Weekend Wonder: 3 Days in Santa Ana!

Explore the cultural heart of Orange County in Santa Ana.

22 April 2023

Santa Ana, United States is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, making it an excellent destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the city's historic district, roam the gardens of the Bowers Museum, or discover contemporary art at the Grand Central Art Center. Additionally, Santa Ana offers easy access to some of Southern California's top tourist destinations, including Disneyland and the beaches of Orange County.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

History and Culture Galore!

  • Check into the historic Ebell Club, a beautifully restored hotel with vintage decor and modern amenities
  • Visit the Bowers Museum to see stunning exhibits on world culture and history, including a special exhibit on ancient Egyptian artifacts
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Old Town to admire the Spanish architecture and browse unique shops
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Calacas, a vibrant Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and delectable dishes
  • Catch a live performance or film screening at the ultra-cool Frida Cinema
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grab breakfast at the hidden gem Knowrealitypie, serving up delicious pies and coffee in a cozy atmosphere
  • Hike through the stunning Santiago Oaks Regional Park, with scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
  • Explore the Kidseum, a hands-on museum for children with interactive exhibits on art, history, and culture
  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Playground, a trendy restaurant with farm-to-table fare and craft cocktails
  • Spend the evening at the Observatory, a renowned music venue with an intimate setting and top-notch performers
Day 3

Artistic Inspiration and Culinary Delights

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cream Pan, famous for its Japanese baked goods and pastries
  • Visit the Santa Ana Artists Village, a vibrant community of art galleries, studios, and boutiques showcasing local talent
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Gypsy Den, a bohemian cafe and bakery with delicious vegetarian options
  • Take a tour of the historic Santora Building, a cultural landmark home to artists' lofts and galleries
  • End your stay with a mouth-watering dinner at The Playground DTSA, the sister restaurant of Playground with a focus on seasonal ingredients and unique flavors.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Santa Ana is by flying into John Wayne Airport (SNA) which is located in the heart of Orange County. Many airlines like United, American, Delta, and Southwest offer frequent flights to Santa Ana from major cities within the country.

Car

Driving is another great way to get to Santa Ana. The city is conveniently located near major highways like the 5, 405, and 55 freeways. If you are coming from Los Angeles, take the I-5 South and take the exit for Grand Ave towards Santa Ana.

Train

Unfortunately, Santa Ana is not accessible by train as the city does not have its own Amtrak station. The closest Amtrak station to Santa Ana is located in neighboring Fullerton, which is about 10 miles away.

Boat

Santa Ana is not accessible by boat as it is not a coastal city and does not have a port or marina.

Bus

Santa Ana can easily be reached by bus as there are many bus companies that offer daily routes to the city. Some popular bus companies that offer trips to Santa Ana include Greyhound, Tufesa, and Lux Bus America.

Destination

Santa Ana

Welcome to the land of eternal spring! Santa Ana might not be the North Pole, but it's definitely where you'll find some of the jolliest locals around!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Romantic Getaway: Santa Ana Day Trip Guide

Santa Ana is a vibrant city in the Orange County of California, known for its historic architecture, cultural attractions and stunning beaches. A romantic trip to Santa Ana offers numerous options for couples to explore, including a visit to the renowned Bowers Museum, a relaxing walk in the Santiago Park Nature Reserve or a romantic stroll along the Newport Beach pier. With its quaint cafes, fine dining options and beautiful hotels, Santa Ana is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

The Ultimate 4-Day Santa Ana Adventure

A trip to Santa Ana, located in Orange County, California, offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Tourists can explore the historic downtown with its art galleries, museums, and theaters, or head to nearby beaches for surfing or sunbathing. The city also boasts exciting local cuisine, including traditional Mexican food and trendy farm-to-table restaurants.

Family Fun in the Sun: A Day Trip to Santa Ana

A family-friendly trip to Santa Ana, United States offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and entertainment. Explore the renowned Bowers Museum, which showcases captivating exhibitions from around the world, and immerse yourself in the rich history and art of the region. Families can also enjoy the beautiful outdoors at the Santa Ana Zoo, where kids can meet and interact with a variety of wildlife species. Lastly, don't miss the chance to visit the Discovery Cube, a science center that offers interactive exhibits, educational shows, and hands-on activities that will thrill and entertain kids of all ages.

Discovering Santa Ana: Art, History, and Fun.

Santa Ana, located in Orange County, California, offers visitors a plethora of activities and experiences. Take a stroll through the historic district of downtown Santa Ana, where you can admire the striking architecture and vibrant art scene. Enjoy a day at any of the nearby beaches or theme parks, and end the night with some delicious cuisine at one of the city's many renowned restaurants.