About Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8547
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8547, also known as the Alessandro Post, is a local veterans club and event space in Moreno Valley. It’s a non-profit, membership-based social club where service members and their families gather for community events. The building includes a canteen (bar/dining area) and a social hall for gatherings. Decorated with flags and military memorabilia, the venue has a strongly patriotic feel. Although modest in size (on the order of 100 seats or so), it draws a lively crowd; reviewers praise its “cozy atmosphere” and affordable drinks, calling it a welcoming hub for veterans and locals alike . The post plays a community-minded role in Moreno Valley, hosting ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, sponsoring youth programs like the Voice of Democracy essay contest, and broadly supporting fellow veterans. At the same time, the venue is no-frills: a single-story commercial building flying the VFW flag out front. Despite this, it’s highly regarded – one visitor notes it “offers daily food deals” and a very “family-like” atmosphere with attentive service .
For example, the hall includes a seating area with tables (and often a small stage) for casual performances. The post and its auxiliary are run by volunteer veterans, reflecting its service-oriented mission. Its facilities are also available for private rentals – visitors have held weddings, memorial dinners and receptions here – often praising the staff’s helpfulness. The atmosphere is very informal (jeans and T-shirts are fine) and all ages are welcome (with standard 21+ rules at the bar). In short, Post 8547 feels more like a neighborhood veterans’ clubhouse than a formal theater, which is why locals treasure its friendly vibe.
Events and Programming
Auxiliary Steak Night (3rd Friday): A popular monthly dinner where the VFW Auxiliary serves a hearty grilled T-bone steak with baked potato and vegetables (usually held in the early evening, e.g. 5–7pm).Sunday Breakfast: Regular Sunday morning breakfasts featuring eggs, bacon or sausage, hash browns, toast and coffee . These occur mid-morning (for example, on Oct 26, 2025 it ran 10:00–12:00 ) and cost only about $7–$9 . Veterans and families come out for this event each month.Holiday Celebrations: Special events mark major holidays. For instance, the Veterans Day event offers a free BBQ of burgers and hot dogs for veterans . The post similarly celebrates Memorial Day, Independence Day and Thanksgiving with communal meals or ceremonies that are open to the community.Social/Game Nights: The post hosts recurring evenings like bingo or trivia nights (often on Wednesdays) and live music or karaoke on weekends. Local cover bands (classic rock, country, etc.) play on busy nights. The calendar stays full even outside holidays, with theme dinners or drink specials (e.g. spaghetti or taco nights) typical of VFW programming.Hall Rentals and Community Uses: The hall is used for fundraisers, club meetings (Scouts, Gold Star families, motorcycle groups, etc.) and private parties. It’s been rented for weddings, memorial dinners and receptions (one review mentions hosting a funeral repast here). The venue also hosts civic events – for example, the Riverside County Veterans Advisory Committee held a legislative breakfast at Post 8547 .
Tickets and Booking
Post 8547 events generally do not use online ticketing platforms, so purchases are made through the post itself. Most tickets can be bought in person at the VFW bar/canteen during open hours or at the door on event night. Occasionally a limited advance sale is organized (through the post or auxiliary), but that’s not the norm. Prices are kept very modest: for instance, steak dinners typically run on the order of $10–$20 per person, and live shows often have a small cover charge (usually under $15). There is no separate box office building – sales are handled right in the canteen area. It’s wise to get tickets early for popular shows, as seating is limited. In short, plan on visiting the post (or calling ahead) to pay for admission rather than buying online.
Seating and Layout
VFW Post 8547 is a simple single-level hall. There is a bar/canteen area at one side, and the rest of the room is open space with movable tables and chairs. Many events use a small raised platform or cleared space (often along one wall) for performances or speeches. There is no reserved or assigned seating – guests sit wherever they like. For performances, the best spots are usually at tables arranged near the middle-front of the room, in line with the stage. Avoid sitting directly beside large speakers or in the far back corners if possible, since the acoustics can be a bit boomy. The room holds on the order of 100–150 people seated (the exact capacity isn’t formally posted, but it’s a moderately sized hall). There are no VIP sections – even the “best” tables are open to anyone. In short, seating is very casual: first-come, first-served, so arriving early is the easiest way to guarantee a good seat or a group of seats together.
Getting There and Parking
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8547 is located at 22616 Alessandro Boulevard in Moreno Valley, CA. Major highways: if you’re driving, the post is roughly 10 minutes off the I-215 freeway. For example, take the I-215 Alameda/Redlands exit and head east to Alessandro Blvd. The building sits near the corner of Alessandro and Moreno Beach Drive. Parking: The VFW has its own parking lot beside the building, which is free for guests during events. On busy nights this lot may fill up, but there is additional free street parking on Alessandro Blvd and nearby residential streets (just be careful to avoid any posted restrictions). Rideshare pick-up/drop-off is convenient right at the main entrance on Alessandro. Public transit: Riverside Transit (RTA) runs buses along Alessandro Blvd. The nearest stops (within a few blocks) are at Alessandro & Nason or Alessandro & Moreno Beach; from those stops it’s a short walk to the post.
