The Observatory Bag Policy
What's allowed, what's prohibited, and what to know before you go.
Santa Ana, California
Quick answer
The Observatory allows bags up to 12″ × 6″ × 12″—no clear bag required. Small clutch bags up to 4.5″ × 6.5″ are permitted without being clear. All bags will be searched upon entry. Backpacks and large bags are prohibited.
You can bring
- Bags up to 12″ × 6″ × 12″
- Small clutch bags up to 4.5″ × 6.5″
- Empty plastic hydration packs
- Non-professional cameras without detachable lenses
- Vape pens / E-cigs (without refill juice/extra tanks)
- Prescription medication in original packaging with ID
- Sealed tampons
- Sealed Chapstick
- Hand sanitizer
- Sealed cigarettes
- Mobile phone chargers
- Handheld portable fans (paper or motorized)
You can't bring
- Backpacks
- Large bags
- Weapons of any kind
- Outside food, drinks, or alcohol
- Illegal drugs/substances
- Laser pointers
- Animals (except service animals)
- Fireworks
- Wallet chains
- Metal containers
- Strollers
- Skateboards
- Bicycles
- Large metal key chains
- Wallet chains or chain accessories
- Wagons or scooters
- Air horns
- Frozen water bottles
- Promotional items (flyers, samples)
- Personal video cameras, Go-Pros, selfie sticks, drones, masks, or laser pointers
- Professional audio, video, or audio recording equipment (including detachable lenses, tripods, selfie sticks, zooms, or commercial-use rigs)
- Unsealed liquids or gels of any kind
- Jewelry or clothing that could inflict harm
- Full face masks
- Stuffed animals or toys of any kind
- Lawn chairs
Common questions
(the stuff people ask at the door)
Can I bring a camera into The Observatory?
Non-professional cameras without detachable lenses are allowed at The Observatory. Professional audio, video, or recording equipment, including cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, and selfie sticks, are prohibited.
Does The Observatory have parking?
The Observatory offers general parking at $10 and premium parking at $25 when purchased in advance. The general parking lot is located just across the street from the venue, while premium parking is in the immediate parking lot. Parking opens 2 hours prior to doors opening for the event. On-site parking is subject to availability if not purchased in advance. There is no street parking near the venue.
Is The Observatory accessible for people with disabilities?
The Observatory provides ADA ramp access into the building and ADA restrooms. While the venue is standing room only, there is an ADA section for qualified patrons. It's recommended to arrive early for the best viewing options in the ADA area. If you have specific needs, speak with staff upon arrival for assistance.