Explore the Historic Charm of Downtown Santa Ana
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Downtown Santa Ana, where beautiful architecture meets contemporary attractions.
Downtown Santa Ana Historic District is a vibrant area steeped in history, featuring stunning architecture, local shops, and cultural attractions. Ideal for tourists seeking a rich blend of heritage and modernity.
A brief summary to Downtown Santa Ana Historic District
- Santa Ana, Lacy, California, 92701, US
Local tips
- Take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history and architecture of the district.
- Visit on a Saturday to enjoy the local farmer's market, offering fresh produce and unique crafts.
- Check out the local art galleries, many of which host free exhibition openings on the first Friday of each month.
- Plan a visit in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Santa Ana using the nearest freeway. The Downtown Santa Ana Historic District is located at 33.7477° N, 117.8667° W. From the I-5 freeway, take the exit for 4th St and head east. Continue on 4th St until you reach Main St. Turn left onto Main St. You can find parking in various lots around the district. Expect to pay around $1-2 per hour for parking. Be mindful of the parking regulations to avoid fines.
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Public Transportation - Bus
If you are using public transportation, check the local bus schedules. The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) operates buses that service the area. Look for routes that connect to the Santa Ana Transit Center. Once at the Transit Center, you can either walk or take a local bus (like the 60 or 64 lines) towards Main St. The Downtown Santa Ana Historic District is just a short walk from the bus stops. The fare for a single ride is about $2.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you prefer taking the train, you can use the Metrolink service. Board a train heading to Santa Ana Station. Once you arrive at the Santa Ana Station, you can walk about 0.5 miles to the Downtown Historic District. Alternatively, you can take a local bus (OCTA) from the station to reach your destination. A train ticket may cost around $5, depending on your departure point.
Discover more about Downtown Santa Ana Historic District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Minter House 1877 Landmark
0.4 km
Uncover the rich history and architectural elegance of Minter House, a captivating 1877 landmark in the heart of Santa Ana, California.
Santa Ana Water Tower
1.1 km
Discover the Santa Ana Water Tower, a historical landmark reflecting the heritage and charm of Santa Ana, California.
Political And Economic Rights Monument
2.4 km
Explore the Political and Economic Rights Monument in Santa Ana, a significant historical landmark celebrating democracy and human rights.
David Hewes House
3.8 km
Explore the David Hewes House, a historical landmark in Tustin, California, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich heritage.
C.Z Culver House
4.3 km
Explore the C.Z Culver House, a historical landmark in Orange, CA, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich local history.
Parker House
4.5 km
Explore Parker House, a historical gem in Orange, California, showcasing the region's unique architectural charm and rich heritage for all history enthusiasts.
The Plaza
4.6 km
Explore The Plaza in Orange, CA - a historical landmark that embodies the charm and culture of California's past, perfect for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Lewis Ainsworth House
4.7 km
Experience the historical elegance of the Lewis Ainsworth House, a captivating landmark in Orange, California, reflecting the rich heritage of the area.
The Shaffer House
4.9 km
Explore The Shaffer House, a historical landmark in Orange, CA, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich heritage that narrates the area's vibrant history.
Crean Tower
5.4 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning architecture of Crean Tower, a must-visit landmark in Garden Grove, California.
Visit Anaheim
5.8 km
Explore Anaheim with Visit Anaheim Tourist Information Center – your gateway to unforgettable adventures and local insights.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
6.3 km
Discover the artistic heart of Costa Mesa at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, where captivating performances and stunning architecture await.
City National Grove of Anaheim
6.4 km
Discover the excitement of live performances at City National Grove of Anaheim, a premier venue for concerts, comedy, and performing arts in Southern California.
Unity Bridge
6.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty of Unity Bridge in Costa Mesa, California, where stunning views and modern design meet for a perfect outing.
South Coast Plaza
6.6 km
Explore South Coast Plaza, a luxurious shopping destination in Costa Mesa offering high-end boutiques, fine dining, and vibrant art experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yost Theater
0.1 km
Discover the magic of live performances at Yost Theater, Santa Ana's premier venue for music and arts, where history meets modern entertainment.
The Frida Cinema
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant indie movie experience at The Frida Cinema in Santa Ana, showcasing diverse films and engaging community events.
The Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum
0.3 km
Explore the Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum in Santa Ana - a unique blend of history, architecture, and medical intrigue.
Old Orange County Courthouse
0.4 km
Discover the historic Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, an architectural gem and cultural landmark showcasing the rich heritage of Orange County.
Bowers Museum
1.8 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and exquisite art collections at Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, a must-see for every traveler.
Discovery Cube
2.5 km
Explore hands-on exhibits and interactive science activities at Discovery Cube in Santa Ana, a family-friendly attraction that ignites curiosity and learning.
Marconi Automotive Museum
4.4 km
Explore the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin, CA, and immerse yourself in a world of exotic and antique automobiles that define automotive excellence.
Plaza Park
4.6 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Plaza Park, a serene urban oasis in Orange, California, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Hilbert Museum of California Art
4.7 km
Explore California's artistic legacy at the Hilbert Museum, where creativity meets culture in a vibrant and welcoming setting.
