Things to Do in Santa Ana, California
Looking for things to do in Santa Ana? Start with the places, flavors and experiences that give this Orange County city its own point of view.
Spend the morning exploring a museum, take the family to a hands-on science center or the zoo, then head to Downtown Santa Ana for public art, independent shops, restaurants, live music and events. Santa Ana makes it easy to build a day around what interests you, whether that means art and history, family time, food, shopping or a night out.
Discover Santa Ana Attractions
Some of Orange County’s most recognizable cultural and family attractions are right here in Santa Ana.
Explore art and cultures from around the world at Bowers Museum, get hands-on with science at Discovery Cube Orange County, or spend time outdoors at the Santa Ana Zoo. You can also step into local and Orange County history at historic sites throughout the city or find entertainment ranging from independent film to live concerts.
Ready to start planning? Explore more attractions in Santa Ana and find places to add to your itinerary.
Experience Arts, Culture and Santa Ana History
Santa Ana’s creative side is easy to find, especially in Downtown Santa Ana. Murals stretch across building walls and alleys, independent galleries showcase local and regional artists, and venues bring film, music and live performances to the city throughout the year.
History is part of the experience, too. Santa Ana’s museums and historic sites tell stories about Orange County’s people, architecture and past, while landmarks throughout downtown offer another reason to explore on foot.
Discover more arts and entertainment or plan a visit to Santa Ana’s museums and historic sites.
Find Things to Do with Kids
Families can mix learning, play and time outdoors without traveling far between stops.
Interactive exhibits at Discovery Cube Orange County turn science into hands-on fun. The Santa Ana Zoo combines animals, gardens and family attractions, while local parks provide room to play and recharge. Downtown adds another option for families, with colorful public art and casual places to eat nearby.
Find more ideas for things to do with kids in Santa Ana.
Shop, Eat and Explore Downtown Santa Ana
Leave time to explore beyond the major attractions.
Santa Ana’s shopping ranges from independent stores and vintage finds to MainPlace Mall. Downtown Santa Ana brings restaurants, shops, public art and entertainment together within a compact district, making it easy to pair several experiences in one outing.
Food deserves a place in your plans, too. Santa Ana’s dining scene reflects the people and cultures that shape the city, with longtime local favorites alongside newer restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, bars and creative kitchens.
Browse shopping in Santa Ana or find restaurants in Santa Ana to build around your day.
Get Outside or Stay Out Late
Need a break outdoors? Explore Santa Ana’s parks and outdoor spaces for places to walk, play or slow down between stops.
When the sun goes down, the city keeps going. Catch a concert, see an independent film, meet friends for drinks or check what is happening at venues around town. Santa Ana’s nightlife gives you plenty of reasons to extend your visit into the evening.
See What’s Happening in Santa Ana
Events can completely change what a day in Santa Ana looks like. Art walks, cultural celebrations, concerts, markets, food events and annual festivals bring people together throughout the year.
Before you visit, check the Santa Ana events calendar to see what is happening during your stay.
Whether you have a few hours, a full day or a weekend, use these guides to build a Santa Ana experience around what you want to see, eat and do.
