Southern California has always embraced music as its cultural lifeline. No wonder all-ages venues are an indispensable part of this city, fostering musical discovery and youth expression. From DIY havens to iconic concert halls, these music venues cultivate a sense of belonging, creativity, and community for both artists and fans.
Some of these venues, such as FTG Warehouse, have shuttered their doors because they failed to keep up with the evolving music culture. This has left a void for the next generation of music enthusiasts. With the growing demand for safe and inclusive spaces, a handful of venues have emerged to preserve the all-ages ethos while embracing the rapidly changing music culture.
Here is a list of ten handpicked all-ages music venues in Southern California. Each offers a unique experience of the region’s rich music scene.
The Smell: A DIY Institution
The Smell has been a prominent name in Los Angeles’ DIY music culture since 1998. Located in a downtown alley, the graffiti-clad walls and no-frills setup of the venue have witnessed countless punk and experimental acts, including Ty Segall, No Age, and Mika Miko. The venue is known for offering affordable tickets and emphasizing a community-first approach.
Address: 247 S. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Zebulon: Eclectic Meets Intimate
Located in Frogtown, Zebulon has gained the spotlight for its laid-back vibes and eclectic programming. Popular for its indie, folk, and experimental lineups, this venue can be considered a relatively newer addition to the LA music scene. It also features a café and bar, creating a welcoming hub for music lovers.
Address: 2478 Fletcher Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90039
The Glass House: Pomona’s Musical Hub
The Glass House has been a pillar of the Pomona music scene since the mid-1990s. The venue, with a capacity of 800, efficiently balances intimacy with professional production. It has hosted acts like Death Cab for Cutie and Thrice. Pomona festival, the annual Viva of The Glass House, has become a multicultural celebration, offering a platform for both emerging artists and industry stalwarts.
Address: 200 W. 2nd St., Pomona, CA 91766
Permanent Records Roadhouse: Vinyl and Vibrance
Blending a record store with a live music venue, Permanent Records Roadhouse in Cypress Park offers an intimate setting for local punk and psych-rock acts. Its dual purpose ensures attendees leave with both lasting memories and perhaps a new vinyl treasure.
Address: 1906 Cypress Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90065
Frets Music: A New Entry in Riverside
Frets Music recently opened its doors to music lovers and quickly became a hub for the Inland Empire’s music community. In addition to hosting live shows, this family-owned venue offers music lessons, instrument repairs, and a space for budding musicians to grow. The founders combined their rich backgrounds in classical guitar and audio engineering with years of expertise to ensure perfection in every aspect of the venue.
Address: 7207 Arlington, STE E, Riverside, CA 92503
Constellation Room: A Star in the City
The Constellation Room can be easily termed the cozier counterpart of the Observatory in Santa Ana. It is popular among music enthusiasts for offering an up-close experience to fans of rising stars like Billie Eilish and Halsey. The hall has a capacity of 300 and hosts diverse programming to ensure something for everyone.
Address: 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92704
Chain Reaction: Home to Punk and Hardcore
Anaheim’s Chain Reaction has been the go-to venue for punk and hardcore enthusiasts since 1997. Known for its energetic crowds and intimate setting, this venue has been a launchpad for countless bands.
Address: 1652 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801
Garden Amp: Open-Air Music Shows
Located in Garden Grove, Garden Amp offers a relaxed, outdoor atmosphere with multiple stages. The venue is known for punk, ska, and alternative performances. It has cultivated a close-knit community where young musicians and fans thrive.
Address: 12762 Main St., Garden Grove, CA 92840
The Haven: Pomona’s DIY Gem
A popular venue in Pomona, The Haven has always stayed close to its DIY roots by hosting an eclectic mix of genres. Its familiar setting and proximity to the city’s cultural landmarks make it a favorite hub for its music community.
Address: 296 W. 2nd St., Pomona, CA 91766
Scribbles: Creativity Meets Community
Highland Park’s Scribbles doubles as a counseling center and DIY music venue, creating a unique space for artistic collaboration. Beyond hosting local acts, it hosts events like yoga and meditation, emphasizing creativity and well-being.
Address: 5541 York Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90042
Celebrating Music
Keeping the Music Alive
With the evolving music culture in South California, these all-ages venues are crucial platforms for nurturing talents and building community. From punk and folk to indie and hardcore, each venue reflects the power of live music to unite and inspire across generations.