Travel Santa Ana 2023 Official Visitors Guide

Discover the Cultures

WHY SANTA ANA IS AN ORIGINAL IN ORANGE COUNTY

Eclectic Art / Caffeine Crawl

Diverse Dining Guide / Endless Festivals

Vibrant Murals / Epic Nightlife

2023 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

SANTA ANA

PHOTO CREDITS: ERIC LINDBERG (COVER); MIGUEL G SOLIS (TOWER); VECTEEZY (THROUGHOUT)

Wendy duong

As a multidisciplinary creative, Vietnamese American artist Wendy Duong uses art to relate to others and to magnify the mundane. The close-knit circles of families, friends and businesses in Santa Ana inspired Duong as she created her logo. The loops and connected letters illustrate these linked interactions and bonds within the city.

Aki tsuneizumi is a native of Japan who draws influence from his heritage, as well as his experience creating handcrafted lettering on murals and signs around Santa Ana. The strokes of the logo’s letters pay homage to the brush strokes of Shodo, or Japanese calligraphy.

AliciA RojAs is a Colombianborn activist and artist whose work explores healing through selfexpression, building the historical memory of the collective and placemaking within communities of color. The bold swoops and bright loops of Rojas’ logo reflect the vibrancy of Santa Ana’s diverse cultures and unified identities.

Wendy duong is a Vietnamese American artist who uses art to relate to others and to magnify the mundane. The close-knit circles of families, friends, and businesses in Santa Ana inspired Duong as she created her logo. The loops and connected letters illustrate these linked interactions and bonds within the city.

BRiAn PeteRson is an advocate, artist, and humanitarian whose work within the Faces of Santa Ana project has helped engage neighbors without homes through creativity. The connecting loops of the “S” and “A” within Peterson’s logo embody the cultural and governmental significance of Santa Ana, which serves as the county seat of Orange County.

A native of Japan, Tsuneizumi his heritage and from his handcrafted lettering on murals Santa Ana. The strokes of homage to the brush strokes Japanese calligraphy.

aKi tsuneizumi

Alicia Rojas is a Colombian-born artist whose work explores expression, building the historical collective and placemaking color. The bold swoops and logo reflect the vibrancy of cultures and unified identities.

alicia rojas

As a multidisciplinary creative, American artist Wendy Duong others and to magnify the circles of families, friends Ana inspired Duong as she loops and connected letters interactions and bonds within

Wendy duong

Brian Peterson is an advocate, humanitarian whose work Santa project has helped homes through creativity. the “S” and “A” within Peterson’s cultural and governmental Ana, which serves as the Orange County.

brian peterson

TRAVEL SANTA ANA PARTNERED WITH LOCAL ARTISTS TO CREATE FOUR UNIQUE SIGNATURES, EACH DEPICTING THE CHARACTER OF THE CITY WITH ITS OWN FEEL AND PERSPECTIVE.

Bien v e nidos

We hear it from visitors all the time: that there’s an energy here, a character and spirit that’s unlike any other city in the area. And they’re right.

Nicknamed the "Downtown of Orange County," Santa Ana is brimming with richly diverse experiences that we love to share. Come and walk (or even dance!) in the lively streets of our historic downtown. Bask in the colors of vibrant murals and art, savor the flavors of authentic cuisine, jam to traditional and modern music, and explore a world of experiences at our famed festivals. There’s always something unique and fun going on, and no one celebrates life like we do.

Whatever your age, lifestyle, and budget, Santa Ana is an inclusive and ideal getaway. Location matters, and we’ve got a good one: nestled in the heart of O.C., we’re within minutes of world-famous entertainment, dining, shopping, and beaches.

Life here revolves around culture and community — both our own and those of whoever we meet. When you’re here, you’re family. This is the place to be yourself and explore our mosaic of cultures, where we’ll accept you for who you are and honor your story.

In Santa Ana, there’s always a seat at our table, so come and join us. You’re in for a treat.

Climate 76°F YEAR-ROUND AVERAGE

CATCHPHRASES

YOU MAY HEAR THE CITY AND ITS PEOPLE REFERRED TO WITH THESE TERMS:

Santana - nickname for the city SA - acronym for Santa Ana Santanero, Santanera - male and female residents of the city

An art scene that is a mix of funky and folk

Chiarini Fountain

The W.H. Spurgeon Building

PHOTO CREDITS: ERIC LINDBERG (LEFT); JON BILOUS (BOTTOM RIGHT)

Legendary Locals

Named the county seat in 1889, Santa Ana was founded as the governmental, financial, and cultural center of Orange County. The following most valuable players played an important role in the city’s history, past and present.

Chiarini Fountain

The anchor of Artists Village, this fairytale-like fountain on West 2nd Street was donated and carved in the 1990s by local stone crafting company Chiarini Marble & Stone, honoring the company’s founder and downtown Santa Ana’s community of artists. Instagram: @thechiarinifountain

Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum

The beautifully restored Victorian building from 1889 was home to trailblazing Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle, one of O.C.’s first female physicians. 120 W. Civic Center Dr., Santa Ana

Old Orange County Courthouse

The historic 1901 landmark is Southern California’s oldest (and arguably most beautiful) court building, witness to many events that shaped O.C.’s present-day. 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana

Rickenbacker

One of Santa Ana’s most notable businesses, Rickenbacker’s electric and bass guitars earned fame in the hands of rock and roll legends like The Beatles, The Who, Tom Petty, Bangles, Metallica, and more. rickenbacker.com

Santa Ana Water Tower

Built in 1928, the widely photographed 153-foot tower is a familiar site from Interstate 5 and a beloved reminder of the city’s history—it still supplies nearly one million gallons of water to Santa Ana’s residents.

1524 Penn Way, Santa Ana

Suavecito

Founded in 2009 by local brothers Pete and Tony Adame and their childhood friend J-Bird, the hair products company and cultural phenomenon has garnered a following due to its edgy creative branding and collaborations. 2831 W. 1st St., Santa Ana, suavecito.com

LOOK FAMILIAR?

SANTA ANA STARS IN SCENES FROM THESE POPULAR MOVIES

Catch Me If You Can

Legally Blonde

Rain Man

Jerry Maguire

Kindergarten Cop

Clear and Present Danger

#TRAVELSANTAANA

Connect with us!

RESIDENT RECOMMENDATIONS

We asked locals what they love about the city, and how to best experience it. Keep an eye out for their suggestions throughout the guide! I’m proud to be a Santanera because this is a creative town filled with a bunch of amazing people [and] beautiful buildings, and there is just something really special and unique. … I just like walking up and down the street. Every building has its own personality. Each street is totally different. I just love hearing the sounds of the city: the cars, the music, the people talking. It’s just very rich and diverse. I love this city.”