Inside the Venue
Entering the post, you’ll find a casual veterans’ lounge. The main entrance opens into the canteen/bar area, staffed by volunteer bartenders. Beyond that is the hall itself. Tables and chairs are arranged on the flat floor and can be moved aside for dancing or a stage setup. The décor is simple – neutral paint or military green walls with flags, veteran photos and memorabilia. There is no coat-check, so guests hang jackets on chairs or wall hooks. Restrooms (including wheelchair-accessible ones) are located off the main room, typically in a back corner. Everything is on one level, so accessibility is good.Food & Drinks: The kitchen serves standard bar food (burgers, sandwiches, tacos, etc.) and daily specials. Menus or boards list the day’s offerings. In fact, the canteen’s slogan is “Real food, cooked fresh – no short cuts” . Notably, the post runs a regular Sunday breakfast (e.g. on Oct 26, 2025 it ran 10am–12pm ) for about $7–$9 . Evening dinners like Steak Night have a set price per plate. Drink prices are very low (a beer might be $3–$4, a basic cocktail $5–$6) and happy-hour specials are often offered. Both cash and credit/debit cards are accepted at the bar. Ambiance: The vibe is very relaxed and friendly. Don’t expect fancy extras – there’s no free Wi-Fi or video game lounge – just good company. Conversation and music fill the air; live shows will sound lively but not studio-quiet. Most people dress in jeans or T-shirts (sometimes camo or VFW jackets). Children are welcome at family events (many bring kids to breakfast or dinners), but only ages 21+ can be served alcohol. Patrons often take casual photos with their phones, though professional photography or video equipment is generally discouraged without permission. In short, treat it like your favorite neighborhood bar: plan to eat and drink on-site, chat with new people, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere that honors veterans.
Nearby Amenities
Because Post 8547 is in a residential area, there aren’t upscale eateries right next door. If you arrive early, you can find basic eateries within a mile. For example, a McDonald’s and Subway are just a short drive south of Alessandro Blvd, and a local family-style diner is one block east. A 2–3 mile drive west on Alessandro/Redlands Blvd gets you to the main Moreno Valley shopping corridor, which has chain restaurants (like Chili’s, IHOP, Olive Garden) as well as grocery stores and shops. Hotels (Holiday Inn Express, La Quinta, etc.) are located in that same Redlands Blvd area, about a 5–10 minute drive from the VFW. Many guests plan to eat at one of those nearby restaurants before a show or grab dinner afterward. Rideshare services will wait along Alessandro Blvd for your ride back.
What Makes This Venue Special
As a small local VFW post, the true “specialty” of Post 8547 is its people and spirit. There’s nothing glitzy about the building – no neon signs or big-city bells and whistles – but instead a strong sense of camaraderie. Patrons often note that the volunteers and bartenders treat everyone like family; as one review describes, the atmosphere is very “family-like” . Long-time members say it feels like home: strangers of different generations often leave as friends. Even local bands enjoy playing here – the intimate, patriotic crowd makes every show memorable. The walls are lined with service flags and memorabilia, and community events like fundraisers, scholarship dinners and parades often start or end here. In short, the post’s genuine, no-frills patriotism and community spirit make it truly special. It’s not a flashy club or large arena, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in heart – it truly feels like a small-town veterans’ home.
Visitor Tips and Information
For a smooth experience: arrive 15–30 minutes before start time, especially for dinners or big shows (people will already be lining up at the door). Always carry a valid photo ID if you plan to drink – it will be checked at the bar. The dress code is casual (jeans, shorts, T-shirts, hoodies are fine). It can get cool inside during evenings, so bring a light jacket. As a policy, outside alcohol is not permitted (the post has a liquor license), so plan to buy drinks there. Photography with phones is fine, but if you have a tripod or professional camera, ask staff first. If you need clarification on rules or timing, check the VFW’s social media or call the hall – they’ll post any changes or specials (such as early closure announcements or happy hour deals). A small tip for the bartender and a thank-you to any veteran you meet goes a long way – they really appreciate it. Finally, watch for special fundraisers or community breakfasts listed online – attending one is a fun way to see the venue on a slower day. Following these tips will help you enjoy Post 8547 while respecting its veteran tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get to VFW Post 8547, and where is it located?
Post 8547 is located at 22616 Alessandro Boulevard in Moreno Valley, CA. For drivers, take the I-215 freeway to the Alessandro/Redlands Blvd exit and head toward Alessandro. The building sits near the corner of Alessandro and Moreno Beach Drive. If you’re using public transit, Riverside Transit (RTA) has bus lines running along Alessandro. The nearest stops are at Alessandro & Nason or Alessandro & Moreno Beach; from either it’s just a short walk to the post.
Is parking available at the VFW, and is it free?
Yes, parking is free. The VFW has its own lot directly beside the building for members and guests. On busy event nights this lot may fill up, so carpooling is a good idea. If the lot is full, there is additional free street parking on Alessandro Blvd and nearby residential streets (just be sure not to block any driveways). Rideshare drivers can drop you off at the front door of the VFW, which is well-lit at night.
How do I buy tickets for events, and what are the ticket prices?
