Discover the Best Orange County Day Trips & Hidden Gems

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Explore our extensive list of day trip ideas in Orange County, California. Uncover exciting activities, from popular tourist attractions to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. All of the destinations mentioned are situated in Orange County. If you are a resident or visiting Orange County, travel time is one hour or less.

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Gardens Nature – Family Activities – Beach Camping – Parks – Unique Food Courts – Museums – Scenic Drives – City Guide

Explore Mission San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over California and beyond. This historic site features picturesque gardens and buildings that are worth exploring. One of the highlights of the Mission is the Native American exhibit showcasing the crafts, tools, and way of life of the indigenous people who worked there. The Serra Chapel is another magnificent interior that you should not miss. Once you are done touring the Mission San Juan Capistrano, take a stroll around the downtown historic area. Mission website.

Spend a Day in Beautiful Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach boasts a stunning seven-mile coastline and some of the finest beaches in Orange County. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the 1930s lifeguard tower, which keeps an eye on the sandy activities at Main Beach. One of the exciting things to do in Laguna Beach is to explore one of the various tide pools to observe Southern California’s most captivating ecosystems up close. Some of the excellent tide pooling areas in the region are Divers Cove, Crescent Bay, Thousand Steps, and the coves below Heisler Park. Visit Laguna Beach Website.

Crystal Cove Beach: An Historic Coastal Destination

Crystal Cove State Park is home to one of the most stunning beaches in Southern California. With three miles of pristine Beach and over 2,000 acres of park, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy a day outdoors. The main entrance to the park is through the Crystal Cove Historic District, where you can also find the charming Crystal Cove Beach Cottages that date back to the 1920s. Visit Website.

Old Towne Orange Antique Shops & Sidewalk Restaurants

Looking for a perfect destination for a lazy weekend day trip? Look no further than the Old Town District in the City of Orange. Old Town Orange boasts various cozy sidewalk restaurants and bric-a-brac antique stores to delight you. Stroll through the district and enjoy the charming atmosphere of this 1920s gem. The Old Towne District is also home to the Orange International Street Fair, an annual event held every Labor Day weekend since 1973. This fair celebrates the city’s centennial and pays homage to the original 1910 Orange Street Fair. City website.

Corona Del Mar Day Trip “Crown of the Sea”

Corona del Mar is a small, picturesque town between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. It is well-known for its pristine beaches, breathtaking cliff-side views, trendy restaurants, and quaint shops. “Corona del Mar” translates to “Crown of the Sea” in Spanish. In the past, it could only be reached by a small boat or a dirt road crossing the Irvine Ranch from the Peninsula. Nowadays, it is easily accessible and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. City website.

Trestles Beach: A Southern California Surfing Paradise

Trestles Beach is located on the boundary between Orange County and San Diego County, and it’s regarded as one of the finest surfing beaches in California. The Beach is three and a half miles long and consists of five surf breaks known as Cotton, Uppers, Middles, Lowers, and Church. Trestles Beach doesn’t have a parking lot, hotels, or a paved beach trail, but it boasts miles of unspoiled Southern California coastline for visitors to enjoy. San Onofre State Park.

1000 Steps Beach Salt Water Pools

The concrete pools at Paradise Bay in South Laguna Beach have been around since the 1930s. You can reach them via Thousand Steps Beach, pass through a low-tide cave, or swim around the point. The saltwater pools are heated by the sun and during low tide and are significantly warmer than the nearby Pacific Ocean. During high tide, it can be challenging to reach the pools. Before you go, please note that swimming around or passing through the sea cave at Thousand Steps Beach to get to the pools involves some risk.

Orange County Gardens – Nature Hikes

Discover the Beauty of Bolsa Chica Wetlands

Bolsa Chica is one of the few remaining wetlands in Southern California. Over the past century, the area has been utilized for various purposes such as hunting, gun emplacements by the United States military, and extensive oil production fields. Now, the site is open to the public for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the natural surroundings. You can explore the area independently or join a guided tour on select weekends. Visit the Wetlands Website.

Newport Beach Back Bay Hiking, Biking, and Kayaking

The Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is situated in Newport Beach, California, and forms part of the Upper Newport Bay and Ecological Reserve, a high-quality nature preserve. The region is renowned for its coastal wetlands, one of the largest in Southern California. It is also a habitat for various bird species, including endangered ones. The preserve is spread over approximately 1,000 acres of open space, and the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve covers 135 acres—more about the preserve.

