Orange County Scoop
· WHAT'S HAPPENING · THINGS TO DO

Less timed, more timeless.

Hikes, tide pools, museums, harbor walks and hidden gems across all 34 Orange County cities — curated by locals who actually live here.

11
Activities listed
4
Free to visit
0
Outdoor spots
34/34
Cities covered
Home/What's Happening/Things to Do
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Huntington Beach, CA

One of the largest remaining saltwater marshes in Southern California, offering 1,700 acres of protected wetlands ideal for birding, hiking, and connecting with nature. The Bolsa Chica Conservancy is a private, non-profit organization, with the mission to inspire and educate all communities to protect, preserve, and restore the Bolsa Chica wetlands.

Easy2 hrs
Bowers Museum

Bowers Museum

Santa Ana, CA

Orange County's premier art and culture museum, home to extraordinary collections spanning pre-Columbian art, Native California cultures, African ceremonial art, and traveling international blockbusters. The Spanish Mission Revival building and its courtyard café make it as beautiful as its collection.

Art LoversHistory BuffsFamilies$
All Levels
Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park

Newport Beach, CA

A breathtaking 3.2-mile stretch of unspoiled coastline in Newport Beach offering tide pools, 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, hiking trails, and a historic beach cottage district - one of OC's greatest treasures.

Nature LoversPhotographersFamiliesFree🐾 Dogs OK
Easy3 hrs
Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point, CA

The self-proclaimed "Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World." Walk the 2,500-slip marina, book a whale watch cruise, kayak into the ocean at Baby Beach, or browse the weekend farmers market along the harbor. Humpbacks and blue whales pass close enough to photograph from the bluffs December through April.

FamiliesWhale WatchersSailorsFree🐾 Dogs OK
All Levels
Disney California Adventure

Disney California Adventure

Anaheim, CA

<p>Sitting just steps from the original Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure opened in 2001 as a love letter to the Golden State itself. The park celebrates the spirit, landscape, and culture of California from its sun-soaked coastlines and towering redwoods to its rich movie-making legacy and agricultural heritage.</p><p>Over the years, Disney California Adventure has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a world-class destination in its own right. Today it's home to some of the most immersive and thrilling experiences in any Disney park anywhere in the world.</p><p><strong>Thrills &amp; Immersive Worlds</strong></p><p>Guests looking for bigger thrills will find plenty to love here. Guardians of the Galaxy, Mission: BREAKOUT! delivers a high-energy drop tower experience unlike anything else in the resort, while Incredicoaster rockets guests through the world of the Incredibles at top speed. For those seeking full immersion, Avengers Campus brings the Marvel universe to life with jaw-dropping attractions, live action hero encounters, and an energy that feels genuinely electric.</p><p><strong>Something for Everyone</strong></p><p>Despite its reputation for bigger attractions, California Adventure is far from just a thrill-seeker's park. Buena Vista Street welcomes guests with a nostalgic recreation of 1920s Los Angeles, the city Walt Disney first arrived in as a young dreamer. Cars Land offers one of Disney's most stunningly realized themed environments, with Radiator Springs Racers consistently ranking among the best rides at any Disney resort worldwide.</p><p>Families with younger guests will find plenty of fun in the whimsical worlds of Pixar Pier, where classic Pixar stories come to life in colorful, joyful attractions perfect for all ages.</p><p><strong>Don't Miss</strong></p><p>World of Color, the park's signature nighttime spectacular, transforms the lagoon into a breathtaking display of water, light, fire, and music, a fitting finale to any day spent exploring California Adventure.</p>

FamiliesKidsTeens$$
All Levels
Disneyland

Disneyland

Anaheim, CA

<p>The original Disney theme park and the only one personally overseen by Walt Disney himself, Disneyland holds a singular place in history. Walt even maintained a private apartment above the Fire Station on Main Street, U.S.A., where he could watch over the park during its earliest days.</p><p>When Disneyland first welcomed guests on July 17, 1955, it set the gold standard for destination theme parks worldwide. More than 70 years later, it continues to honor Walt's vision while evolving for new generations. Many opening-day attractions still delight guests today, including the King Arthur Carrousel, Disneyland Railroad, Mad Tea Party, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Snow White's Enchanted Wish, and Autopia.</p><p><strong>What Makes It Special</strong></p><p>Disneyland is known for spontaneous, free-roaming character interactions a hallmark that sets it apart from neighboring Disney California Adventure. Favorite characters wander freely throughout the park, creating magical surprise encounters throughout your visit.</p><p>With attractions designed for guests of all ages, Disneyland is especially welcoming for families with younger children exactly as Walt intended when he first imagined a place where parents and kids could experience the magic together.</p><p>Whether it's your first visit or your hundredth, there's truly no place quite like the <em>Happiest Place on Earth</em>.</p>

FamiliesKidsCouples$$
Easy1–2 hrs
Heisler Park Tide Pools

Heisler Park Tide Pools

Laguna Beach, CA

Laguna Beach's most accessible and rewarding tide pools, tucked beneath the grassy bluffs of Heisler Park. At low tide, the rocky shelves reveal purple sea urchins, ochre sea stars, anemones, and hermit crabs in vivid pools. Sunset from the grass above is an event in itself.

Nature LoversFamiliesKidsFree
Easy4 hrs
Irvine Regional Park

Irvine Regional Park

Orange, CA

Orange County's oldest regional park, established in 1897 — 477 wooded acres along Santiago Creek with pony rides, a small zoo, paddle boats, bike rentals, and miles of equestrian trails. The towering sycamores and coastal live oaks make it one of the most photogenic parks in the county.

FamiliesKidsDog Walkers$🐾 Dogs OK
Mission San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano, CA

Step back in time and explore one of California’s most treasured historic landmarks at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Founded in 1776, the Mission is known for its beautiful gardens, centuries-old architecture, and rich cultural heritage that tells the story of Southern California’s early history. Often called the "Jewel of the Missions," Mission San Juan Capistrano offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the traditions, stories, and contributions of the Acjachemen people, the region’s first inhabitants. Through exhibits, historic sites, and interpretive displays throughout the grounds, guests can learn about the indigenous culture that played an essential role in the Mission’s history and continues to shape the community today. As you stroll through the peaceful courtyards, historic chapels, and lush gardens, you'll encounter fascinating artifacts, educational exhibits, and beautifully preserved structures that bring more than 240 years of history to life. The Mission remains dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of the Acjachemen people while honoring the diverse cultures that have contributed to its legacy. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Mission San Juan Capistrano offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

History BuffsFamiliesKids$
Easy3 hrs
Old Towne Orange Historic District

Old Towne Orange Historic District

Orange, CA

America's largest National Register historic district, centered on a perfectly preserved 1886 town plaza. A full square mile of Victorian homes, 1920s bungalows, and antique stores radiating from a circular park — plus some of OC's best independent restaurants and coffee shops woven in between.

Antique HuntersHistory BuffsFoodiesFree🐾 Dogs OK
Moderate2–3 hrs
Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Orange, CA

A canyon park tucked into the Santa Ana Mountains just minutes from the freeway — ancient valley oaks draped over the Santiago Creek trail, a 1,000-year-old oak tree the size of a small house, and 18 miles of trails leading toward Weir Canyon Wilderness. Cooler and quieter than most OC parks.

HikersTrail RunnersDog Walkers$🐾 Dogs OK
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