The Observatory

Venue Profile

Santa Ana, CA · 972 capacity · Indoor · Updated September 2026

The Observatory is a concert hall on Harbor Boulevard in south Santa Ana, a short drive from the 405 freeway. It occupies the building that was once the Galaxy Concert Theatre and opened in 2011, with Foster the People playing the first show. Live Nation took over booking in late 2018 and bought the venue, along with its San Diego sister Observatory North Park, in 2019.

The main room holds 972 people on a tiered floor that keeps sightlines open from the back, and a smaller side room, the Constellation Room, handles newer acts. Bookings run through indie, alternative, punk, metal, hip-hop and electronic music. Larger outdoor shows run under the Observatory name at its Festival Grounds in Costa Mesa.

Shows are general admission standing. Parking is paid on site, re-entry is not allowed, and backpacks are prohibited. A kitchen serves burgers, hot dogs, fries and vegetarian options, and there is an outdoor patio.

Know Before You Go

  • Venue type: Club
  • Opened: 2011
  • Operator: Live Nation
  • Programming: Indie, alternative, punk, metal, hip-hop, electronic and Latin touring acts
  • Ages: Varies by show
  • Phone: 714-957-0600

This profile is part of The 824 Journal Guide to Live Music Venues in Los Angeles and Orange County.

Official Links

Sources

Venue Details

Address
3503 S. Harbor Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
City, State
Santa Ana, CA
Capacity
972
Indoor / Outdoor
Indoor
Standing / Seated
Standing Room Only
Parking
Paid parking is available on site with limited street parking nearby; the venue warns that cars left in neighboring lots may be towed.
Phone
714-957-0600

Amenities

Food
Limited
Drinks
Full bar
Bag Policy
Backpacks are not allowed; bags up to 12 x 6 x 12 inches and empty plastic hydration packs are permitted.

https://www.observatoryoc.com/know-before-you-go

Photographer's FAQ

Camera Policy
Non-professional cameras without detachable lenses are allowed; professional gear and tripods are not.

https://www.observatoryoc.com/know-before-you-go

Links

Official WebsiteMap & Directions