Niguel Botanical Preserve Laguna Niguel

The Niguel Botanical Preserve is a beautiful garden four miles inland from the Pacific Ocean along Crown Valley Parkway. Covering over 18 acres of Crown Valley Community Park, the preserve is on a hillside with several trails leading to the top. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Saddleback Mountain from the top of the hill. A hidden gem worth exploring, it makes a perfect Orange County day trip destination. Garden Website.

Fullerton Arboretum: A Garden Oasis

The Cal State Fullerton Campus is home to over 4,000 plants across 26 acres. The Arboretum’s primary objective is to safeguard the earth’s invaluable plant heritage, and thanks to the dedication of its volunteers and generous supporters, this goal is being achieved. Admission and parking are free for visitors. Nearby, downtown Fullerton is a great place to round out your day trip and offers many dining options. Visit Website.

San Clemente Beach Trail Hike Along The Beach

The San Clemente Beach Trail stretches 2.3 miles from North Beach to Calafia Beach, located south of the San Clemente Pier. The trail offers a picturesque setting for hikers, joggers, and dog owners to enjoy the scenic coast views. However, bicycles are not recommended on this trail due to the high volume of foot traffic. As you stroll along the beach, you may glimpse a Pacific Surfiner or metro link train as a railroad track runs adjacent to the route. San Clemente Trails.

Quail Hill Loop Trail Irvine: Perfect for all Ages

The Quail Hill Loop Trail is a part of the City of Irvine’s open space preserve. This trail is a little over two miles long, perfect for a family hike, and offers spectacular views of the Irvine Valley. The trailhead provides ample free parking, and if you go for a longer walk, you can take the six-mile loop along the Shady Canyon Trail to Boomer Canyon and then back. However, the Quail Hill Loop is more than enough if you have younger children. This trail is Dog-Friendly. Visit Website.

San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary a Hidden Oasis

The San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary is open to the public and accessible daily from dawn until dusk. This hidden oasis is a beautiful place to visit and offers stunning views of nature just minutes away from the bustling city and the San Diego freeway. Take a walk and enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife waiting for you in this fantastic Sanctuary. Visit the Website.

Bommer Canyon Nature Trail Step Back in Time

Bommer Canyon in Irvine is an excellent hiking destination. The primary nature trail is a leisurely two-mile hike that ends at a former cattle camp once used by the Irvine Ranch Company. The cattle are long gone today, but several buildings, cattle loading ramps, corrals, equipment, and a native garden can be seen at the cattle camp. The Bommer Canyon Nature Trail is open from dawn to dusk. No dogs are allowed on this trail. Visit Website.

Treasure Island Park Laguna Beach Breathtaking Views

Treasure Island Park in Laguna Beach is considered one of the most breathtaking parks in Orange County. The park boasts a paved pathway along the cliff top, providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the beach below. Visiting Treasure Island Park is like taking a stroll through a picture-perfect postcard. Parking is difficult at this popular spot, with a small lot that fills up quickly.

Salt Creek Beach Dana Point Surfing Spot

Blufftops and Beach trails connect Salt Creek Beach to the Dana Point Headlands. Salt Creek is located below the Ritz Carlton Hotel in South Orange County and has been a favorite surfing spot since the 1960s. Nowadays, surfers and guests of the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, share Salt Creek Beach. The hotel sits on a bluff above the beach, offering a picturesque view. Despite the crowd, there’s ample space for everyone. Salt Creek is among the most extensive beaches in South Orange County. Salt Creek Beach website.

Sherman Gardens Corona Del Mar

Established in 1955, the Sherman Library and Gardens were originally a nursery. The mild coastal climate is perfect for trees, shrubs, flowers, and succulents to thrive. You can plan on spending about an hour here, but it may take longer if you want to have lunch at the Gardens restaurant. The charming beach town of Corona Del Mar boasts several stunning beaches and dining options along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Orange County Family Activities

Goat Hill Junction Free Train Rides

Goat Hill Junction is a great place for kids to have a fun and affordable adventure. Every third weekend of the month, free train rides are offered for kids of all ages. Train rides last about fifteen minutes, and you can board as many times as you like. (You must go to the back of the line each time.) Tip: Arrive early or at the end of the day for the shortest lines. Visit the Railroad Website.