– Delilah Snell, owner of Alta Baja Market, altabajamarket.com

Suavecito

Orange County Courthouse

PHOTO CREDIT: THOMAS MCCONVILLE (TOP RIGHT)

VISUAL Appeal

BY ROBIN JONES

Plenty of cities in Orange County boast a vibrant arts scene, but Santa Ana’s stands out from them all with its dedication to edgy and eclectic work. Museums and galleries alike spotlight BIPOC and LGBTQ artists and represent a wide range of artistic styles, from avant-garde performance art to more traditional fine art.

Artists Village

The section of downtown Santa Ana bound by First, Fourth, Bush, and Birch Streets has been a haven for artists since the 1980s (see sidebar). The art studios here are typically closed to the public, but many open during the Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk, held the first Saturday of each month from 6-10 p.m. dtsaartwalk.org

AvantGarden the Art Gallery

A wide array of art, from oil paintings and sculpture to art photography, glassware, and jewelry, line the walls at this North Broadway gallery. avantgardenoc.com

2013 mural La Madre Naturaleza by the Santa Ana Community Artist Coalition.

Bowers Museum

Centered on O.C. history when it opened in 1936, this institution remade itself in the late 1980s to focus on how art influences cultures around the world. Permanent exhibits look at art and artifacts from California, the Pacific Islands, Mexico, and China; rotating exhibits have highlighted everything from high fashion to documentary photography to the Walt Disney archives. bowers.org

Crear Studio

Originally opened in the basement of the Grand Central Arts Center, this studio moved to Fifth and Broadway in 2021. It’s owned by Sarah Rafael Garcia, who also owns the LibroMobile bookstore, and aims to spotlight local artists of color. Instagram: @crearstudio

Grand Central Art Center

Cal State Fullerton’s College of the Arts partners with the City of Santa Ana to run this gallery anchoring the Second Street Promenade. Three galleries, a video project gallery, and a project wall feature contemporary and socially relevant artwork, installations, and performances. grandcentralartcenter.com

Murals

Santa Ana’s commitment to public art is obvious; just walk down any street or alley downtown, or drive around the city, and you’ll soon stumble upon a colorful mural.

Orange County Center for Contemporary Art

One of the first galleries to open when downtown Santa Ana was revitalized in the 1990s, this space recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. It hosts solo exhibits, as well as group shows built around themes like car culture, music, and architecture in art. occca.org

Santora Arts Building

Home to multiple art studios and galleries, this 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival building at the corner of Second Street and Broadway houses the Santa Ana College Gallery, which hosts an annual High School Invitational highlighting the art of local high school students, and the California Center for Digital Arts, which offers photography and multimedia classes.

Learn more about Santa Ana’s arts and culture at travelsantaana.com.

ARTISTS VILLAGE A HISTORY

In its early days, the majestic Santora Building in downtown Santa Ana was best known for Daninger’s Tea Room, which served Hollywood celebrities like Jack Benny, Milton Berle, and Lucille Ball from 1934 to 1944. It was part of a thriving downtown, O.C.'s financial and cultural hub.

By the late 1980s, however, everything had changed. The area was overrun with crime, and the historic buildings lining the streets were falling into disrepair.

Enter arts entrepreneur Don Cribb, who spearheaded the movement to turn downtown Santa Ana into an arts and culture destination. In 1987, he formed the Santa Ana Council of Arts and Culture, which paved the way for artists to remake the Santora Building in the early 1990s, turning storefronts into studios and galleries.

Soon after, at the council’s urging, the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art moved to its current space on the Second Street Promenade, where it has shown the work of more than 1,000 artists. The Grand Central Art Center, opened in 1999, completed the transformation of the 10-block area into the Artists Village it’s known as today.

EXPLORE

On the first Saturday of every month, the streets from Broadway to French are filled with people exploring this communitybased arts showcase from 6-10 p.m. There’s something visually creative around every corner. Over 20 art galleries and studios display work from the city’s finest creators throughout downtown Santa Ana, while two outdoor festival areas host live music performances, vendors, pop-up artists, and dancing. Don’t miss the permanent street art at Callejon del Beso — the “Alley of the Kiss” — which acts as an outdoor gallery and host to workshops and live bands. dtsaartwalk.org

Dia de Los Muertos Virgin Mary

Artists Village

PHOTO CREDITS: ERIC LINDBERG (OPPOSITE & TOP LEFT); ADRIÁN CERÓN (TOP RIGHT)

THE BIG PICTURE

BY ALIESE MUHONEN

Like a living, city-sized art museum, Santa Ana proudly displays one of the most extensive collections of murals in Southern California. Starting with the Chicano movement of the 1960s, artists began painting massive images that commemorate the city’s colorful, multicultural heritage. And like any good gallery, the collection is constantly evolving: new murals and historic restorations are unveiled throughout the year. Pay attention as you explore; it’s not uncommon to find them in alleys, on the sides of buildings, doorways, electrical utility boxes, and even entire city blocks. The nearest one may be right behind you!

Viva Santa Ana

Something in the Sky

Here’s a sampling of the city’s murals and where to find them. For more information on each mural’s history and unique story, head to travelsantaana.com

Showtime

BY JAKKI PADILLA AND ALIESE MUHONEN

Are you not entertained? Let Santa Ana’s flourishing performing arts scene show you a good time.

1. Observatory OC

This popular venue is a magnet for fantastic live music from both famous and up-and-coming artists, as well as a host for dance and performing arts competitions. An onsite kitchen with a delicious menu and unique drinks further enhances the experience. observatoryoc.com

2. The Frida Cinema

Named after Frida Kahlo, this non-profit vintage arthouse is what every other indie theater aspires to be: edgy, knowledgeable, historic, and endlessly cool in movie selection and atmosphere. The eclectic offerings change by the month and season; a typical week at the Frida can include showings of cult classics, film festival darlings, local projects, director talks, and film-themed events. Seats sell out fast! thefridacinema.org

3. The Wayward Artist

Started by Craig Tyrl and Kristin Campbell, the non-profit performing arts center kicked off its first season in February 2018 with Godspell. The Wayward invites its guests to be vulnerable and open their minds to edgy and innovative musical theatre, plays, and dance performances that amplify and empower BIPOC artists. thewaywardartist.org

4. Yost Theater

An elegant events venue by day, The Yost transforms into a popular 18-and-over dance club at nighttime Fridays through Sundays. DJs and live music include genres such as reggaeton, banda, pop, rap, and EDM. theyosttheater.com

Purple Unity Project

PHOTO CREDITS: ERIC LINDBERG (TOP LEFT); UNSPLASH (RIGHT)

5. The Coollab Project

In what has become an emblem of Santa Ana’s blossoming music scene, The Coollab Project hosts a monthly open mic night that serves as a musical collaboration engine. Aural artists from multiple genres — poets, musicians, singers, and rappers — sign up to share their talents with the crowd outside of the 4th Street Market food hall. While the jam session begins at 7 p.m., attendees are encouraged to come early if they want to make the lineup or grab a good seat, fresh food, and cold drinks.

thecoollabproject

6. The Copper Door

Nestled beneath the historic Pacific Building, this underground nightclub is heavy on dancing, craft beer, bottle service, and speakeasy vibes. Live music includes rotating DJs and burlesque performers.

