Each year, we ask Orange County Register readers to choose their favorite places to shop, dine, play and do business in OC.
Here are the top picks for Best music and concert venue:
1. The Observatory
3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana; 714-957-0600; observatoryoc.com
The Observatory hosts more than 700 shows a year including a wide range of alternative live music for fans of rap, metal, alt-rock and electronic music. Established in 2011, the Observatory took over the old Galaxy Theatre building. The venue features state-of-the-art lighting and sound, a massive stage, auditorium seating with a balcony, a plush VIP lounge with a bar, and a food menu that includes smoked brisket nachos, pizza and burgers.
Entertainers and groups coming to The Observatory this fall include Jason Ross, Pearl & the Oysters, 156/Silence — From a Distance Tour, Brian Fallon, Death Lens, and the Neverender Festival on Oct. 3 and 4.
“The Observatory is a fabulous venue in Santa Ana,” Jeanette P. from Rancho Cucamonga wrote on Yelp about her trip to The Observatory in May. “The location was perfect for us — up high enough to see everything going on onstage, great view of the folks dancing, and again, offered a space for our drinks and a restful lean. The sound system and lighting effects were fantastic! The lighting perfectly fit the dark, moody, goth atmosphere while the music was as clean and powerful as you’d want. No muddy, echo-y, indistinct sound here. And extra wonderful? A pumping AC that kept the packed house cool and fresh as everyone danced all night. Such a great concert and really, the perfect venue for it: intimate yet spacious enough for comfort. Really great venue!”
— Amy Bentley
2. Soka Performing Arts Center
1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo; 949-480-4278; performingarts.soka.edu
“We are deeply honored and sincerely grateful to the Orange County community for naming Soka Performing Arts Center the Best Live Music Venue in Orange County for the fifth consecutive year,” said General Manager Renee Bodie.
“This award is especially meaningful because it comes directly from the audience we serve. Every season, our team works to create experiences that engage, educate and elevate the human spirit through extraordinary performances in an environment designed for deep listening and connection. To receive this recognition year after year tells us that our patrons value not only the artists we present, but the overall experience of being part of the Soka Performing Arts Center community,” she said.
Soka offers world-class acoustics, intimate scale, exceptional artistry and a commitment to presenting top-caliber artists across a wide range of genres from classical and jazz to chamber and world music. Soka welcomes internationally acclaimed artists while also introducing audiences to emerging voices and diverse musical traditions.
3. House of Blues Anaheim
400 W Disney Way #337, Anaheim; 714-778-2583; anaheim.houseofblues.com
For the past 25 years, the House of Blues Anaheim has brought artists and fans together through the shared experience of live music, exceptional dining in the establishment’s restaurant, and the elevated atmosphere of the Foundation Room. Together, these experiences create meaningful connections and memorable moments night after night, said House of Blues Anaheim General Manager Gina Argerake.
“We’re proud to call Orange County home and are honored to be recognized among its best music venues. As we celebrate 25 years in Anaheim this year, this recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from the community who has supported us throughout our journey. We are honored,” Argerake said.
“We’re grateful to play a role in Orange County’s vibrant music scene and thankful for the continued support of our fans and community. We look forward to an exciting remainder of 2026 and can’t wait to welcome fans for more incredible nights of live music at House of Blues Anaheim.”