Segerstrom Center for the Arts - people walking on white concrete building
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Segerstrom Center for the Arts

4.8
·4k reviews·Costa Mesa, United States

A premier performing arts venue in Costa Mesa, offering Broadway shows, dance, opera, and concerts in stunning halls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Best for Broadway shows

CrowdHigh
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Segerstrom Center for the Arts - people walking on white concrete building

Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Best Time

Evenings

Best for Broadway shows

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A premier performing arts venue in Costa Mesa, offering Broadway shows, dance, opera, and concerts in stunning halls.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"Beautiful venue with a mind-blowing sound system and perfect seating, making every show an amazing experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book 'Hamilton' & 'Frozen' Early

These popular shows sell out fast! Secure your 'Segerstrom tickets' well in advance.

🎶 Check Audio Mix

Some visitors note audio issues for musicals. If lyrics are hard to hear, mention it to staff.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Segerstrom Hall

Segerstrom Hall

Main Auditorium

Experience world-class Broadway shows and performances in this stunning 3,000-seat opera house-style hall.

Arts Plaza

Arts Plaza

Outdoor Area

A vibrant outdoor space perfect for pre-show gatherings, with ample seating and a lively atmosphere.

Samueli Theater

Samueli Theater

Smaller Theater

An intimate venue hosting a diverse range of performances, from intimate concerts to theatrical productions.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts sell out quickly. Secure your seats for musicals like Hamilton or Frozen well in advance to avoid disappointment. Check the official website for show schedules and ticket availability.

Arrive Early for the Experience

The Arts Plaza offers a beautiful pre-show atmosphere with seating and often food/drink options. Arriving early allows you to soak in the ambiance and avoid rushing, especially if you're unfamiliar with the venue's layout.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Best for Broadway shows
Crowd
High
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Family-friendly matinees
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings/Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, special events
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎨🎵 Have you ever been to a paint party? Join Segerstrom Center for the Arts for a guided paint and sip class celebrating Women’s History Month on March 10th! Click the link in ur bio for all the details. 🎥: Segerstrom Center for the Arts #WomensHistoryMonth #PaintandSip #OCEvents #CostaMesa #OrangeCounty
@travelcostamesa
41 likes • 1.2K views

🎯 Book 'Hamilton' & 'Frozen' Early

These popular shows sell out fast! Secure your 'Segerstrom tickets' well in advance. TikTok+1

🎶 Check Audio Mix

Some visitors note audio issues for musicals. If lyrics are hard to hear, mention it to staff. Reddit

What are your thoughts on the asymmetrical seats in Segerstrom Hall? 🎭 #segerstromcenterforthearts #scfta #costamesa #orangecounty #oc
@segerstromarts
440 likes • 12.8K views
The teens were able to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts! Thanks so much for the opportunity @segerstromarts — it was amazing!
hopeharboroc
7 likes • 229 views

🚶‍♀️ Arrive Early for Plaza Vibes

Enjoy the Arts Plaza before shows. Bring wine/food and relax! TikTok

🚗 Parking Fee

Parking is $15.00, considered reasonable by many visitors. TikTok

Season Finale week! Excited for Latin Formation team to perform at the amazing Segerstrom, Center for the Arts!!! ❤️ 🥐 🇫🇷
ocsaballroom
70 likes • 4.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book 'Hamilton' & 'Frozen' Early

These popular shows sell out fast! Secure your 'Segerstrom tickets' well in advance. TikTok+1

🎶 Check Audio Mix

Some visitors note audio issues for musicals. If lyrics are hard to hear, mention it to staff. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Arrive Early for Plaza Vibes

Enjoy the Arts Plaza before shows. Bring wine/food and relax! TikTok

🚗 Parking Fee

Parking is $15.00, considered reasonable by many visitors. TikTok

🚻 Bathroom Lines

Lines can be long during intermission. Consider using restrooms before or after. Reddit

🎭 Accessibility Options

The center offers accessibility tools for a more inclusive theater experience. TikTok

🍸 Themed Cocktails

Enjoy themed drinks for specific shows, like '& Juliet'! TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Segerstrom Center for the Arts for its beautiful venue and impressive sound system, noting that seating arrangements offer good views from most locations. The outdoor Arts Plaza is a highlight for pre-show relaxation. However, some reviews mention issues with acoustics for musical theater, with lyrics sometimes being hard to hear, and long bathroom lines during intermissions.

