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Santa Ana, California: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

None of this asks anything of your legs. Downtown Santa Ana is flat, and the Yost Theater, the Artists Village and the 4th Street Market all sit within a few streets of each other. The Santa Ana River is the only real walking on the list, and its path runs level the whole way. Two golf courses cover the rest of the outdoors, and both are gentle ground. Everything else here happens indoors, over a table.

Welcome to Santa Ana, California. This working city sits in Orange County and runs a deep bench of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Art and culture, historical sights, outdoor adventures or good eating, Santa Ana covers all four.

If you follow art and culture, check out the Bowers Museum. This museum runs exhibits from around the globe, including ancient artifacts, contemporary art and interactive displays. For something more hands-on, head to the Discovery Cube Orange County, where you can work through science, technology and engineering by way of interactive exhibits and programs.

If you want historical sights, do not miss the Heritage Museum of Orange County. This 12-acre site runs historic buildings, gardens and exhibits that lay out the long history of the area. You can also work through the Santa Ana Historic District, which holds carefully preserved Victorian homes and other historic buildings.

Key Takeaways

• Santa Ana offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
• Art and culture lovers will enjoy the Bowers Museum and Discovery Cube Orange County.
• History buffs should check out the Heritage Museum of Orange County and Santa Ana Historic District.

Art and Culture

Are you a culture vulture? Santa Ana has you covered. The city is a melting pot of different cultures, and that shows in its art and culture scene. Here are the places to visit if art and culture are what you came for.

Bowers Museum

If you want to see where art and culture meet, the Bowers Museum is where to go. This museum is more than an art museum; it is a day out. You can see ancient Chinese art, pre-Columbian art, and artifacts from around the world. The museum also hosts traveling exhibits, so there is always something new.

Orange County Center for Contemporary Art

If you are into contemporary art, then the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art is where to go. This gallery runs work from local and international artists. The exhibits change constantly, so you will always find something new.

Yost Theater

If you want a night out, head to the Yost Theater. This historic theater has been standing since 1912 and has recently been restored to its original condition. You can catch live music, comedy shows and other performances here. The theater also hosts events that celebrate Latino culture, so you get the character of Santa Ana with it.

So ancient art or contemporary art, Santa Ana runs both. Get ready to work through the city’s art scene.

Historical Sights

If you are a history reader, you will enjoy working through the historical sights in Santa Ana. Here are the places to visit:

Old Orange County Courthouse

Step back in time and visit the Old Orange County Courthouse, the oldest court building in Southern California, which dates back to 1901. This Romanesque Revival building is a serious piece of historic architecture and it draws history readers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Kellogg House

The Kellogg House is worth going out of your way for if you are interested in the history of Santa Ana. This Victorian home was built in 1898 by Hiram Clay Kellogg, a prominent businessman in the area. The house has been restored to its original condition and is now open to the public for tours. Take a step back in time and see the history of Santa Ana through the eyes of one of its most influential residents.

Heritage Museum of Orange County

The Heritage Museum of Orange County is a strong place to learn the history of the area. Sitting on 12 acres of flower gardens and citrus groves, the museum holds a range of exhibits and artifacts covering the long history of Orange County. From Native American artifacts to early California ranching equipment, the range is wide at the Heritage Museum.

So architecture, history, or just wanting to know more about the area, check out these historical sights in Santa Ana.

Kid-Friendly Attractions

If you are planning a family trip to Santa Ana, California, you will be glad to know that there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions to keep your little ones busy. Here are the attractions that both you and your kids will like.

Santa Ana Zoo

The Santa Ana Zoo is worth going out of your way for if your kids love animals. This zoo holds over 80 species of animals, including monkeys, birds and even a few endangered species. Your kids will love the hands-on exhibits, like the Barnyard, where they can pet and feed farm animals. And take a ride on the zoo’s carousel.

