Known as one of California’s most eclectic cities, Costa Mesa’s love for creativity is evident in Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The facility opened as Orange County Performing Arts on Sept. 29, 1986, with a concert in its Segerstrom Hall, and it has continued to dazzle audiences with a variety of performances ever since.

The venue went through a $200 million expansion in the early 2000s, including the addition of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall and the Samueli Theater. It was renamed in 2011 in honor of the Segerstrom family, who contributed generously to the creation and evolution of the facility.

The Center opened with a gala concert featuring the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and it now serves as home for the Pacific Symphony, the Philharmonic Society of Orange County and the Pacific Chorale. It has played host to nearly every major Broadway touring production since opening, and it continues to attract visitors with internationally acclaimed performances, including the Shen Yun Performing Arts dance company and Teatro alla Scala Ballet Company.

Conveniently located in the Orange County Theatre District, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is easily accessible by the 405 and the 55 freeways. There are parking garages located nearby, and visitors can prepay to ensure a space close to the venue.

Several restaurants serve up culinary excellence within walking distance of the arts center, including Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge, which is onsite. There are a few hotels within a couple of blocks, and additional accommodations are available within Costa Mesa. The LAB “anti-mall,” full of locally owned businesses, is a destination for trendsetters, and families can enjoy the indigenous plants and wildlife with a walk in Fairview Park.