Orange CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Orange, California.
1. Hilbert Museum of California Art
FREE ART MUSEUM EXPERIENCE
The Hilbert Museum of California Art is a free-entry art museum featuring a diverse gallery of California-focused pieces, including works by local artists, Disney, and Norman Rockwell. Visitors can explore exhibits that tell the narrative of California's rich history and culture through various artistic expressions. The museum offers an engaging cultural experience for art enthusiasts of all ages in the heart of Orange.
2. Irvine Regional Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Irvine Regional Park is a spacious outdoor destination featuring biking trails, picnic areas, and ample parking for visitors. Within the park, guests can find the Orange County Zoo and enjoy various recreational activities throughout the expansive grounds. This natural retreat provides a peaceful escape from urban life while still offering numerous amenities and entertainment options.
3. The Outlets at Orange
PREMIER DISCOUNT SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Outlets at Orange is Orange County's original and largest outlet shopping destination, home to more than 120 outlet and value retail stores. This charming open-air mall features designer brands at discount prices, including Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom Rack. Located close to the Disneyland Resort, it offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to enjoy major shopping with significant savings.
4. Old Towne Orange
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Old Towne Orange is a charming historic neighborhood featuring unique shops, restaurants, and architectural treasures centered around the iconic Plaza. Visitors can take the Plaza Walking Tour to explore the area's rich history and discover local businesses in the Old Towne Business Directory. This picturesque district has served as a filming location for numerous productions, making it a cultural landmark in Orange County.
5. Orange County Zoo
LOCAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
The Orange County Zoo is a compact wildlife sanctuary located within Irvine Regional Park showcasing native animals and plants of the southwestern United States. Visitors can observe various species in naturalistic habitats while learning about conservation efforts and environmental stewardship. The zoo provides an educational and entertaining experience for families seeking to connect with local wildlife in a manageable setting.
6. Peters Canyon Regional Park
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION
Peters Canyon Regional Park offers visitors miles of biking trails and hiking paths through diverse natural landscapes. The park features beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and varying terrain suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the serene environment while getting exercise and experiencing the natural beauty of Orange County.
7. Santiago Oaks Regional Park
WILDERNESS ADVENTURE SPOT
Santiago Oaks Regional Park is a wilderness park offering extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding through oak groves and scenic terrain. The park provides stunning views of Orange County and features diverse plant and animal life in a relatively untouched natural setting. Visitors can escape the urban environment while enjoying outdoor recreation just minutes from downtown Orange.
8. Irvine Park Railroad
FAMILY TRAIN ADVENTURE
Irvine Park Railroad offers a charming miniature train ride through the beautiful scenery of Irvine Regional Park. The railroad features seasonal events throughout the year, including an Easter Eggstravaganza, Pumpkin Patch, and Christmas Train that delight visitors of all ages. This family-friendly attraction provides a nostalgic experience while showcasing the natural beauty of the surrounding park.
9. Stadium Promenade
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Stadium Promenade is a lively entertainment complex offering spectacular views of Honda Center and a vibrant bar scene that becomes especially energetic on game nights. Sports fans gather here when the Anaheim Ducks and Angels are playing, creating an electric atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. The promenade combines dining, entertainment, and sports viewing in one convenient location near the Orange and Anaheim border.
10. Disneyland Resort
MAGICAL THEME PARK EXPERIENCE
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim features two incredible theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Visitors can explore immersive worlds including Avengers Campus and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, where guests of all ages can unleash their inner heroes and experience movie magic come to life. The resort also offers Disney-themed culinary delights that elevate the typical theme park dining experience with creative and delicious options.
11. Mission San Juan Capistrano
HISTORIC CULTURAL LANDMARK
Mission San Juan Capistrano is considered the birthplace of Orange County and stands as one of the region's most significant historic attractions. The mission features beautiful gardens, chapels, and museums showcasing thousands of historic artifacts ranging from Native American implements to Mexican coins from 1855. Visitors can experience special events throughout the year, including St. Joseph's Day celebrations and summer concerts that bring this historic site to life.
12. Knott's Berry Farm
THRILLING THEME PARK ADVENTURE
Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park is a beloved theme park offering hair-raising thrills and family-friendly attractions just minutes from the Disneyland Resort. The park combines exciting roller coasters with a celebration of California's pioneer history, creating a unique entertainment experience. Visitors can enjoy delicious food options including the famous fried chicken and boysenberry treats that connect to the park's humble beginnings as a berry farm.
13. South Coast Plaza
LUXURY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa is a world-renowned luxury shopping destination featuring over 250 boutiques and department stores from the world's top fashion designers. The upscale mall offers a sophisticated shopping environment with exceptional customer service, including concierge assistance and valet parking. Visitors can enjoy fine dining options alongside their shopping experience, making it a complete luxury destination in Orange County.
14. Laguna Beach
ARTISTIC COASTAL PARADISE
Laguna Beach is a picturesque coastal city known for its beautiful coves, artistic community, and upscale atmosphere. Visitors can explore numerous art galleries, attend the famous Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters, or simply relax on the stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters. The charming downtown area offers boutique shopping and excellent dining options with ocean views that capture the essence of Southern California coastal living.
15. Seal Beach Pier
ICONIC OCEANFRONT LANDMARK
The iconic wooden Seal Beach Pier extends into the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views and excellent fishing opportunities. Located just off the Pacific Coast Highway, it serves as the gateway to Main Street, which features dozens of charming shops and eateries along a picturesque strip. Visitors to Seal Beach can experience the quintessential Southern California beach town atmosphere in this first taste of Orange County when traveling down the coast.