The way the light shines in the early morning sun makes this installation come to life in sparkling colors. Changs, Brio Tuscan Grille, or California Pizza Kitchen (I mean, when in Cali ). If youre wondering what to do in Orange County, the city offers tourist attractions such as Disneyland, Heisler Park, Knotts Berry Farm, and Balboa Island. Walk down Main Street USA and visit New Orleans Square, Frontierland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Star Wars: Galaxys Edge. They also offer a tea for two option, which includes miniature scones, sandwiches and sweets. This event features live recreations of famous paintings, and you can read more about it here. My Birthday is coming up at the end of December and I need ideas. Browse the list by county and click the image to read about the places you are interested in. Big Bears alpine slide is a blast for the whole family as it allows you to try out bobsledding on a large cement track. Who knew the Official Center of the World was in Southern California!? Pizza, pasta, primal cutsoh my! This beautiful cave system was closed for seven years but has recently been reopened, and you can sign up to tour it again. See Related: Best Waterfalls in California. I have visited many times, but it is moving to a new location. 2022 3. What Are The Most Fun Places To Go In Orange County? We do our best to keep this list as up-to-date as possible. In the downtown area of Palm Springs, there is a one room museum that is designed to look like how a 1930s general store would have looked. That clearlydid not happen, but this unique structure still stands. I remember being awestruck by the show when I saw it as a kid, and I had just as much fun when I went back a few months ago as an adult. This pumpkin rock is overlooking the city of Norco and is kept up by some of its residents. Remember to look but dont touch or take! The oceanfront Heisler Park offers gardens, walking trails, tide pools, and picnic tables surrounded by palm trees and wildflowers. Dine indoors or out on a wide variety of selections such as Swedish, German, and Dutch pancakes, as well as traditional and buckwheat pancakes, or the works like bacon, eggs, omelets, crepes, and more! It is right off the famous Pacific Coast Highway, and the entrance to the beach requires some walking. In the hills above Santa Barbara, Knapps Castle sits in ruins of its former majestic self. green Forest Smoothie customers purchase, 50% of the net profit goes to plant trees and protect forests. This is the meat mecca where hungry patrons will reach the pinnacle of pulled pork and beg for more brisket. Theres a restaurant, a fitness center, a pool, a full-service spa, meeting rooms, and a boutique. Does anyone know of any restaurants in la/oc that have any unusual/unique themes/entertainment? See Related: Best Road Trip Games For Couples. It is exceptionally eclectic making itperfect for this list. Fun things to do in Orange County by a local - from free things to do to museums, beaches, hikes, views, towns, shopping, parks, & more. People come from all over the world to vacation here. How cool is that?! Towels and bed linen are available in the holiday home. 10 Unique Things To Do In Orange County, California - TheTravel 1. You'll notice there are a lot of concert venues in Costa Mesa, CA . Except this is more like an adult amusement parkcomplete with Instagram-worthy eats, chic shops and old-school arcade games. Be the first to know about the best eats, shops, sights and escapes of Southern California. Trail Length: 2.3 miles one way Elevation Gain: Minimal If you're looking for a trail that's surrounded by towering cliffs and crashing waves, the San Clemente Beach Trail is one of our favorite hiking trails in Orange County. Get dressed up and take your talents to The Drake. See Related: Amazing Resorts & Hotels With Animals On-Site. The couple that owns this museum has tens of thousands of bunnies and bunny related things. Another strange store in LA this one has a mind-blowing amount of stuff, everything from crocodile heads to books on steampunk. This is modern Texas barbecue gone rogue, yall, and its right in the heart of OCs very own cowboy country, San Juan Capistrano. If you want to get high (in the air), Orange County Great Park is the place to be. Most Magnificent Landmark: Redwood Trail Grove Best Park: Heisler Park Health is wealth, and VEGD is giving your fast-food favorites a farm-fresh