Orange California offers visitors a charming mix of historic attractions

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HOI Sports Medicine Symposium, Chapman University, Orange, CA | June 13, 2025

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Top Attractions & Places To Visit

Things To Do

The Outlets at Orange, Orange, California | A Premier Shopping & Entertainment Destination

Parks

Irvine Regional Park, Orange, California | A Scenic Retreat

Zoos

Orange County Zoo, Orange, California | A Hidden Gem

Places To Visit

Chapman University, Orange, California | A Premier Educational and Cultural Hub

Places To Visit

Old Towne Orange, Orange, California | A Historic and Vibrant Destination

Orange, California | heart of Orange County

Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Orange, California offers visitors a charming mix of historic attractions, vibrant cultural spots, and modern-day fun. Known for its rich history and quaint Old Towne district, Orange offers something for everyone—whether you’re interested in history, shopping, outdoor activities, or culinary delights.

Main Attractions in Orange

Old Towne Orange

This historic downtown district is the crown jewel of Orange. Known for its vintage architecture, antique shops, and charming cafés, Old Towne Orange is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The famous Orange Plaza Fountain sits at the center, and the area is perfect for walking tours, shopping, and dining.

Must-Visit: Antique Row, which features over 40 antique shops.

Chapman University

One of the top private universities in California, Chapman University is a beautiful campus located in the heart of Orange. The university is known for its film school and picturesque campus, which includes historical buildings and contemporary architecture.

Highlight: The Hilbert Museum of California Art, which showcases an excellent collection of works focused on the California scene.

Orange County Zoo

Located within Irvine Regional Park, the Orange County Zoo is a perfect spot for families. This small zoo focuses on the animals native to the southwestern United States, including mountain lions, coyotes, and black bears.

Must-See: The petting zoo area is popular with kids, where they can interact with domestic farm animals.

Irvine Regional Park

This large park offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and paddle boating. The park is also home to the Orange County Zoo and a miniature train that takes visitors around the park.

Activity: Pack a picnic and explore the scenic trails around the park’s lake.

The Outlets at Orange

For those who love shopping, The Outlets at Orange provide a fantastic shopping experience with big-name stores like Saks OFF 5TH and Neiman Marcus Last Call. The outlet mall also has a large selection of dining options and entertainment venues.

Fun Fact: There’s a bowling alley and an indoor skatepark, making it a great place for family fun.

Activities to Do in Orange

Walking Tours in Old Towne Orange

Join a guided tour to learn about the history of the district and its many restored buildings from the early 20th century.

Outdoor Adventures at Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Enjoy hiking trails with views of Orange’s scenic hills and valleys. The park offers both easy and challenging trails for hikers and bikers.

Annual Events

Orange hosts several annual events, including the Orange International Street Fair held every Labor Day weekend, where you can enjoy a variety of international cuisines and live performances.

Restaurants & Cafés in Orange

Café Tu Tu Tango

Located at The Outlets at Orange, Café Tu Tu Tango serves up creative tapas-style dishes with a unique artistic ambiance. It’s a great spot for sharing small plates with friends while enjoying live art performance.

Recommended Dish: Spicy shrimp flatbread and street tacos.

Citrus City Grille

A local favorite in Old Towne Orange, Citrus City Grille offers an upscale dining experience with a menu featuring New American cuisine. Known for its fresh seafood and seasonal dishes.

Must-Try: Lobster mac ‘n’ cheese or the grilled salmon.

Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar

Located in Old Towne Orange, Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar prides itself on farm-to-table fare. The restaurant is famous for its seasonal dishes and creative cocktails.

Don’t Miss: Their signature burgers and a selection of local craft beers.

Pandor Artisan Boulangerie & Café

A quaint French bakery and café, perfect for grabbing coffee or brunch. Pandor serves an array of fresh pastries, sandwiches, and gourmet coffee.

Top Choice: The croissants and pain au chocolat are customer favorites.

Bars & Pubs in Orange

The District Lounge

A popular spot in Old Towne Orange for a fun night out. The District Lounge offers live music, DJ sets, and a variety of craft beers and cocktails.

Atmosphere: Lively and perfect for socializing or dancing on weekends.

Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar

Beyond its dining options, Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar also offers a fantastic selection of craft beers and artisanal cocktails. It’s a great spot for a laid-back evening with friends.

Must-Try Drink: Their old-fashioned with house-made bitters.

O’Hara’s Pub

This Irish pub located in Old Towne is a local favorite for its cozy atmosphere and wide selection of beers. It’s the ideal place to catch a game or enjoy a relaxed evening with friends.

Highlight: The friendly staff and great Guinness pours.

Orange, California, is a city that blends its rich history with modern attractions. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets of Old Towne, exploring nearby parks, or enjoying a meal at one of the many top-notch restaurants, there’s something for everyone. From family-friendly activities to lively nightlife, Orange is a hidden gem in Orange County that’s well worth a visit.