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Buena Park, California

Come and witness the thrilling spectacle of Pirates battling it out while swinging from the masts of a massive indoor pirate brigantine. As you enjoy a delicious three-course meal, you will be a part of the show and encouraged to compete against other groups to create the most noise. So, get ready to cheer on your favorite pirate and make some noise!

Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park Buena Park, CA

Knott’s is a favorite with both locals and out-of-state visitors. Southern California’s oldest theme park offers tickets half the price of Orange County’s other big-dollar theme park. The park provides an excellent mix of first-class roller coasters, thrilling rides, interactive entertainment, and elaborate stage shows for guests of all ages.

Disneyland® Resort Anaheim

Disneyland® opened on July 17, 1955, on 75 acres of land that was once used for orange groves. Over the years, the theme park has undergone many changes. Today, it consists of eight distinct “lands,” each with its unique theme. While a visit to Disneyland® can be costly, it is a must-see attraction for visitors from out of town.

Medieval Times Dinner Show Buena Park, CA

If you are in the Anaheim resort district, it’s worth taking a 15-minute drive to Medieval Times Dinner Theater Buena Park. The show features a thrilling tournament between Knights of the Realm, who compete in games such as the flag toss, ring toss, and javelin throw before engaging in an intense jousting match using genuine medieval weapons. At the end of the tournament, only one knight will emerge victorious and earn the title of Champion.

Tanaka Farms Orange County U-Pick Farm Tours

Tanaka Farms is a family-owned farm in Orange County that has been operating for many years. Depending on the season, they grow various organic fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, tomatoes, watermelons, and pumpkins. One of the most popular activities for families is the tractor-pulled farm tour, which allows visitors to witness the growth of various fruits and vegetables in the fields. Visitors can even sample fresh produce straight from the vine during the tour. Farm Website.

Adventure City: Anaheim’s Lessor-Known Theme Park

Adventure City is an ideal destination for families with children under 12. Parents can accompany their kids on some rides, while others are exclusively designed for children. The admission fee includes unlimited access to all rides, shows, and attractions, except for the arcade and Mount Adventurous. If your kids are fond of trains, they will surely enjoy riding the 1938 vintage miniature train that circles the theme park. Adventure City’s latest attraction, Rewind Racers, will surely attract coaster fans to check out the new ride. Adventure City website.

Discovery Cube Santa Ana For Kids of All Ages

Family fun for kids of all ages. The science center’s giant black solar cube hanging over the freeway is hard not to miss. Inside the center are two floors with more than 150 interactive exhibits. Discovery Science Cube Orange County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating young minds, assisting teachers, and increasing public understanding and appreciation of science, math, and technology through interactive exhibits and programs. Visit the Discovery Cube website.

Big Orange Balloon Irvine Everyone Rides for Free

Passengers can climb aboard the 30-person gondola and ascend to 400 feet in the air for a serene balloon ride experience. The Great Park Carousel is another attraction located near the balloon ride. It can accommodate up to 36 passengers and is accessible to individuals who use wheelchairs. The balloon operates on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The balloon rides are free and sponsored by FivePoint. However, children aged 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult during the balloon flights.

Visit the Santa Ana Zoo Prentice Park

The Santa Ana Zoo offers a beautiful wildlife experience for visitors of all ages. You can see amazing animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors. With its 35 exhibits, the Santa Ana Zoo displays 90 different species and is an excellent place for introducing younger children to the wonders of the zoo. Make sure to allow at least three hours for your visit to the zoo, which will give you ample time to see the animals and ride the miniature train.

Pacific Marine Mammal Center

The center cares for and releases injured California seals and sea lions that become stranded along the Orange County coast. Founded in 1971, it is recognized as the first marine mammal rescue center in California. The center has a rich history of caring for marine mammals, including seals and sea lions. It has been instrumental in increasing awareness of the issues facing these animals and their environment. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. Check the center’s website for open days.

Newport Aquatic Center Kayak Rentals

The Newport Aquatic Center is situated at Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve’s entrance, which covers over a thousand acres of marshlands. If you’re interested in renting equipment, the Newport Aquatic Center offers hourly and daily rentals for single and double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and outrigger canoes. Rental prices vary depending on the type of equipment used and the rental duration. Additionally, the center hosts various events and programs, including camps designed to explore the Back Bay. Visit website.

