Are you looking for a great holiday destination that offers a multitude of attractions and activities? If so, Santa Ana is an amazing choice for sightseeing, museum hopping, fun activities, vibrant food scene, and more. It is a city in Orange County, where you’ll find the charm of the country life because of its numerous green spaces, and the exciting life of the city, which you’ll experience in its nightspots. Don’t forget to visit the Heritage Museum, where you can walk back in time through the many historical buildings and houses. Also, if you’re into animals, you need to see Santa Ana Zoo that is home to many wildlife, such as monkeys, lions, snakes, and more. In case you need a Santa Ana’s ‘must-do’ guide, check out our list of the best things to do in Santa Ana, California.
1. Enjoy live shows at Yost Theater
If you’re wondering where the locals of Santa Ana go to watch live events, it is in the Yost Theater. It is located in the downtown historic district and is also a historical site itself. It is also on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been a movie house during the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema. Now, it is a famous concert and events venue. Lots of local and international acts have graced the stage, and it has a long history of world-class live performances.
Yost Theater
Address: 307 N Spurgeon St, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Yost Theater
2. Dine at the cozy Lola Gaspar
If you’re looking for a chill hangout space in Santa Ana, then you have to visit Lola Gaspar. It is a local pub with a cozy atmosphere that has a bar and outdoor seating. The menu in this tapas joint is primarily Latin and Spanish with vegan options and small plate servings. They also offer creative cocktails which you’ll surely love. The drinks are so great that you can’t help order another glass. The establishment is only in a small space, so make sure you come in early to secure a seat.
Lola Gaspar
Address: 11 W 2nd St, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Lola Gaspar
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5pm - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 1am; Sun: 10:30am - 4pm
3. Admire the artistic Cal State Fullerton’s Grand Central Art Center
If you’re into arts, you shouldn’t miss the chance to see the Cal State Fullerton’s Grand Central Art Center. It is a center for the arts that is a collaboration of the city of Santa Ana and the California State University at Fullerton to promote, study, and explore contemporary art. The building serves many purposes, such as a dorm, studio, and gallery. Every year they host four to six exhibitions by notable local and international artists.
Cal State Fullerton’s Grand Central Art Center
Address: 125 N Broadway, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Cal State Fullerton’s Grand Central Art Center
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 11am - 4pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 3pm (closed on Mon)
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4. Take a quick trip to the East End Promenade
The downtown of Orange County, East End in Santa Ana is a site where you’ll find lots of unique shops, quirky local stores, and cute cafes, galleries, and creative space. It is formerly known as Fiesta Marketplace, where the Hispanic and Latino culture thrives. Now, it has become a party venue and home to many nightspots. If you’re up for some shopping and nighttime fun, better visit the East End Promenade, and learn about the upcoming events.
East End Promenade
Address: E 4th St., Santa Ana, CA, USA
5. Check out the Old County Courthouse
Located at the Historic Downtown District in Santa Ana, the Old Orange County Courthouse is a beautiful romanesque revival building that has become a popular wedding venue. Lots of people are dreaming to get married here for it makes a beautiful backdrop to their photos as well as it happens to have many ceremony rooms and a historic superior courtroom so beautiful, you’ll want to get married the moment you see it. Apart from being a wedding venue, this building also houses temporary and permanent exhibits that feature the region’s history and art.
Old County Courthouse
Address: 211 W Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Old County Courthouse
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 4:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
6. Visit the Grand Central Theater
Located in the Grand Central Art Center in Santa Ana, the Grand Central Theater is an event venue where lots of live performances and concerts happen. This venue can seat up to 85 people. There are also lots of theater companies and various performance groups who want a schedule, so the management runs a tight schedule to accommodate numerous shows throughout the year. It is also the home theater of the university well-renowned dance and theater department.