@copperdoor_santaana

7. Cerveza Cito

A locally-owned brewery with a chill and friendly atmosphere, Cerveza Cito hosts loteria nights on Wednesdays followed by trivia and karaoke nights on Thursdays. Weekends bring DJs, whose music gets the whole place dancing. cervezacito.com

8. La Santa

An intimate, speakeasy-like-space, this bar and live music venue hosts talented tribute bands and small artists from all over. Guests rave about the sound quality and overall ambiance, as well as the weekend specials of delicious brunch and a charming mariachi band. lasantaoc.com

9. Santa Ana College

The college has plays, musicals, dance concerts, and live performances at the historic Phillips Hall Theatre, plus a free art gallery of photography, paintings, sculptures, and drawings to check out on weekdays in the Santora building. sac.edu

10. Bowers Museum

Not only is Bowers the oldest and largest museum of its kind in Orange County, and not only is it a bastion for Indigenous art and moving exhibitions, but it hosts live musical performances, festivals, and film screenings throughout the year. bowers.org

11. Hector’s on Broadway

Hector's is famous for the live and charismatic banda that sings to you (and sometimes at you) while you eat. Live music is on the weekends all day till midnight, but the delicious cocktails and micheladas are available all week, along with to-die-for seafood and top-shelf tequilas. Instagram: @hectorsonbroadway

PHOTO CREDIT: ERIC LINDBERG (LEFT)

only in santa ana

BY KATE G. BUSTAMANTE AND ALIESE MUHONEN

Art, science, history, physical fitness…don’t worry, this isn’t school. But Santa Ana’s got a wide variety of awesome activities for all ages to experience. Learn something cool, go on an adventure, and explore all the city has to offer, minus the pop quiz. Let’s go!

American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park

Inspired by the popular NBC TV show, this adventure park in the MainPlace Mall combines fitness and fun, giving visitors an opportunity to master their inner ninja skills. In a one-of-a-kind experience, guests can try to conquer challenges such as Monkey Swings, Spider Walls, Tilting Logs, Floating Bridges, a 10,000-square-foot inflatable obstacle course, and the famous Warped Wall. The park is a fun challenge for any age range, but especially for the competitive souls out there.

americanninjawarrioradventurepark.com/santa-ana

Blinking Owl Distillery

For those 21 and over, a tour of Orange County’s first craft distillery is not to be missed. Same goes with the spirit flights and craft cocktails, made from liquors produced in-house and from California ingredients. Tours involve a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery business, with a crash course on how their vodka, gin, whiskey, and other libations

are made from scratch, followed by what everyone’s really there for: a tasting flight at the end to wash it all down. blinkingowldistillery.com

Discovery Cube Orange County

For lovers of science young and old, Discovery Cube has been a local and county staple since 1998. Visitors can spend hours exploring the various handson exhibits and STEM attractions that are designed to spark curiosity in all — but especially the little ones. Military receive 10 percent off admission (up to four tickets). discoverycube.org

Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum

One of O.C.'s best-preserved historic structures (with a National Register of Historic Places listing to prove it), the museum is in a beautifully restored Victorian home with many of the original furnishings. Former owner Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle was one of the county's first female doctors and an enduring example of compassionate healthcare. You’ll learn how she became a physician, what set her lifelong practice apart, and how she got her epic surname. santaanahistory.com/drhowewafflemuseum

Head Downtown

Our city’s beating heart, downtown Santa Ana beats even faster on weekends. Better known as “Calle

Dino Quest exhibit at Discovery Cube Orange County

American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park

PHOTO CREDITS: MARIA GONZALEZ (LEFT); SAM LOERA (RIGHT)

My recommendation for visitors of downtown Santa Ana is just to allow themselves time to explore. You have options down here, and exploring is, I think, a huge part of the fun of coming to downtown Santa Ana. So park your car, walk around, and I guarantee you’ll find something to eat and something fun and enriching to do.”

– Logan Crow, executive director of The Frida Cinema,

thefridacinema.org

Cuatro” by natives, there’s never a dull moment in any part of the district. Take in the murals painted on buildings, and explore the dozens of art galleries and cultural businesses during the Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk. Munch on a variety of diverse eats from local restaurants, food halls, and street vendors. Take in a performance, or join the fun with open mic nights or free dancing in the streets. If you’re interested in design, admire the beautiful Spanish scrollwork on the Santora Building or the stately Romanesque arches of the Old Orange County Courthouse during a historic architecture tour. preserveorangecounty.org/tours

Heritage Museum of Orange County HMOC dedicates its 12 lovely acres of gardens and citrus

groves to promoting and preserving O.C.'s history, nature, and culture. Both the gardens and the historic plaza — where restored 1890s buildings serve as museums — are open to the public on specific days of each month. Dates and times vary, so check its event calendar before heading over. Seasonal events have included an annual dog-friendly Bark Bash, haunted ghost tours, and a Dia de Los Muertos festival. heritagemuseumoc.org

Lyon Air Museum

This one’s a real treat for history, aviation, and car enthusiasts. Founded by William Lyon, a major general of the U.S. Air Force, the museum is home to authentic aircraft, rare vehicles, and other memorabilia with an emphasis on World War II. Through captivating historical exhibitions, visitors can better understand the important role the U.S. plays in world history. Don’t miss its annual summer car exhibit, where vintage vehicles are displayed based on a specific theme. lyonairmuseum.org

Santa Ana Zoo

A community mainstay since 1952, the Santa Ana Zoo focuses on the animals and plants of Central and South America. The 20-acre plot of land is home to over a dozen species of primates, birds, felines, amphibians, horses, camels, cows, chickens, and more. There is also a playground, carousel, Ferris wheel, and even a train ride. santaanazoo.org

Lyon Air Museum

PHOTO CREDIT: SEE SANTA ANA (RIGHT)

Let’s Talk

Shop

BY ROBIN JONES

Tourists fly from halfway across the globe to shop in Orange County, and it’s no wonder: You can find everything from the most exclusive luxury brands to one-of-a-kind handmade gifts here. If you’re looking for some retail therapy in Santa Ana, here’s where to start.