Discovery Cube Science Museum

If your kids love science, they will love the Discovery Cube Science Museum. This interactive science museum runs plenty of hands-on exhibits that will hold your kids’ attention. From the inner workings of a car engine to the human body, the range is wide at the Discovery Cube. And if you time it right, you might even catch one of their special exhibits, like the Science of Hockey or the Dinosaurs Around the World exhibit.

Crean Family Farm

Take your kids to the Crean Family Farm, where they can learn about agriculture and farm life. This hands-on farm runs plenty of activities for kids, like picking vegetables, feeding animals and even milking a cow. Your kids will like learning where their food comes from and getting close to the animals.

Overall, Santa Ana runs plenty of kid-friendly attractions that will keep your little ones busy. The Santa Ana Zoo, the Discovery Cube Science Museum or the Crean Family Farm, all three make a full day with your family.

Culinary Delights

Are you ready to work through some good food? Santa Ana rewards anyone who takes eating seriously, with a range of places covering all tastes and budgets. Here are the places to visit if you want the culinary side of Santa Ana.

4th Street Market

If you want a one-stop-shop for all your food cravings, head over to 4th Street Market. This food hall covers the range, with over 15 vendors serving different cuisines. From sushi to tacos, burgers to ramen, and everything in between, you will find it all here.

Try the famous lobster roll from Dos Chinos, the poke bowls from North Shore Poke Co., and the burgers from Pig Pen Delicacy. And wash it all down with a craft beer from the bar.

Hipcooks Orange County

Are you tired of eating out and want to learn to cook properly at home? Try Hipcooks Orange County. This cooking school runs hands-on classes where you learn to prepare a range of dishes from around the world.

Led by experienced chefs, these classes are fun and informative, and they suit both beginners and experienced cooks. You will learn new techniques, turn up new flavors, and leave with the skills to feed your friends and family properly.

Genki Sushi

If you love sushi, you cannot leave Santa Ana without trying Genki Sushi. This sushi restaurant serves fresh sushi at affordable prices. But what sets Genki Sushi apart is its ordering system.

Each table has a tablet where you can browse the menu, place your order, and watch your food arrive by conveyor belt. It is a fun and interactive dinner and it suits a night out with friends or family.

So eating out, learning to cook, or working through some sushi, Santa Ana covers all three. Do not miss the chance to eat some of the strongest food in California.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Looking for some fun things to do in Santa Ana at night? You are in the right place. Santa Ana runs a working nightlife scene that covers most tastes. A craft cocktail, live music or a night of dancing, you will find it here.

Blinking Owl Distillery

If you follow craft cocktails, do not miss Blinking Owl Distillery. Sitting in the heart of Santa Ana, this distillery runs a deep bench of handcrafted spirits, including vodka, gin and whiskey. Their tasting room is where you go to sample their signature cocktails and sit with some live music.

Yost Theater

For a night of live entertainment, head to the Yost Theater. This historic venue has stood in Santa Ana since 1912 and has hosted some of the biggest names in music. From rock to hip hop to electronic, the Yost Theater covers the range. Check their calendar of events to see what is coming up.

East End Promenade

If you want a night of dancing, head to the East End Promenade. This outdoor venue runs live music and DJs, as well as food trucks and craft beer. With its laid-back atmosphere and its eclectic mix of music, the East End Promenade is where you go to let loose and dance the night away.

No matter what you are in the mood for, Santa Ana runs plenty of options for a night out. So grab your friends and get ready to work through this city.

The tables at Genki Sushi each carry a tablet, and the food arrives along a conveyor belt. At Hipcooks Orange County the classes are hands-on and the chefs work beside you. The Blinking Owl tasting room pours its own vodka, gin and whiskey, with live music some nights. The East End Promenade is outdoors, with food trucks along one side. On the river path, the traffic noise drops away almost at once.

Outdoor Adventures

If you want some outdoor fun, Santa Ana runs plenty of options. Golf enthusiast or somebody who would rather work through the city’s parks and rivers, the town covers both. Here are the outdoor adventures in Santa Ana worth your morning:

River View Golf Course

If you golf, then River View Golf Course is where to be. This 18-hole course runs a demanding but enjoyable round for golfers of all levels. With its views of the Santa Ana River and its thick greenery, you will feel like you are playing somewhere else entirely. Plus, the course is well-maintained and affordable, which makes it a strong option for a day out with friends or family.

