If you’re as excited as I am about the upcoming summer spectacle, this piece on the Olympics 2028 venues is for you. We’re talking about the big one — the 2028 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXXIV Olympiad — set to unfold in the sprawling, sun-soaked playground of Los Angeles and beyond. I’ll walk you through where the action will be, the vibe of the venues, and what makes this edition a little different. Let’s be real, this isn’t just about sports — it’s about atmosphere, culture, and that iconic LA energy.
The Host City: Los Angeles Takes the Stage Again
Yes, Los Angeles is doing it again. After hosting the Summer Games in 1932 and 1984, the city will welcome the world once more in 2028. The event is scheduled to run from July 14 to July 30, 2028.
What’s unique this time is how the organizers are reimagining what an Olympic setup looks like. Instead of building massive new structures, LA28 is embracing sustainability and efficiency by reusing existing venues. It’s a move that makes sense financially, environmentally, and logistically — plus, it gives the Games a more authentic local feel.
The city’s diverse neighborhoods and natural landscapes will set the scene for everything from world-class stadiums to beachside competitions. It’s very “LA” — big, bold, and full of character.
Understanding the Olympics 2028 Venues
When we talk about Olympics 2028 venues, we’re not just listing places where athletes compete. These spaces are where energy, culture, and competition collide. The lineup includes more than 40 venues across Greater Los Angeles, making this one of the most geographically diverse Olympics in modern history.
Each location reflects a piece of Southern California — from the urban heart of downtown to the relaxed charm of the coast. And honestly, that’s what makes these venues special. They’re not just built for the Games; they’re built into the city.
Iconic Stadiums and Classic Locations
Let’s start with the legends. Los Angeles already has some of the world’s most recognizable sports arenas, and many will play major roles in 2028.
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum – A true icon, this stadium has already hosted two previous Olympics. It’s steeped in history and will once again serve as a centerpiece for key events.
SoFi Stadium – The ultra-modern home of the LA Rams and Chargers will host major competitions and ceremonies. Its massive LED roof and futuristic design make it one of the most advanced venues in the world.
Rose Bowl – Located in Pasadena, this historic arena will likely host football matches and other large-scale events. It’s an American classic, and its open-air setup is perfect for LA’s summer climate.
These major venues give the Games an instant dose of prestige — and because they’re already built, LA can focus on delivering memorable experiences rather than managing new construction.
The Unique and Unconventional Venues
Now here’s where things get really interesting. The Olympics 2028 venues aren’t just about tradition. They’re about creativity and fun — a celebration of LA’s personality.
Alamitos Beach in Long Beach will serve as the stage for beach volleyball and other water-adjacent sports. The atmosphere? Think sun, surf, and cheering fans right on the sand.
Universal Studios Backlot — Believe it or not, this famous movie studio will host squash in a custom-built glass court. It’s such a Hollywood move — blending sport and spectacle.
Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area — This massive green space in the San Fernando Valley will feature urban sports like BMX, skateboarding, and 3×3 basketball. It’s LA’s way of bringing street energy into the Olympic spotlight.
These choices show how LA28 wants the Games to feel alive, integrated into the city’s everyday rhythm, not confined to isolated complexes.
Beyond the City: Regional and Out-of-State Venues
The 2028 Games won’t just be centered in downtown Los Angeles. Events will spread throughout Southern California — and even beyond state lines.
Lower Trestles in San Clemente will host surfing, offering a natural, world-renowned break that surfers dream about.
Fairplex in Pomona will host cricket, marking the sport’s long-awaited Olympic return. The temporary setup here will bring a global sport to an iconic LA-area fairground.
And in a surprising twist, Oklahoma City will host canoe slalom and softball. Yep, you read that right — crossing state borders to find the best-suited venues. It’s a first for modern Olympics, but it proves how flexible and forward-thinking the LA28 plan really is.
Sustainability and Legacy: The Heart of the Plan
Here’s the thing: LA28 isn’t just focused on the Games themselves. The goal is to create something that lasts. Reusing venues means less construction, less waste, and more long-term benefit for local communities.
The sustainability plan is simple but effective — use what’s already great, upgrade where needed, and leave a legacy that continues after the closing ceremony. This philosophy means the Olympics 2028 venues won’t become abandoned relics; they’ll remain active parts of LA’s culture and sports scene.
And let’s be honest, that’s refreshing. Too many host cities end up with ghost-town stadiums. LA’s approach is practical and smart.
What Makes These Venues Stand Out
A few things make LA28’s venue plan feel special:
- Diversity of experience: You’ll have events happening in beaches, parks, stadiums, and even film studios. It’s like the Olympics meets California tourism.
- Built-in legacy: Every venue is chosen with the future in mind — how it can continue to serve after 2028.
- Accessibility and culture: Each location reflects something unique about LA’s identity — its neighborhoods, diversity, and creativity.
- Visual storytelling: Expect unforgettable visuals — beach volleyball at sunset, surfers chasing Olympic gold, and the Hollywood sign framing background shots.
It’s the kind of setup that makes viewers say, “Wow, this feels different.”
Key Venue Highlights to Remember
Here’s a quick rundown of standout Olympics 2028 venues that are shaping up to define the Games:
- Dodger Stadium – Baseball returns to the spotlight here, with views of downtown LA adding a cinematic backdrop.
- Alamitos Beach – Expect electric energy from beach volleyball fans.
- Universal Studios – Squash gets the Hollywood treatment in a made-for-TV setting.
- Lower Trestles – Surfers competing against the Pacific’s natural rhythm — pure California.
- Sepulveda Basin – Urban sports in a park setting, perfect for showcasing new Olympic energy.
- Oklahoma City – Canoe slalom and softball proving that the Olympic spirit can stretch beyond borders.
What It Means for Fans and Athletes
For fans, this setup means variety. You could start your day watching skateboarding in the Valley, catch a swimming final downtown, and end it with beach volleyball by the ocean. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of Games.
For athletes, it means competing in world-class facilities already proven to handle major events. The infrastructure is solid, the climate is ideal, and the vibe — well, it’s hard to beat LA’s energy.
Visitors can also expect a festival-like atmosphere. With venues scattered across the region, fans will naturally explore different parts of Southern California, turning the Olympics into a citywide celebration.
Closing Thoughts
When you step back and look at the Olympics 2028 venues, you realize this isn’t just about locations — it’s about a vision. Los Angeles is turning the Olympics into a living, breathing part of the city, blending tradition with innovation.
From the historic roar of the Coliseum to the sunset glow of Alamitos Beach, from studio backlots to surf breaks, every venue tells a story. And that’s what will make the 2028 Games unforgettable.
The thing is, LA doesn’t just host — it performs. And come 2028, the city itself will be one of the biggest stars of the show. So, here’s to a summer of sport, culture, and unforgettable venues that remind us why the Olympics are more than a competition — they’re a celebration of the world in one place.