Tickets for Post 8547 events are usually sold on-site only. You can buy them at the canteen/bar during its open hours, or at the door on the night of the event. There is no online ticket portal. Prices are generally very affordable: for example, banquet dinners often cost on the order of $10–$20 per person, and live music shows (if there’s any cover charge) typically ask for under $15. Members, veterans and the general public all pay the same rate. For popular shows, it’s best to arrive early to buy tickets and enter before capacity is reached.
Is seating reserved or general admission?
Seating is general admission. There are tables and chairs set up around the room, but none are assigned to specific ticket holders. Guests simply pick a table or spot when they arrive. If you want a good view for a concert, try to get there early to claim a front table or stand up front. On a normal event night, staff may leave certain tables for larger groups or private events, but in general it’s first-come, first-served seating.
Where are the best seats or viewing spots in the hall?
For music or presentations, center tables a few rows back from the stage usually provide the best view and sound. These avoid sitting right next to the speakers or up against the side walls (which can muddle the audio). Avoid sitting immediately by the entrance or bar if you want a quieter experience. In short, any table roughly in the middle of the room facing the stage is a great spot. If you arrive late, be prepared to sit off to the side or at the back.
Are food and drinks available inside the VFW?
Yes. The canteen serves food and drinks throughout event hours. Standard bar food (burgers, sandwiches, tacos, etc.) is available to order, and the full bar is open for beer, wine and mixed drinks. If an event includes dinner service (like Steak Night), it will be served first, then the bar remains open for the show. If it’s a performance-only event, the kitchen might not be serving, so eat beforehand if possible. In any case, you can always buy beverages and light snacks at the bar during shows.
Can I bring outside food or drinks into the hall?
No. Outside alcohol is not allowed, since the VFW bar is the only licensed vendor. Bringing outside food is also generally discouraged. If you have special dietary needs it’s best to eat beforehand or contact the post in advance. For small celebrations, you might ask staff about bringing in a cake or dessert, but standard practice is to buy all food and drink from the canteen.
What are the dress code and age restrictions?
The dress code is entirely casual. You’ll see jeans, shorts and T-shirts (even camouflage or military-themed shirts) – that’s perfectly fine. Children are welcome at family events like breakfasts and dinners, but to sit at the bar or buy alcohol you must be 21 or older. Always carry an ID if you plan to drink. Other than that, just come as you are. If you find veterans greeting you in fatigues or polos, just know you’re in the right place.
Is Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8547 wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible. The entire facility is on one level. There are no stairs at the main entrance, and the hallways and restrooms are designed for accessibility. There is at least one reserved handicap parking spot right at the front. If you have mobility needs, you should find it easy to navigate inside. For any special accommodations (like closer parking or seating), just ask a staff member when you arrive.
Can I take photos or record video during events?
Phone pictures and casual video are generally fine. Many people snap shots with their phones. Just be mindful of others (no flash during a live performance, for example). Professional camera setups (tripods, microphones, etc.) usually need prior permission. If there are event-specific rules (like no flash photography), the staff will announce it at the door. Otherwise, simple photos are allowed.
What is the seating capacity of the hall?
The hall seats on the order of 100–150 people. There’s no official posted capacity for events, but in practice it’s a moderately sized space. Several dozen tables are typically set up with a dance floor or stage area. Reviews and event organizers imply it’s large enough for community gatherings but intimate compared to big city venues. If you want a specific number, it’s safest to assume around 150 maximum seated.
Is the canteen open to the public or members only?
The canteen is open to all adults (21+ for drinks). You do not have to be a VFW member to enter or make a purchase on a normal open night. Any advertised public event can be attended by non-members. Membership is only required for internal privileges (like voting in VFW elections). In other words, customers, family members and friends can use the canteen freely during public events.
What are the usual hours of operation?
The canteen’s hours are typically Sunday 10:00 am–7:00 pm (for breakfast and dinner), Monday/Wed/Thu 3:00 pm–9:00 pm, and Friday–Saturday 3:00 pm–10:00 pm . The post is usually closed on Tuesdays. Events or meals have their own scheduled start times, so always double-check social media or call the post for the specific event time. In general, show up 15–30 minutes before the advertised time to get settled and order if needed.
Can non-veterans attend events at Post 8547?
Yes. Any adult is welcome to attend public events at the VFW. You do not need to prove military service or have a membership. You will just be a guest. In fact, many attendees are family members, first responders or local residents. The only restrictions are the usual ones (must be 21+ to drink). So feel free to come and enjoy the event even if you haven’t served.
What nearby restaurants and hotels are there?
Options are limited right next door. Within a couple of miles you’ll find a few fast-food and casual places: for example, a McDonald’s and Subway are just a short drive away, and a 24-hour diner is a block east on Alessandro. To find sit-down restaurants or hotels, drive west a few miles on Alessandro/Redlands Blvd. That area has chains (like Chili’s, IHOP), shopping, and hotels (Holiday Inn Express, La Quinta, etc.). Taxis and rideshare services are easy to use in this area. Most visitors simply eat at one of those nearby restaurants before or after the event.