"This place is beautiful!!
Sound system is mind blowing!!
Seating 💺 is set up perfectly no matter what seat u buy.
Outside of the venue is beautiful! Go there b4 the show n take ur wine n drinks or food. Lounging n chairs everywhere. What a breeze...👌
Parking is 15.00...cheap!"

Alfredo Cambron

"Beautiful venue. Too bad some people treat it as a movie theater. I found it disheartening that parents haven't taught their children how to behave during a live performance, much less don't have them pick up after themselves.
Just makes for a less than perfect occasion. Especially during opening night!"

Karen Knight

"The exterior building is beautifully designed. The interior is very dated with lots of maroon carpet. The seating layout is very strange. There are so many different levels and doors that you can go through. If you’ve never been, it will be confusing. The staff were mostly friendly. The security and head ushers were walking around with scowls on their faces.
What knocks this place down to 3 stars, however, is the terrible acoustics for musical theatre. The theatre is a giant cavernous building, and every musical I’ve seen there has a terrible audio mix, but is perfectly fine at Pantages. It’s very hard to hear lyrics of the songs, and the orchestra tends to overpower everything."

Ryan Palmer

What People Like

Beautiful venue
Great sound system
Arts Plaza ambiance

What People Dislike

Musical theater acoustics
Long bathroom lines

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located in Costa Mesa, California. It's easily accessible by car, with major freeways nearby. Public transportation options include local bus routes. For specific directions and public transit information, check the official Segerstrom Center website or use a navigation app. TikTok+1

Yes, there is parking available at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The fee is typically around $15.00. Visitors can also utilize the free rideshare service, 'Let's Go Costa Mesa,' in specified neighborhoods. TikTokReddit

Yes, you can drop off passengers at the front curb of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, which is convenient for those with mobility issues or when arriving for a performance. Reddit

From nearby cities like Newport Beach or Irvine, driving is a common option. You can also explore ride-sharing services or local bus routes. The center is a central hub for 'OC performing arts.' TikTok

Yes, local bus routes serve the Costa Mesa area, providing access to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Check with your local transit authority for specific route information. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for 'Segerstrom Center for the Arts' shows can be purchased directly from the official Segerstrom Center for the Arts website, at their box office, or through authorized ticket vendors. Individual show tickets for the 24/25 season are on sale now. TikTok+1

Ticket prices vary significantly depending on the show, seating location, and performance date. Popular shows like 'Hamilton' or 'Moulin Rouge' will generally be more expensive. Check the 'Segerstrom tickets' page on their website for specific pricing. TikTok+1

Discounts may be available for groups, students, or specific performances. It's best to check the 'Segerstrom Center for the Arts tickets' section of their website or contact the box office directly for any current promotions or discount codes. TikTok

The operating hours for the 'Segerstrom box office' can vary. It's recommended to check the official Segerstrom Center for the Arts website for the most up-to-date information on box office hours before planning your visit. TikTok

While some tickets may be available at the door, it is highly recommended to purchase 'Segerstrom tickets' in advance, especially for popular musicals and performances, as shows often sell out. TikTok+1

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

Segerstrom Hall features a 3,000-seat, opera house-style layout. Some viewers note the asymmetrical seating arrangement, which aims to provide good views from most locations. TikTokReddit

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts hosts a wide variety of performances, including Broadway musicals ('Hamilton', 'Frozen', 'Six'), dance (The Nutcracker Ballet TikTok), opera, concerts, and other live theater. TikTok+2

Yes, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is committed to making theater accessible. They offer various accessibility tools and services for patrons with disabilities. TikTok

The atmosphere is generally vibrant and sophisticated, especially on performance nights. The Arts Plaza offers a relaxed environment before shows, while the theaters provide an immersive experience. TikTok+1

Photography policies can vary by performance. Generally, flash photography is prohibited during shows to avoid distracting performers and other audience members. Check with ushers or signage for specific rules. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are dining and refreshment options available at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, including themed cocktails for certain shows. The Arts Plaza also provides a space to enjoy food and drinks before performances. TikTokInstagram

Visitors can bring their own wine, drinks, or food to enjoy in the Arts Plaza before the show. However, outside food and beverages are typically not allowed inside the theaters. Reddit

Refreshments available typically include snacks, beverages, and sometimes themed items related to the current performance. Variety can be limited and prices higher during events. Reddit

