Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Orange, California

Orange is a city comprising over 130,000 residents situated approximately 40 kilometers southeast of downtown Los Angeles in Southern California’s Orange County.

Unlike other areas nearby, Orange possesses original neighborhoods where it is common to find homes constructed during the city’s establishment over a century ago.

In addition to numerous activities in and around Orange, visitors will have convenient access to many of Los Angeles’ most distinguished attractions, as well as some of California’s most picturesque stretches of Pacific coastline located southward in Huntington, Newport, and Laguna beaches.

1. The Hilbert Museum of California Art

Situated on the Chapman University campus in Orange, the Hilbert Museum of California Art showcases one of the area’s most remarkable collections of artworks inspired by the beauty of the Golden State.

Established in 2016, the museum owes its existence to a significant and valuable donation of artwork from a philanthropic local couple, which initiated the project in 2014.

The museum’s collections span various mediums, capturing scenes from industrial landscapes to pristine beaches, and from mountainous terrains to frontier-style ranch life.

Additionally, a gallery is dedicated to the animation and film industries, significant contributors to the state’s artistic culture and economy for over a century.

2. Contra Coffee & Tea

Trend-conscious residents of California who depend on caffeine to manage their daily routines frequently designate Contra Coffee & Tea as Orange’s premier destination for exceptional service and high-quality beverages.

This endorsement is particularly noteworthy, given the vibrant competition within Orange County.

Located on North Orange Street, Contra features a menu replete with beloved classics as well as hand-crafted contemporary beverages that are not typically available at competing establishments.

Among their most sought-after offerings are drinks like iced coffee made with Vietnamese beans, alongside juices, caffeine-free options, and a diverse selection of baked goods.

3. Handy Park

Simple municipal parks often go unnoticed by travelers intent on visiting as many tourist attractions as possible.

However, for those seeking an opportunity to stretch their legs and appreciate the outdoors without incurring significant costs, such parks are invaluable community resources.

Handy Park is conveniently located at the southeast corner of East Collins Avenue and the Costa Mesa Freeway in Orange, offering numerous amenities for sports enthusiasts, walkers, and picnickers.

The park includes baseball fields, soccer pitches, volleyball courts, restrooms, shaded seating areas with BBQ facilities, and a playground popular with children.

4. Orange Hill Restaurant

California is renowned for its innovative fusion cuisine, and visitors in and around Orange are presented with a multitude of dining options.

Orange Hill Restaurant is situated on East Chapman Avenue in Orange, recognized as one of northern Orange County’s premier dining establishments.

The menu offers a wide variety, including fresh seafood, prime steaks, healthy salads, and delectable desserts. Its location on a scenic hilltop presents patrons with splendid views.

Orange Hill provides a more formal dining experience compared to many of its rivals, hence patrons are encouraged to dress appropriately before visiting.

5. Orange Public Library and History Center

Despite their usual low ranking as vacation attractions, public libraries can provide enriching experiences for budget-conscious travelers seeking to learn or participate in programming.

Beyond its traditional role, the Orange Public Library and History Center houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts spanning nearly 150 years.

The History Center is regularly accessible to the public, featuring a myriad of newspapers, maps, photographs, and firsthand accounts from the area’s early inhabitants.

6. Disneyland Park

Located just a short 15-minute drive northwest of downtown Orange, Anaheim’s Disneyland Park opened in the mid-1950s and has since become one of Southern California’s major family recreation destinations.

As the first of two parks within the Disneyland Resort, it is a venue that provides family-oriented visitors ample opportunities to spend extensive vacation time.

Spanning over 150 acres, the park offers numerous rides, live entertainment, activities for children, and a variety of dining options.

Throughout its history, it has attracted more visitors than any other park globally and can become quite crowded during peak seasons.

7. Tutto Fresco

Situated on North Glassell Street in Orange, Tutto Fresco is recognized as one of the city’s most favored Italian dining establishments.

Feedback from previous patrons indicates that Tutto Fresco maintains cleanliness, comfort, and effective management, with ample portion sizes prompting many to take leftovers home.

Notably renowned for its pasta, the menu also includes seafood, chicken, and salads. Every guest is treated to complimentary focaccia served with olive oil while waiting for their main courses.

Tutto Fresco operates for both lunch and dinner, making it an excellent stop for a meal after a long day at Disneyland Park, which is located only about 15 minutes away.

