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Plaza Park: The Heart of Old Towne Orange
Discover Plaza Park in Old Towne Orange: a historic gathering place with a central fountain, surrounded by antique shops and community events.
Plaza Park, also known as the Orange Plaza, is the centerpiece of Downtown Orange, California. Unlike most cities, Orange was built around the park, creating a unique traffic circle. The park is easily recognized by its central fountain and is surrounded by historic buildings, antique shops, and restaurants.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Plaza Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
5 am-2 am
Tuesday
5 am-2 am
Wednesday
5 am-2 am
Thursday
5 am-2 am
Friday
5 am-2 am
Saturday
5 am-2 am
Sunday
5 am-2 am
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Getting There
Walking
Plaza Park is located in the heart of Old Towne Orange, easily accessible on foot from most surrounding locations. From the Orange Transportation Center (Metrolink station), walk south on Atchison Street, then turn left onto Chapman Avenue and continue to the Plaza. The park is located at the center of the traffic circle. There are no costs associated with walking to the park.
Public Transport
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) provides bus service to the Plaza area. Several bus routes, including 54, 56, 59 and 453, have stops near Plaza Square. From the bus stops, it is a short walk to the park. A single ride on OCTA bus costs $2.
Driving
Plaza Park is located at the intersection of Chapman Avenue and Glassell Street in Orange. Parking is available in the surrounding areas, including street parking and public parking lots. Metered street parking is available, and time limits may apply. The Lemon Street Parking Structure is located a few blocks away. Parking rates vary, but typically range from $1-$2 per hour. Be aware of permit parking areas.
Local tips
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Visit on Saturdays for the Orange Home Grown Farmers and Artisans Market.
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Explore the antique shops and specialty boutiques surrounding the plaza.
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Attend one of the many community events held in the park throughout the year.
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Take a leisurely stroll around the park to admire the historic architecture and mature trees.
Discover more about Plaza Park
Plaza Park, the heart of Old Towne Orange, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and enduring community spirit. Originally a trash-filled vacant lot in the 1870s, local merchant Robert L. Crowder transformed it into a tree-filled square with water troughs for farmers and ranchers. In 1887, the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors approved plans for the Plaza, leading to the creation of Orange's first park.
The park's central fountain, initially funded by community bake sales, has been a focal point since its installation. The current fountain, dating back to 1937, features colorful tile work and is surrounded by mature trees, some planted in the late 1800s. Plaza Park and the surrounding Old Towne Orange Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, Plaza Park continues to be a vibrant gathering place, hosting community events like the Orange International Street Fair, Treats in the Streets Autumn Festival, and the Tree Lighting Ceremony. The park is surrounded by a diverse mix of businesses, including antique shops, specialty boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Plaza embodies the charm of a small town within a mid-sized city, offering a welcoming environment for all.
A brief summary to Plaza Park
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