Yes, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located in Costa Mesa, which has numerous dining options nearby, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. South Coast Plaza is also in close proximity. TikTok

Yes, there are bars available at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts where you can purchase drinks, including themed cocktails for specific shows. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to ensure the best experience for all attendees and performers. Always check for specific signage or ask an usher. TikTok

Yes, the exterior of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is architecturally impressive and can be photographed. The Arts Plaza is also a great spot for photos before a show. TikTok

Absolutely! The Arts Plaza, the grand architecture of the buildings, and the vibrant atmosphere before a show offer many great photo opportunities. TikTok+1

Selfies are generally acceptable in public areas like the Arts Plaza before the show begins. However, once inside the theater, it's best to refrain from taking photos or selfies during the performance. TikTok

Official photos and videos of events are often shared on the Segerstrom Center for the Arts' social media channels (TikTok, Instagram) and their official website. TikTokInstagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts offers a variety of family-friendly shows and events throughout the year. Look out for productions like 'Bluey' or special holiday performances such as 'The Nutcracker Ballet,' which are perfect for younger audiences. TikTok+1

Consider attending matinee performances, which are often scheduled on weekend afternoons and are more suitable for children's schedules. The venue also provides accessibility options that can be beneficial for families with specific needs. Arriving a bit early allows kids to explore the Arts Plaza before the show, adding to the excitement. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

While Broadway shows can be pricey, look for 'Segerstrom Center for the Arts tickets' during off-peak times or for less in-demand performances. Sometimes, rush tickets or lottery systems are available for popular shows. TikTok

Consider attending performances in the Samueli Theater, which often features more affordable ticket prices than the main Segerstrom Hall. Also, take advantage of the Arts Plaza for pre-show relaxation instead of purchasing expensive concessions inside. Reddit

💖 Couples & Date Nights

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is an ideal spot for a romantic evening. Catch a dazzling Broadway musical like 'Pretty Woman' or enjoy an elegant ballet performance. TikTok+1

Enhance your date night by arriving early to enjoy the Arts Plaza, perhaps with a themed cocktail from the bar. TikTokInstagram The sophisticated atmosphere and world-class performances create a memorable experience for couples looking for a special night out in Orange County. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Segerstrom Hall's Unique Seating

Segerstrom Hall is renowned for its distinctive seating arrangement. Unlike traditional theaters, its layout is asymmetrical, featuring a total of 3,000 seats split into four distinct seating sections. This design choice aims to offer a unique viewing experience for every patron, ensuring that no matter where you sit, you have a clear line of sight to the stage. TikTok

While this asymmetrical design is a hallmark of the hall, some visitors might find it a bit confusing upon their first visit due to the multiple levels and entrances. However, the intention is to maximize the viewing experience for everyone. The 'Segerstrom Hall tickets' are highly sought after for major productions, reflecting the venue's popularity. Reddit

This innovative approach to theater design contributes to the overall grandeur and distinctiveness of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, making it a memorable venue for any performance. TikTok

Accessibility at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is dedicated to making live performances accessible to everyone. They actively work to ensure that patrons with disabilities can enjoy the magic of theater. This includes offering various accessibility tools and services designed to enhance the experience for all guests. TikTok

Recent initiatives highlight their commitment, such as providing new accessibility tools for shows like '& Juliet.' This focus on inclusivity means that more people can engage with and appreciate the performing arts. Whether it's through assistive listening devices or other accommodations, the center strives to remove barriers to attendance. TikTok

For those seeking to understand the full scope of accessibility options, it's recommended to visit the Segerstrom Center for the Arts' official website or contact their guest services department. Their dedication to 'accessibility matters' ensures a welcoming environment for all patrons. TikTok

The Vibrant Arts Plaza Experience

The Arts Plaza at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is more than just an entrance; it's an integral part of the overall experience. This beautifully designed outdoor space serves as a gathering point for patrons before performances, offering a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the ambiance, which often includes comfortable seating areas and sometimes live music or art installations. TikTok

Many attendees find the Arts Plaza perfect for pre-show socializing. It's common to see people enjoying wine, drinks, or snacks they've brought with them, creating a convivial mood. This space allows guests to unwind and connect before immersing themselves in the performance, adding a leisurely dimension to their night out. Reddit

The Arts Plaza also contributes to the visual appeal of the Segerstrom Center, with its modern architecture and landscaping. It's a popular spot for photos, capturing the essence of a night at the performing arts. TikTok+1