Orange County, California, is a vibrant destination known for its stunning beaches, iconic theme parks, outdoor adventures, and cultural hotspots.
Whether you’re a local looking for weekend fun or a visitor planning a trip, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Orange County. Here’s a must-visit list of the best attractions and activities!
🎢 1. Experience the Magic at Disneyland Resort
No trip to Orange County is complete without a visit to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.
✔️ Ride thrilling attractions like Space Mountain & Guardians of the Galaxy
✔️ Meet beloved Disney characters and enjoy magical parades
✔️ Explore Avengers Campus & Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
✔️ Enjoy delicious Disney-themed treats & fireworks shows
📍 Location: Anaheim, CA
🏖️ 2. Relax on the Stunning Beaches
Orange County is home to some of California’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or beachside dining.
✔️ Huntington Beach (Surf City USA) – Ideal for surfing & pier strolls
✔️ Laguna Beach – Famous for art galleries, tide pools, and scenic views
✔️ Newport Beach – Offers luxury shopping, whale watching, and harbor cruises
✔️ Crystal Cove State Park – A hidden gem for hiking & beachcombing
📍 Best Time to Visit: Summer & Spring for warm beach days!
🚢 3. Take a Boat Tour to Catalina Island
For a fun day trip, hop on a ferry to Catalina Island and explore this scenic paradise!
✔️ Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, & kayaking in crystal-clear waters
✔️ Ride a glass-bottom boat to see marine life
✔️ Visit Avalon’s charming waterfront shops & restaurants
✔️ Take an eco-tour to see wild bison & scenic hills
📍 Ferry Departures: Newport Beach, Dana Point, or Long Beach
🎨 4. Explore the Arts & Culture Scene
Orange County is a hub for art lovers and history enthusiasts, offering world-class museums and events.
✔️ Bowers Museum (Santa Ana) – Showcases global art & cultural exhibits
✔️ Laguna Art Museum – Focuses on California artists & beachside views
✔️ The Pageant of the Masters – A unique live art performance held annually
✔️ Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Hosts Broadway shows & concerts
📍 Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor art festivals!
🍷 5. Indulge in Orange County’s Food & Wine Scene
From trendy rooftop restaurants to classic food markets, Orange County is a foodie’s paradise.
✔️ Anaheim Packing District – A hip food hall with gourmet bites & craft drinks
✔️ SoCo & The OC Mix (Costa Mesa) – Perfect for artisan foods & boutique shopping
✔️ Orange County Breweries – Try craft beers at Golden Road Brewing & The Bruery
✔️ Top Seafood Spots – Enjoy fresh seafood at Water Grill & Bear Flag Fish Co.
📍 Don’t Miss: The Orange County Restaurant Week in March!
🚴♂️ 6. Hike, Bike, & Explore Nature
Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking, biking, and exploring the scenic beauty of Orange County.
✔️ Top Hiking Trails:
- Top of the World (Laguna Beach) – Breathtaking ocean views
- Peters Canyon Trail (Orange) – A great spot for wildlife watching
- Santiago Oaks Regional Park – Ideal for mountain biking & hiking
✔️ Kayaking in Newport Harbor
✔️ Whale Watching in Dana Point (Best from December – April)
📍 Best Season: Spring & Fall for mild weather & clear skies
🏀 7. Catch a Game or Live Event
Sports fans and entertainment lovers will find plenty of action in Orange County.
✔️ Watch an NHL game with the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center
✔️ Catch an MLB game with the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium
✔️ Attend concerts & festivals at The Observatory or FivePoint Amphitheatre
✔️ Enjoy live comedy & nightlife in Downtown Fullerton
📍 Best Venues: The Honda Center, Angel Stadium, and House of Blues Anaheim
🛍️ 8. Go Shopping at World-Class Malls
From luxury brands to bargain shopping, Orange County has some of California’s best malls and outlets.
✔️ South Coast Plaza (Costa Mesa) – High-end fashion & designer stores
✔️ Irvine Spectrum Center – Outdoor shopping with a Ferris wheel!
✔️ The Outlets at Orange – Great deals on top brands
✔️ Fashion Island (Newport Beach) – Upscale shopping & ocean views
📍 Best Time to Shop: Weekdays to avoid crowds!
🎡 9. Have Fun at Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is a thrill-seeker’s paradise with exciting rides and Old West-themed attractions.
✔️ Ride roller coasters like GhostRider & Xcelerator
✔️ Visit Knott’s Soak City for water park fun
✔️ Enjoy delicious boysenberry treats & fried chicken
✔️ Explore Camp Snoopy for younger kids
📍 Location: Buena Park, CA
🍽️ 10. Dine at Iconic Restaurants
Orange County is home to some of the best restaurants in Southern California.
✔️ The Hobbit (Orange, CA) – A unique fine-dining experience
✔️ The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon – Steakhouse & country music venue
✔️ Bear Flag Fish Co. – Fresh seafood & poke bowls
✔️ In-N-Out Burger – A California classic!
📍 Best Time to Dine: Sunset for oceanfront dining views!
🌟 Final Thoughts
Orange County offers something for everyone—from thrilling theme parks and stunning beaches to shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or exploring as a local, these top things to do in Orange County will make your trip unforgettable!