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Santa Ana (Spanish for ' Saint Anne ') is a city in and the county seat of Orange County, California, United States. Located in the Greater Los Angeles region of Southern California, the city's population was 310,227 at the 2020 census.
Explore Santa Ana, an exciting city at the center of Southern California fun. Rich in authentic heritage and can’t-miss gems, Santa Ana is a cultural, entertainment and culinary center of large and diverse Orange County.
- Bowers Museum
- Lyon Air Museum
- Blinking Owl Distillery
- Santa Ana Artists Village
- Mcfadden Public Market
- Independent Coffee Shops
- Unique Restaurants
- Willowick Golf Course
- The Frida Cinema
- Santa Ana Zoo
The Bowers Museum is all about the intersection of art and culture, so while it’s sometimes referred to as an art museum, that doesn’t accurately describe it. I’ve been here to see an exhibition of the Walt Disney Archives and later saw tribal art from North America. Currently, there’s a returning exhibit featuring the couture art of Guo Pei — prob...
World War II History
While the Lyon Air Museum has been open for almost 15 years, I only recently discovered it. Located in a hangar behind the John Wayne Airport, the collection of aircraft and vehicles focuses on World War II. A dozen small, military aircraft are spread throughout the space, some of which visitors can climb in to explore. I took my adult son, Ryan, and we were both fascinated by the 1939 Mercedes Benz used by Adolph Hitler when he entered newly conquered cities and countries. There’s even a vid...
Aquavit
Blinking Owl might be the only place in California making the Scandinavian liquor called “aquavit,” so I couldn’t wait to check out this distillery. My father is of Swedish descent and always loved his aquavit. But that is just one of several spirits distilled here. It began as only a distillery and expanded during the pandemic to an outdoor restaurant and cocktail bar. And both the food and drinks are really good. I highly recommend ordering the cacio e pepe bacon pizza. Pro Tip:Don’t think...
First Saturday ArtWalk
For many years, my husband and I have been enjoying Artists Village in downtown Santa Ana during the First Saturday ArtWalk. About 20 galleries stay open late for visitors to browse while outside vendors sell small handicrafts. The whole experience is made even more lively with music and dancing. The art on display may include paintings, sculptures, photography, textiles, and performances. It is never dull and often quite edgy. Even if you can’t make it for the First Saturday, feel free to ex...
Tacompadre
If you enjoy pizza and tacos accompanied by ‘80s video games and pinball, then head to McFadden Public Market. Downstairs you’ll see a few food vendors, with my personal favorite being Tacompadre. Opened in late 2022, this family-owned spot specializes in Mexico City-style tacos. Upstairs is a Tiki Bar and arcade. I’m always a sucker for pinball, so I Iove coming here.
When it comes to independent coffee shops in Orange County, Santa Ana is king. This is a city that loves its caffeine and has the perfect spot for everyone. Consider taking a caffeine crawl through the city. These first three spots are located in downtown Santa Ana and are all within easy walking distance of one another. The fourth will require a d...
El Mercado Modern
Santa Ana has always had a great lineup of restaurants serving food from all over the world. But I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that its forte is definitely Mexican cuisine. And my new favorite in this category is El Mercado Modern. This is not a cheap taco joint, but instead an upscale restaurant serving modern interpretations of regional Mexican food. The pulpo a la plancha(marinated octopus) was flavorful and tender; a dish I will long remember. And the cocktails are really fun. The I...
Omakase By Gino
One of Orange County’s hottest sushi restaurants, Omakase by Ginois located in Santa Ana. There are just 10 seats and no menu, making for an intimate experience with Chef Choi Jin-Ho. It is also one of the toughest reservations to get, so plan to book a month in advance.
Chapter One
For a cozy pub vibe, head to Chapter One. This large restaurant and bar serves a diverse menu that includes burgers, tacos, and lumpia. We’ve been enjoying happy hour here for years. I always appreciate a place with a large selection of local, draft beers.
Orange County’s Oldest Public Course
Three generations of my family have golfed at Willowick, the oldest 18-hole public course in Orange County. My son, Ryan, and his friends took up golf during the pandemic and found this course to be ideal for beginners. It’s also very affordable compared to many of Orange County’s other courses. You’ll find a full-service restaurant and bar onsite to celebrate a great round.
Indie, Classic, And Cult Films
There are plenty of places to see current, big-budget movie releases, but when you’re ready to see an indie, classic, or cult film, head to The Frida Cinema. Named for the famous Mexican artist, this nonprofit, two-screen theater is committed to sharing a wide range of films that aren’t being shared anywhere else. Its prices are far more reasonable than chain movie theaters and discounts are offered for children and students.
Although it might seem small when compared to its San Diego and LA counterparts, Santa Ana Zoostill houses over 146 species of animals, including at least 50 kinds of monkeys on display at all times. But, that’s not all there is in Santa Ana Zoo. Immerse yourself in one of the most endangered habitats in the world at the Pampas Grasslands of South ...
- Santa Ana is the County Seat and 2nd Most Populous City in Orange County. Orange County’s county seat, Santa Ana, is the second most populous city in the area.
- It is One of the Oldest Cities in California Which was First Incorporated in 1869. Having been incorporated in 1869, Santa Ana is among the oldest citiesin California.
- The City Got Its Name from the Santa Ana River that Runs Through the City. The Santa Ana River, which meanders through the city with grace, is the source of Santa Ana’s name.
- The City is Home to the Historic Bowers Museum. Tucked away in Santa Ana is the world-famous Bowers Museum, a cultural treasure that features a vast array of Native American artwork and artifacts.
Nicknamed the "Downtown of Orange County," Santa Ana is brimming with richly diverse experiences. Come walk the lively streets of our historic downtown. Bask in the colors of vibrant murals and art, savor the flavors of authentic cuisine, and explore a world of experiences at our famed festivals.
Santa Ana. Discover Santa Ana, California's vibrant culture, delicious food scene, and exciting attractions. Learn more about us and plan your visit today!
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Oct 1, 2024 · Santa Ana, city, seat (1889) of Orange county, southern California, U.S. It lies at the base of the Santa Ana Mountains, on the Santa Ana River. It was explored by the Spaniard Gaspar de Portolá in 1769, and Juan Pablo Grijalva was subsequently (1801) given a land grant for the area, which he named.
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