Historic Downtown Santa Ana is a hub of multicultural culinary flavors and artistic flair. It’s a community gathering place blending historic architecture with a modern pulse, filled with diverse restaurants, art galleries, and fun nightlife options.
For the cannabis-curious traveler, Downtown Santa Ana offers an inspired mix of history and culture, unique art, and culinary delights—which all pair perfectly with local cannabis products from the city’s top dispensaries. Whether you're looking for a creative boost, deep relaxation, or a heightened sensory experience as you nibble your way through downtown, this two-night, three-day itinerary will help you hit all the high points and make the most of your visit to the heart of “Downtown Orange County.”
Day 1: Check-in & Set the Vibes
Afternoon: Check into your stay for the weekend at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana, a home base that’s comfortable and convenient. After settling in, make your first dispensary stop at nearby Evergreen. Known for its quality selection, knowledgeable budtenders, and welcoming plant-filled space, it’s ideal for finding flowers or edibles tailored to your desired effect. Perhaps a zesty citrus-smelling cultivar to enliven your senses for the artful adventure ahead?
Evening: Immerse yourself in Santa Ana’s vibrant culinary scene with dinner at Lola Gaspar, a stylish eatery offering Latin-inspired tapas. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to The Yost, an iconic live music venue dating back to 1912. Whether it’s a local band or an immersive DJ set, music lovers will appreciate the sensory experience enhanced with a well-timed, low-dose gummy or cannabis beverage.
Day 2: Creative & Culinary Adventures in Effect Pairing
Morning: Start the day with a caffeine and creativity boost at Café Cultura, where a horchata-inspired latte might pair well with a floral strain. Then, explore the Downtown Santa Ana Historic Architecture Tour, highlighting architectural gems that make ideal settings for cannabis-enhanced contemplations.
Mid Morning: Head to Tropicanna Dispensary, where the welcoming atmosphere and extensive selection make it easy to find a strain suited for an afternoon of artistic discovery. Tropicanna is a legacy shop deeply committed to community culture - check out their "Local Products" shelf for items made in Orange County. Pick up a terpy vape or preroll or an uplifting edible with citrus flavor notes before diving into Santa Ana’s renowned art scene.
Lunch: Visit 4th Street Market, a foodie haven featuring a rotating lineup of diverse vendors, including Recess Bar and Alta Baja Market. This culinary stop, which incorporates bold murals and a community vibe, offers the perfect starting point for the afternoon.
Afternoon: Stroll through the Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk (held the first Saturday of each month), where local artists showcase their work in galleries and street pop-ups. Alternatively, take a self-guided public art tour using Travel Santa Ana’s public art guide. Vivid street art dots the city - you can even find murals at dispensaries. Try pairing this colorful experience with a cannabis product with a floral aroma that can help heighten your appreciation of the dynamic visual storytelling.
Evening: For dinner, Perla Mexican Cuisine delivers a delightful dining experience with authentic flavors. Before eating, look for a myrcene-forward, gassy, or peppery-smelling product from Farmacy Santa Ana—your final dispensary stop. Farmacy offers a boutique experience centered on personalized customer service and education, with sections dedicated to wellness, BIPOC-owned brands, and award-winning Emerald Triangle farms.
Afterward, if you’re in the mood for a social night out, join in on Dancing in the Streets (held three Saturdays a month), one of many lively events held downtown, or check out McFadden Public Market, where live music, trivia nights, and open mics provide a spirited sendoff.
Day 3: A Relaxing Wind-Down
Morning: Ease into your final day with breakfast at Alta Baja Market, known for its regional Mexican and Southwestern flavors, heirloom ingredients, and seasonal fare. A CBD-infused coffee or tea can help bring balance after the weekend’s adventures.
Midday: Before departing, make one last cultural stop at the OC History Center at the Old Orange County Courthouse or the Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum. These historic sites provide a fascinating look at Santa Ana’s past—made even more thought-provoking with the right elevated mindset.
See you in Santa Ana.
Santa Ana’s Historic Downtown provides the perfect backdrop for a cannabis-friendly getaway filled with art, food, and cultural experiences. By starting your journey at a local shop and choosing products and flavors that suit the many inviting activities to explore, you’re set for an unforgettable weekend in beautiful Historic Downtown Santa Ana.
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to cannabis, this curated itinerary ensures a thoughtfully elevated adventure. Be sure to consume responsibly, follow local regulations regarding cannabis use, and read the Know Before You Go Guide as you plan your trip.