Grand Central Theater
Address: 125 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Website: Grand Central Theater
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 11am - 4pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 3pm (closed on Mon)
7. Let your kids learn science at Discovery Cube Orange County
If you’re looking for an activity that your kids will enjoy while learning new stuff, then you have to bring them at the Discovery Cube Orange County. It is a science museum that features over 100 exhibits that are hands-on and interactive, just like their helicopter tour, Aquavator, an Inspector Training Course, and more. All these efforts are made to spark the natural curiosity of a child for them to want to learn more about science. Apart from the permanent exhibits, there are also temporary exhibits like the DC superheroes with special features. Moreover, you shouldn’t forget to drop by the gift shop and buy some souvenirs before going home.
Discovery Cube Orange County
Address: 2500 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92705, USA
Website: Discovery Cube Orange County
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 75 USD
8. Dance the night away at The Ranch Saloon
If you love country music and line dancing, then you have to experience the allure of Ranch Saloon. It is an upscale party venue that features live performances of country music and a dance floor. It has bar seating as well as booths if you want some privacy. It also has two bars, 47’ Long Horn Bar and the 27’ Mustang Bar, which will make you hydrated with alcoholic beverages throughout the night. Moreover, keep yourself posted on the upcoming events, for they always have it here, like the Family Night Sunday.
Ranch Saloon
Address: 1025 E Ball Rd Suite 101B, Anaheim, CA 92805, USA
Website: Ranch Saloon
Opening hours: Wed: 5:30pm - 10pm; Thu - Sat: 5:30pm - 2am; Sun: 4pm - 10pm (closed on Mon & Tues)
9. Drop by the Lyon Air Museum
If you’re tired of the usual museum scene, where you’ll see paintings and the like, then you have to see the Lyon Air Museum. It is an aerospace museum which features military aircraft, automobiles, motorcycles, and lots of other World War II vehicles and memorabilia. The museum is situated on the west side of John Wayne Airport in Orange County. Make sure to bring your kids with you when you visit, for they will surely be fascinated with the things you may find here.
Lyon Air Museum
Address: 19300 Ike Jones Rd, Santa Ana, CA 92707, USA
Website: Lyon Air Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD
10. Discover the Heritage Museum of Orange County
Are you crazy about architecture and things of the past? Then, you shouldn’t let the Heritage Museum of Orange County just exist and never see its splendor. It is a museum of restored houses and structures from the 1890s that is nestled in a beautiful and huge flower garden. It makes a good backdrop to your Instagram photos; it’s like you’ve gone back in time. But, no, you did not. It is also a popular wedding venue here in Santa Ana. You’ll know why when you see the allure of the old houses amidst a beautiful garden.
Heritage Museum of Orange County
Address: 3101 W Harvard St, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
Website: Heritage Museum of Orange County
Opening hours: Fri: 1pm - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm; Sun: 11am - 3pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
Price: 7 USD
11. Take a cooking class at Hipcooks Orange County
If you want to impress someone with your culinary skills, then you have to learn from the pro. Hipcooks in Orange County offers cooking classes to anyone who wishes to learn the art of making food. When we say anyone, it means even those who haven’t touched a knife and a pan in their entire life. Also, pros are welcome for they might learn new techniques. The classes are relatively small for the instructor to be more hands-on with the students. After the class, you’ll learn how to cook a healthy meal, a simple menu for a small gathering, and some kitchen tricks like knife skills. Also, inclusive of the fees are the organic ingredients, fresh produce, tools, and supplies that you’ll be using. To end the activity, you will be dining with the rest of the group and eat what you prepared along with a glass of fine wine.
Hipcooks Orange County
Address: 125 N Broadway suite c, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Hipcooks Orange County
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Try different foods at 4th Street Market
A hipster’s haven, a food paradise, and gourmet kingdom are only one of the set of words to describe the 4th Street Market. It is an upscale food hall in Santa Ana, where lots of tourists flock to get a taste of whatever they’re craving for. It is modern and composed of many food stalls, and features a picnic area and ping pong tables for your entertainment. Few of the more established stalls here include Portola Coffee Lab for your caffeine fix, Dough Exchange for your sweet tooth, and Noodle Tramp for your unique and ready-for-anything taste bud.
