting -Fairly cheap tickets (at least for Orchestra events) -Food/Drink carry-ins allowed (again, Orchestra events) -Not in New Jersey Minuses -The Orchestra can be difficult to hear at the far end of the lawn -Kids as far as the eye can see This experience was a highlight of my summer so far. I highly recommend that anyone who likes the symphony try to make it out to the Mann for one of the summer concert series. read more

The Mann Center is a lovely outdoor location to watch a show...as long as the weather holds out. As their emails and website says, "All shows are rain or shine." What they fail to mention is woe betide unto those sitting out on the lawn if it does rain. Some friends and I attended a concert this past weekend, and we were subjected to torrential downpours...with lawn seats. We attempted to seek shelter under the covered area, generally out of the way of the other patrons, and not blocking any of the walkways. We were rousted, twice, by unsympathetic Mann staff while they made periodic sweeps through the center, instructing us to return to the deluge. Other patrons were told the same, although some were permitted to sit on the concrete steps, apparently. Selective rousting, I guess. It wasn't even as if the people were being rowdy at the show. Everyone was just standing around, sheltering from the storm. The staff didn't care, however. Not even a sympathetic "Sorry, I know it sucks, but we have to do this." I expect that on a clear evening, the experience could be quite nice, particularly for a live orchestral performance. But aside from that, I doubt I'd go back. Certainly, I wouldn't chance further dealings with the rather obnoxious staff, and definitely not for the prices we paid. (Lawn seats for this show were $40 per person.) read more

I've been to the Mann Center three times, seeing the Decemberists, Death Cab for Cutie, and R.E.M. It's a great outdoor venue for somewhat upscale summer concerts. I'm used to going to indie concerts with standing room only and a packed crowd, so it really is a luxury to be able to sit down and enjoy the show fully. The Mann attracts some big name artists along with their traditional classical music concerts with orchestras and solo performers. Over the last few years, the Mann has been adding some more "hip" and "popular" mainstream bands into the lineup, like the ones that I have seen. Look for more such bands in following summers... The Mann is a bit pricey for my budget though. For the concerts I've been to, I have bought the cheapest seated tickets, which have been around $40-50 (they do have lawn seating). If you do go the economic route, I suggest buying early and requesting the balcony box seats: they have a fabulous bird's eye and unobstructed view of the stage, plus they come in under the lowest price package. They do sell food and refreshments at their concerts, but everything is way too expensive, like professional sports game food and drink. They have some fine dinning restaurants on site, but I have not ventured to try them. The acoustics are not great at the Mann. In the words of Ben Gibbard (Death Cab for Cutie), the Mann is "really boom-y". The sound is full but slightly echos in the huge enclosed wooden structure. I was not impressed by the acoustics but I didn't expect to be impressed by a large outdoor venue like the Mann. In conclusion, if an artist you love is coming to the Mann Center, by all means get tickets and go. I am pretty sure you will enjoy it! read more

I'm listening to The Suburbs and trying not to start singing and dancing in my cubicle, so a review of the Mann will have to suffice. I saw Spoon & Arcade Fire here back in August. O. M. G. Incredible show. But this isn't Pitchfork, so if you really care to hear my thoughts, pm me. We had lawn tickets because our thin wallets weren't willing to pay for the nice seats. We did figure out that the green chairs outside of the pavilion were fair game if you had lawn tickets, FYI. It feels a little too much like the Tweeter Center (or whatever it's called these days), but I appreciate that they don't necessarily put on the same type of shows that Tweeter or whatever puts on. It's odd seeing an evening show that starts when it's still light out. Spoon played first, and it didn't seem like people were really paying attention, i think because it was still light out. But, whatever. I'll pay the money to see an awesome show here again. read more

Kinda cool, kinda strange. That's how I'd describe this venue. I just got back from the Jimmy Eat World show. The band rocked, but the venue itself is just weird. It is basically like someone's big backyard. I'd prefer to have the option between seats or the lawn, but for this particular concert only the lawn was utilized. As the lawn is about 1/50th the size of the lawn at the Susquehanna bank center,which makes of a nice intimate feel. The parking situation sucks, and even though there were about 60 people working the parking, none of them knew where I send us, which resulted in us driving in a circle about 5 times. The traffic in or out wasn't a problem at all for us. I guess we got lucky! The Mann's proximity to 676 makes it pretty accessible from most of the city. read more

Parking extraordinarily high ($20.00), and the lot is dim (It's actually in the woods) During a recent flash flood, several cars had to be towed out of high ruts. Several others were stuck in an ersatz flood plain. Be mindful of where you park, as there are no direction signs or parking area indicators- and, on a dark rainy night it's quite easy to get disoriented. I counted 6 couples that had just "lost" their cars. Funny that there were many folks available to take money at beginning of show- yet so very few people at end of show to help lost souls. Additionally, there are incredible traffic jams coming into and leaving the venue. Police traffic assistance? Shoddy at best. Given that the Mann (Robin Hood Dell West) has been around since the late 70's- One would think these issues would have been solved by now. FYI- Add one hour to any car based plan to come here. For any MANN center stakeholder than comes upon this- A simple solution- A safe, well lit remote lot serviced by some Nat Gas or Hybrid Buses. (This would be a great 2nd/after hours use of the Philly Flash) read more

I went to see Foster the People here about 2 years ago. Here's what I remember about the Venue: They check your bags for any outside liquid or food. Although they don't give you a pat down like some venues do. The safest way to get from there to Center City is to ride the 40 bus (2nd via Lombard St), which stops on Parkside Ave (just follow the crowd of people) . If you're trying to get to City Hall/Market st, get off of the 40 when it hits 40th & Market and get on the MFL (which stops at 12:20, so if it's later than that get on the Owl). The bus will be CATTLE PACKED, but it's a lot safer than standing at 52nd & Lancaster while waiting for the 10 trolley. If you're driving, the parking situation is horrid and you're better off parking in the neighborhood. Getting out of the venue if you drove is a guaranteed hour and a half long wait. You also run the risk of having your car broken into there since the staff can't manage the huge grass lot they have, which is why I say you might as well park (CLOSE TO THE VENUE) but in the neighborhood. If you're trying to find a parking spot (something hard to do here), make sure you get there at least an hour before the concert starts. The bathroom situation is dreadful and if you like standing in long lines then this is the place to do so. Beer and food is overpriced (as usual) and it sucks that you can only eat the venue's beer. It can get a little chilly at night, and if you're not much of a dancer, I'd bring a light hoody to wear because you will be cold. Good acoustics not too loud and not too soft. read more

Summer means a lot of things, but it means especially outdoor music concerts at the Mann. The venue is spacious and intimate both at once, and even with a packed house it never feels crowded. The views from almost all areas of the interior are very good, and access to bars and restrooms is well thought out. Sound is always very solid. Grounds, seats are clean. Of course, like all concert venues - the food is absolutely abysmal. The veggie burger I ordered did not come with any of the toppings as listed, and was barely edible. Variety of beers available could also be seriously improved. Lastly, being able to reach the venue on public transport is one of my few laments. Driving to and fro isn't too horrible if you park as far as you can from the venue and are able to slip away after the performance. read more

I love the Mann. As summer approaches every year, it has become a tradition that I immediately check out the Mann lineup desperately hoping there are shows I want to see and thrilled when there are. Things I love about the mann 1. Great food and drink options 2. It's not dirty 3. It's an open air amphitheater 4. Has a great lawn where for certain shows you can bring your own picnic including food and drink. 5. One of the best views of the city from the top of the hill. If you've never seen a show at the Mann, do yourself a favor and go! read more