5 Days of Romance and Adventure in Santa Ana

Discover love in the heart of Orange County's cultural hub.

22 April 2023

Santa Ana is a perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Visit the Bowers Museum, a place that showcases world-class exhibitions of cultural art. Take a stroll in the historic Old Town, filled with quaint shops and restaurants creating an intimate atmosphere.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
  • Check-in at The Westin South Coast Plaza, a luxurious hotel with a breathtaking view of the city
  • Walk along the Newport Beach Pier and watch one of the most stunning sunsets in the world
  • Have dinner at The Cannery, a coastal restaurant with fresh seafood and delicious cocktails
  • Take a nighttime stroll at the Balboa Fun Zone, an amusement park with a Ferris wheel and arcade games
  • Retire to your hotel room and enjoy the city lights from your balcony
  • Start the day with breakfast at La Capilla, a cozy café with homemade pastries
  • Visit Bowers Museum, an extraordinary showcase of international art and cultural exhibits
  • Take a stroll at the indoor/outdoor vibrant 4th Street Market and have lunch at the Korean-Mexican fusion food truck, Dos Chinos
  • Check out the Wylie and May Louise Jones Gallery's contemporary art exhibits
  • Have dinner at Playground DTSA, an innovative restaurant serving Californian cuisine with a hint of European flavors
  • Spend the day at Disneyland, a world-class amusement park with thrilling rides and magical experiences
  • Have lunch at the Blue Bayou Restaurant, where you can dine on Creole-style cuisine while watching boats float by on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride
  • Shop until you drop at the South Coast Plaza, a luxurious shopping center with high-end brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton
  • Have dinner at AnQi, a stylish Asian fusion restaurant with a chic atmosphere
  • Catch a movie at the nearby ultra-luxury theater: The Lot
  • Start the day early and hike at Peters Canyon Regional Park, a beautiful nature reserve with stunning views
  • Relax and recharge at the nearby Glen Ivy Hot Springs, a peaceful resort with therapeutic water treatments and massages
  • Have lunch at the casual and friendly Ruby's Diner, serving classic American dishes
  • Take a ride on the vintage Orange County Great Park Balloon, offering breathtaking views of the city
  • Have dinner at the renowned Italian restaurant Antonello Ristorante, known for their homemade pastas and cozy atmosphere
  • Visit the Heritage Museum of Orange County, perfect for learning about the history of the city
  • Have lunch at Taqueria El Zamorano, a local favorite for authentic Mexican food
  • Spend the afternoon at the Old Courthouse Museum, an iconic landmark and an architectural masterpiece
  • Take a walk around the historic Old Town Orange Plaza, with charming shops and a romantic atmosphere
  • Have a candlelit prix fixe dinner at The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, showcasing contemporary Californian cuisine and an extensive wine list

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.

More travel plans

Art, Culture, & Budget Fun: 2 Days in Santa Ana

A trip to Santa Ana on a limited budget can offer plenty of options for affordable fun. Visitors can explore the city's vibrant art scene, visit historical landmarks like the Bowers Museum, or enjoy outdoor activities at local parks and nature reserves. With plenty of budget-friendly accommodation, dining, and transportation options available, Santa Ana is a great destination for travelers seeking an affordable and exciting getaway.

Budget-Friendly Fun: Santa Ana in 3 Days

Santa Ana, United States, is a perfect destination for travelers on a budget. Visitors can admire stunning murals and sculptures in the city's downtown area or take the kids to explore Discovery Cube. Save money by eating at local food trucks and staying in budget accommodations like Motel 6 or the Red Roof Inn.

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.

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.