4th Street Market
Address: 201 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: 4th Street Market
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 7am - 9pm; Thu: 7am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 7am - 11pm
13. Head to The Santa Ana Zoo
If you’re looking for an activity that the whole family will surely enjoy while learning, then you have to visit the Santa Ana Zoo. It has been operating since 1952 and features over 80 species of wildlife. Here, you won’t only see the animals up close but also get to interact with them. Apart from the animals, they also have other facilities that will teach your kids about the environment and science, such as the children’s farm and the carousel ride and a train ride that will take you to see endangered species.
Santa Ana Zoo
Address: 1801 E Chestnut Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Santa Ana Zoo
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD
14. Enjoy spa service at Montanya Spa
Do you know the best things to do after a day of sightseeing and activities? Massage and pampering is the answer to those aching muscles and tired legs. And, the best way to go is to avail Montanya Spa’s services. This boutique spa is proud that they use the restorative elements in nature in every aspect of their services. You can opt for facial treatments, body wraps, hair removal, different kinds of massage, and other spa packages. You’ll surely feel relaxed and regenerated after the experience.
Montanya Spa
Address: 120 W 20th St, Santa Ana, CA 92706, USA
Website: Montanya Spa
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 7:30pm; Sat: 8:30am - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm
15. Admire different art forms at the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art
If you’re in Santa Ana, you shouldn’t let the idea of visiting the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art pass for its wide array of exhibits featuring famous and regional artists. It is run by a non-profit organization and has been featuring exquisite artworks since the 1980s. It is home to more than 3500 objects with a focus on contemporary arts of California and the Pacific Rim from the 20th century. You’ll find here photographs, sculptures, old-school paintings, as well as new media like videos, installation art, and digital animations.
Orange County Center for Contemporary Art
Address: 117 Sycamore St, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Orange County Center for Contemporary Art
Opening hours: Thu - Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
Price: 45 USD
16. Ride a bicycle through Santiago Creek
An important watercourse in Orange County, Santiago Creek is 34 miles (54.7 km) long and considered as one of the longest watercourses in Orange County. Visit the creek for its many attractions just like the Santiago Creek Bike Trail. It is a trail that is perfect for biking, walking, and jogging. The trail is scenic with spectacular views of nature and the surrounding. Along the trail, you’ll find four parks where you can have picnics, two bridges, a wildlife sanctuary, and numerous shaded oak trees where you can rest.
Santiago Creek Bike Trail
Address: Santa Ana, CA, USA
Website: Santiago Creek Bike Trail
17. Explore H. Clay Kellogg House
Located in the Heritage Museum, along with the 1890s buildings, H. Clay Kellogg House is very popular among teachers and students in Orange County for being a famous field trip spot. It is a Neo-Classical Victorian Home designed by the owner Hiram Clay Kellogg and built as a gift to her second wife, Helen. Now, it serves as a museum where you’ll marvel at the victorian interior, the beautiful staircase, the intricate woodwork, the oval-shaped dining room, as well as the many antique items on display. Upon entry, you’ll be transported back in time and have an idea about the way of life back then.
H. Clay Kellogg House
Address: 3101 W Harvard St, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
Website: H. Clay Kellogg House
Opening hours: Self-guided and reserved tours: Wed - Fri: 1pm - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 3pm; only reserved group tours: Mon - Tue (call for schedule)
18. Relax and unwind at The Copper Door
A hidden underground bar located below the historic Pacific Building in downtown Santa Ana, The Copper Door is one unique party venue. It has a rustic ambiance with an homage to the European drinking halls and influences from the speakeasy culture. Also, it features a minimalist design. It has bar seating and booths, where you can lounge and chill. Aside from the overflowing beers, the bar also features live music and DJs for your entertainment.
