Summary
- Relax in a Lemon Orchard in Citrus Ranch Park
- Savour Greek Fare at Christakis Greek Cuisine
- Play a Round of Golf at Tustin Ranch Golf Club
- Appreciate Local Art at Chemers Gallery
- Kick Back with Drinks and Grub at Bar Louie
- Spend a Day Outdoors at Peppertree Park
- Admire Luxury Cars at the Marconi Automotive Museum
- Tour the Tustin Area Museum
- Go Bowling at Bowlmor Lanes
- Take the Whole Family to Cedar Grove Park
- Stay Fit at Magnolia Tree Park
- Experience Unique Culinary Delights at CHAAK
- Hang Out at Beautiful Victory Park
Despite Tustin’s population of 80,000 residents and its location within the Los Angeles Metropolitan area, the city retains a quaint, small-town atmosphere. Tustin is affectionately known as The City of Trees, a testament to the numerous trees that adorn its streets. The Old Town area is dotted with numerous historical structures that offer a glimpse into the past.
Tustin is celebrated for its agreeable climate and stunning landscapes, which include breathtaking views of the coastline and the nearby Saddleback Mountains. The city also boasts a wealth of attractions and services, such as museums, parks, and a diverse array of restaurants featuring global cuisines.
The Market Place, The District at Tustin Legacy, and Tustin Ranch Plaza are exemplary shopping venues within the city.
Additionally, numerous festivals and events take place throughout the year, including Tiller Days and the Annual Tustin Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Presented below are 15 of the finest activities to pursue in Tustin, California.
1. Relax in a Lemon Orchard in Citrus Ranch Park
Historically, Orange County was filled with citrus groves, and Citrus Ranch Park in Tustin preserves this aspect of the region’s heritage with one of the last remaining groves. Covering 17 acres, the park is populated with approximately 1,000 lemon trees.
The delightful fragrance of fresh citrus, combined with the natural environment, creates a serene escape from the bustling urban surroundings.
As you walk through the park, you will encounter native flora and enjoy splendid mountain vistas from the gazebo situated on the hilltop. The park also features a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails.
2. Savour Greek Fare at Christakis Greek Cuisine
At Christakis Greek Cuisine in Tustin, patrons can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, exceptional service, and authentic Greek dishes prepared with the finest ingredients.
The extensive menu features a variety of appetizers, soups, and salads, with the hummus famously regarded as the best in Orange County. Signature entrées include Moussaka, Pastitsio, Spanakopita, and Chicken Athenian.
3. Play a Round of Golf at Tustin Ranch Golf Club
While the ambiance at Tustin Ranch Golf Club exudes upscale exclusivity, this acclaimed 18-hole championship golf course, recognized as the best in the county, remains accessible to the public.
Designed by Ted Robinson, the course presents various challenges and is enveloped by stunning views. The on-site golf academy offers professional instruction led by PGA experts.
A gourmet restaurant and lounge are also available, offering a diverse menu to satisfy your culinary needs following a day on the course.
4. Appreciate Local Art at Chemers Gallery
For art enthusiasts, Chemers Gallery in Tustin presents a diverse array of artworks by local artists. This sophisticated gallery serves as a platform for artists at various career stages to display their work.
As you navigate the gallery, you will encounter a variety of modern and traditional art forms, including watercolor, oil paintings, pastels, and photography. Additional services include professional framing, jewelry, and art restoration.
5. Kick Back with Drinks and Grub at Bar Louie
For a relaxing evening out, visit Bar Louie where you will experience a stylish yet laid-back ambiance, complemented by quality cuisine and a variety of beverages.
Whether you’re in the mood for martinis or local brews, the menu caters to your preferences. You will also find an extensive selection of pub fare, including Bavarian pretzels, burgers, fried calamari, and vegetarian options, all available during happy hour on weekdays.
6. Spend a Day Outdoors at Peppertree Park
Peppertree Park in Tustin serves as a favored spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring expansive green areas and a central location near the city center. The park offers a conducive environment for leisurely afternoons immersed in nature.
Notably, the melodic chimes from the nearby Tustin Presbyterian Church enhance the park’s tranquil atmosphere.
Facilities include barbecue pits, picnic areas with tables, a playground, restrooms, and a water play zone. The park is also a venue for various events each year, including summer concerts.
7. Admire Luxury Cars at the Marconi Automotive Museum
At the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin, visitors of all ages can marvel at a collection of luxury automobiles from various decades. The museum, established through a donation from Dick Marconi, showcases his family’s personal car collection among the 70 vehicles on display.
The collection includes renowned brands such as Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and an assortment of classic muscle cars, as well as vehicles previously owned by notable individuals.
8. Tour the Tustin Area Museum
The most effective way to gain insight into a town or city is to explore its local museum. In Tustin, the Tustin Area Museum highlights the city’s unique history and cultural heritage.
Located in the historic downtown district, the museum features numerous artifacts, photographs, and documents of significant historical relevance.
Annually, the museum organizes the Old Town Tustin Home and Garden Tour, which guides attendees through Old Tustin to admire vintage homes and picturesque gardens that echo the past.
9. Go Bowling at Bowlmor Lanes
If you are seeking a unique and exciting way to spend an evening in Tustin, consider Bowlmor Lanes.
Featuring 30 bowling lanes, 12 of which are designated for private events, the venue also includes an arcade with contemporary games and a large sports bar that serves a variety of classic American dishes.
10. Take the Whole Family to Cedar Grove Park
Cedar Grove Park in Tustin presents an array of amenities suitable for both adults and children. This lovely green area also features ample shaded spots, providing a respite from the sun.
Facilities comprise picnic areas, an adult fitness space, several children’s play zones, a basketball court, and an amphitheater. An intriguing characteristic of this park is its design, which resembles a treehouse.
11. Stay Fit at Magnolia Tree Park
Whether it involves walking, tennis, or basketball, Magnolia Tree Park offers numerous facilities to engage in various sports and maintain fitness during your visit. This lush, picturesque park also includes picnic areas and a children’s playground.
12. Experience Unique Culinary Delights at CHAAK
While you may have sampled Mexican cuisine on numerous occasions, you might not have experienced the distinctive fusion of Spanish, Caribbean, and Mediterranean flavors that define the gastronomic offerings of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Lunch and dinner options are served, featuring traditional dishes such as pibil, recados, and a variety of seafood specialties. An extensive wine selection is also on hand to complement your meal.
13. Hang Out at Beautiful Victory Park
Victory Park encompasses 4.7 acres of green space dedicated to both relaxation for adults and play areas for children.
This picturesque park features a spacious turf lawn, complete with cozy cabanas that are ideal for afternoon rest or leisurely book-reading. There is also a playground and a picnic area equipped with barbecue facilities for extended gatherings.