Costa Mesa CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Costa Mesa, California.
1. Segerstrom Center for the Arts
WORLD-CLASS PERFORMING ARTS
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is among the nation's premier cultural institutions, presenting a broad range of world-class performances and innovative education programs. The center features multiple venues hosting ballet, theater, and musical performances throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy everything from Broadway shows to symphony orchestras in this celebrated Orange County arts complex.
2. South Coast Plaza
LUXURY SHOPPING DESTINATION
South Coast Plaza is a renowned international shopping destination home to an unrivaled collection of more than 250 luxury and fashion boutiques and 30 restaurants. This upscale mall is one of the largest shopping centers on the West Coast, featuring high-end retailers and exclusive brands. Shoppers can enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere with designer stores, fine dining options, and exceptional customer service.
3. TeWinkle Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY PARK
TeWinkle Park is a very nice community park near the Orange County Fairgrounds with sprawling green spaces and recreational facilities. The park features a great skateboard park and a very large playground perfect for children of all ages. Visitors can also enjoy the duck pond, picnic areas, and sports fields spread throughout this popular local green space.
4. California Scenario
ARTISTIC OUTDOOR SCULPTURE GARDEN
California Scenario is a stunning sculpture garden created by renowned artist Isamu Noguchi that interprets California's diverse landscape. The 1.6-acre garden features abstract representations of California's varying geography, including a desert, forest, and water elements. Visitors can enjoy this peaceful urban oasis tucked between office buildings in the South Coast Metro area.
5. The LAB Anti-Mall
ALTERNATIVE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The LAB Anti-Mall is a unique alternative shopping center featuring independent boutiques, creative spaces, and eclectic dining options. This unconventional shopping destination emphasizes artistic expression and offers a collection of shops selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts. Despite parking challenges, visitors are drawn to its quirky charm and vibrant atmosphere that stands in contrast to traditional shopping malls.
6. Fairview Park
NATURAL OPEN SPACE PRESERVE
Fairview Park offers 208 acres of natural habitats and open space for outdoor recreation and environmental appreciation. The park features hiking trails, native plant gardens, and wetland areas that provide a glimpse into Southern California's original landscape. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, model airplane flying, and expansive views of the surrounding area from this ecological preserve.
7. South Coast Repertory Theater
PREMIER REGIONAL THEATER
South Coast Repertory Theater is a Tony Award-winning professional theater company known for producing high-quality dramatic performances and nurturing new plays. The theater offers a diverse season of classic and contemporary works performed by talented actors in intimate venues. Theater enthusiasts appreciate the company's commitment to artistic excellence and innovative storytelling.
8. Pacific Symphony
ORCHESTRAL MUSICAL EXCELLENCE
Pacific Symphony is Orange County's premier orchestra performing classical masterworks, contemporary compositions, and educational programs at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The symphony presents a diverse range of musical experiences under the direction of renowned conductors and featuring world-class guest artists. Audiences can enjoy everything from traditional symphonic concerts to innovative multimedia productions throughout their performance season.
9. Orange County Museum of Art
CONTEMPORARY ART COLLECTION
Orange County Museum of Art showcases modern and contemporary works from the 20th and 21st centuries in its impressive new facility at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts campus. The museum features rotating exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, photography, and digital media from regional and international artists. Visitors can explore the museum's permanent collection and special exhibitions while enjoying the architecturally significant building that opened in recent years.
10. The CAMP
ECO-FRIENDLY RETAIL CAMPUS
The CAMP is an eco-conscious retail and dining complex focused on healthy living, outdoor activities, and sustainability. This unique shopping destination features environmentally friendly boutiques, fitness studios, and organic restaurants in a campus-like setting. Visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, green design elements, and community events that promote an active, mindful lifestyle.
11. OC Fair & Event Center
YEAR-ROUND ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
OC Fair & Event Center hosts the annual Orange County Fair and numerous other events throughout the year on its expansive grounds. The center features multiple venues, exhibition halls, and outdoor spaces that accommodate everything from concerts to trade shows. Visitors flock to the property for its wide range of entertainment options, including farmers markets, craft fairs, and cultural festivals beyond just the summer fair.
12. Sidecar Doughnuts
GOURMET ARTISANAL TREATS
Sidecar Doughnuts is a beloved local bakery specializing in handcrafted, small-batch doughnuts made from scratch daily. Their menu features creative flavor combinations using fresh, seasonal ingredients and house-made glazes and fillings. Visitors often line up to sample these Instagram-worthy treats that have earned a cult following throughout Southern California.
13. The Triangle
ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING HUB
The Triangle is a distinctive entertainment and dining complex offering restaurants, bars, and recreational activities in a central Costa Mesa location. The triangular-shaped development features a bowling alley, movie theater, and fitness center alongside diverse dining options. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere and variety of entertainment choices all in one convenient destination.
14. Mitsuwa Marketplace
JAPANESE CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Mitsuwa Marketplace is an authentic Japanese grocery store and food court offering imported goods, fresh seafood, and prepared foods. The marketplace features specialty departments selling everything from Japanese snacks and beverages to kitchen equipment and beauty products. Visitors can shop for ingredients or enjoy a meal at one of the food stalls serving ramen, sushi, and other Japanese specialties.
15. Newport Beach Whale Watching
MARINE WILDLIFE EXCURSIONS
Newport Beach Whale Watching offers guided cruises to observe magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat just off the Orange County coast. Experienced captains and naturalists lead these excursions to spot whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other ocean wildlife throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the 2-hour educational adventure while learning about marine conservation and the diverse ecosystem of the Pacific Ocean.