The Copper Door
Address: 225 N Broadway, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: The Copper Door
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 7pm - 2am (closed on Mon)
19. Play golf at Willowick Golf Course
The oldest golf course in Orange County, Willowick Golf Course is located at the center of Santa Ana. It is a 102 acre (41.27 hectares) 18-hole public golf course that is about to close for the leased will end in 2020. This the end of an era for Santa Ana’s golf course. But, don’t worry the city is planning to replace it with something more spectacular than what once was Willowick Golf Course. So, before it officially closes down, why not have a game of golf with your friends? It will be a nice way to remember and to part ways with the beloved golf course of Santa Ana.
Willowick Golf Course
Address: 3017 W 5th St, Santa Ana, CA 92703, USA
Website: Willowick Golf Course
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
20. Catch a concert at Pacific Symphony
If you’re a fan of the symphony orchestra, then you have to visit Catch a concert at Pacific Symphony and catch a concert here. It was founded in 1978 and located at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The organization behind the symphony aims to develop new talents through offering after class initiatives for young people. The classes will be headed by the few of the group’s 85 musicians. Check their schedules for upcoming concerts for it will be a very different experience from your usual concert venues. Buy a ticket to know why.
Pacific Symphony
Address: 17620 Fitch #100, Irvine, CA 92614, USA
Website: Pacific Symphony
21. Drink fantastic wine at Antonello
A lot of people dream of going to Tuscany to try out the local cuisine and see the beautiful sceneries. But, if you still don’t have the budget to travel, then why not dine at Antonello Ristorante for a start? It is a local restaurant in Santa Ana that features a stylish opulent space that has an old Tuscany ambiance. The menu here is extensive and full of northern Italian dishes. This place is a perfect date night idea in case you like to impress a loved one. It is also great for special family occasions.
Antonello
Address: 3800 S Plaza Dr, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
Website: Antonello
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 1:30pm - 3pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm; Sat: 5pm - 10pm (closed on Sun)
22. Play golf at River View Golf Course
Featuring one of the best golf courses in Santa Ana, River View Golf Course has a full practice facility and an 18-hole course. It is set in a huge land with a length of 6191 yards (5661.05 meters), a slope of 120, and par of 70. But aside from that, the property has a well-manicured course, a river, and a spectacular view of its surroundings, making you feel relaxed while playing.
River View Golf Course
Address: 1800 W Santa Clara Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92706, USA
Website: River View Golf Course
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
23. Dine at Crave
A favorite downtown restaurant in Santa Ana, Crave is a cozy restaurant with a rustic set-up that offers American favorites. It is a local spot for breakfast and brunch. The dishes on the menu are freshly made from quality ingredients and produce. Apart from the regular orders, they also have vegan and gluten-free options, making it a healthier restaurant choice for people who are into fitness and have some strict diets. Their bestsellers include homemade pulled pork sandwiches, freshly baked sourdough bread, and overstuffed omelet.
Crave
Address: 410 W 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
Website: Crave
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5pm; Sat: 8am - 3pm (closed on Sun)
24. Sample nitrogen ice cream at Cauldron Ice Cream
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you’re into sweet and something cold, then you shouldn’t miss this ice cream parlor with a twist, when you are in Santa Ana. The cauldron ice cream features a modern-industrial space with ample seating and beautiful lightings. The ice cream parlor is not your ordinary ice cream joint, with the usual flavors, it is an ice cream made from liquid nitrogen and features inventive flavors.
Cauldron Ice Cream
Address: 1421 W MacArthur Blvd F, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
Website: Cauldron Ice Cream
Opening hours: 12pm - 10pm (daily)
25. Take part in Outpost Fest
A one-day music festival in Santa Ana, Outpost Fest is a popular music event which is headlined by indie music artists like Delta Spirit, Blonde Redhead, Beach Fossils, and more. But apart from good music, the event also features overflowing beers and grubs. The food here is uncomplicated brought to you by the many food stalls and trucks just like in a pop-up food market. If you want to discover new music while eating good food and a cold beer in hand, make sure you buy a ticket for the Outpost Fest.