makeover. Open since 1952; Laguna Lake Park is a 28.5-acre green space with a lake for reeling in (or at least trying to reel in) bass, rainbow trout, and bluegill. The Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum is dedicated to Duke Kahanamoku. This is one of the best things to do in O.C. So there you have it, my massive list. Top 10 Best Unique Restaurants in Orange County, CA - Yelp At Beachcomber Inn every room is fitted with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and a balcony with a sea view. Along the way, enjoy the best views in Orange County as you stop off at farmers markets, roadside attractions, and local restaurants on your Pacific Coast Hwy adventures. Baci di Firenze Trattoria 546 reviews Closed Now Italian, Pizza $$ - $$$ Menu 16.7 mi Anaheim Delish Awesome! As for cocktails, try anythingliterally anything; there is no bad choice. Peruse paintings, sculpture, photography, and many more works of art. Expect the big brand names stores as well as specialty shops. University of California, Irvine is 41 km from the accommodation, while MiraCosta College is 45 km away. This whimsical restaurant is as elegant as Audrey Hepburn herself, offering delicate and delicious small bites that are almost too pretty to eat. Use Skyscanner to find flight deals. Theres a carousel, a train ride, and a 64-foot Ferris wheel, making this one of the most fun things to do with kids. If you visit Los Angeles, then you really should consider going on a studio tour to see where the movies are made. on our list. This museum and unique historic home educates visitors about the Gomez Mill family by hosting tours and special events. If youre looking for things to do in Orange County at night, its all about the popular live music venue in Mozambique. 13 Fun Places To Go In Orange County - Unique Local Guide This is a unique spot in LA. If you know of a unique hotel that should be on the list, let us know. In the historic 1930s La Casa del Camino resort, Comedor serves traditional Spanish and Californian cuisines such as tapas, paella, skirt steak in chimichurri sauce, crab cakes, and a wide variety of wine and cocktail choices in an authentic beachside setting. Guests at the accommodation will be able to enjoy activities in and around San Clemente, like cycling. The Big List of 100+ Strange, Fun & Unique Attractions in Southern A restored cottage house also serves as a museum and a look into Orange Countys agricultural past. I will be adding more often and would love to hear your suggestions in the comments. Not long but over hanging trees make accurate drives are a must to have a shot at the greens 10. Best Concert Venues in Orange County, CA (2023) 8 Sunny Spots to Sip Cocktails This Summer, Holy Smokes! We have created a list with cool, unusual and unique hotels in Orange County, USA. The nearest airport is John Wayne Airport, 43 km from Beachcomber Inn. You can even buy a shade tree (a seed), and all you have to do is go back in time and plant it! For decades this alley in San Luis Obispo has been collecting bubble gum from passersby. 14 SoCal BBQ Spots That Are Finger-Lickin Good, 9 Must-Visit Places to Visit in Fullerton This Summer. Examples would be, Encounter in LA where it has a, I am looking to get my son/daughter-in-law a gift certificate (around $200) for a unique dining experience near Newport Beach. Its a 2.5-mile round-trip hike to the grove. The San Clemente Pier is just south of San Juan Capistrano Mission. Incredibly unique menu! Elmers ranch is a great place to take pictures and admire the dozens of metal trees made frompoles and bottles. This is an excellent place to visit on hot days due to the lovely shade cover by the live oak evergreen trees. Today, you can visit surf and gift shops or grab a bite to eat at Rubys Diner at the very end of the pier. Pay a visit to the beautiful Romanesque Revival architecture of the Old Courthouse Museum at the Old Orange County Courthouse. Near Freeway. How often do you get to hike to an old shipwreck off the coast, especially one that is as preserved as well as this one? Orange County sightseeing can tire you out. Lovely interior design. The nearest airport is John Wayne Airport, 16 km from the accommodation. It covers sickness and medical emergencies, unexpected weather, and more. The trail offers suitable terrain for beginners while challenging enough for more experienced hikers. Meeting Venues in Orange, CA - 180 Venues | Pricing - Eventective Rooms have a mini-fridge, a microwave, a coffee maker, and free Wi-Fi. Quick 2 Theme Parks/Beach (Huntington Beach), 249 - 3 Story Dream Home (Huntington Beach), LuxuryTownhome.3Blks2Beach.E-Bikes.754kTV (Huntington Beach), Luxury Condo E Bikes 3Blks2Beach 75inch4kTV KingBed (Huntington Beach), Charming Craftsman Cottage with Garden and Hot Tub! Mexican Kitchen Kitchen Seafood + Bar The only mexican Restaurant in the Orange Circle (Plaza) than offers Mexican Food plus exclusively serving Molcajetes, Lomo Saltado, Seafood & Ribeye Steakes. Call to set up an appointment to visit. This gets added to the list just because I went to see the elk and simply saw nothing and no one, so I thought it was a pretty strange experience. This pet-friendly vacation rental has a washer/dryer, a fireplace, internet, and cable T.V. Near the beach and approximately 20 minutes from Disneyland, the Reptile Zoo is in Fountain Valley. This small shop in the middle of the coroners office has a lot of death related items you can purchaseeverything from a pen to a chalk outline towel. In the middle of a park, there is a large collection of colorful sculptures that reminded me of something in Barcelona. Tanaka Farms has a sister site, Flowers at Hana Field in Costa Mesa, where you can pick sunflowers and marigolds (again, depending on the season flowers dont grow all the time, you know). Perhaps the most well-known concert venue in Orange County is the Honda Center . If you are looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday, why not take a wild animal safari at a Malibu Winery? The campy goodness that is Medieval Times has not lost its charm. You can pick up souvenirs at Star Wars Outpost or the LEGO Store, listen to jazz at Flambeauxs Jazz Club, or go bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes. At Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa you will find a 24-hour reception and a garden. This is one of the best things to do in Orange County for animal lovers. Some rooms have kitchenettes, and some have a mini-fridge and a microwave. 18. Their menu is varied and perfectmore, Open air, in shadows of a an historic Catholic Church, and Historic French Park, a unique menu tempsmore, Nep Cafe has blown me away by the amazing flavors and unique dishes on the menu.more, 4.5 stars for unique delicious food, chill vibe and good service! Guests can also enjoy drinks at the bar. In-room dining allows guests to enjoy food and drinks from the comfort of their room and the Pond Pool Bar allows guest to soak up the sun while enjoying food and drinks poolside. We wont judge. Want to go somewhere cool/ fun. 8. We recommend the Good Morning Sammie, the Hot Chick or their take on an all-plant poke bowl. Founded over 200 years ago, San Juan Capistrano Mission is the seventh of 21 missions. Open since 1952; the Santa Ana Zoo has 20 acres of Central and South American plants and animals. Visit a museum such as the Laguna Art Museum, the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum, or the Pretend City Childrens Museum. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Orange City - Tripadvisor I was wondering where to go in Orange County with kids in tow. The famous pirate tower of Victoria Beach is one of those historic Southern California places that everyone has to see once. Or sit and work on a tan. American Airlines, United, Delta, and JetBlue Airlines all service John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Santa Ana. Its near amusement parks like Knotts Berry Farm, Knotts Soak City Water Park, and Disneyland. It was turned into an island in the early 1900s by developer William S. Collins. The widest selection of unusual accommodations in Orange County, CA. 1,394 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in California Are you looking for cool places in Orange County? Pizza, pasta, primal cutsoh my! Your search is over! Theres a restaurant, a pool with sun loungers, a fitness center, and an outdoor fireplace. Visit monkeys, pygmy marmosets, giant anteaters, and tropical birds. An island of a different sort, Fashion Island is one of the best shopping malls around. For a 5 dollar fee, you can see a crazy amount of reptiles from crocodiles to snakes. One mans journey to make a way to show the love of God to the world turned into an impressive painted mountain. Ever wanted to eat alligator, kangaroo, or antelope? Basically, its