Are you ready to explore the hidden gems and top attractions of Santa Ana, California? Orange County, the third-largest in the Golden State, is full of experiences for every traveler. From cultural spots to outdoor adventures, this city has it all. Let’s find out the must-see places that will make your visit unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Uncover the cultural heart of Orange County in Santa Ana’s historic districts and world-renowned museums.
- Embrace nature’s beauty at the scenic Santiago Oaks Regional Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Indulge in the culinary delights and shopping opportunities along Main Street and the lively farmers’ markets.
- Discover hands-on learning and interactive exhibits at the Discovery Cube Orange County.
- Explore the great outdoors at Irvine Regional Park, home to the Orange County Zoo and hiking trails.
Discover the Cultural Heart of Orange County
Downtown Santa Ana is the cultural heart of Orange County. It’s a place full of history and art. Walk through historic districts with stunning architecture and a cozy feel. You’ll find art galleries, antique shops, and local restaurants that make the area lively.
Downtown Santa Ana Historic Districts
Take a walk through Downtown Santa Ana’s historic areas to feel its past. The Logan Neighborhood shows off Victorian-era homes. The Fourth Street District is now full of unique shops, eateries, and cultural spots.
See the Spurgeon Building and the Yost Theater, landmarks of Santa Ana arts and heritage. These places tell the story of the city’s past.
Bowers Museum
Don’t miss the Bowers Museum for a taste of Orange County cultural experiences. It’s filled with art and artifacts from California and around the world. The museum has exhibits on indigenous cultures, ancient civilizations, and modern artists.
“The Bowers Museum is a treasure trove of art and history, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of California and beyond.”
Embrace Nature's Beauty at Santiago Oaks Regional Park
For a peaceful escape, visit Santiago Oaks Regional Park, a calm spot near downtown Santa Ana. It’s a place to enjoy Orange County’s beautiful outdoors.
The park has many hiking trails through peaceful oak woods and by a gentle creek. It’s perfect for nature activities and exploring. Whether you love hiking, birdwatching, or just want to connect with nature, Santiago Oaks Regional Park is a hidden treasure in Santa Ana and Orange County.
While walking, look for the park’s wildlife. You’ll see wildflowers and majestic oak trees. Bird lovers will enjoy seeing hawks, woodpeckers, and songbirds.
“Spending time in nature is like hitting the reset button for my mind and body. Santiago Oaks Regional Park is the perfect place to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with the beauty of the great outdoors.” – Jane Doe, Santa Ana Resident
Santiago Oaks Regional Park is great for peaceful hikes, picnics, or nature watching. It’s a top spot for those visiting Santa Ana and Orange County. Let the park’s beauty and calm refresh you.
Santa Ana, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Main Street Dining and Shopping
Main Street in downtown Santa Ana is alive with dining, shopping, and community vibes. Take a walk and find unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Each place shows off the city’s creative side. You’ll find everything from gourmet to casual food spots, celebrating a wide range of tastes.
Try the famous tamales at Sariñana’s Tamale Factory, a local favorite for over 70 years. For a plant-based choice, visit Den Cafe for tasty vegetarian and vegan dishes. Or, book a table at Omakase by Gino (OMG) for a special meal with only 10 guests.
Farmers' Markets
Check out Santa Ana’s farmers’ markets for a taste of the local scene. You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items. Talk to vendors and enjoy the unique flavors of Santa Ana.
- Enjoy homemade tamales, pastries, and more at the Santa Ana Farmers Market.
- Support local businesses and artists at the MainPlace Mall Farmers Market.
- Find organic fruits, veggies, and special items at the Santa Ana College Farmers Market.
Main Street and the farmers’ markets in Santa Ana offer a great dining and shopping experience. They celebrate the city’s culture and community spirit.
Family Fun at Discovery Cube Orange County
When you visit Santa Ana, don’t miss the Discovery Cube Orange County. It’s perfect for families who love hands-on science and learning. With over 100 exhibits, it’s a place where curiosity meets fun for both kids and adults.
Check out the state-of-the-art Physics Lab to learn about motion, energy, and sound. The Dinosaur Section is a hit with its fossils and interactive displays. And, the Discovery Market lets you shop for healthy food and learn about food production in a fun way.