Balboa Island Orange County’s Only Auto Ferry

The Balboa Peninsula is a fascinating place to visit; the journey there is part of the experience. Today, bridges connect Balboa Island to the Peninsula and the rest of the city. However, in the past, the Balboa Island Ferry was the main way to travel between the island and the Peninsula. The peninsula was named after Vasco Núñez de Balboa, a Spanish explorer who was the first European to sight the Pacific from the Americas. Newport Harbor and Newport Beach’s eight islands are enclosed by the peninsula, acting as a jetty.

Orange County Beach Camping

Doheny State Beach Camping

Doheny State Beach has 114 campsites available, but not all are located directly on the beach. However, if you are fortunate enough to reserve a beachfront campsite, you will be just a few steps away from the magnificent Pacific Ocean. For those visiting for a day trip, Doheny Beach offers an array of amenities, including picnic tables, bike rentals, and a beautiful paved beach trail that leads to San Clemente. Before the construction of Dana Point Harbor in 1971, Doheny Beach was a renowned surfing spot. Park website.

San Clemente State Beach Camping

The locals would prefer to keep this place a secret, but fortunately, California has provided ample parking space so everyone can revel in the beauty of this stunning beach. The blufftop campground has 160 campsites, but it’s worth noting that most of them do not offer a view of the beach. However, if you can manage to snag a reservation next to the canyon, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the ocean.

Moro Campground Crystal Cove

Moro Campground offers stunning ocean views from all sixty of its campsites. Unlike other beach campgrounds, there are no terrible campsites—each has an unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to blufftop camping, the campground features a large day-use area with 17 covered shade ramadas with picnic tables, two group pavilions, and an outdoor nature center.

Crystal Cove Beach Cottages

Crystal Cove Beach Cottages are in high demand, and everyone wants to rent one. You might have already seen the pictures, read the guidebooks, and looked at all the reviews, and now you’re ready to rent a beach cottage at Crystal Cove. However, you might have heard rumors that getting a reservation is almost impossible. To simplify the process, you can check out our rental guide, which might offer helpful information.

Newport Dunes Resort Camping on The Bay

The Dunes is a 110-acre aquatic playground at the Back Bay Nature Preserve entrance in southern Orange County. It is open year-round and offers a variety of accommodations. Ten beach cottages, 11 large cottages, and 6 studio cottages are available for guests, providing a comfortable stay with amenities such as queen-sized beds, sofa beds, kitchenettes, and smart TVs. Additionally, the resort has over 372 RV sites for a more outdoorsy experience. Visit the Dunes Website.

Orange County Parks

Irvine Regional Park Train Rides and Adventures

Irvine Regional Park is spread across 477 acres and is home to some of the oldest coastal live oaks in Orange County. The park is an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts as it offers a wide range of activities such as bicycle and walking trails, playgrounds, horseshoe pits, a lake with paddle boat rentals, the Orange County Zoo, Irvine Park Railroad train rides, pony rides, guided horseback tours, bicycle rentals, and group picnic areas. Visitors can easily spend an entire day enjoying all the attractions. Visit the park website.

O’Neill Regional Park Orange County Camping

O’Neil Regional Park is nestled among coastal oak and sycamore trees. It is an ideal spot for day-use picnics and overnight camping. The park offers a range of seasonal activities. Still, its primary draws are the meticulously maintained picnic and campground facilities and an equestrian campground that attracts horse enthusiasts from all around the area. For more information, visit the park website.

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is a protected wildlife preserve covering over 8,000 acres in the Santa Ana Mountains within the Cleveland National Forest. The park features a network of 35 miles of trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding. As you explore the park, you’ll encounter various plant species, including Coastal Live Oaks and majestic California Sycamores. Additionally, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of sandstone canyons and contiguous river terraces. Park website.

Laguna Niguel Orange County Regional Park

Laguna Niguel Regional Park is great for families and outdoor enthusiasts as it offers various recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park has picnic shelters, playgrounds, and amenities such as restrooms, making it a perfect place for people to relax and enjoy nature. Additionally, the park hosts events throughout the year, including an annual 4th of July fireworks show. Laguna Niguel Regional Park is open year-round, varying hours depending on the season. Park Website.

Mile Square Park Fountain Valley

Mile Square Park, located in Fountain Valley, is a stunning 640-acre green space that offers a wide range of recreational activities. The park features three golf courses, tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds, an archery range, and a wilderness area. Furthermore, the park has two beautiful lakes. The largest lake at the intersection of Edinger and Euclid Streets offers seasonal paddleboat rentals. A new park section has recently opened in the middle, replacing a golf course. Park Website.