Willowick Golf Course

Another strong option for golfers is Willowick Golf Course. This 18-hole course sits in the heart of Santa Ana and runs a fun and demanding round for players of all skill levels. With its tree-lined fairways and well-manicured greens, Willowick is a strong course for a day out with friends or family. Plus, the course is affordable and gives you value for the money.

Santa Ana River

For anyone who would rather be outdoors, the Santa Ana River is worth going out of your way for. This river runs through the heart of Santa Ana and opens up plenty of hiking, biking and picnicking. With its long views and its quiet, the Santa Ana River is where you go to get clear of the city and put some real time into something slower.

So golf enthusiast or somebody who would rather work through the city’s parks and rivers, Santa Ana runs plenty of outdoor adventures. So grab your clubs, pack a picnic and get ready for some fun in the sun.

Shopping Spots

If you are a shopaholic, Santa Ana has you covered. There are plenty of shopping spots where you can take a little retail therapy. Here is a list of the places to shop in Santa Ana.

Main Place Mall

Looking for a one-stop-shop for all your shopping? Try Main Place Mall. This place runs everything, from high-end fashion to affordable brands, from electronics to home decor. You name it, they carry it.

But there is more. Main Place Mall is not only a shopping destination, it is also a strong place to spend time with your friends and family. Catch a movie at the AMC theater, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, or just walk around and take the place in.

Pro-tip: if you hunt bargains, visit Main Place Mall late in the year. They run serious deals and discounts that you will not want to miss.

That is it for the shopping section. Now, get your credit cards ready and head out to these shopping spots in Santa Ana.

Events and Festivals

You will not be bored in Santa Ana, especially if you plan your visit around one of the many events and festivals that run through the year.

In May, the annual Santa Ana Cinco de Mayo Festival takes over the city with live music, traditional food and plenty of margaritas. It is a strong way to celebrate Mexican culture and spend a good day with your friends.

If you take food seriously, then check out the annual Taste of Santa Ana event in September. Here, you can sample some of the strongest food and drink in the city, all while sitting with live music and entertainment.

For music lovers, the annual Noche de Altares event in November is worth going out of your way for. This festival celebrates the Mexican observance of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, with live music, traditional dance performances and, of course, plenty of altars honoring the dead.

And finally, if you want something more active, then the annual OC Marathon in March is for you. Seasoned runner or somebody just after a fun way to get some exercise, this marathon covers both.

So food, music, culture or fitness, Santa Ana runs an event or a festival that will catch your interest. Just plan ahead and book your tickets early, because these events sell out fast.

Where to Stay

You have decided to visit Santa Ana, California, and now you are wondering where to stay. Santa Ana runs a range of accommodation covering different budgets and preferences.

If you are flying into John Wayne Airport, consider staying at one of the hotels near the airport. They put you close to the airport and are usually cheaper than the hotels in downtown Santa Ana. Plus, you will not have to worry about missing your flight if you oversleep.

However, if you want a more luxurious week, check out the hotels in Newport Beach. They run ocean views, private beaches and upscale amenities. Just be prepared to pay a premium for all of it.

If you are on a budget, do not worry. Santa Ana runs plenty of affordable hotels and motels with comfortable beds and basic amenities. You might not get a fancy pool or a spa, but you will save money to spend on other things.

No matter where you decide to stay, book your accommodation in advance. Santa Ana is a popular destination, and the strongest hotels fill up quickly. Plus, you do not want to end up sleeping in your car because you could not find a room.

In summary, Santa Ana runs a range of accommodation covering different budgets and preferences. A luxurious week or a budget-friendly one, you will find something that suits you. Just book in advance and enjoy working through the things to do in Santa Ana.

Getting Around

You are in Santa Ana, and you are ready to work through it. But how do you get around? We have you covered.

