5 Shocking Secrets And The Future Of The City National Grove Of Anaheim (Before It’s Too Late)

The City National Grove of Anaheim, a cornerstone of Orange County’s live music scene, is currently operating in what can only be described as a dramatic, temporary encore. As of December 15, 2025, the intimate 1,700-capacity venue continues to host a diverse lineup of world-class performers, but its long-term existence is tied to one of the largest mixed-use developments in Southern California: the massive OCVIBE project. The Grove’s eventual replacement by a state-of-the-art cultural campus is not just a rumor; it’s a critical part of Anaheim’s future, making every current concert a piece of history in the making.

This article dives deep into the venue’s fascinating history, its current status under the operation of Nederlander Concerts and the OCVIBE entity, and the definitive plans that will see the beloved theater close its doors to make way for the future Anaheim Performing Arts Center (APAC). From its surprising origins as a television studio to the legends who have graced its stage—including Prince and Stevie Nicks—we uncover the five most crucial facts every fan needs to know about the final chapter of the Grove of Anaheim.

The End of an Era: The Grove’s Pivotal Role in the OCVIBE Mega-Project

The most unique and pressing piece of information about the City National Grove of Anaheim is its inclusion in the monumental OCVIBE development. This 95-acre, multi-billion dollar project is transforming the area surrounding the Honda Center and Angel Stadium into a vibrant, 365-day-a-year entertainment district.

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The Grove, which sits adjacent to Angel Stadium, is scheduled to operate until construction on its replacement—the much-anticipated Anaheim Performing Arts Center (APAC)—forces its closure.

The Shocking Future: The Anaheim Performing Arts Center (APAC)

The Anaheim Performing Arts Center (APAC) is the designated successor to the Grove, though it is an entirely new, expanded cultural campus.

This new facility is designed to significantly enhance Anaheim’s cultural footprint, moving beyond the single-venue model.

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• Expanded Capacity: The APAC plans include a new 2,000-seat concert hall, which is larger than the Grove’s current capacity.
• Multi-Venue Campus: The design also features a 1,700-seat theater, mirroring the Grove's current size, and potentially a third, smaller venue, creating a true hub for arts and entertainment.
• Architectural Vision: The designs, unveiled by SPF: architects, are inspired by the region’s heritage, drawing on the geometry of orange tree groves.

The OCVIBE project timeline suggests that while early construction, such as parking structures, began in mid-2023, the full completion of the entertainment district is phased, with major openings projected around 2026.

This means the Grove is currently in its final years of operation, serving as a critical piece of infrastructure until the new, larger center is ready to take its place. Every ticket purchased today is a chance to experience the venue before it becomes a cherished memory.

From Tinseltown to The Grove: A History of Anaheim’s Intimate Powerhouse

The history of the City National Grove of Anaheim is a tale of rapid transformation, surprising even long-time residents of Orange County.

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Built in 1998, the building did not start as a concert venue at all. Its original identity was Tinseltown Studios, designed as an awards show-themed venue.

Within a year, the concept shifted dramatically, and the space was transformed into a premier live music venue.

It was briefly renamed The Sun Theatre before officially adopting the name The Grove of Anaheim in 2001.

The venue celebrated its 20th anniversary with a performance by the legendary rock band Styx, underscoring its two decades of cultural significance.

Today, the venue is officially known as the City National Grove of Anaheim due to a long-standing naming rights agreement with City National Bank.

It is managed by Nederlander Concerts, a prominent Los Angeles-based promoter, ensuring a steady stream of high-caliber musical and comedy acts.

The Legends Who Played the Grove Stage

Despite its relatively modest 1,700-seat capacity, the Grove has attracted an astonishing list of A-list talent, cementing its reputation as a major stop on national tours. The venue’s intimate setting is often cited by artists as a reason they enjoy performing there, offering a unique connection with the audience that large arenas cannot replicate.

The list of notable performers who have graced the stage is extensive and diverse, showcasing its commitment to various genres:

• Rock & Pop Icons: Prince, Stevie Nicks, Styx, Collective Soul, Air Supply, and Billy F Gibbons (of ZZ Top fame).
• Blues & Jazz Masters: The late great Ray Charles, B.B. King, and Buddy Guy.
• Country & Folk Legends: Merle Haggard and Dwight Yoakam.
• Comedy & Variety: Stand-up comedians like Lewis Black have performed, alongside family-friendly events such as Gabby's Dollhouse LIVE.
• Classic Performers: Ringo Starr, Randy Newman, Tom Jones, and Robert Palmer.
• Hip-Hop & R&B: Groups like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have brought their classic sound to the venue, often sharing the bill with artists like Xzibit and Mike Jones.

This remarkable history of bookings demonstrates the venue's significant topical authority in the Southern California entertainment landscape.

The Ultimate Fan Guide: Seating, Capacity, and the Best Way to Experience The Grove

The Grove’s primary appeal lies in its intimate design. With a maximum capacity of approximately 1,700 guests, there are no bad sightlines, a major advantage over massive arenas like the nearby Honda Center.

Understanding the seating arrangement is key to securing the best experience before the venue eventually closes.

Decoding the City National Grove of Anaheim Seating Chart

The venue’s layout is generally divided into a few key sections, offering both reserved seating and standing options depending on the event configuration.

• Orchestra Level: This is the closest section to the stage. It is typically divided into three main sections and offers the best, most direct view of the performers. For fans who want to be immersed in the action, this is the premium choice.
• Mezzanine/Balcony: Located above the Orchestra, this area provides an elevated view of the stage. For some events, this is the preferred location for a comprehensive view of the entire production, including lighting and stage design.
• General Admission (GA): For certain rock, metal, or high-energy shows, the front floor area is converted to General Admission standing room. This is the closest you can get to the stage, often right up against the barricade, providing an "AMAZING" experience for dedicated fans.

Due to the venue's compact size, even seats further back in the Orchestra or Mezzanine still feel close to the action, maintaining the intimate atmosphere that The Grove is famous for.

Venue Information and Logistics

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the venue is strategically located in the heart of Anaheim's entertainment hub.

• Location: 2200 East Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806. It is directly adjacent to Angel Stadium of Anaheim.
• Box Office Hours: The box office is generally open on Fridays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and starting four hours prior to every ticketed event.
• Parking: Parking is readily available in the adjacent lots, which are shared with the stadium and are part of the larger OCVIBE area.

The Grove’s continued operation in 2025, amidst the early stages of the colossal OCVIBE development, makes it a must-visit destination. The opportunity to see a major act in such an intimate setting will soon be replaced by a larger, modern complex. Experiencing the City National Grove of Anaheim now is a chance to participate in the final, legendary chapter of a Southern California icon.