Aliso and Wood Canyon Park Hiking & Biking

Aliso and Wood Canyon are beautiful parts of the 19,000-acre Laguna Coast greenbelt. The park boasts over 30 miles of trails that range from moderate to strenuous. You can enjoy hiking, equestrian activities, and mountain biking in Aliso and Wood Canyon Park. The hills come alive with vibrant wildflowers during the fall and spring seasons. However, the canyon’s cliffs turn brown during summer and can get very hot. Therefore, going for early morning hikes during the summer is advisable. Park Website.

Laguna Lake Park Fullerton a Hidden Gem

Laguna Lake Park is a tranquil and picturesque lake in Fullerton’s heart. This park offers visitors a range of activities, including fishing, picnicking, and hiking. The lake spans over 7 acres and is surrounded by a lush canopy of mature trees, which provide ample shade for park-goers. Additionally, several park benches are strategically placed around the lake, offering visitors a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the breathtaking view. Laguna Lake Park is also connected to the larger trail system in Fullerton, which includes popular trails such as the Juanita Cooke Trail and the Bud Turner Trail. These trails are perfect for walking, running, and cycling.  Visit Website.

Nix Nature Center Laguna Canyon

The James and Rosemary Nix Nature Center is the entrance to the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and provides access to an extensive network of trails throughout the 20,000-acre South Coast Regional Wilderness. The nature center boasts four main picture windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding parklands. Visitors can hike up Little Sycamore Canyon, enjoy the breathtaking scenery, or take the trail underneath Laguna Canyon Road, which leads to Barbara’s Lake. This lake is the only naturally occurring lake in Orange County. Visit Website.

Orange County Unique Food Courts & Eateries

Anaheim Packing House Food Court

If you love food and enjoy exploring new places, visit the Anaheim Packing House. This beautiful two-story building has been restored to its former glory and looks more like a greenhouse than a food court. But don’t be fooled by its appearance; once you step inside, you’ll find a plethora of different eateries. The Packing House is home to approximately 20 other food vendors, each offering a unique and delicious range of dishes. From grilled cheese sandwiches to mouth-watering waffle creations, you will find something to satisfy your hunger here. Anaheim Packing District website.

Mercado Gonzalez Northgate Costa Mesa, CA

Mercado Gonzalez is a 70,000-square-foot Mexican food hall with over 20 food stalls. The vibrant atmosphere is filled with murals, fresh flowers, piñatas, and the aroma of freshly baked tortillas. Inside, you’ll find food stalls selling street tacos, carne asada, burritos, tostadas, and enchiladas. Additionally, there’s “El Sinaloense,” a sushi spot with Mexican flavors and ingredients. Mercado Gonzalez is a food court located inside a grocery store that is bustling with customers daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Mercado Gonzalez website.

Steelcraft Food Court Garden Grove, CA

Steelcraft was built on the former location of a Black Angus Steakhouse and used refurbished shipping crates to house over a dozen food vendors. The food court is known for its diverse culinary offerings, including Beachwood Brewing, Duck Donuts, Bird Talk, The Penalty Box, Barrio, Dark Horse Coffee Roasters, and Tea Otter. Each vendor brings a unique flavor to the communal dining experience, from Filipino and Korean BBQ to craft beer and coffee. Steelcraft is a dog-friendly food court with ample parking and seating. Steelcraft Food Court website.

The Source OC Buena Park Shopping & Food Court

If you’re a fan of Korean food but want to avoid venturing out to Koreatown, Los Angeles, The Source OC in Buena Park is an excellent choice. The Source OC food court is approximately a mile from Knott’s Berry Farm. It is a great place to experience Korean cuisine in California. The food court has a variety of restaurants that offer different types of Korean dishes such as Korean Seafood and Street Food, Korean BBQ, Korean Hot Dogs, Korean Fried Chicken, Korean pubs, donuts, and desserts. 6940 Beach Blvd Buena Park, California. The Source website.

Rodeo 39 Stanton, California

Rodeo 39 is an indoor food hall located in Stanton. Like most food courts, the restaurants are fast-casual, so you place your order and pick it up when ready. There are about twenty vendors, including Banh Xeo Boys Vietnamese crepes; Buenos Migos, a Latin-inspired restaurant; Kra Z Kai’s, the only Lao-style BBQ in Southern California; Sweet G’s cookies and baked goods; and Shootz Hawaiian BBQ. 12885 Beach Blvd, Stanton, California. Rodeo 39 website.

