Santa Ana’s art scene, incredible food, and nonstop nightlife make it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway. Wander through colorful street murals, hunt for vintage treasures, or sip your way through our Michelada Guide—all while soaking up the iconic Orange County sunshine.
Day 1: Get Your Art Fix
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Morning: Begin your day in Downtown Santa Ana, where creativity flows through the streets. Santa Ana is a living canvas, and you’ll find colors on every corner. Pro Tip: Stop by the “Under the Santa Ana Sun” mural for a selfie and a glimpse into our city’s diverse history.
Art lovers will want to explore two of the city’s cultural cornerstones:
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Grand Central Art Center – Operated in partnership with Cal State Fullerton, this multidisciplinary space showcases artists through immersive exhibitions, performances, and residencies.
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Orange County Center for Contemporary Art (OCCCA) – Just a short walk away, OCCCA is known for its edgy, thought-provoking work. Admission is free, and exhibits rotate frequently, so there’s always something new to see.
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Lunch: It's time to refuel! Santa Ana is a haven for foodies. Head to Alta Baja Market or try 4th Street Market, a food hall offering an array of global flavors from local culinary talent, all under one roof. If you're feeling thirsty, Cerveza Cito Brewery offers the most refreshing Micheladas prepared with craft beer brewed on-premise.
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Afternoon: Dive headfirst into Santa Ana's streetwear scene. Visit Stüssy Archive for iconic pieces and limited-edition finds. Then, head over to Nothing Usual for curated streetwear and independent brands.
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Evening: Wind down with a taste of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy sunset views and a craft cocktail at Native Son, a rooftop bar that captures the energy of Downtown while offering a relaxed, elevated experience.
Day 2: Explore and Indulge
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Morning: Start your day at Cafe Cultura. Grab a breakfast burrito or try los waffles—you won't be disappointed! Don’t forget to pair your hearty Mexican breakfast with their delicious cafecito.
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Afternoon: Get lost in the charming streets of Floral Park, with its cute houses and community gardens. Preserve Orange County offers regularly scheduled walking tours. To soak up a little more culture and old OC vibes, browse the collection at the Bowers Museum on North Main Street.
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Dinner: Treat yourself to a soup at And Broth, where the Vietnamese bone broth is as authentic as it gets. If you’re looking to mix and match some small plates, head to McFadden Public Market. You can sample creative dishes, handcrafted cocktails, local brews, and get your game on in their old-school arcade.
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Evening: Catch a live show at the Observatory or get cozy by the jukebox at the Mission Bar, voted one of California's top ten dive bars!
Where to Stay?
Hotel Zessa, a DoubleTree by Hilton: Freshly renovated and full of SoCal charm, this spot offers a modern stay close to the airport and Downtown Santa Ana. Cool off by the pool or unwind at the cozy on-site bar after a day exploring the city.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana: Located near downtown, this hotel provides a comfortable and central home base with easy access to galleries, shopping, and nightlife. Bonus: breakfast is included!
Courtyard by Marriott, Santa Ana Orange County: Crisp rooms, a sleek outdoor lounge, and a café-style lobby make this spot feel more stylish than your average hotel. Plus, it’s just minutes from MainPlace Mall.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham, Santa Ana: A reliable pick for travelers looking for spacious rooms and easy amenities like a pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast.
Check out our full hotels page for more ideas about where to stay and book your weekend getaway!
Tips for Your Trip
- Best Time to Visit: As this is the OC, you can expect sunshine year-round. That said, spring and fall are ideal for balancing good weather and avoiding the crowds.
- Getting Around: Downtown Santa Ana is easy to explore on foot, but if you need to venture further, local buses, rideshares, and taxis make it simple to get around!
- What to Pack: If you’re planning a Santa Ana adventure, comfy clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are always a must.
Weekend trips to Santa Ana are perfect for anyone who loves art, food, and good vibes. So, what are you waiting for? Time to get planning!