Outpost Fest
Address: 201 E 4th St, Santa Ana, California 92701
Website: Outpost Fest
26. Chill out at Centennial Regional Park
If you’re looking for a place to spend an afternoon with the whole family, you should try visiting Centennial Regional Park in Santa Ana. It is a small park with various facilities for the enjoyment of the whole family. It has a playground for the kids, a 10-acre (4.05 hectares) lake where the dads can fish, and flat terrain for picnics and playing with remote control aircraft. Plan an afternoon of just bonding with family during your vacation in Santa Ana.
Centennial Regional Park
Address: 3000 W Edinger Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
Website: Centennial Regional Park
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
27. Go shopping at Main Place Mall
If you’re wondering where the locals of Santa Ana go for their retail therapy, then you have to visit the Main Place Mall. It is a shopping mall with over 200 stores to shop, ranging from local to luxury brands. They have stores here for fashion, furniture, home, cosmetics, beauty and the like. Apart from retail, the mall also features numerous dining options like Applebee’s, Genki Sushi, Cinnabon, and many more.
Main Place Mall
Address: 2800 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92705, USA
Website: Main Place Mall
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 9pm; Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 7pm
28. Take a helicopter ride from Santa Ana
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
May your future be bright and all your dreams take flight ! Merry Christmas from our helipad to yours! #oc #ochelicopter...
Posted by OC Helicopters on Thursday, December 24, 2020
A lot of people dreams of flying and seeing the world from a different perspective. So, when you’re in Santa Ana, don’t let the chance to see Catalina Island’s from above, book a Catalina Island Helicopter Flight from Santa Ana via Viator. Here, you’ll be soaring above the island wonderful sandy beaches and observe its rugged interiors. You’ll also get the chance to watch whales dancing with the pacific waves. Apart from the views, you’ll learn about the history of the island as well as its famous landmark, through your expert guide, the pilot. The flight will last for 18 minutes and will end at the Avalon’s Pebbly Beach Heliport.
OC Helicopters
Address: OC Helicopters, 19711 Campus Dr STE 260, Santa Ana, CA 92707, United States
Website: OC Helicopters
Opening hours: 11am - 7pm (daily)
Price: $175 USD
29. Head to the Tessmann Planetarium
If you’ve always been fascinated with the heavenly bodies, then you have to visit the Tessmann Planetarium and satisfy that curiosity. The 100-seater planetarium is located at Santa Ana College in the center of Orange County. For 50 years now, the planetarium has been aiming to inspire students to have an interest in the field of science, particularly in the space program and astronomy. It usually have programs and for this summer they have two events coming up, which are titled “A summer Tour of the Solar System, wherein you’ll have an interactive viewing of the summer night sky, and “America in Space: Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing,” where you will look back to the NASA missions to the moon.
Tessmann Planetarium
Address: 1530 W 17th St, Bldg M, Santa Ana, California 92706
Website: Tessmann Planetarium
30. Visit the Bowers Museum (from USD 13.0)
If you’re an art and history enthusiast, then the Bowers Museum is a haven for you. It is a cultural art museum that focuses on indigenous people’s art throughout the world. It has a permanent collection of over 100,000 notable objects from old civilizations like pre-Columbian Mesoamerica and Native American art as well as the arts of Asian countries, Oceana, Africa, and more. You’ll surely learn a lot from these exhibits which you won’t learn if you just read it from the textbook. So, don’t forget to visit this museum when you’re in Santa Ana.
Bowers Museum Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Hello Santa Ana
A place that will keep you busy with its numerous attractions and activities, Santa Ana will surely make your holiday worthwhile. It won’t let you just stay at your hotel for it will persuade you to visit its many museums, try the many restaurants, and go on a walking tour to get to know more about its heritage. In case you need help in planning your itinerary, check our top things to do in Santa Ana, California, and have an amazing holiday ahead.
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