Fun Things to Do in Orange County - Ultimate Traveler's Guide
As somebody who has lived in OC for nearly a decade, if you're looking for fun things to do in Orange County, you've come to the right place.
As a local, I'm always discovering new hidden gems and revisiting old favorites. Now, I'm excited to share some of my top picks with you. Whether you're into beach vibes, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just plain good food, the OC has something for everyone.
So, let's ditch the crowds and explore some of the best that Orange County has to offer. Get ready for a fun-filled adventure beyond the mouse!
Visit One of OC's Beautiful Beaches
Let's be honest, one of the biggest draws of Orange County is its coastline. Whether you're a surfer, a sunbather, or just someone who loves the feeling of sand between their toes, OC's beaches have something for you.
Huntington Beach
This is Surf City USA, and the vibe is lively and energetic. Rent a board, take a lesson, or just watch the pros ride the waves. Afterwards, you can take a trip down Main Street to explore the variety of restaurants, shops, and bars which offer a little bit of something for everybody.
Newport Beach
This is where you'll find The Wedge, a legendary bodyboarding spot with epic waves. The harbor is also fun to explore, with boat rentals, restaurants, and shops. At night, the Newport Beach peninsula bars offer some of the best areas for young adults with dive bars and live music at a range of venues.
Laguna Beach
This artistic enclave has tide pools to explore, coves to discover, and a charming downtown with art galleries and boutiques. I highly suggest some of the restaurants in this area like Nick's Laguna Beach or brunch spots like Las Brisas or Hotel Laguna which provide great views of the ocean.
Explore Orange County's Natural Wonders
Orange County's natural beauty extends beyond the beach. There are some amazing parks and trails to explore that offer a variety of terrains and breathtaking views.
Crystal Cove State Park
For a taste of unspoiled California coastline, head to Crystal Cove State Park. This sprawling park offers a diverse range of activities for nature lovers. Hike the trails winding through Moro Canyon, explore the tide pools teeming with marine life, or simply relax on the sandy beach and soak up the sun.
The park's historic district is a charming collection of vintage beach cottages, some of which are available for overnight rentals. Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves and enjoying a morning coffee with an ocean view – pure bliss!
Whether you're a hiker, a beachcomber, or a history buff, Crystal Cove State Park has something to captivate and inspire you.
Irvine Regional Park:
For a day of family-friendly fun, head to Irvine Regional Park. Kids will love riding the miniature train, exploring the OC Zoo, and renting paddle boats on the lake. Adults can relax in the shade, enjoy a picnic lunch, or go for a hike on the park's many trails.
The park's natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a popular spot for family gatherings, birthday parties, and special events. No matter how you choose to spend your day, Irvine Regional Park is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Peters Canyon Regional Park:
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a little adventure, Peters Canyon Regional Park is a must-visit. This 340-acre park boasts a network of trails that wind through diverse terrain, from rolling hills to serene canyons. Hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians can all find their perfect path.
The park's centerpiece is the 55-acre Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir, where you can spot a variety of birds, including ducks, geese, and herons. The park also features a nature center, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna. If you're looking for a scenic workout or a peaceful escape into nature, Peters Canyon Regional Park won't disappoint.
Take in the OC Art Scene
Orange County has a vibrant arts and culture scene that's worth exploring. Let's take a look at some fo the local favoritres that you'll definitely want to explore.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
This renowned performing arts center boasts multiple venues hosting a wide variety of shows and events throughout the year. Catch a Broadway musical in the grand Segerstrom Hall, enjoy a classical concert in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, or experience a more intimate performance in the Samueli Theater.
The center also offers a range of educational programs and community events, making it a vibrant hub for artistic expression in Orange County.
Bowers Museum
This cultural institution houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the globe, spanning thousands of years of human history. Explore ancient Egyptian relics, admire exquisite Chinese ceramics, or learn about the traditions of indigenous cultures from the Americas.
The museum also features special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing everything from contemporary art to ancient treasures on loan from other institutions.