The Hurricane Simulator is a thrill for those who love adventure. It simulates winds over 70 miles per hour, showing the power of nature. The museum has many educational activities, from environmental conservation to laser challenges.
Tickets are $18 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $15 for kids under 14. Free parking is available, and the museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Plan to spend about 3 hours here to fully enjoy the exhibits and learning activities.
“The Discovery Cube Orange County is a remarkable place where science comes alive. From the immersive exhibits to the dynamic programs, it’s a true haven for curious minds of all ages.”
Explore the Great Outdoors at Irvine Regional Park
Just a short drive from Santa Ana, Irvine Regional Park is a treasure trove of nature and fun. It’s one of the biggest parks in Orange County, covering over 1,300 acres. It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors and want to see the area’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
Orange County Zoo
Inside the park, you’ll find the delightful Orange County Zoo. It features animals native to California and the Southwest. You can see bears, mountain lions, and bald eagles up close. It’s a great place to learn about and enjoy the local wildlife.
Hiking and Biking Trails
The park is famous for its hiking and biking trails. These trails range from easy to hard, taking you through beautiful oak and sycamore trees. You’ll see amazing views and birds along the way. The Bommer Canyon trail is a 5.5-mile hike with peaceful landscapes. The Turtle Rock Trail is a 1.6-mile walk with breathtaking views.
Irvine Regional Park is ideal for those who love wildlife, hiking, or just enjoying nature. It’s a top spot for outdoor fun in the Santa Ana and Orange County area.
Unwind at Fairview Park
For a peaceful break from the city, Fairview Park in Santa Ana is ideal. It has lush landscapes, peaceful paths, and beautiful views. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
Community Events and Festivals
Year-round, Fairview Park has events and festivals for the community. These events bring people together to celebrate Santa Ana’s culture. You can enjoy music, crafts, picnics, and workshops.
The Fairview Park Summer Festival is a big event. It’s a colorful celebration with vendors, food, and live music. There are also games and activities for families to have fun.
But it’s not just about festivals. Fairview Park is a place for community activities. You can join fitness classes, have picnics, or fly kites. It’s a spot for people to meet, relax, and enjoy nature.
Experience the Arts at Grand Central Art Center
In the heart of downtown Santa Ana, the Grand Central Art Center shines as a key spot for the city’s arts and culture. It’s a place where you can see contemporary art galleries and exhibits. These feature the work of artists from around the world.
At the Grand Central Art Center, you can dive into a world full of creativity. You’ll find live performances like music, theater, and more. It’s a place where the community arts come alive, making it perfect for art lovers and those wanting to feel the city’s creative vibe.
“Spin (after Sol LeWitt)”, a five-year project by artist-in-residence Yumi Janairo Roth, merged the outdoor world of sign spinning with the indoor space of fine art, shifting perspectives and celebrating the athleticism and passion of this unique artform.
The Grand Central Art Center offers a unique way to experience the arts. You’ll be surrounded by the city’s creative energy. It’s a place where you can find the special things that make Santa Ana a cultural gem.
Savor the Flavors of Little Gaza
In Santa Ana, California, a special place called Little Gaza awaits food lovers. It’s a spot where you can enjoy real Middle Eastern flavors. Here, you get to taste the unique dishes of the region.
Walking through Little Gaza, you’ll smell fresh pita bread, spices, and sizzling kebabs. This area is loved by food lovers from everywhere. They come for the rich culture and the chance to feel like they’re in the Middle East.
At the center of Little Gaza are family-owned places to eat and shop. You can try shawarma, hummus, and falafel. Each dish brings the Middle East to your plate. It’s a journey through flavors from Syria, Egypt, and Palestine.
But there’s more than just food in Little Gaza. You can check out local markets and see Middle Eastern art and crafts. The area’s energy is infectious, making it a special place to visit.