East End

Independent boutiques line Fourth Street east of Broadway. Hipsters browse hoodies, hats, and shoes at GCS Clothing Store BAIT, and Nothing Usual. Nearby, shoppers pick out cheeky gifts like concha-shaped pillows and tarot card candles at Unlisted gorgeous letterpress cards at M.Lovewell

Across the street is RR Western Wear, a locally-owned staple for high-end cowboy hats, boots, and accessories since 1955. Skates sells inline skates made by shop owner Jon Julio, and Alta Baja Market stocks decor, drinks, jams, and spices from California and Mexico — including the largest selection of Mexican wine in the state. eastenddtsa.com

Collective2one9

Newly opened in November 2022, Collective2one9 is an innovative multi-vendor retail marketplace and event space, with 25 small shops — many of which are local to the city — selling a variety of decor, art, music, and clothing. collective2one9.com

MainPlace Mall

Just off Interstate 5, this shopping center features big retailers like H&M, Hot Topic, and Forever 21 alongside smaller boutiques selling clothing, shoes, and jewelry. Indoor playgrounds Candeeland and American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park give kids a place to run around while their parents take a break. shopmainplacemall.com

LibroMobile

This independent bookstore founded in 2016 as a curbside vendor by local author Sarah Rafael Garcia now has a small storefront filled with new and used books written by Latinx, Black, Asian, and Indigenous authors. It also regularly hosts readings and workshops. libromobile.com

Gunthers

Supply & Goods

In the heart of downtown Santa Ana, Gunthers caters to the needs of O.C.'s civil servants and justice departments with both work and casual wear, featuring brands like Ben Davis, Dickies, FB County, Pendleton, Rothco, and more. gunthers.co

NEARBY BUYS

STILL LOOKING? NO MATTER WHAT YOUR STYLE, YOU’LL FIND IT IN ORANGE COUNTY’S PLETHORA OF RETAILERS.

South Coast Plaza (southcoastplaza.com) in Costa Mesa and Fashion Island (fashionisland.com) in Newport Beach are the go-to spots for luxury brands; you’ll find Balenciaga, Chanel, and Gucci boutiques at the former and Louis Vuitton, Elie Tahari, and even a Tesla showroom at the latter. The Outlets at Orange (simon.com/mall/the-outletsat-orange) offer bargains on popular brands like Adidas, O’Neill, Puma, and Vans, and The Source OC (thesourceoc.com) in Buena Park combines shopping with a karaoke bar, virtual golf range, spas and salons, a baking academy, and more than 35 spots to grab boba tea, Korean barbecue, shaved ice, and more.

YUM SO MUCH

BY GREG NAGEL

From breakfast to brunch and lunch to late night, Santa Ana’s delicious dining options have your cravings covered.

Breakfast & Brunch

Alta Baja Market is so much more than a crafty bodega. The popular 4th Street Market location serves breakfast and lunch all day on weekdays and is brunch ground zero on weekends. There’s always something tasty to try, from a full michelada menu to the state’s largest collection of Mexican wine. If pozole is on the menu, don’t miss out. altabajamarket.com

Café Cultura brings breakfast and brunch to a new level with elevated coffee drinks like Mexi-frapps filled with everything from horchata to Mexican chai. There are specialty lattes and four different waffles to choose from. Try the chocolate goosebump that’s topped with berries, chocolate chips, and whipped cream. cafecitocultura.com

Den Cafe proves that the classics are alive and well, serving up breakfast and brunch in its bright and boho historic artist district spot since the 90s. After a rebrand, the Den now offers a range of cocktails and beers with eclectic American bites. dencafeoc.com

Weekend Brunch and daily Dinner

Benchmark celebrates Santa Ana’s gorgeous yearround weather with 100 percent alfresco dining

and is a favorite among locals. Play it safe with a Benchmark burger with delicious bacon jam and marinated tomato on brioche, or be adventurous and go with gochujang fried chicken. benchmarkoc.com

Native Son’s rooftop bar is possibly the best view of downtown’s Calle Cuatro marketplace, especially during sunset. What started out as a solid craft beer bar now has one of the best happy hours on the street with incredible cocktails, weekend brunch, and lively events. nativesonbar.com

Dinner

El Mercado Modern Cuisine is like walking into a cozy Mexico City gastropub, where bites and drinks are just as stunning to look at as they are to enjoy. Try the aguachile with razor-thin slices of cucumber piled into beautiful fractal art with shrimp, chilis, and avocado. mercadomodern.com

Lola Gaspar draws its inspiration from around the globe, but most notably Spain and Mexico where tapas and small bites reign supreme. Its tacos start with freshly griddled Sonoran flour tortillas and a selection of toppings, everything from mesquite asada to pork belly confit carnitas. lolagaspar.com

Omakase by Gino (OMG) opens up its reservations promptly at 10 a.m. on the second Sunday of every month, and it sells out quickly. Prepare yourself for so many courses of the freshest nigiri, sashimi, sushi, and other Gino whimsies that you'll lose count. Instagram: @omakasebygino

El Mercado Modern Cuisine

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

CAN’T DECIDE WHERE TO GO? CHECK OUT SANTA ANA’S FAMED FOOD HALLS, WHERE A VARIETY OF CUISINES ABOUND.

4th Street Market is a gastronomic gift that keeps on giving. One-part innovative culinary incubator and onepart food hall, the space hosts new restaurant concepts where talented chefs can start their dream business without having to build a restaurant from scratch. Alta Baja Market Recess Bar anchor the Market, where there’s always something new to taste.

4thstreetmarket.com

and

Housed in a century-old Spanish colonial building, the two-story McFadden Public Market derives its name from the old market that used to operate in it, and the pioneering Orange County family that renovated it in the 1930s. Upstairs, shoot Centipedes and tilt some classic pinball at barcade Mission Control. Downstairs is all about the rotating food concepts (currently tacos and pizza), as well as the hidden gem Twisted Tiki bar. mcfaddenmarket.com

The hundred-year-old brick buildings, the theaters, and the food and beverage scene that we have downtown make it one of the most urban and diverse places in all of Orange County. What I would recommend to visitors that come to downtown Santa Ana is just to get down to 4th Street and walk. You are going to find some of the best coffee you can in all of Southern California. You are going to find food and beverages that are incredibly diverse and unique and you might even find an incredible rooftop bar.”

1. CAFÉ CULTURA

2. 4TH STREET MARKET

3. DEN CAFE

4. MISSION CONTROL

5. ALTA BAJA MARKET

6. TWISTED TIKI

7. LA MICHOACANA EXPRESS

8. NATIVE SON

–Jon Sanchez, owner of Native Son, nativesonbar.com

PHOTO CREDITS: MARIA GONZALEZ (NOS. 1, 2, 5, 7, 8); SAM LOERA (NOS. 4, 6)

Diverse Dining

BY GREG NAGEL

We’re spoiled in Santa Ana: our vibrantly eclectic population makes some incredible eats. Dig in at these local gems with authentic international cuisine or vegan delicacies.

