It is located on the Atlantic Ocean Jersey Shore, between Asbury Park to the north and Bradley Beach to the south. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ocean Grove is noted for its abundant examples of Victorian architecture.

But beginning in the 1990s, and through 2006, Ocean Grove experienced a dramatic increase in revival. With the restoration of older hotel structures, many of which had deteriorated into single room occupancy ("SRO") quarters. Also – as part of this resurgence – a number of sidewalk cafés and shops along Main Avenue (the main business thoroughfare) now cater to visitors and seasonal residents.

The Great Auditorium is mostly unchanged after being constructed in 1894 on bridge-like iron trusses laid on stone foundations. Aside from the trusses, the structure is made entirely of wood. The building features numerous "barn door" entrances with colored glass, dormers, and panels that open for ventilation. The present audience seating accommodates 6,217, though the original arrangement was closer to 10,000.