Little Gaza is perfect for anyone who loves adventure or food. It’s an unforgettable trip into the Middle Eastern culture. Come to taste, see, and hear the stories of this place.
| Restaurant | Specialty | Accolades |
|---|---|---|
| Aleppo’s Kitchen | Syrian Cuisine | Operated by a family who fled Syria’s civil war in 2012 |
| Okayama Kobo Bakery & Cafe | Hokkaido Flour Baked Goods | Preservative and additive-free |
| Tacos Los Cholos | Authentic Mexican Tacos | Won LA Taco’s Taco Madness in 2023 |
| Don Churros | Traditional Churros | Serving recipes dating back to 1969 |
“Little Gaza is a vibrant and authentic taste of the Middle East in the heart of Santa Ana. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an immersive cultural and culinary experience.”
Catch a Game at Angel Stadium
Sports fans visiting Santa Ana should not miss a game at Angel Stadium, where the Los Angeles Angels play. It’s a short drive from Santa Ana and offers a classic baseball feel. You’ll enjoy hot dogs, peanuts, and the thrill of a live game.
For hockey fans, the Honda Center in Anaheim is a must-visit. It’s the home of the Anaheim Ducks NHL team. This gives visitors to Santa Ana and Orange County another exciting event to choose from.
Honda Center: Home of the Anaheim Ducks
The Honda Center is a top spot for NHL hockey fans, right near Santa Ana. It’s where the Anaheim Ducks play, offering a thrilling experience. Fans get to see the Ducks’ skilled players in action.
If you love hockey or just want a fun night out, the Honda Center is a great choice. It’s a memorable part of visiting Santa Ana and Orange County.
“The energy and atmosphere at an Angel Stadium game is truly unparalleled. It’s an experience every sports fan should have the chance to enjoy.”
- Ticket prices for Los Angeles Angels games at Angel Stadium can start as low as $6 per person, making it an affordable option for families and groups.
- The Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, located adjacent to Angel Stadium, offers an immersive virtual reality experience for aviation enthusiasts.
- Angel Stadium has a rich history, having served as the home of the Los Angeles Rams NFL team between 1980 and 1994.
The Santa Ana and Orange County area has lots to offer for sports and entertainment fans. Whether you’re into baseball, hockey, or just want a lively night out, you’ll find something fun.
Shop Till You Drop at South Coast Plaza
No visit to Santa Ana is complete without a trip to the renowned South Coast Plaza. It’s one of the largest and most prestigious shopping destinations in the United States. This upscale shopping center has a wide range of luxury retailers, high-end fashion brands, and gourmet dining options. It caters to the tastes of both locals and visitors. With its elegant design and diverse offerings, South Coast Plaza is a top choice for a shopping experience in Santa Ana.
At South Coast Plaza, you’ll find over 250 luxury and boutique shops. Flagship stores from brands like Chanel, Dior, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton are here. Whether you want the latest fashion, beautiful jewelry, or top-notch home furnishings, you’ll find it here.
There’s more than shopping at South Coast Plaza. You can enjoy a wide range of gourmet dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes. Try different flavors from around the world, from authentic Italian to innovative fusion dishes. The place has stunning architecture, beautiful courtyards, and top amenities for a unique shopping and dining experience in Santa Ana.
“South Coast Plaza is a shopping destination unlike any other, offering an unrivaled collection of luxury brands and dining experiences that cater to the most sophisticated tastes. It’s a true haven for anyone who loves to indulge in the finest things in life.”
For both locals and visitors, a visit to South Coast Plaza is a must. Dive into the world of high-end fashion, luxury retail, and amazing food. Experience the ultimate shopping destination in Orange County.
Conclusion
Santa Ana, California, is full of attractions for all kinds of interests and budgets. You can dive into the city’s rich culture, explore nature, try delicious food, and shop in style. There’s something here for everyone in this lively Orange County spot.
Looking for fun with your family, a deep cultural experience, or a peaceful getaway? Santa Ana has it all. Its historic areas, famous museums, beautiful parks, and lively dining and shopping spots offer something for every visitor.
Plan your trip to this exciting city and see the top things to do in Santa Ana, California. With its mix of history, nature, and modern comforts, Santa Ana is a top spot that will make a big impact. Discover the hidden spots, enjoy the tasty food, and make lasting memories in this enchanting part of California.
