Neighborhoods

Santa Ana is home to 64 distinct neighborhoods hosting year-round events and activities, which bring together a diverse community of residents and visitors. Neighborhoods range from college districts to historic enclaves brimming with architectural treasures to chic, modern developments — all offering their own special character and ease of access to local businesses and entertainment venues. 

Downtown Santa Ana, CA

Upon exploring Downtown Santa Ana’s historic and eclectic streets, you’ll discover a range of cultural entertainment, food, and beverage offerings, with events and gatherings hosted year-round. 

There are a few sub-districts in the Downtown Santa Ana neighborhood, each offering a unique flavor and personality — including the Civic Center District, the Artists Village, Calle Cuatro (4th Street), and the East End. 

From regular happenings, like the Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk hosted each first Saturday of the month, to an impressive lineup of local restaurants constantly innovating and updating their offerings, to a mix of shops ranging from small, locally owned boutiques to eclectic art galleries, and record stores, it’s a neighborhood perfect for exploring while soaking in the sunny Southern California weather. 

Photo credit: John Bare Photography

French Park 

French Park is one of Santa Ana’s oldest neighborhoods, known for its historic charm and diverse mix of tight-knit community members. This 20-square-block district sits just northeast of downtown in a central location, with walkable access to multiple restaurants and entertainment options. You’ll encounter rows of storybook streets lined with lush landscaping and Victorian, Neoclassical, craftsman bungalow-style, and Colonial Revival homes, taking you back to a simpler era. 

Floral Park

The Floral Park area of Santa Ana is known for its strong neighborhood feeling and charming custom homes. More than 100 homes in Floral Park have stood the test of time, and the neighborhood recently earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to the community camaraderie, Floral Park offers easy access to downtown Santa Ana’s walkable lineup of impressive local businesses, including restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. 

Those are just a few of the many neighborhoods to discover in Santa Ana, California.

Walking Tours

Preserve Orange County’s walking tours offer a unique opportunity to explore three of Santa Ana’s most historically significant districts—French Park, Downtown Santa Ana, and Floral Park—all listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours highlight the city’s rich architectural heritage, from the vibrant Queen Anne homes and early 20th-century residences of French Park to the civic landmarks and commercial blocks of Downtown Santa Ana, and the elegant 1920s–30s revival styles of Floral Park. Along the way, guests will learn about the people, events, and preservation efforts that have shaped these neighborhoods. Some tours even include rare chances to step inside beautifully preserved landmark homes.