awesome. Current, past, and upcoming exhibits at the Bowers Museum include Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives, Ascent to Glory: Everest, Frank Lloyd Wright: Architecture of the Interior, and much more. Visit 4 of the area's unique wineries and experience tasting at each. In Silverado, Limestone Canyon Regional Park has springs and streams, oak forests, coastal sage scrub, and the sinks (a mini Grand Canyon). The shows are similar to entering a time machine and visiting what a theater was like before technology. This hotel has a great location in Dana Point. Looking for unique things to do in Orange County? They are even the Guinness Book of World Records Holder for most bunnies. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, as well as a computer are available. All guest rooms have a coffee maker. Check out the top 10 fun places to go in OC and what to eat in OC, written by a local! 12 Waterfront Restaurants in Orange County With Unforgettable Views, Make a Splash at the 20 Coolest Pools in Greater Palm Springs, Bare It All: Here Are 8 of the Best Nude Resorts in California, Poolside or Ocean Views? This Charming Beach Cottage is 1.5 blocks from the beach and near Balboa Pier. Be sure to visit our page on our favorite travel resources to learn how you too can visit over 10 countries in year. Located in South Coast Plaza. For a trip back in time, pull off Highway 395 and visit the Randsburg General Store. Located in Laguna Hills, this beach is known for its unusual access and incredible views. Different Types of Hotel Rooms Explained! Enjoy a margarita and California cuisine on the rooftop lounge while enjoying the Pacific Ocean sunsets. Sadly, Frank passed away in 2021 at the grand old age of 18, but his scaly friends and relatives are ready to welcome you! If that werent enough, theres an equestrian center with riding rings, show rings, and seating for shows. This hike is right in the town of Amboy, which is fun to visit in its own right, and crosses a lava field up to an old dormant volcano. Glam Spa. These caves overlooking Highway 1, about 45 minutes north of Santa Barbara, are a pretty crazy place for a hike. What are some fun things to do in Orange County? 10 Things Italians Always Wear Instead, What To Wear To A Brewery: 11 Essential Outfit Ideas For Different Occasions. Providing a terrace and city views, the holiday home includes 3 bedrooms, a living room, cable flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen, and 3 bathrooms with a shower and a bath. Unique themes/entertainment? Here are 11 of the best places to take pictures in Orange County! We cant think of anything more kid-friendly (regardless of physical age) than Disneyland. See Related: Next Vacay vs. Going.com (Scotts Cheap Flights). Top 10 Staycations Blue Lantern Inn - Dana Point Enjoy a stay in Dana Point Harbor with a quaint outlook over the ocean and the boats docked there. Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum, 51. See Related: Free California Travel Guide: Printable Guide to Travel. . 11 Practical Tips for Working While Traveling, Visiting the Catacombs of Paris: Full Tour of the Tombs, Copyright ViaTravelers.com | All Rights Reserved, Best Spring Break Destinations for Families, How to Earn Rewards Without a Credit Card, Things to Do in Orange County & Places to Visit, 1. A museumthat you will not be able to explain when you leave. The road along the coast is beautiful, but it's also packed with natural wonders and man-made attractions. The Quaint, Cozy, and Historic Cottage offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms with easy access to the sand of Laguna Beach. Learn about garden pollinators and take sunset strolls with garden experts. Learn more . The Mitchell Caverns are the best show caves you can see in Southern California. On your Orange County adventures, you can access Picnic Beach, Rockpile Beach, Divers Beach, and Main Beach from Heisler Park. Garden AMP (Garden Grove, CA) The Garden AMP concert venue is small and intimate. Part of the Channel Islands, its about 30 miles off the coast. The 20 best boutique hotels in Orange County - BoutiqueHotel.me is the quintessential cool coffee shop located in a trendy industrial part of Newport Beach. The holiday home has 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a fridge, a dishwasher, a washing machine, an oven and a microwave. right now? is a place where you can have your lavender latte