First BA Guide Post- Shoreline Amphitheatre

OMG, I wish I had a picture. I've been to Shoreline MANY times, it would make sense that I would have a picture, but I don't. My husband and I have seen such awesome names as James Taylor, The Who, Beach Boys, Gwen Stefani, Sheryl Crow and (hello!) John Mayer. Twice. Anywho. Shoreline is located in Mountain View, which is just South of Palo Alto. The actual Amphitheatre is probably called "Shoreline" because it's built on the outskirts of a little marshy slough area right in the South Bay. You will know you are there from a 1/4 of a mile away because you can spot the unmistakeable white tent-like structures that cover the stage. They're kind of Saarinen-esque. There's a picture here at their website (along with information on every upcoming show).

The Shoreline experience, IMHO, can only be experienced one way: on the lawn. I've tried sitting in the seats which line the front rows of the Amphitheatre. I thought, "Heh-heh. Now I'll get to see the artist more close-up!". Wrong. Unless you have front row tickets (lucky you!), buy lawn seats. You get to bring a blanket, some food; you get to stretch out, be comfortable: it's the only way to go. And I can't believe I haven't yet mentioned the Jumbo Screens that project images of the artist on stage! You totally have to arrive at the concert AS SOON AS THE GATES OPEN! Get to the lawn as fast as you can and stake out your bit of land right in front of one of the screens. You may be sitting for hours guarding your blanket, but those hours will be worth it when you're enjoying the best concert of your life. Come on! Bring a book and have a picnic!

Shoreline is a great venue for concerts, and it draws all the big names and festivals. There's also a park attached, if you'd like to come back on a non-concert day and paddleboat on the lake or bike ride. I think there's a doggie park, too. It's a great location in the Bay Area and one well worth checking out.

Look for another Bay Area Guide Posting soon. And you'll definitely see more on Beads!

TTFN.