Bird & Barrel has eclectic fare with fantastic cocktails, wings, and small bite accouterments, but the real stars of the menu are its house stirfried noodles, either duck or garlic, cooked seven different ways. Garlic noodles with mushrooms topped with a fried egg? Let’s go! birdnbarrel.com

Burritos La Palma is an absolute must if you're just passing through Santa Ana. Its long and thin burritos are like warm, soft pillows filled with love. First-timers start with the birria de res, which is seasoned and stewed shredded beef. If you’re not alone, get one of each; there are five different burritos to choose from. burritoslapalma.com

Flor De Oaxaca

Wursthaus

Perla

If you're craving a deep rich mole or perhaps hankering to try chapulines (grasshoppers) for the first time, Flor De Oaxaca is a call to Southern Mexico. First-timers should try the "Delicias de Oaxaca," an appetizer spread of tacos, quesadillas, moletes, and memelas, all drenched with delicious mole and sprinkled with Oaxacan cheese. flordeoaxacaoc.com

Led by executive chef Tony Castaneda, Chapter One: the modern local specializes in local, sustainable, seasonal and all-natural ingredients. From small plates like duck fat fries and vegan "fish" tacos (made with fried hearts of palm) to entrees like the seared ahi tuna sandwich and American Wagyu meatball sub, the menu is a fusion of exotic yet traditional cuisine with a playful twist. chapteronetml.com

When it’s a bit chilly at night, it's officially shabu-shabu weather. Luckily Kaizen has nine tasty broths to choose from. Try the "Santa Ana Szechuan," a spicy pork broth that combines both Chinese and Mexican flavors with your favorite protein, everything from A5 Wagyu to shrimp. Each option comes with veggies, noodles, sauces, and rice. You won’t leave hungry. kaizenshabu.com

La Vegana Mexicana makes all plant-based Mexican food that’s every bit as satisfying as its meaty counterparts, without using mock meats or processed foods. Start off with a couple of steamy tamales which are made fresh daily, or a pambazo — a Mexico City-style sandwich — filled with their house-made chorizo, seasoned potato, and vegan cheeses. laveganamexicana.com

Mil Jugos: If you haven’t experienced the savory pleasure that is Venezuelan cuisine, this lunch spot is the place to go. Feast on a variety of traditional foods including the specialty arepas — grilled or fried cornmeal filled with seasoned meats — and 20 varieties of fresh juice. miljugos.com

Sariñana’s Tamale Factory has served Orange County for over 75 years with homemade Mexican food recipes including tamales, hard and soft-shell tacos, burritos, and breakfast dishes. The tamales are the stars, of course, served out the husk with flavors like pork, chicken, rajas, sweet corn, and beef. sarinanastamalefactory.com

Wursthaus might be the only place in Orange County where you can eat rattlesnake sausage with a side of Belgian fries, only to wash it down with a crisp German Helles lager. Sure, there are the classics like a juicy smoked bratwurst; but the locals always start with an order of drunken fries topped with house-made andalouse sauce, caramelized onions, and the sausage of your choosing. Instagram: @wursthausdtsa

TACOS FOR DAYS:

TACOS AREN’T JUST FOR TUESDAYS IN SANTA ANA. NO MATTER WHAT DAY OF THE WEEK YOU'RE HERE, STOPPING TO GRAB SOME OF MEXICO’S REGIONAL CUISINE IS A RITE OF PASSAGE.

Chato’s Bar and Grill pairs its tacos and tequilas with a Thursday special, offering satisfying street tacos and a tequila flight. Don’t leave without trying the chile Guero taco with shrimp, lychee slaw, and chile aioli. chatosbarandgrill.com

El Mercado Modern Cuisine celebrates its taco day on Thursday, where tacos come three ways: carnitas, jamaica, and shrimp served Mexico Citystyle … each as good-looking as they taste. The carnitas tacos is both crispy, juicy, and incredible. mercadomodern.com

El Yaqui Tacos y Mariscos is where the seafood taco is the highlight. Be sure to squeeze a lime over the house special perrón taco, filled with plump shrimp and crispy fish chicharrón. Super fresh! elyaquitacosmariscos.com

La Super Birria might be the most reviewed birria spot in O.C., but all those words are backed up with some serious game. There’s nothing more satisfying than dipping its hand-made tortilla birria tacos in a flavorful consomé. Instagram: @super_ birria

Perla Mexican Cuisine bursts with character in a gorgeous historic building where the womenowned restaurant offers tasty street tacos and spicy margaritas. Lobster lovers absolutely must try the fresh Maine lobster tacos…so decadent! perladtsa.com

Taqueria El Zamorano packs flavor in from every angle with its famous al pastor tacos, where sizzling pork is marinated and roasted on a hot-spinning trompo, then shaved off into stretchy warm tortillas. Instagram: @taqueria_el_zamorano

Kaizen

Caffeine Crawl

BY ALIESE MUHONEN

Santa Ana takes its coffee (and tea!) seriously. Here’s a sampling of the city’s best.

For the Coffee Purists

These places cater to the refined palettes of experienced coffeeholics, with classic concoctions and in-house roasted beans.

Coffee Muse mycoffeemuse.com

Famous for: Its detail-oriented approach to brews (carefully calculated timing and portions for optimal taste); exceptional pourovers and lattes.

Must try: The Honey Nut Cheerios Latte with house-made syrup.

Hidden House Coffee hiddenhousecoffee.com

Famous for: Two locations downtown, including the flagship; charming brick and industrial spaces with ample room for meeting friends or working remotely.

Must try: Any of the freshly roasted coffees with an almond croissant.

Hopper & Burr

Instagram: @hopperandburr

Famous for: Stylish, minimalist menu and interior; classic standards and rotating specialty roasts topped with latte foam designs (often creatively named and inspired by cocktails).

Must try: One of the specialties, or ask the baristas for a custom creation — they can make anything!

Huskins Coffee Company huskinscoffee.com

Famous for: Small-batch roasted organic coffee and ingredients in a bright corner space on the ground floor of a condo complex; run by a Stanley Cup-winning retired NHL player and his wife. Must try: The Hometown Latte, sweetened with maple syrup from the owner’s Canadian birthplace.

For a Culture Trip

Circle the globe and the city’s heritage at these internationallyinspired cafes.

Corazón Coffee Bar

Instagram: @corazoncoffeebar

Famous for: Specialty drinks exquisitely crafted with Latin flair; espresso that packs a punch; cozy location with a big heart (corazón) inside Mission Bar. Must try: The Como La Flor Latte with house-made rose syrup.

Café Cito citocoffee.com

Famous for: Mexican-inspired drinks, unique milk options, and an airy two-story space with a loft; the newest venture from home town heroes and owners of Suavecito Pomade.

Must try: Any of the signature drinks with pistachio milk

T on Ice

Instagram: @t.on.ice

Famous for: Taiwanese boba tea in all shades of the rainbow; a wide range of fruit drinks, coffees, Asian desserts and treats; familyrun service with a smile.

Must try: The Tiger Bomb with house-made black milk tea and brown sugar stripes.

For Something Different

With offerings that cater to food sensitivities and interiors that are a whole vibe, these places are as unique as their sips.

Den Cafe dencafeoc.com

Famous for: Its enchanting bohemian ambiance — walls collaged in paintings, artifacts, and macrame — and status as a longtime artistic salon space; food sensitivity-friendly java and fare.

Must try: The Mayan Mocha.

Hunter’s Cafe and Bakery hunterscafeandbakery.com

Famous for: Consistently highcaliber coffees with hand-pulled Italian espresso; daily fresh-baked pastries with gluten-free, organic, and vegan options in a bright, SoCal-inspo interior.

Must try: Any of the espressobased drinks.

