Merriweather Post Pavilion
Capacity is 19,319.
Some events here are sold only by the venue or the club. Merriweather Post Pavilion official site
Upcoming shows and schedule
There are currently no confirmed tour dates on the immediate calendar for Merriweather Post Pavilion. Check back regularly as newly announced tour legs and ticket allocations are added following promoter releases.
Area and accommodation
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Upcoming events at Merriweather Post Pavilion
No upcoming events listed
There are currently no tickets listed for this venue. Check back soon for newly announced tour dates.
What time do doors open at Merriweather Post Pavilion?
When planning your visit to the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, it’s wise to check door opening times specific to your event, as these can vary, but typically doors open 60-90 minutes before the scheduled start.
Door times vary by event — check your ticket or the venue's own website on the day.
About Merriweather Post Pavilion: Layout, History & Architecture
Designed by the acclaimed architect Frank Gehry, Merriweather Post Pavilion first opened its doors in 1967. Originally conceived as a summer home for the National Symphony Orchestra, this outdoor amphitheater is a distinctive example of modernist design, characterized by its iconic curvilinear roof. The hall boasts a total capacity of approximately 19,500 patrons, divided between 6,500 fixed seats within the covered pavilion and an expansive 13,000-person general admission lawn.
The covered section features a direct sightline to the stage, with seating arranged in a traditional theatre-style configuration. Beyond the fixed seating, the gently sloped lawn offers an open-air viewing experience, though visibility can diminish towards the rear, particularly during sold-out standing events. As an outdoor performance space, the space relies significantly on its professional sound reinforcement systems. While the canopy aids in directing sound to the covered seats, the overall acoustic quality is a function of the sound engineering for each specific performance, typical of large-scale outdoor venues rather than an enclosed, acoustically engineered concert hall.
The Live Experience & Current Schedule
Ingress to the amphitheater is facilitated through multiple gate points around the perimeter, which can experience significant queues during peak arrival times. Once inside, patrons will find various concession stands and bars distributed across the venue grounds, offering refreshments. The experience varies markedly between the dense standing pit immediately in front of the stage, the clear views from the fixed covered seating, and the more relaxed, expansive atmosphere of the general admission lawn. Crowd energy on the lawn is often lively, while covered seating offers a more direct, seated concert experience.
With 0 live performances scheduled, upcoming entry prices start from standard pricing. The next confirmed event on the calendar is upcoming live performances on soon.
How do I get to Merriweather Post Pavilion, Columbia?
Merriweather Post Pavilion is at 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21044, USA. Open in Google Maps
By train and tube
The nearest mainline rail connection is the BWI Marshall Airport Rail Station, served by Amtrak and the MARC Penn Line. From the BWI Rail Station, Merriweather Post Pavilion is approximately an 11-mile journey. A taxi or rideshare service is the most practical option, typically taking 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Direct public bus connections from BWI to Columbia require transfers and significant travel time.
- Bus & Public Transit: The Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) of Central Maryland operates bus services within Columbia. RTA Route 407 (Columbia Circulator) provides service to The Mall in Columbia, which is approximately a 15-minute walk south-east from the venue along Little Patuxent Parkway. Other RTA routes serve the broader Columbia area, connecting to the Mall, a central transit hub.
- Parking: Several official parking options are available. The Merriweather Post Pavilion provides on-site parking in its East and West lots, often requiring pre-purchased passes. The Symphony Woods Garage and various garages at The Mall in Columbia (located a 15-minute walk south-east) also offer event parking; fees apply, and advance booking via the venue’s official channels is strongly recommended to guarantee a space and avoid congestion.
- Entry & Doors: Entry gates are positioned at various points along the venue's perimeter. Security procedures include bag checks (a clear bag policy is typically enforced, with restrictions on bag size) and metal detector screening. For popular events, it is advisable to arrive 60-90 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to allow ample time for entry, especially if collecting tickets from the box office.
By bus
The Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) of Central Maryland operates bus services within Columbia. RTA Route 407 (Columbia Circulator) provides service to The Mall in Columbia, which is approximately a 15-minute walk south-east from the venue along Little Patuxent Parkway. Other RTA routes serve the broader Columbia area, connecting to the Mall, a central transit hub.
- Parking: Several official parking options are available. The Merriweather Post Pavilion provides on-site parking in its East and West lots, often requiring pre-purchased passes. The Symphony Woods Garage and various garages at The Mall in Columbia (located a 15-minute walk south-east) also offer event parking; fees apply, and advance booking via the venue’s official channels is strongly recommended to guarantee a space and avoid congestion.
- Entry & Doors: Entry gates are positioned at various points along the venue's perimeter. Security procedures include bag checks (a clear bag policy is typically enforced, with restrictions on bag size) and metal detector screening. For popular events, it is advisable to arrive 60-90 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to allow ample time for entry, especially if collecting tickets from the box office.
By car and parking
Several official parking options are available. The Merriweather Post Pavilion provides on-site parking in its East and West lots, often requiring pre-purchased passes. The Symphony Woods Garage and various garages at The Mall in Columbia (located a 15-minute walk south-east) also offer event parking; fees apply, and advance booking via the venue’s official channels is strongly recommended to guarantee a space and avoid congestion.
- Entry & Doors: Entry gates are positioned at various points along the venue's perimeter. Security procedures include bag checks (a clear bag policy is typically enforced, with restrictions on bag size) and metal detector screening. For popular events, it is advisable to arrive 60-90 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to allow ample time for entry, especially if collecting tickets from the box office.
Accessibility
The Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia strives to be accessible to all patrons. Wheelchair access is generally provided to all main areas, including entrances, concourses, and specific seating locations offering excellent views. Accessible toilet facilities are available throughout the venue, equipped to a high standard. For those with hearing impairments, induction loop systems may be in place at key service points like the box office and bars; patrons are advised to enquire about availability for specific events. Assistance dogs and registered service animals are typically welcomed. Dedicated accessible parking bays are situated in the nearest car parks, providing convenient access. Venue staff are trained to offer assistance and can be approached for help with directions, seating, or any other needs.
Entry and security
Entry gates are positioned at various points along the venue's perimeter. Security procedures include bag checks (a clear bag policy is typically enforced, with restrictions on bag size) and metal detector screening. For popular events, it is advisable to arrive 60-90 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to allow ample time for entry, especially if collecting tickets from the box office.