**Welcome to Orange County**
*Where the California dream lives and breathes.*
*Where the California dream lives and breathes.*
Top Attractions
– **Disneyland Resort** *(Anaheim)*
The legendary park that started it all—rides, magic, and unforgettable memories.
– **Mission San Juan Capistrano**
History comes alive at this stunning 18th-century mission known for its swallows and Spanish charm.
– **Balboa Island Ferry** *(Newport Beach)*
Ride across calm waters to discover beach-town magic, saltwater taffy, and oceanfront walks.
– **Crystal Cove State Park** *(Laguna Beach)*
Hike, swim, or simply relax where the waves kiss coastal cliffs.
Must-Visit Beaches
– **Laguna Beach**
Coves, art galleries, and tide pools await in this postcard-perfect town.
– **Newport Beach**
For yacht spotting, harbor cruises, and upscale shopping after the sun goes down.
– **Huntington Beach**
AKA “Surf City USA,” with classic California boardwalk energy and epic sunsets.
Free & Fabulous
**Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve**
A peaceful haven for walking, biking, and birdwatching along scenic wetlands. It’s one of the best free nature escapes in the area.
**Noguchi Garden (Costa Mesa)**
A hidden art-meets-nature space designed by Isamu Noguchi. Open daily and free to the public—great for a quiet stroll or creative photos.
**Great Park (Irvine)**
Home to a free tethered hot air balloon ride (weather permitting), art installations, and wide-open green spaces for picnics and play.
**Heroes Hall Museum (Costa Mesa)**
A small but powerful museum honoring veterans, with rotating exhibits and free admission.
**Downtown Santa Ana Historic District**
Wander through colorful murals, historic architecture, and vibrant local shops. It’s a great spot for a self-guided walking tour.
**Bowers Museum (Santa Ana)**
While general admission isn’t always free, they offer **free admission days**—perfect for exploring world-class exhibits on a budget.
**Discovery Cube (Santa Ana)**
Geared toward kids and families, this science center has interactive exhibits. Keep an eye out for free community days.
Whats so special about OC
Orange County has a personality all its own—equal parts coastal cool, cultural depth, and quirky charm. Here’s what makes it truly unique:
**Surf Culture Meets Suburban Chic**
Where else can you catch a wave in the morning and shop at a luxury mall by afternoon? OC blends laid-back beach vibes with upscale living like nowhere else.
**Hidden Coastal Treasures**
Beyond the famous beaches, you’ll find secret gems like **Victoria Beach’s Pirate Tower**—a fairytale-like stone turret tucked into the cliffs of Laguna Beach
**Frozen Banana Stands of Balboa Island**
Yes, the real-life inspiration behind *Arrested Development’s* banana stand exists here—and it’s delicious
**Creative Corners**
From the **Noguchi Garden** in Costa Mesa to the anti-mall vibes of **The LAB**, OC surprises with pockets of art, design, and indie spirit
**A Wild West & Pirate Past**
OC’s history includes stagecoach bandits, outlaw hideouts, and even a pirate raid on Mission San Juan Capistrano in 1818