Ann T.
Yelp
PRO-TIP: Having a convention badge gets you SO many deals for the local businesses and eateries. This includes discounts, free items with purchases, etc. Hell, I even got into the Aquarium of the Pacific next door for more than 50% off admission. Definitely take advantage of this if you're here for a convention.
Recently came here for Anime Los Angeles and although I'm unhappy that they've moved to somewhere much farther, I don't have any issues with this convention center!
There's a parking structure under the con center and nearby within walking distance. If you're there for the whole day, the $15 flat rate is not a bad deal especially if you're carpooling. Only park at the Pike Outlets if you're gonna be there for a short time period or if you're gonna get parking validation. FYI, there's a parking structure across the con center where if it's right next to the con, it's $20, but if you go a block down, it's also $15 flat OR if you're lucky like us free cuz there was no guard lmao.
FYI, apparently the Hyatt (next to the con center) didn't allow luggage check in for their guests, so LOTS of cars were targeted and broken into during the last day of the con. Be very, very wary of this! The parking garage for they Hyatt also did not have security cameras from what I have been told.
Anyways back to the actual con center.
The first 2 floors are a sort of hallway with some rooms for panels, cosplay repair, manga lounge, etc. As you head towards the end of the con center near the Hyatt, there's some seating there and the bigger, main performance rooms. Lighting is not bad for photos in all areas. There's also an underground area that split into 2 exhibit halls (really trippy if you look at them since it looks like one large hall). There's some cafes and LOTS of mini bars if you need some booze to slosh yourself throughout the event.
Security hired to staff was very efficient with bag check and directing the crowds. No issues there. One side of the convention had enough space for gatherings and photos and for food trucks and the other side had a really nice fountain for really pretty photos.
Lots of eateries within walking distance, a neat rainbow bridge for photos, right next to the pier and the Pike Outlets. Not bad!
My only issue was that the bathrooms were not cleaned efficiently enough and it was a bit gross even though it was only day 2 of the convention (though still better than using pier restrooms to be honest).