and drink it too. The oceanfront Inn at Laguna Beach mixes a beach bungalow with modern amenities. Its one of the enormous tethered helium balloons in the U.S. (and the first of its kind). Who doesnt want to see how candy canes are made? 19. Newport Beach is a world-renowned city in Orange County, California. Its designed to resemble a small city with interconnected areas. Baker Thermometer and North Pole Discoverer Statue (Statue is now gone). Suggest a venue that would make this list better. A collection of artists that live together and create very unique art pieces in the middle of the desert. Las Brisas Photo courtesy of Las Brisas on Facebook Las Brisas literally translates to "The Breezes." Why, you may, ask is this relevant? Everything is incredible (seriously, thats the problem), but their morning buns, chocolate chip cookies and sweet and salty cinnamon twists will be your go-to craving for the rest of 2021. After a day of hiking, windsurfing or fishing, guests can relax in the garden or in the shared lounge area. Tios is ataco shop that is 15% food and 85% crazy art. It is a relatively easy hike, but you will be walking over a ton of rocks. 45 Best Things To Do In South Bay Los Angeles (Cannot Miss), 5 Best Malls In Orange County That Have Everything You Need, 25 Best Things To Do In Fullerton California, 21 Most Romantic Things To Do In Long Beach, What Not to Wear in Italy? The trees hereare only 25 years old, but they are still very cool to see. There are a variety of shops and restaurants near the San Clemente Pier. (Fullerton). Santa Anas Bowers Museum features more than 100,000 Native American, Asian, Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican, African, and Californian artistic items in a Mission-Revival-style structure. Enjoy daily wine receptions in the lobby, breakfast, sunsets at the rooftop bar, and daily swims in the pool. We've got you covered. 50 Places to Eat in Orange County Before You Die - Spoon University Watts Towers is an impressive piece of art in the heart of Watts. Bubbling pools of mud in the middle of a big field. Theres a business center, a fitness center, and a pool. Dont forget those thrilling, looping, swooping, and diving coasters like Pony Express, Sierra Sidewinder, GhostRider, and Hang Time. The holiday home features a barbecue and a garden, which can be enjoyed by guests if the weather permits. Rediscover One of OCs Oldest Cities Revamped With Top Notch-Breweries, Yoga Studios and Hot, New Restaurants, From Gals Night to Date Night, Come Hungry and Explore the Best Eats in CDM. This air-conditioned holiday home has 3 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, and a kitchen with a fridge and a dishwasher. With free WiFi, this holiday home offers a TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with dishwasher. We have also included accommodation in holiday homes , apartments , boats , inns , romantic hotels and historic buildings . Compass Balloons is three hours away from Orange County. From cutesy coffee shops to cutting-edge culinary experiences, here are 10 places to take your cool friend from LA that are sure to leave a great impression. On the 10 Freeway nearCabazon are some of the biggest dinosaurs ever made. Start with some smoked salmon or one of their delicious salads, followed by a delicately seared steak and finish up with a couple sinful spoonfuls of their salted caramel budino. Its a playground with everything from scoops to slurps and sips. Spacious rooms have modern amenities, additional seating areas, custom linens, and balconies for sunrise or sunset views. At Hideaway Unit D the rooms have bed linen and towels. It is worth the trip to see the massive walls and cameras alone. In Avila, right near Pismo Beach, you can get up close and personal with sea lions. Plus, you can find booze here, which you cant say for Disneyland! Its free to visit Fullerton Arboretum, and well worth it. At about a half mile long, this wall has the painted history of California on it and is a great place for a walk. LA folks love a famous chef, so your friend will be bragging about binging on Matthew Kenneys magic plant-based menu. On days when there is not a game, you can still visit Dodger Stadium and shop at the store. This place feels like a Disneyland ride without the crowds, characters or quirks. St. Francis by the Sea, built in 1933, is the worlds smallest cathedral (even in the Guinness Book of World Records).