MAZ Café Con Leche

Instagram: @mazcafeconleche

Famous for: Creative, Hispanicinspired lattes and frappes that taste as great as they look; a cute, eclectically-Instagrammable space decked out with artsy prints and plants.

Must try: The namesake Mazapan Latte mixed with pieces of Mexico’s beloved peanut candy.

Corazón Coffee Bar

Café Cito

PHOTO CREDITS: MARIA GONZALEZ (LEFT); ERIC LINDBERG (RIGHT)

Buenas noches

BY GREG NAGEL

Heading out for a night on the town? Santa Ana has flavor and fun long after dark.

Blinking Owl is Orange County's first distillery to produce bourbon, rye, aquavit, gin, and vodka, all made on-site from organic California-grown grain. Book a tour of its tall-copper distillery and barrel room and stay for delicious cocktails and elevated bar bites. blinkingowldistillery.com

Cerveza Cito Brewery is the brainchild of hometown hair products company Suavecito, featuring a production brewery and taproom in a historic brick building. Many of the beers draw inspiration from Mexican flavors, such as the Tepache Sour, a spicy take on the popular fermented roadside pineapple drink. cervezacito.com

One of Santa Ana's oldest bars, the recently remodeled Club 616 serves classy craft cocktails, 12 beers on tap, and non-alcoholic specialty drinks; there's also comfortable indoor seating, a pool table, and an outdoor fire pit for socializing. Instagram: @club.616

Detention 2.0, formerly a full-service restaurant called Playground DTLA and then Detention, reincarnated into a membership lounge that offers personalized cocktails, wine, beer, and snacks. To inquire about availability prior to your visit, contact concierge@detentiondtsa.com

El Indio Botanas y Cerveza started out as a place to get street food and imported craft beers from Mexico but has since evolved into a legit spot to discover artisan tequila and mezcal producers. DJs spin most nights to keep the vibe going. Instagram: @elindiobotanasycerveza

La Santa is an intimate live music spot to catch up-and-coming bands and hip hop artists, as well as fun tribute acts. lasantaoc.com

Mission Control’s barcade is the perfect place to relive your '80s vintage arcade sessions, with a fun tap list and video game-inspired cocktails that can be unlocked with a secret button combo such as the Pacman Sour. mcfaddenmarket.com/arcade-mission-control

Mission Bar’s primary mission is to serve nicely priced local craft beers in a cozy dive bar setting. Friendly locals curate a fun jukebox playlist when DJs aren’t spinning, and the pool table is always busy. missionbarsa.com

Twisted Tiki is a tiny hidden oasis located in the McFadden Public Market. Try to pronounce its Humuhumunukunukuapua’a drink, a tequila riff on the piña colada. mcfaddenmarket.com/the-twisted-tiki

Vacation Bar's beautifully garnished cocktails are inspired by cities; simply order a drink by destination, shut your eyes, and take a sip… you just might be transported there. vacationdtsa.com

Mission Bar

PHOTO CREDITS: ERIC LINDBERG (TOP, MIDDLE); MARIA GONZALEZ (BOTTOM)

SAVE THE DATES

BY CARRIE GRAHAM AND ALIESE MUHONEN

It’s always a celebration in Santa Ana. No matter what time of year or what you’re into, there’s something fun happening in the heart of Orange County.

Year-round

Dancing in the Streets

Dance the night away under the stars in the midst of art vendors and live music at Plaza Calle Cuatro. Free dance lessons rotate every Saturday: salsa (first), line dancing (second), bachata (third), and cumbia (fourth). callecuatrodtsa.com

Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk

The streets come alive on the first Saturday of every month when nearly two dozen galleries open their doors, local artists and vendors line the sidewalks, and local musicians fill the air with good vibes. dtsaartwalk.org

Tianguis Market

A certified outdoor market organized by the Tianguis Market Foundation, which provides safe locations for street vendors and micro businesses. Open every Sunday from 12-5 p.m. Instagram: @tianguis_market

Friday Night Munchies (FNM)

This open-air night market features food trucks, drinks, DJs, and a variety of vendors to ring in the weekend. Bring the whole family — it’s kid and pet-friendly! Instagram.com: @friday_night_ munchies

Galería of Imagination Workshops

Express your creative side at these affordable fine art workshops taught by

experienced artists. Guests can experiment with a range of mediums, including drawing, watercolor, and acrylic in the Galería’s community art space at the MainPlace Mall. upliftingsoulartevents.org

Gente Market

A pop-up marketplace and community festival, Gente Market puts on creative, themed fiestas every two months or so at different locations in the city. Festival-goers can shop for wares from local and diverse sellers, participate in lookalike contests, and enjoy fun performances and food. shopgentemarket.com

Museums and Theaters

Santa Ana is home to a number of venues rich in local and cultural history, many of which offer shows and activities year-round. Check out the Yost Theater, Bowers Museum, Frida Cinema, Wayward Theater, and Heritage Museum of Orange County (HMOC) for even more fun.

OC Vegan Fest

Held monthly in the Blue Lot event space, this family friendly mini-fest hosted by The Plant District brings together over 80 vegan vendors, selling everything from tamales to fake leather.

Instagram: @ocveganfest

Record Fair

Still searching for that mint condition vinyl of ABBA’s greatest hits? Join other music enthusiasts every first Sunday of the month to sift through thousands of records from every genre at 4th Street Market.

And I am really really proud to be a Santanera because it’s where all the cultures [have] merged in one place. Here in Santa Ana, it’s always a party, always a festivity.”

– Norah Briceño, owner of Mil Jugos, miljugos.com

PHOTO CREDITS: VECTEEZY (TOP); @FRANKIEFIERRO (MIDDLE); ERIC LINDBERG (BOTTOM)

ANNUAL EVENTS

MARCH

Boca de Oro Festival

Meaning “Mouth of Gold,” the festival highlights the vibrant work of local writers, poets, and artists each spring. See storytellers shine at readings, workshops, panels, performances, poetry slams, and art galleries throughout downtown Santa Ana. bocadeoro.org

LibroMobile Literary Arts Festival

The tiny bookstore's big annual event celebrates diversity through books at HMOC on March 5 with local and diverse guest artists presenting live readings, workshops, and literary arts. libromobile.com

Orange County Restaurant Week

Renowned restaurants across the county showcase their unique flavors with deals on special menus and cocktails from March 5-11. Whether you’re looking for date night ideas or a meal for the whole family, there’s something for everyone.

ocrestaurantweek.com

Woman's Day Festival

Celebrate the women in your life with a day of lady-led bilingual workshops, poetry readings, live music performances, and one-of-a-kind vendors at Plaza Calle Cuatro. consciouscultureoc. weebly.com

APRIL

Blading Cup

Watch the best rollerbladers and skaters of all ages compete on ramps and in the streets of downtown Santa Ana for multiwheeled glory on April 28-30. bladingcup.com

Margarita Crawl

From April 23-29, enjoy of the world’s (and our city’s) most beloved cocktails. Participating

locations throughout O.C. offer special food and drink menus, with tasty margs in the starring role. margaritacrawl.com

JUNE

OC Pride Parade and Festival Kicking off with an all-ages parade, this daylong celebration on June 24 encourages you to "love out loud" with entertainment and vendors across several themed zones. Spaces that cater to family-friendly audiences, teens, and to a more adult crowd mean anyone can enjoy the rainbow spirit. prideoc.com

JULY

Frida Fest

Presented by Gente Market, come salute the life of Frida Kahlo at HMOC with a look-alike contest, music, art installations, and vendors selling Fridainspired goods. Epic unibrows are optional but encouraged. heritagemuseumoc.org

Improv Fest

If you’re a fan of shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?, sure to get your tickets to the OC Improv Fest. Teams of actors battle it out to decide whose imagination reigns supreme. improvcollective.fun/ocif

NOVEMBER

Viva La Vida Santa Ana

The celebration continues in Santa Ana even after death.