LAB Anti-Mall Costa Mesa

The LAB Anti-Mall is a unique shopping center at 2930 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, California. It was created in 1993 by The LAB Team and is currently managed by Linda Sadeghi. The mall was developed from a recycled night-vision goggle factory in Orange County’s suburban setting. Its purpose is to provide an unconventional hang-out experience and combat retail monotony. The LAB Anti-Mall is known for its outdoor, hipster setting and is situated across the street from its sister property, The CAMP. The mall is open daily, but each store has its specific hours. LAB Website.

Shake Shack Newport Coast

The Crystal Cove Shake Shack is a popular restaurant on the bluff that overlooks Crystal Cove Beach. This diner has been a favorite stop for locals and tourists since the mid-1940s. Originally named the Date Shack, Shake Shack was known for its signature drink, the date shake, which is still a popular beverage on the menu. The food and drinks, particularly the shakes, are of excellent quality and affordable. The view of the ocean from the restaurant is priceless, and it’s no surprise that the place gets very busy on weekends. Crystal Cove Shake Shack.

Beachcomber Restaurant Crystal Cove

The Beachcomber Restaurant offers oceanfront dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, the restaurant is often crowded due to its prime location, resulting in long wait times. If you have to wait, the restaurant will provide you with a pager to enjoy a stroll along the beach or sit at a picnic table on the beach promenade while you wait. To avoid waiting in line, it’s recommended that you make reservations in advance when planning to visit the Beachcomber Cafe.

Silverado Canyon Cafe: Serving American Comfort Food

The Silverado Cafe is a charming little diner that offers classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast items. Although it is frequented mostly by locals, the prices are quite reasonable. The cafe’s cozy and friendly ambiance makes it a popular choice for visitors exploring the canyon. You can visit the cafe from 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM on Mondays, and 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. The cafe is a hidden gem not often found in Orange County. The Silverado Cafe does not have a website.

Pearson’s Port: Hidden Gem in Newport Beach

The market is renowned for providing diverse fresh seafood, including live crab, lobster, sea bass, swordfish, salmon, and more, depending on the season. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking the freshest catch. The menu at Pearson’s Port changes daily based on the season and the availability of seafood. All food offered at Pearson’s is fresh and sells out rapidly, so arriving early is best. It’s also worth noting that Pearson’s doesn’t serve any food. Pearson’s Port does not have a website.

Cooks Corner Roadhouse

Cooks Corner’s bar is usually busy with friendly weekend warriors and hardcore bikers, resulting in a parking lot with hundreds of motorcycles. The menu includes cold beer, breakfast dishes, burgers, and sandwiches. Cooks Corner is bustling with bikers on any Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, and the parking is filled with hundreds of motorcycles. The crowd typically mixes weekend warriors and hardcore bikers, and families are welcome. So, don’t hesitate to bring your kids along. Cooks Corner Website.

Orange County Museums

Richard Nixon Library: A Hidden Gem in Yorba Linda

The Richard Nixon Library opened in 1990 to educate the public about the life and times of the 37th President. The site spans nine acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, featuring attractions like the First Lady’s rose garden and a reflecting pool. Visitors can explore the original farmhouse where President Nixon was born, just a few steps away from his final resting place at the Nixon Memorial Garden. Inside the Library, you can browse through the main gallery and immerse yourself in history by exploring the many exhibits on display. Visit Website.

Lyon Air Museum

The Lyon Air Museum is beside the runway at John Wayne Airport in Orange County. It is housed in a 30,000-square-foot hangar designed to display William Lyon’s remarkable collection of historic aircraft. This aerospace museum features a vast collection of military aircraft, rare automobiles, military vehicles, and motorcycles, primarily focusing on World War II. The museum is open to visitors daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Visit Website.

Heritage Hill Historical Park

Heritage Hill Park is between a shopping center and a Lake Forest riding stable. Heritage Hill Historical Park provides a fascinating glimpse into the diverse history of Orange County. The park features four fully restored and furnished historic buildings spanning the early history of the Saddleback Valley and El Toro area, ranging from the Mexican Rancho era to the citrus farming days of the early 20th century. These buildings include the Serrano Adobe, the El Toro Grammar School, St. George’s Episcopal Mission, and the Harvey Bennett Ranch House. Visit Website.

