10 Fascinating Things to Do in Santa Ana, Los Angeles

Santa Ana is a city in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, USA. Many people overlook Santa Ana in favor of the slightly larger nearby cities of Anaheim and Los Angeles. Santa Ana has its own charm. Here you can find the local Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm in the northwest, as well as the famous Huntington Beach and Newport Beach in the south. Spanish explorer Don Gaspar de Portola named Santa Ana after Saint Anne in 1769.

Marvel at the architecture of the old Orange County Courthouse

This building is a California Historic Landmark built in the Romanesque Revival style in 1901. After serving as a courthouse for almost 70 years, in 1969 the courts moved to a larger building. As a result, this religious building was turned into a museum. The collection of permanent and temporary exhibits will enchant history buffs. The beautiful interiors and iconic façade will satisfy those with an interest in architecture and design.

Explore the Historic District

The Santa Ana Historic District is the center of the city's oldest and most iconic buildings. Flamboyant Art Deco buildings include historic cinemas, theatres, museums, homes and the courthouse mentioned above. Anyone with an interest in architecture or history should walk around this place and discover the wonders of this architecture.

Explore the Bowers Museum

This is a stunning art museum that will appeal to art lovers both inside and out. Its permanent collection of over 100,000 items from around the world gives you the opportunity to see historical artifacts and works of art with your own eyes. Works of African, Asian, Californian, Indian and pre-Columbian origin occupy a special place in the museum. It also has a children's museum to keep young art lovers entertained.

Go rock climbing at Sender One Climbing & Sender City

This is an indoor climbing center in southeast Santa Ana. It includes a set of climbing walls with various training terrains. This is the perfect place to have some fun, test your physical abilities, or prepare for some real climbing in the California wilds. The children's play area here is excellent, so the younger members of your party can have as much fun as you do.

Watch wildlife in Santiago Park

This is a beautiful nature reserve and recreation area where you can escape to nature while being surrounded by the city limits. Wildlife lovers will enjoy watching the collection of birds and small animals that inhabit the area. The river, rocks, trees and vegetation create the perfect setting for relaxation. There are walking trails, an archery range, and a baseball field. This is the perfect place for outdoor recreation, no matter how you prefer to relax.

See California on a small scale at Noguchi Garden

This is a small sculpture garden designed as a minimalist interpretation of California. Sculptures and fountains represent the state's diverse landscapes, including deserts, rivers, mountains, and redwood forests. The Noguchi Garden is the perfect place to relax, appreciate art, and even see California from a different perspective.

Test Your Virtual Reality Skills Fire Loop

Fire Loop Virtual Reality offers visitors the opportunity to experience the evolution of modern entertainment. With high performance VR rigs, you can step into a video game and complete intense and exciting missions.

Have a fun day at Boomers Irvine

Boomers Irvine is an exciting outdoor entertainment center. With activities such as arcade games, go-karts and mini golf, it's a great way for the whole family to unwind and have a good time.

Take a photo with Duke at John Wayne Airport

In 1979, the Orange County Airport was renamed in memory of legendary actor John Wayne, who lived and died in the area. In 1982, a large beautiful bronze statue of the Duke was unveiled at the airport to further honor his legacy. Although there aren't many tourist attractions at the airport, John Wayne fans will still not want to miss the opportunity to take a photo with one of the best statues of their hero.

Make the Most of Your Outdoor Experience at Mile Square Regional Park

Mile Square Regional Park is a beautiful outdoor destination in the heart of the city. On its 258 hectares you will find archery ranges, baseball and softball fields, golf and football fields, basketball courts, tennis courts and a gym.

There are lakes, picnic areas, and hiking trails surrounded by California plants. There's even a kids' club and a community center to keep young visitors busy.