First of all, let us talk about the train. If you are coming from San Diego, you can take the Pacific Surfliner train to Santa Ana. It is a scenic ride that brings you right into the heart of the city. And if you are feeling fancy, you can upgrade to Business Class or First Class for a little extra legroom and complimentary snacks.

Once you are in Santa Ana, you can take the Metrolink train to get around. It is a strong way to avoid traffic and parking. Plus, you can sit back and take the views.

If you are in a hurry, you can take the express train. It is faster than the regular train, but it is also more expensive. So if you are on a budget, stick with the regular one.

Of course, if you prefer to drive, there are plenty of rental car options available. Just be prepared for traffic, especially during rush hour. And bring a GPS or a map, because the streets get confusing.

If you are feeling adventurous, you can also rent a bike or a scooter. It is a fun way to work through the city, and you get some exercise while you do it. Just wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road.

No matter how you choose to get around, have fun and stay safe. Santa Ana is waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some free activities in Santa Ana that won’t break the bank?

Well, you do not always have to spend a fortune to have a good time in Santa Ana. You can visit the Bowers Museum free on the first Sunday of every month, or check out the exhibits at the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art. You can also take a stroll through Santiago Park or head to the Santa Ana Zoo, which lets you in free on the third Tuesday of every month.

What are some fun things to do in Anaheim besides Disneyland?

We get it, Disneyland is serious, but there is more to Anaheim than that. You can head to the Anaheim Packing District for good food and live music. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, you can go indoor skydiving at iFly or take a hot air balloon ride with Anaheim Balloons.

What are some romantic activities for couples in Santa Ana?

Looking to impress your significant other? Take them to the Observatory for a romantic stargazing session, or eat a picnic at Centennial Park. You can also take a cooking class together at the CulinaryLab Cooking School, or book a couples massage at the Burke Williams Day Spa.

What are the top attractions in Downtown Santa Ana?

Downtown Santa Ana runs a lot, from the historic Yost Theater to the Artists Village. You can check out the latest exhibit at the Grand Central Art Center, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area. And get a photo in front of the Greetings from Santa Ana mural.

What are some must-visit spots near Santa Ana with beautiful beaches?

If you want some fun in the sun, head to Newport Beach or Huntington Beach, both a short drive from Santa Ana. You can also check out the Crystal Cove State Park, which opens up long views of the Pacific Ocean and plenty of hiking trails.

What makes Santa Ana stand out from other cities in California?

Santa Ana runs a blend of history, culture and entertainment that sets it apart from other cities in California. From the architecture of the Old Orange County Courthouse to the food at the 4th Street Market, this city covers a lot of ground. Plus, with Disneyland and the beach both close by, you get the two at once.

Frequently asked questions about Santa Ana, California

Which museum in Santa Ana is the one to spend a whole afternoon in together?

The Bowers Museum. Ancient Chinese art, pre-Columbian work and artifacts gathered from every corner of the world all sit under one single roof, with traveling exhibits arriving on top of all of that. Entry costs nothing at all on the first Sunday of every single month, which is worth planning around. The Orange County Center for Contemporary Art changes its exhibits constantly and makes a good second stop. Discovery Cube is the hands-on one instead.

Which park in Santa Ana is the one that suits a picnic for two people?

Centennial Park. Quiet ground, plenty of room to spread a blanket out, and absolutely nothing at all asked of you for the whole time you are there. Santiago Park is the free alternative and it sits only a short distance away from it. The Heritage Museum sits on 12 acres of flower gardens and old citrus groves that you can walk. Crystal Cove State Park is the longer drive of the two coastal options.

Which river near Santa Ana is worth walking at the end of a long day?

The Santa Ana River. It cuts straight through the middle of the city and carries hiking, biking and picnic ground the whole way along it. The walking stays level from the first step through to the last one, which matters at the end of a day. River View Golf Course looks out over that same stretch of water. Traffic noise drops off almost as soon as you are down on the path.

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