Stanley Ranch Museum

The Stanley Ranch Museum is a wonderful opportunity to travel back in time and explore the history of Garden Grove. Although modern homes now surround the area, visitors can easily imagine what the town looked like a century ago. The museum occupies a two-acre site and contains a range of fascinating historical structures, such as the Ware-Stanley House, a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, a farmhouse, a barber shop, an electric shoe shop, and a replica of Garden Grove’s first fire station. Visit the museum Website.

Muzeo Museum Anaheim: Carnegie Library, built in 1908

Muzeo is a museum located in downtown Anaheim. It was formerly known as the Anaheim Museum but has expanded with a new modern building. Muzeo’s mission is to engage the community in exploring and celebrating their diverse heritage, culture, and arts through creative programming. The museum is housed in a 25,000-square-foot complex that includes the historic Carnegie Library, built in 1908 and served as Anaheim’s library until 1963. Later, the Carnegie Building became a local history and research center in 1978. In 1984, it was transformed into the Anaheim Museum, and in 2007, it became the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center. Visit Website.

Orange County City Guide

Little Saigon Westminster

Little Saigon boasts the biggest Vietnamese shopping hub outside of Vietnam, with almost 2,000 restaurants, shops, and businesses spread over a three-square-mile area. When visiting Little Saigon, your first stop should be the Asian Garden Mall. The mall houses a food court with many grills, cafes, bakeries, and pho restaurants. Visiting Little Saigon in Westminster offers a unique opportunity to experience Vietnamese culture and cuisine, learn about its history, and engage with the vibrant community that calls this place home. Asian Garden Mall website.

Newport Beach Orange County Day Trip

Newport Beach, located in Orange County, is an excellent choice for a beach getaway while enjoying home comforts. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere than popular tourist destinations like Huntington Beach. Newport Harbor, the largest recreational harbor on the West Coast, provides countless opportunities for aquatic adventures such as sunset cruises, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and whale-watching tours. Balboa Island, a charming artificial island accessible by ferry, features quaint shops, restaurants, and the famous Balboa Bar frozen treat. City Website.

Huntington Beach Day Trip: What should you do?

Huntington Beach, also known as “Surf City USA,” boasts eight miles of sandy beaches, making it the longest uninterrupted beachfront on the West Coast. The climate is pleasant and sunny throughout the year, making it one of California’s most famous surfing locations. The city has recently hosted the US Open Surfing Championships. A significant attraction of the town is its pier, which stretches 1,800 feet into the Pacific Ocean. City Website.

Fullerton Day Trip

Finding fun activities for your family doesn’t always require an extensive search. The City of Fullerton, located in the northern region of Orange County, offers easy access to an array of Southern California’s attractions. Popular activities in Fullerton include the Downtown Fullerton Market, Fullerton Arboretum, Fullerton Loop – MTB & Hiking Trail, and Laguna Lake Park, an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. City Website.

Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, beachfront shopping and dining, and various lodging choices. Nearby Doheny State Beach is a popular seaside camping destination, only steps from the water. Dana Point Harbor features multiple recreational amenities, such as boat rentals, fishing, kayaking, dockside dining, and unique shopping experiences. It is also home to the Ocean Institute, a hands-on ocean education facility that offers a variety of programs and exhibits for visitors of all ages. Visit the Harbor Website.

Orange County Road Trips

Ortega Highway 74 Road Trip

California Route 74, or Ortega Highway, spans just over 21 miles from San Juan Capistrano in the west to Lake Elsinore Valley in the east. Our journey will commence in the Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in California, situated across the railroad tracks from the Capistrano Train Depot. The district was established in the late 1700s during the construction of Mission San Juan Capistrano. It is located at the corner of Ortega Hwy and Camino Capistrano.

Santiago Canyon Country Drive

We will be starting our road trip at the northern end of Orange County, where the city vanishes at the opening of the Santa Margarita Mountains. The terrain in this area is sharp and rugged and mostly remains untouched. Some parts of this region are designated as open spaces, with hiking and horseback riding trails leading into the hills. Santiago Canyon Road, also known as County Highway 18, is Orange County’s last back-country road and spans approximately 12 miles between the cities of Lake Forest and Orange. Nothing beats a relaxing drive along an unspoiled Southern California highway.

Los Angeles Day Trip Ideas

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