Orange County, California is a fantastic holiday destination with its stunning beaches, upscale communities, and its prevalence in film and television. Experience all that this vibrant county has to offer, from picturesque beaches to theme parks, historic sites, and more. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation or just an escape from reality, this list of the top 23 things to do in Orange County will help you plan the perfect trip. From adventure to historical fun, there’s something for everyone in Orange County!
23 Things To Do In Orange County
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Sojourners seeking a calming reprieve in Orange County, California are in luck. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Spanning over 1,300 acres, the estuary offers visitors the possibility to observe a wide variety of birds, amounting to over 200 species, in their natural habitat. The reserve has since been undergoing restoration to return it to its previous state prior to its exploitation by natural gas and oil production activities. Landing on numerous travel guides’ lists of the top 23 things to do in OC, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve provides guided tours and hiking trails, promising a peaceful getaway.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17148461114
🌐 Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/
Adventure City
Tucked away in Anaheim, Adventure City is an all-ages amusement park that’s a surefire hit for visiting families. Guests will find something here to entertain everyone; the park contains attractions such as rollercoasters, a climbing wall, arcade games, and even a petting zoo. Adventure City is suitable for large groups and corporate events, with complimentary parking and a variety of food options such as pizza, churros, and ice cream.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17142369300
🌐 Website: adventurecity.com
Angels Baseball
Orange County is a great destination for sports fans. Home to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and their 61 years of baseball accomplishments, Angel Stadium is the place for an entertaining day out. Angel Stadium is committed to providing an all-inclusive baseball experience, offering single tickets, group tickets, military and first responder tickets, season tickets, and discount tickets, among many other promotional offers. Additionally, game times vary between day and night games depending on whether the schedule allows – so don’t worry if it’s getting late.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17149402000
🌐 Website: mlb.com
Balboa Fun Zone
One of Orange County’s longest-standing landmarks is right on the Newport Beach skyline – the iconic Balboa Fun Zone Ferris wheel. Guests can take the ferry to visit nearby islands and gain an insight into Glen Martin’s historic first water-to-water flight from Balboa to Catalina Island in 1912. Regardless of whether patrons are looking for a fun beach date, a night out, or simply a fun ride, the Balboa Peninsula of Newport Beach promises a memorable experience.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +19496620193
🌐 Website: balboafunzone.com
Bowers Museum
Cultured travelers rejoice – the Bowers Museum is here. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the museum strives to exhibit world cultures through their respective arts and has been doing so since 1936. Open to visitors of all ages, the Bowers Museum also contains a special “Kidseum” for children, as well as other features to enable visitors to customize their experience.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17145673600
🌐 Website: https://www.bowers.org/
Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park is a tranquil nook snuggled in the urban landscape of Orange County. Containing nearly 2500 acres of land, this incredible park encompasses over three miles of beach and shoreline. Guests at Crystal Cove can wander through the protected areas of the park, taking in its unique biodiversity, as well as its federally listed Historic District.
Boasting 15 miles of trails to walk or cycle, with difficulty levels ranging from easy to strenuous, nature lovers have plenty of options for activities. The shoreline affords guests incredible opportunities for swimming, surfing, fishing, and kayaking. This is an ideal location to enjoy the restorative beauty of nature, relax or explore its amazing features.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +19494943539
🌐 Website: https://www.crystalcovestatepark.org/
Discovery Cube Orange County
Discovery Cube Orange County offers an incredible family-friendly learning experience like no other. This innovation center offers hands-on interactive exhibits and incredible educational opportunities for all ages. With two floors devoted to immersive interactive experiences, this popular destination features attractions such as a four-story climber, engineering workshops, physics labs, and a 3D theater.
The Cube also contains additional resources like a school programs division, a store and cafe, and even an outdoor area devoted to sustainability and gardening. It’s the perfect place to spur curiosity, creativity, and innovation in everyone who visits.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17145422823
🌐 Website: https://www.discoverycube.org/
Disney California Adventure
Disney California Adventure offers visitors an incredible journey through the best Pacific Coast has to offer. This expansive theme park gives guests the opportunity to take some of their favorite characters along on a journey full of surprises.
