Written by Amy Ortega
1. Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street, which channels New Orleans through its decorations and cobblestone walkways, is located seven miles from Biola in downtown Fullerton. With space for up to 150 people, Bourbon Street often hosts private parties, but most come to enjoy the live jazz music while they dine. Admission is usually free.
Distance from Biola: 7 miles
Hours: 6 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Contact: (714) 626-0050
2. Steamers Café
A block away from Bourbon Street, Steamers Café is known for hosting jazz bands in its small, intimate space that fits no more than 50 people. Steamers offers the opportunity to sit as close to the act as possible — attendees can even chat with the artists after the show — and is free of charge unless advertised otherwise.
Distance from Biola: 7 miles
Hours: Doors open at 8 p.m. and close at different times every night depending on the show.
Contact: (714) 871-8800
3. Chain Reaction
Chain Reaction, located in Anaheim, caters to students on a tight budget. The founders wanted to keep all shows reasonably priced, so the cost of admission ranges from $8 to $20. The venue has standing room for up to 250 people and showcases bands from a variety of genres, including punk, hardcore and alternative. Biola punk-pop band Pidgeoto has played at Chain Reaction several times.
Distance from Biola: 8 miles
Box office hours: 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Contact: (714) 635-6067
4. House of Blues Anaheim
The House of Blues in Downtown Disney attracts a myriad of artists, bands and events. The House of Blues invites a range of differing talents, including R&B, Christian, goth, rap, Latin, country, pop and jazz, as long as they convey peace and unity through their performances. Concert prices vary from $5 to $60 depending on the artist.
Distance from Biola: 11 miles
Box office hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Contact: (714) 778-2583
5. The Grove of Anaheim
Right next to Angels Stadium, the Grove hosts more than 250 events annually, ranging from concerts to comedy. Also an intimate venue, the Grove creates a comfortable atmosphere for performers and their fans. Prices for events at the Grove usually range from $15 to $60.
Distance from Biola: 12 miles
Hours: Monday–Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Contact: (714) 712-2700
6. The Ugly Mug Café
The Ugly Mug is located near Chapman University in Orange. An independent coffee house, Ugly Mug features a cozy lounge area with couches, a compact stage, some small tables and a relaxing outdoor patio. The café offers live entertainment including open mic nights and poetry readings, but space is limited to about 40 people. Ugly Mug is free of charge and visitors are encouraged to try the coffee, teas, espresso drinks and smoothies, as well as an array of bagels, cakes and other snacks.
Distance from Biola: 15 miles
Hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m. to midnight, Saturday 9 a.m. to midnight, Sunday 10 a.m. to midnight
Contact: (714) 997-5610
7. The Yost Theater
Santa Ana’s Yost Theater hosts various mainstream and famous classic artists of the ’80s and ’90s, such as silent film comedian Ben Turpin. With space for 800 people, the Yost Theater also offers dinner at the Camden Restaurant, recognized for its gourmet dining. The cost of admission ranges from $10 to $30 depending on the performer.
Distance from Biola: 17 miles
Hours: Doors usually open at 6:30 p.m., but may open at different times depending on the event.
Contact: (888) 862-9573
8. Belasco Theater
The Belasco Theater is a relic of the early 1900s, located on Hill Street in downtown Los Angeles. A multi-purpose entertainment complex with dramatic interior detailing and a modern flair, the Belasco holds special events like independent film releases and “Mustache Monday.” It fits a collective total of 1,000 people in its main theater, ballroom, basement lounge, outdoor dining area and Grill Fresco seafood restaurant.
Distance from Biola: 20 miles
Hours: Vary according to the show
Contact: (213) 746-5670
9. The Conga Room
The Conga Room opened in 1998 in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who attended the grand opening of The Conga Room, claimed it would complete L.A. Live, home to some of the best entertainment in the region. Since then, this venue has hosted album launches, movie debuts, award shows and parties. With a capacity of 1,000 people, The Conga Room showcases Latin artists and invites all attendees to enjoy a taste of South America.
Distance from Biola: 20 miles
Hours: Vary depending on the show and the night
Contact: (213) 745-0162
10. The Music Box
The Music Box in Hollywood is a highly rated venue for concerts, premieres, wrap parties, award shows and special celebrations. It hosts some of the industry’s most notable musicians, and with a capacity of 1,300 guests, feels like something out of the Roaring ’20s, inspired by the dazzling nightlife of Hollywood.
Distance from Biola: 24 miles
Box office hours: Monday–Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Contact: (323) 464-0808
Bonus: The Forum
Founded in 1968, The Forum attracts an eclectic style of artist and aims to reach out to a wider spectrum of fans. Located in Inglewood, it also serves as a meeting space for Faithful Central Bible Church and plays host to a number of other community service events. The Forum can seat up to 17,800. Admission prices tend to be cheap, but vary depending on the show.
Distance from Biola: 23 miles
Hours: The box office is usually open on show days only. Times vary.
Contact: (310) 330-7300