Santa Ana is very connected, diverse, and walkable, with Taste of Santa Ana and the Artwalk as some of my favorite things.”

– Bob Bergman, owner of

Visioneering Studios, Inc., visioneeringstudios.com

Head to 4th Street in downtown on November 4 for a vibrant Día de Los Muertos festival. Visit community-created altars dedicated to gone but not forgotten family members, watch La Catrina’s procession, and enjoy live music at this family-friendly festival to the ancestors.

vivalavidasantaana.org

Noche de Altares

Across from the Civic Center, community members, activists, and local businesses come together for Dia de Los Muertos, setting up altars to honor deceased love ones, bring awareness to social issues, and honor Indigenous traditions. There are also cultural performances, music, kid's art, workshops, and face painting. nochedealtares.info

DECEMBER

Tamalfest

Corn husks vs. banana leaves. Red sauce vs. green. No matter what side you’re on in the tamale world, everyone wins at this beloved holiday event. Come ready to consume your weight in delicious tamales from local restaurants along 4th Street. Instagram: @dtsafeelgoodevents

PHOTO CREDIT: @FRANKIEFIERRO

Come TogeTher

Be it a conference, wedding, birthday bash, or anything in between, Santa Ana’s variety of unique venues make every gathering special.

The 1912

If urban sophistication is your event’s vibe, this stylish indoor venue is the answer. Operated by premier catering and events company 24 Carrots, The 1912 boasts 6,000 square feet of expansive event space with high ceilings, skylights, modern accents, and tall windows with sweeping views of the surrounding Downtown Santa Ana Historic District. 24carrots.com/venues/the1912

Benchmark

Perfect for group dining and special occasions, this modern restaurant will enchant guests with its setting: an outdoor, heated dining space under a canopy of trees. The breezy ambiance extends into a private indoor dining room, and the restaurant’s seasonal New American fare will delight even the most sophisticated palates. benchmarkoc.com

Estate on Second

A century-old historic building in the heart of downtown, the Estate is a beautiful and timeless full-service venue. The elegance of the building’s Georgian design is preserved in five restored and renovated indoor and outdoor spaces. Groups large and small will enjoy the natural light from arched Palladian windows and the character of original wood floors and brick. estateonsecond.com

The Green Parrot Villa

Guests escape into an enchanting Spanish-style building and grounds at the Villa, a beloved full-service events venue and historic restaurant. The open-air courtyard and indoor banquet room can accommodate up to 180 guests, who can feast on delicious Mexican food or outside catering amidst blooming gardens, twinkling lights, and vine-covered arches. greenparrotvilla.com

Heritage Museum of Orange County

Nestled within 12 acres of beautiful gardens and citrus groves, HMOC is a Victorian gem. The crowning jewel is the historic plaza, where restored 1890s buildings function as a museum and breathtaking backdrop for events. The gorgeous grounds and large covered patio can comfortably host hundreds of guests for weddings and large events. heritagemuseumoc.org

Yost Theater

An iconic downtown landmark since 1912, The Yost is one of Orange County’s oldest, largest, and most versatile indoor venues. The building’s five newly renovated spaces retain its 1920s charm, combining oldworld character with modern amenities to host anything — from world-class concerts to upscale weddings and corporate functions. theyosttheater.com

Yost Theater

Estate on Second

LET'S MEET

Best Western Plus Orange County Airport North

The hotel offers an 800-square-foot meeting room located in the lobby area with capacity for up to 50 guests in rounds.

2700 Hotel Terrace, Santa Ana 714-432-8888 | bestwestern-oc.com

Courtyard Costa Mesa South Coast Metro

High-performance Wi-Fi and audio visual equipment available. Beautiful courtyard area is ideal for outside events.

3002 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana 714-545-1001 | marriott.com/snasa

Courtyard Marriott Santa Ana

With a capacity for up to 300 guests, the hotel offers a variety of event package options to suit individual tastes and budget.

8 MacArthur Place, Santa Ana 714-668-9993 | marriott.com/snaog

DoubleTree Club by Hilton Orange County Airport

Five versatile event venues. Largest ballroom has natural light and boasts floor-to-ceiling views of the lake. Outdoor space available in the lakeside patio. Custom attendee websites can be created.

7 Hutton Centre, Santa Ana 714-751-2400 | hilton.com/en/hotels/snafmdt

DoubleTree Santa Ana - Orange County Airport

All meeting spaces on lobby level. Offers flexible Grand Ballroom that can be divided into six sections with 16-foot ceilings; also three indoor boardrooms. On-site restaurant available and more dining options within walking distance. Complimentary airport shuttle.

201 E. MacArthur Blvd., Santa Ana 714-825-3333 | hilton.com/en/hotels/staocdt

Embassy Suites - Santa Ana Orange County Airport

Largest ballroom holds 320 guests for a banquet and divides into four smaller sections. Unique 3,000-square-foot atrium provides space that gives the sense of being in an open air, lush garden within the confines of a secure indoor space with 100-foot ceilings. Two executive boardrooms also available for smaller meetings.

1325 E. Dyer Road, Santa Ana 714-241-3800 | hilton.com/en/hotels/staeses

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Ana Orange County Airport

The hotel offers a board meeting that can comfortably seat 12 people.

2720 Hotel Terrace, Santa Ana 714-556-3838 | hilton.com/en/hotels/stahshx

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana Orange County

The hotel features eight meeting rooms, one per floor, and each 600 square feet.

1600 E. 1st St., Santa Ana 714-834-9455 | ihg.com/holidayinnexpress

Holiday Inn Santa Ana Orange County Airport

Features 1,800-square-foot ballroom with natural light and 10-foot ceilings. Additional meeting space offers 8-foot ceilings with airwall for divisibility.

2726 S. Grand Ave., Santa Ana 714-481-6300 | ihg.com/holidayinn

With nearly 300 days of sunshine and great weather year-round, Orange County is an outdoor lover’s paradise from mountains to sea.

