Welcome to Orange, California! In Orange County, Orange is a charming city known for its historic Old Towne, beautiful parks, and family-friendly attractions. Here’s a quick guide to help you explore the best of Orange.
- Attractions:
- Old Towne Orange Historic District: Wander through this picturesque area with well-preserved historic homes and buildings. It is the largest National Register district in California and features antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
- Orange County Zoo: Visit this small zoo in Irvine Regional Park, where you can see various animals native to the southwestern United States.
- Hilbert Museum of California Art: Explore a unique collection of California Scene paintings, including works by renowned artists from the 20th century, located on the campus of Chapman University.
- Food and Dining:
- Orange Hill Restaurant: Dine with a view at this elegant hilltop restaurant, offering American cuisine and an extensive wine list, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Watson’s Soda Fountain & Cafe: Step back in time at this retro diner located in Old Towne, serving classic American fare and nostalgic milkshakes.
- Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen: Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes, made with fresh ingredients and a modern twist, in a cozy and rustic setting.
- Shopping:
- The Outlets at Orange: Shop for deals at this popular outdoor shopping center, featuring a variety of brand-name stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
- Old Towne Antique Mall: Browse through an extensive selection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items at this multi-dealer antique mall located in the heart of Old Towne.
- Orange Farmers & Artisans Market: Visit this weekly farmers market to shop for fresh, locally-sourced produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
- Outdoor Activities:
- Irvine Regional Park: Enjoy a day outdoors at this expansive park, offering a variety of recreational facilities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking, and biking trails, and paddleboat rentals on the lake.
- Peters Canyon Regional Park: Explore this beautiful park featuring a variety of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with scenic views and diverse wildlife.
- Santiago Oaks Regional Park: Hike or bike through this picturesque park, featuring a network of trails through oak woodlands, grasslands, and riparian habitats.
- Events and Festivals:
- Orange International Street Fair (September): Celebrate the city’s diverse heritage at this annual event held in Old Towne, featuring food, music, and entertainment worldwide.
- Concerts in the Park (Summer): Enjoy live music performances at this weekly summer event, held at various parks throughout the city.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony & Candlelight Choir Procession (December): Kick off the holiday season with this festive event, featuring a tree lighting ceremony, choir performances, and holiday-themed activities in Old Towne.
Be sure to check local event calendars for additional activities and festivals during your visit. Enjoy your stay in Orange, California!