Many people know LA and all the exciting things to do in LA. But Orange County is just right next to LA but doesn’t get the same amount of love. So here are 13 fun places to go in Orange County so you can discover that there are equal amounts of fun in both places!
These are fun places to go with family in Orange County as well.
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What Are The Most Fun Places To Go In Orange County?
Best Places To Go In Orange County
1. 2nd & PCH Mall
If you’re a fan of outdoor malls, you’re going to love 2nd & PCH. There are shops side by side in a rectangular format. The middle is a huge patch of green grass with some seating area. It’s located in Long Beach.
My favorite shops here are Madewell, Urban Outfitters, and Gorjana. I love coming here to relax and feel the calm atmosphere. The beach is just steps away so I would take a stroll around there also.
2. Rodeo 39 Public Market
Many people know about Anaheim Packing District, but not many know about Rodeo 39. It’s a bit smaller than Anaheim Packing District but I think it’s so much better. It’s less crowded and I think the food is even better.
The inside is like an upscale food court featuring food stalls from many different cuisines.
Center OC
3. The Source
If you love Korean food, Kpop, or Korean fashion/beauty, you’re going to love The Source.
It’s an outdoor 3-floor mall with a whole bunch of Korean restaurants, a Korean food court as well as shops selling Korean clothes, beauty products, and Kpop merchandise.
I come here all the time if I want good Korean food.
4. Stereoscope Coffee
There are tons of coffee shops in OC but Stereoscope really stands out. Not only do they have delicious coffee but they also have really unique drinks.
I tried their Hojicha Latte and Royal Milk Tea and both were so great but the Hojicha Latte was my favorite.
The interior of the cafe is so aesthetic also. Nice spot for pictures.
5. Old Towne Orange
Old Towne Orange is famously known for a plethora number of antique shops selling antique furniture, toys, and other collectibles. If you’re into antiques and finding unique pieces, this outdoor shopping area will be right up your alley.
This area also has nice restaurants, tea shops, and small dessert shops.
6. Downtown Disney
This is one of the most unique things to do in Orange County. Actually, many people think Disney is located in LA but it’s in OC. Downtown Disney is right next to Disney.
If I’m craving that Disney spirit and don’t want to spend much, I go to Downtown Disney. There are souvenir shops, a few restaurants, and most importantly – Disney music and decorations.
I love the festive environment and makes me feel like I’m at Disneyland without paying the full price.
You just need to pay for parking but they should be able to validate the ticket if you make purchases.
Book Disney hotels here
7. Powder Canyon
This is for all hiking enthusiasts.
Orange County has quite a few prominent hiking trails but I included Powder Canyon as one of the most fun places in Orange County because it’s a really gorgeous hiking trail.
It’s a 7.1-mile hike that normally takes around 3.5 hours to complete. It’s considered moderately challenging but you can see really nice views of the whole Orange County here.
This hiking trail is located in La Habra Heights which is more to the right side of OC.
South OC
8. Laguna Beach
How can you go to Orange County without going to one of the beaches? Laguna Beach is one of my favs to visit because the views are so amazing and the beach is so beautiful. Also, if you’re in Orange County for vacation, it adds to the experience by staying at a beach hotel. There’s quite a few of them in Laguna Beach.
There are also lots of surrounding small shops that sell souvenirs, clothes, and pretty much anything.
9. Irvine Spectrum Center
One of the most unique things to do in OC is to visit the gigantic malls. Irvine Spectrum is among the biggest.
This is the place to really get shopping done. It’s a huge outdoor mall with recognizable brand-name stores. There’s also a Ferris wheel in the middle of the shopping center and they have some really nice dining options.
Since it’s so big, prepare to walk a lot when you’re here.
Last time I was there, I tried Umami burger and it was so so good. I think the picture speaks for itself.
10. The Lab Costa Mesa
The Lab is a really unique outdoor space filled with trendy small retail shops, art installations, a brewery, and restaurants. It’s definitely the place to go for young folks.
The unique combination of art, food, and shopping makes this one of the most fun places to go to in Orange County!
11. UC Irvine
University of California, Irvine has a beautiful campus with lots of greenery. If you haven’t been, I think it’s a really nice experience to just walk around the campus, sit in Aldrich Park (a huge grass field perfect for picnics), and look at the architecture.
Many people think of UC Irvine as just a university but I would definitely count Aldrich park as one of the most unique things to do in Orange County.
12. South Coast Plaza
All the malls featured on this list so far are outdoor malls because most indoor malls in OC are pretty standard. But this one – South Coast Plaza – is on another level.
It’s the largest shopping center on the West Coast and has over 250 stores. There are a ton of affordable stores and also top luxury stores.
Even if I don’t intend on buying anything, I would love to just come here to look around.
13. Chino Hill State Park
This park is a super popular place to hike and do photoshoots at. I actually took my engagement photos here!
It’s an incredible park filled with these yellow wildflowers that bloom during the spring and summer seasons. This spot is great for pictures or just to take a peaceful walk.
FAQ: What To Do In Orange County
Is Orange County worth visiting?
Yes, definitely! It’s home to some of the most popular amusement parks like Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm. There are also tons of indoor and outdoor malls and amazing food.
Are you looking for more ideas on things to do near Orange County? Check out these posts!
- Orange County Malls: Best Orange County Malls
- South Bay LA: 45 Best Things To Do In South Bay Los Angeles (Cannot Miss)
- Pasadena: Top Hidden Gems In Pasadena
- Little Tokyo: Things To Do In Little Tokyo LA
- Best Ice Cream: Best Ice Cream In Long Beach
- Best Breakfast: Best Breakfast In Long Beach CA
- What to Pack: What To Pack + Wear In LA