In Town

Parks & Rec

There are 47 public parks to enjoy in Santa Ana, with trails, playgrounds, exercise equipment, and picnic shelters. santa-ana. org/parklocation-and-information

River View Golf Course

A river literally runs through it at this 18-hole course, which caters to any skill level but gives experienced golfers a run for their money. The challenge comes courtesy of 6,190 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 70, with the namesake Santa Ana River providing a fun water hazard. riverviewgolf.com

Willowick Golf Course

The oldest 18-hole golf course in O.C., the ’Wick treats golfers of all abilities to expansive fairways lined with tall, majestic trees in the heart of the city. Two sets of tees, a grass driving range, three practice putting greens, a well-stocked pro shop, and new bar restaurant round out the picturesque experience. willowickgolf.com

Get Outside

BY ALIESE MUHONEN

Coming Soon…

Santa Ana is a literal trailblazer, with miles of protected bike lanes — the first of their kind in O.C. — completed along Bristol Street and more under construction on McFadden Avenue.

Furry friends will finally have a space to play off-leash at the city’s first dog park, in the design phase at Centennial Park. Check in with the City of Santa Ana for updates. santa-ana.org

Close By

Take a Hike

Surrounded by mountains and abounding in hilly vistas, O.C. has long been known as an outdoorsy haven. Whether you trail run, mountain bike, or hike, O.C.'s 25 regional wilderness parks and 230 miles of riding and hiking trails have you covered. Visit the county's website for more information on regional parks and wilderness areas.

ocparks.com/parks-trails

NEARBY Beach cities

With 42 miles of beautiful coast line and dozens of California’s most famous beaches, it’s no wonder O.C. is an aquatic hotspot. Most beaches have nearby parking and bathrooms,

and many have volleyball, equipment rental, fire pits, restaurants and retail. ocgov.com

Huntington Beach (12 miles away)

BEACHES: 4

Known for: Surfing, with some of the best surf breaks in the state; the city’s trademarked nickname is literally “Surf City USA.” Also home to the only dog beach in the county.

Newport Beach (11 miles away)

BEACHES: 20

Known For: Variety. Its two piers, lively boardwalk, family and kid -friendly play areas, beautiful scenery, and diverse range of activities mean there’s something for everyone.

Laguna Beach (19 miles away)

BEACHES: 30

Known for: Sheer beauty. There’s a reason artists flock to Laguna: as the only marine reserve in Southern California, its beaches are teeming with tide pools, turquoise waters, and stunning vistas.

PHOTO CREDIT: UNSPLASH

Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park

Huntington Beach

River View Golf Course

HOTELS + MOTELS

Best Western Plus Orange County Airport North

2700 Hotel Terrace, Santa Ana

714-432-8888 | bestwestern-oc.com

California Lodge Suites

2909 S. Briston St., Santa Ana

714-540-2300

Comfort Inn & Suites Orange County John Wayne Airport

2620 Hotel Terrace, Santa Ana

714-966-5200 | choicehotels.com/california

Courtyard Costa Mesa South Coast Metro

3002 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana

714-545-1001 | marriott.com/snasa

Courtyard Marriott Santa Ana

8 MacArthur Place, Santa Ana

714-668-9993 | marriott.com/snaog

DoubleTree Club by Hilton Orange County Airport

7 Hutton Centre, Santa Ana

714-751-2400 | hilton.com/en/hotels/snafmdt

DoubleTree Santa Ana - Orange County Airport

201 E. MacArthur Blvd., Santa Ana

714-825-3333 | hilton.com/en/hotels/staocdt

Embassy Suites - Santa Ana Orange County Airport

1325 E. Dyer Road, Santa Ana

714-241-3800 | hilton.com/en/hotels/staeses

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Ana Orange County Airport

2720 Hotel Terrace, Santa Ana

714-556-3838 | hilton.com/en/hotels/stahshx

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana Orange County

1600 E. 1st St., Santa Ana

714-834-9455 | ihg.com/holidayinnexpress

Holiday Inn Santa Ana Orange County Airport

2726 S. Grand Ave., Santa Ana

714-481-6300 | ihg.com/holidayinn

La Quinta by Wyndham Orange County Airport

2721 Hotel Terrace, Santa Ana

714-540-1111 | wyndhamhotels.com/laquinta

MainStay Suites Orange County John Wayne Airport

2701 Hotel Terrace, Santa Ana

714-957-9200 | choicehotels.com/california

Motel 6 Santa Ana/Irvine Orange County Airport

1717 E. Dyer Road, Santa Ana

949-261-1515 | motel6.com

Motel 6 Santa Ana 1623 E. 1st St., Santa Ana 714-558-0500 | motel6.com

Red Roof Inn Santa Ana 2600 N. Main St., Santa Ana 714-542-0311 | redroof.com

Sonesta Simply Suites Orange County Airport 2600 Red Hill Ave., Santa Ana

949-250-0404 | sonesta.com

Get Here AND Get Around

As locals will tell you, Santa Ana has the best access to transportation in the area. Book your trip and explore easily with quick access to freeways, airports, trains, buses, and (soon!) a streetcar.

Airports

John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA) IN TOWN

The gateway to Orange County and one of the best airports in the U.S. (ranked second in 2022 for customer satisfaction among large airports by J.D. Power), John Wayne Airport is conveniently located two miles from several of Santa Ana's hotels. The airport is served by eight commercial and commuter airlines, including Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Sun Country, United, and WestJet, and offers over 40 nonstop flights. Many of the local hotels offer complimentary airport shuttle service. ocair.com

Long Beach Airport (LGB) (20 miles away) longbeach.gov/lgb

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) (40 miles away) flylax.com

Rental Cars

On-site rental car companies at John Wayne Airport offer convenient services at the Terminal. Rental car counters are located on the Arrivals (lower) Level, between Terminals A and B, across from the John Wayne statue. Rental car pick-up and return is located on the lower level of Parking Structures A2 and B2, accessible from the Ground Transportation Center.

Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center

Also known as The Depot, the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center (SARTC) is the focal point of transportation in O.C. It combines Amtrak (amtrak.com), Metrolink (metrolinktrains.com), Orange County Transit Authority (octa. net), intercity and interstate bus transportation, airport, and taxi services all in one location. The charming Spanish-style architecture doesn’t hurt, either.

The SARTC is close to five freeways and minutes away from John Wayne Airport, Disneyland® Resort, MainPlace Mall, Bowers Museum, Orange County's Civic Center complex, and the

Downtown Santa Ana Historic District.

OC Streetcar

The first modern streetcar project to be built in the county, OC Streetcar will serve Santa Ana’s historic and thriving downtown with a 4.15-mile route that connects the SARTC to downtown and a new hub in Garden Grove. Commuters, community members, and sightseers can hop on at the streetcar’s debut in 2024. For more info, search “OCStreetcar” at octa.net.

PHOTO CREDIT: UNSPLASH (TOP)

POINTS OF INTEREST

CITY OF CE L E BRAT I ONS

Santa Ana comes together to celebrate our cultures and our way of life. Nobody knows how to celebrate like we do. Check the calendar of events on travelsantaana.com and make plans to join us!