8. Yorba Regional Park

Located in nearby Anaheim, Yorba Regional Park serves as a delightful refuge for those wishing to enjoy the outdoors without the need to venture to the larger state and national parks situated to the north of Los Angeles.

This expansive park is situated in Santa Ana Canyon, approximately 15 kilometers from Orange, covering over 130 acres and largely following the Santa Ana River’s course.

Yorba Regional Park offers an extensive network of trails, an abundance of picnic tables with built-in BBQ grills, and ample shaded areas featuring remarkable views.

Fishing is a favored pastime here, and active cyclists can traverse the long trails stretching all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

9. Anaheim Packing District

Historically, the downtown Anaheim business district was home to numerous packing facilities that processed and packaged much of the citrus and produce grown in Southern California.

Today, the Anaheim Packing District has been transformed into a revitalized and trendy hub, popular with artistic and Bohemian crowds due to its stylish restaurants, outdoor events, and live entertainment.

Numerous eateries within the district feature international cuisines from various global regions, including Vietnam and India, with many offering vegetarian options crafted from fresh, local ingredients.

Just a 10 to 15-minute drive from Orange, the district hosts a weekly farmer’s market at Farmers Park and features outdoor movie screenings on select weekends.

10. Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve

Situated around 20 kilometers southeast of Orange, Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve offers a serene haven for those seeking respite from the urban environment.

The preserve is distinguished by its deep canyons, flowing springs, and dens of oak trees that provide habitats for diverse animal species.

Limestone Canyon is a favored locale among mountain bikers, hikers, walkers, and amateur wildlife photographers, where sightings of various animals, including eagles, coyotes, and snakes, are common along the trails.

Guided nature walks by docents are frequently available, but prior registration is required to participate.

11. Irvine Barclay Theatre

Although commonly referred to as a community theater, the Irvine Barclay Theater in Irvine elevates this concept significantly.

With Cheng Hall seating nearly 800 individuals, it boasts one of the region’s most advanced sound systems, akin to those typically found in larger venues.

This theater operates through a collaboration between the City of Irvine and the University of California, presenting a variety of productions throughout the year, encompassing traditional and contemporary music, dance performances, and theatrical plays.

Located approximately 15 kilometers south of Orange, purchasing tickets in advance for popular performances is advisable.

12. Oak Creek Golf Club

With an abundance of sunny days and refreshing coastal breezes that often reach inland from the nearby Pacific Ocean, few experiences match spending several hours on one of Orange County’s exceptional golf courses.

Oak Creek Golf Club, designed by renowned golf architect Tom Fazio, features glimmering lakes, challenging sand traps, and narrow fairways leading to tiered greens.

Conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from Orange, the course operates year-round and offers five sets of tees on each hole to cater to players across various age groups and skill levels.

13. Noguchi Garden

While not extensive by botanical garden standards, the two-acre Noguchi Garden (or California Scenario, as it is often known) stands out as one of Southern California’s most extraordinary attractions, earning numerous accolades over the years.

In operation for over four decades, the garden comprises six distinct areas that showcase hundreds of species native to the region.

Most visitors typically spend an hour or two exploring the garden’s paths and appreciating its tranquil atmosphere. Conveniently situated between Orange and Newport Beach, it presents an excellent opportunity to stop while traveling.

Noguchi Garden is located on Anton Boulevard in Costa Mesa, approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Orange.

14. The Irvine Museum

The Irvine Museum is well worth the 15-minute drive from Orange, particularly for fine art enthusiasts interested in viewing one of Orange County’s most remarkable compilations of California and western-inspired art.

Many of the museum’s most notable works were crafted by distinguished artists during the Impressionist period spanning the late 19th to early 20th centuries.

The museum hosts both permanent and rotating exhibitions and frequently offers various programs throughout the year, including lectures and educational field trips for local students.

Docent-led tours are available, and arrangements may be made for private tours for larger groups.

15. San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary

San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary spans 300 acres of marshy riparian land alongside the San Joaquin River in Irvine.

The sanctuary’s undisturbed natural habitats support a multitude of predatory, wading, and migratory birds, many of which can be easily observed from the well-marked boardwalks and trails extending over ten miles.

This site is a popular destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and families with children who enjoy engaging with wildlife in a serene environment.

Located on Riparian View Road in Irvine, the sanctuary is less than thirty minutes from Orange, depending on traffic conditions.