With attractions ranging from thrill rides to interactive shows, guests of all ages will find something to enjoy throughout the day. The California Adventure Park also includes several dining options, including lounges, buffets, and casual and fine dining restaurants. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities at the park, with items ranging from souvenirs to clothing and gifts.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17147814636
🌐 Website: disneyland.disney.go.com
Disneyland Park
For fans of Disney across the world, a trip to the legendary Disney is a must. This iconic theme park offers guests the opportunity to embark on an incredible journey into the world of Disney and all its magical possibilities. With over 60 attractions, guests can ride on thrilling rollercoasters and explore classic Disney attractions that have captivated generations.
Visitors can also satisfy their cravings at the different food and beverage options, while also taking home classic Disney souvenirs and merchandise. For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, Disneyland is the ideal destination.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17147814636
🌐 Website: disneyland.disney.go.com
Doheny State Beach
Doheny State Beach is a stunning stretch of sand and waves situated conveniently along South Orange County. This idyllic coastal destination offers guests the opportunity to take in the beauty of the Pacific Coast. Ideal for camping, fishing, swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding, Doheny’s Shore has something to offer everyone. Dog owners are also able to bring their four-legged friends on walks around the dog-friendly beaches. Additionally, the state park also contains historical points of interest like the Old Orange County Courthouse and the Trestles Surf exhibit.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Downtown Disney
Downtown Disney offers guests an incredible experience full of shopping, dining, entertainment, and more. With over 30 shops and restaurants, there is something for everyone to explore. Downtown Disney houses stores selling everything from Disney memorabilia to local artisan products.
Visitors can choose from classic eateries and well-known chain restaurants for dinner, or grab a quick bite at one of the many snack vendors. The outdoor promenade also has several nightlife spots, live entertainment options, and fun activities available. Downtown Disney is an excellent option for a family day out or an evening spent with friends.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Fullerton Arboretum
The Fullerton Arboretum provides guests with a unique experience filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Located on the Gilbert campus of CSU Fullerton, the Arboretum contains an incredible 26 acres of botanical gardens. Featuring a native habitat garden, a citrus grove, beehives, and a rose garden, the Arboretum is a haven for both nature lovers and plant enthusiasts. There are also two lakes, numerous city trails, and a picnic area for guests to enjoy a peaceful afternoon lunch outdoors. This incredible spot offers something for everyone to enjoy.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +16572783407
🌐 Website: fullertonarboretum.org
Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is a fantastic amusement park that offers guests of all ages the thrills and delights of the classic board walking experience. This iconic destination has been thrilling guests since 1920, and its 170 acres of land provide plenty of exciting entertainment.
With over 40 attractions and shows, as well as five themed areas, Knott’s Berry Farm is the perfect spot for a family day out or a fun night with friends. From rides to famous cuisine, shopping, and endless entertainment options, this incredible park is sure to make memories to last a lifetime.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17142205200
🌐 Website: Knott’s Berry Farm
Huntington Beach Pier
The Huntington Beach Pier is a landmark attraction in Orange County and one of the most popular ways to spend the day. The pier stretches almost 1,000 feet over the waves and provides breathtaking views of the ocean and sandy beaches.
Visitors can stay active by taking a jog along the pier, or rent a bike and explore the coastline. The pier is also the perfect spot to do some fishing and take in the beautiful scenery while you wait for your catch. For a more relaxed experience, take a seat on the pier and watch the surfers and dolphins as they make their way through the water. With so much to do, the Huntington Beach Pier is definitely one of the 23 Best Things to Do in Orange County.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Fisherman’s Village
Located in Huntington Beach, Fisherman’s Village is a unique shopping and sightseeing experience unlike any other in Orange County. Here visitors will be able to enjoy the shops at the waterfront plaza, take a tour of the picturesque harbor on an electric boat, or watch some spectacular sunsets from the pier. There are fine restaurants, beach bars, and live music, as well as picturesque views of the ocean and wooded hillsides.
