You have a few options if you’re looking for a day places to go in Orange County. Balboa Island, Laguna Beach Wilderness Park, and Knott’s Berry Farm are there. Each of these attractions will have something unique to offer. But if you’d rather enjoy the culture of this Californian city, there are many other places to go in Orange County.
Balboa Island
Balboa Island is a small Orange County island with a rich history. The island was founded by W.S. Collins, who made his fortune in transportation and land speculation in Southern California. He convinced H.E. Huntington to buy a thousand-acre tract of land around Newport Bay. The island was mostly orange groves at the time, and Huntington wasn’t interested in building railroads, so Collins dredged the harbor and connected it to Los Angeles with the Pacific Electric Railroad. By the time he sold his property, it was worth over 5 million dollars.
There are several restaurants and cafés on Balboa Island. Most are public, though some are private. If you want to eat outdoors, the North Bay Front is the best place to go. The South Bay Front, however, may not be as pleasant.
Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park is located in Newport Beach, California. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic district is 12.3 acres in size along the southern California coast. The park features more than a dozen historic buildings, including homes and businesses that have been restored.
This park is perfect for a family outing, and plenty of activities keep the whole family entertained. Crystal Cove also offers educational programming and community outreach programs.
Laguna Beach Wilderness Park
Laguna Beach Wilderness Park is a great place to visit if you are interested in the natural beauty of the Southern California coastal canyons. The park is home to over 40 miles of hiking trails and is part of a Natural Community Conservation Planning program, which helps preserve and protect rare and endangered species. Some wildlife you may see include mule deer, red-tailed hawks, and long-tailed weasels. In addition, the park offers hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails that range in difficulty. There is also a Nix Nature Center, where you can get maps and information.
Visitors can also go tide pooling, where you can explore the seabed. These areas are easy to access during low tide and are home to many amazing marine animals. However, visitors should consider the animals and not enter the pools during high tide.
Old Towne Orange
Old Towne is located in Orange County and features Plaza Park, Orange County’s oldest soda fountain, and many antique shops, restaurants, and bars. Old Towne also offers a few tearooms and the Hilbert Museum of California Art, which Chapman University runs. This museum showcases work by 20th-century California artists.
This area is also renowned for its vibrant restaurant scene, a big draw for visitors. You can find great restaurants within walking distance, including Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen, Ruby’s at the Depot, and Blue Frog Cafe. Old Towne Orange is also safe, with a police station, library, and fire station located in the community. Old Towne Orange has one of the best school districts in Orange County.