Laguna Art Museum
The Laguna Art museum's collection focuses exclusively on art created in or inspired by the Golden State, showcasing works from the 19th century to the present day. Explore paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other media that capture the essence of California's diverse landscapes, cultures, and artistic movements.
The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions that highlight specific artists, themes, or periods in California art history.
Enjoy the Extensive Culinary Scene Across Orange County
Orange County has an incredibly diverse culinary scene, with something for every palate and budget. Here are a few of my favorite spots:
Foodie Hotspots
Anaheim Packing District: This bustling food hall offers a global culinary adventure under one roof. Choose from a mouthwatering array of vendors, serving everything from handcrafted ramen and gourmet burgers to artisan ice cream and craft cocktails.
4th Street Market: Located in Santa Ana, this vibrant market features a mix of local vendors, offering fresh produce, unique gifts, and delicious food options like tacos, poke bowls, and wood-fired pizza.
The CAMP and The LAB: These two adjacent shopping centers in Costa Mesa offer a more eclectic dining experience, with trendy cafes, healthy eateries, and unique restaurants serving global cuisine. There are also a host of breweries surrounding the area as well!
Ethnic Eats
Little Saigon: This neighborhood in Westminster is a must-visit for authentic Vietnamese cuisine. You'll find pho, banh mi, spring rolls, and so much more. You can check out the Asian Garden Mall as well which is a staple of the area and offers a number of food, restaurants, shopping, and events.
Koreatown: Located in Garden Grove, Koreatown is a haven for Korean food lovers. Enjoy Korean BBQ, bibimbap, kimchi, and other traditional dishes.
Mitsuwa Marketplace: This Japanese grocery store chain has locations throughout Orange County, and each one features a food court with delicious Japanese eats like ramen, sushi, and bento boxes. You can learn more about their locations and special events here.
Upscale Dining
The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon: Located in Anaheim, this upscale steakhouse is known for its premium cuts of meat, extensive whiskey collection. It's next door counterpart offers a saloon like atmosphere with country music and line dancing on Thursdays providing an unique blend of upscale and down-home fun.
Rothschild's: Located in Corona Del Mar, it is one of Orange County's oldest family owned restaurants serving Northern Italian and Continental classics in a stately, old-school setting. Having been around for over 30 years, it's a popular spot for special occasions and date nights, known for its extensive wine list and elegant ambiance.
Water Grille at South Coast: Renowned for its fresh, sustainable seafood sourced daily, Water Grille at South Coast offers an extensive menu featuring a raw bar, classic dishes, and seasonal specialties. Its elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular destination for special occasions and those seeking a high-quality dining experience in Orange County.
Explore Orange County's World Famous Shopping
Orange County is a shopper's paradise, boasting a diverse array of retail destinations to suit every taste and budget. Here are a few of the places you absolutely need to explore.
South Coast Plaza: As one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, South Coast Plaza is a mecca for fashionistas and luxury enthusiasts. It features an unparalleled collection of high-end designer boutiques, including Chanel, Hermès, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, alongside popular retailers like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, and Macy's.
Fashion Island: Nestled in the heart of Newport Beach, Fashion Island offers an upscale shopping experience in a picturesque open-air setting. Stroll through lush gardens and enjoy stunning ocean views as you browse a curated selection of luxury brands, trendy boutiques, and popular stores. With its diverse dining options and vibrant atmosphere, Fashion Island is a perfect blend of shopping and leisure.
The Outlets at Orange: For those seeking designer brands at a discount, The Outlets at Orange is a must-visit destination. This sprawling outdoor mall features over 120 outlet stores offering significant savings on apparel, footwear, accessories, and home goods from renowned brands like Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Nordstrom Rack, and Last Call by Neiman Marcus.
Orange County is More Than Meets the Eye
Orange County is so much more than meets the eye. Beyond the world-famous theme parks, there's a whole county waiting to be explored, from the sun-kissed shores to the hidden trails and vibrant city centers.
So, whether you're a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, I encourage you to get out there and discover all the fun and adventure that the OC has to offer. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite place to relax, unwind, or have an unforgettable adventure.