Fishing and kayaking are also popular activities at Fisherman’s Village, and visitors can even rent jet skis for a thrilling ride across the water. For those looking to explore some of the 23 Best Things to Do in Orange County, Fisherman’s Village is a must-see destination.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Irvine Regional Park
Irvine Regional Park is a great way for visitors to enjoy the outdoors and explore some of the top attractions in Orange County. With over 400 acres of parkland, Irvine Regional Park is the perfect way to have a fun family day out. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing in the lake, horseback riding, and swinging through the trees on zip lines. Biking, hiking, and camping are also popular activities, and visitors can enjoy nature trails which makes exploring the area all the more enjoyable.
Moreover, there is a Zoo located in Irvine Regional Park, that offers a fun and educational visit that is perfect for children and adults alike. Guests can take a leisurely stroll through the zoo and observe some of the highlights, such as tigers, bears, and giraffes. There are also a variety of birds and reptiles, as well as a petting zoo for some hands-on fun. After exploring the grounds, visitors can stop by the gift shop to find souvenirs and take home a piece of the Orange County Zoo. The park also boasts a playground, tennis courts, and an aviary, making Irvine Regional Park one of the 23 Best Things to Do in Orange County.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17149736835
🌐 Website: Irvine Regional Park
Moonlight Beach
Located in Encinitas, Moonlight Beach is a stunning stretch of sand and surf that serves as one of the top beach destinations in Orange County. This 1,500-foot-long beach is known for its white sand and calm waters, providing plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, surfing, and kayaking. Visitors can take walks along the shore and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean, or relax on the beach and soak up the warm California sun. Moonlight Beach is also a great spot to watch the sunset, and with the stunning scenery and plenty of activities, it is no wonder why it is one of the 23 Best Things to Do in Orange County.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Newport Beach
Known for its stunning coastline, upscale communities, and frequent appearances on the small and big screen, visiting Newport Beach is a must on any Orange County holiday. Whether you’re looking to explore the balmy beaches or indulge in some retail therapy at fashionable boutiques, Newport Beach is sure to deliver. The Balboa Fun Zone is a day and night landmark on the Newport Harbor, with ferries taking passengers to surrounding islands, and Glen Martin’s historic first water-to-water flight from Balboa to Catalina Island still visible.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Newland House Museum
Originally built in 1898 by the direct descendants of George and Nancy Newland, the Newland House Museum is a unique insight into Orange County’s past. Steeped in history, the home offers a chance to explore what life was like over 100 years ago in Huntington Beach. From artifacts such as family heirlooms, photographs, and artwork, to restored rooms within the home that have been decorated to reflect their original furnishings, it’s a great way to soak up the past of Orange County.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Olinda ALPHA Shooting Facility & Gun Range
For those who enjoy shooting or just seek some fun outdoors in Orange County, head to the Olinda ALPHA Shooting Facility & Gun Range. Open seven days a week, they offer a range of gun rentals, including handguns and long arms, along with different levels of lessons on safe gun handling and the fundamentals of marksmanship. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are there to help, so sharpen your shooting skills and add an exciting activity to your OC visit.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Orange County Museum of Art
The Orange County Museum of Art is a prestigious art institution that was first founded in 1987. Offering exceptional exhibitions, educational programs, and awards such as the biennial OCMA California-Pacific Triennial, it is the only museum of its kind in the county. Whether you are an avid art fan or someone who enjoys the occasional exhibition, the Orange County Museum of Art is an unforgettable experience not to be missed.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
Pacific City
If you are looking for a unique shopping experience in Orange County, do not miss Pacific City. It is an outdoor shopping center that boasts modern stores, pleasing restaurants, and open-air plazas, set against a beautiful ocean backdrop. Pacific City integrates the area’s beauty into the shopping experience, bringing a whole new level of relaxation to retail therapy. With a unique array of boutique stores, you’re sure to find something special to take home from Orange County.
🗺️ Google Maps: Get Direction
📞 Phone: +17149302345
🌐 Website: Pacific City
Conclusion
From beautiful beaches to family-friendly activities to a wide variety of outdoor locations, Orange County, California has it all. Whether you’re looking for a fun and educational day out for your family or an adventure-packed weekend away, Orange County has plenty of exciting attractions to choose from.
From historic Ferris wheels to unique museums and wildlife reserves, to lively sports teams, Orange County is the perfect destination for everyone and anyone looking for a truly exceptional escape. So why not take advantage of what Orange County has to offer and start planning your next getaway today?