The Ultimate 4-Day Santa Ana Adventure
Discover the charm of Santa Ana, where history meets modernity.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the modern and sleek Courtyard by Marriott in the heart of downtown Santa Ana.
- Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Portola Coffee Roasters, known for their unique brewing methods.
- Explore the vibrant streets of Santa Ana by visiting the Downtown Santa Ana Historic District and the Bowers Museum.
- Have lunch at C4 Deli, featuring an extensive beer selection and scrumptious sandwiches.
- Spend the evening at The Observatory, a top-notch music venue hosting a variety of shows.
- Take a short drive to Huntington Beach, famous for its surfing culture and pristine coastline.
- Visit the Surfing Walk of Fame and the International Surfing Museum to learn about the history of surfing.
- Have lunch at Sugar Shack Cafe, a charming spot with classic American dishes.
- Head back to Santa Ana for the afternoon and visit the Orange County Museum of Art.
- Enjoy dinner at Playground, a restaurant that emphasizes locally sourced and creative dishes.
- Spend the day at the happiest place on earth, Disneyland Resort.
- Enjoy thrilling rides, iconic shows, and delicious food throughout the day.
- Visit the Downtown Disney District for shopping and dining options.
- Return to Santa Ana for dinner at Wursthaus, featuring German sausages and beers.
- Catch a movie at the Frida Cinema, a nonprofit art house theater showcasing independent films.
- Start the day at the Sherman Library and Gardens, a tranquil oasis with stunning botanical displays.
- Have brunch at the acclaimed Egg Cracker restaurant and try their famous benedicts.
- Visit the Old Towne Orange Historic District for antique shopping and photo opportunities.
- Stop at El Mercado Modern Cuisine for a taste of new American and Mexican fusion.
- End the day with a nightcap at the award-winning The Mixing Glass cocktail bar.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.