Pitcher Park
4.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere of Pitcher Park in Orange, California - a perfect getaway for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Heritage Museum of Orange County
5.1 km
Explore the Heritage Museum of Orange County and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this vibrant region through engaging exhibits and preserved structures.
Christ Cathedral
5.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, California - a blend of modern architecture and spiritual tranquility.
Angel Stadium
6.0 km
Discover the excitement of Angel Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Angels, where unforgettable baseball memories come to life in Anaheim, California.
Orange County Museum of Art
6.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at the Orange County Museum of Art in Costa Mesa, where creativity and culture thrive.
South Coast Plaza Carousel
6.6 km
Experience the magic of nostalgia at the South Coast Plaza Carousel, a charming ride that delights visitors of all ages in Costa Mesa, California.
Essential places to dine
Maggiano's Little Italy
6.3 km
Experience the heart of Italy at Maggiano's Little Italy in Costa Mesa—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Leatherby's Cafe Rouge
6.4 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Leatherby's Cafe Rouge near Segerstrom Center for the Arts - where fine dining meets vibrant culture.
Vaca
6.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Spain at Vaca, Costa Mesa's premier destination for authentic tapas and fine wines.
Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar
6.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine dining and casual elegance at Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar in Costa Mesa.
Water Grill
6.5 km
Experience unparalleled seafood dining at Water Grill in Costa Mesa - where freshness meets flavor in every bite.
Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar- Costa Mesa
6.5 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar in Costa Mesa – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Costa Contemporary Kitchen
6.6 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine redefined at Costa Contemporary Kitchen in Costa Mesa's vibrant South Coast Metro.
Knife Pleat
6.6 km
Experience fine dining at Knife Pleat in Costa Mesa—where exquisite flavors meet artistic presentation for an unforgettable meal.
Tableau Kitchen and Bar
6.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at Tableau Kitchen and Bar in Costa Mesa with innovative dishes and an inviting atmosphere.
Quattro Caffé
6.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Quattro Caffé in Costa Mesa - a culinary gem offering delightful dishes and warm hospitality.
The Capital Grille
6.7 km
Discover unparalleled fine dining at The Capital Grille in Costa Mesa, where exquisite steaks and seafood meet an extensive wine selection.
Seasons 52
6.7 km
Experience fresh seasonal flavors at Seasons 52 in Costa Mesa—where health meets fine dining in an inviting atmosphere.
Populaire Modern Bistro
6.7 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of modern cuisine and local flavors at Populaire Modern Bistro in Costa Mesa.
Blossoms & Brass
6.8 km
Experience an exquisite fusion of Asian flavors and Italian classics at Blossoms & Brass in Costa Mesa's vibrant South Coast Plaza.
AnQi Bistro - Modern Asian Cuisine & Private Dining in Costa Mesa, CA
6.9 km
Experience the best of modern Asian fusion cuisine at AnQi Bistro in Costa Mesa - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Outlets at Orange
4.6 km
Explore a vast selection of brand-name stores at The Outlets at Orange, where shopping meets entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.
Von Karman Plaza
6.2 km
Experience the vibrant shopping and dining at Von Karman Plaza, a premier destination in Irvine, California, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Missoni
6.3 km
Discover the luxurious world of Missoni at South Coast Plaza, where vibrant Italian fashion meets impeccable style for the modern woman.
Sandhaya's Boutique
6.3 km
Explore Sandhaya's Boutique in Irvine for a unique blend of contemporary fashion and local artistry that captures the essence of California style.
UNIQLO South Coast Plaza
6.5 km
Explore stylish and affordable clothing for the entire family at UNIQLO South Coast Plaza - a shopper's paradise in California.
Amy's Hallmark Shop
6.6 km
Explore the charm of Amy's Hallmark Shop in Costa Mesa, where unique gifts and heartfelt greeting cards await to celebrate every occasion.
OMEGA Boutique - Costa Mesa
6.6 km
Explore the elegance and precision of luxury timepieces at OMEGA Boutique in Costa Mesa, a must-visit for watch enthusiasts and luxury shoppers.
The Wrapper
6.6 km
Explore The Wrapper in Costa Mesa, a charming gift shop offering unique presents, seasonal delights, and a whimsical shopping experience for all ages.
Cartier
6.6 km
Discover the timeless elegance of Cartier in Costa Mesa, where luxury meets sophistication in exquisite jewelry and fashion accessories.
The Webster South Coast Plaza
6.6 km
Discover luxury and style at The Webster South Coast Plaza, where high-end fashion meets an exquisite shopping experience.
A. Lange & Söhne Boutique Costa Mesa
6.7 km
Explore the exquisite world of luxury timepieces at A. Lange & Söhne Boutique in Costa Mesa, where craftsmanship meets elegance.
PLEASE DO NOT ENTER
6.7 km
Discover an eclectic mix of fashion accessories, art, and unique jewelry at PLEASE DO NOT ENTER in Costa Mesa, California's vibrant South Coast Plaza.
ZillyMonkey
6.8 km
Discover unique gifts and whimsical treasures at ZillyMonkey, a must-visit gift shop in Irvine, California, perfect for tourists seeking special souvenirs.
The Square
6.8 km
Explore the vibrant shopping and dining experience at The Square in Irvine, California, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Diamond Jamboree Shopping Center
7.2 km
Experience the lively Diamond Jamboree Shopping Center in Irvine, a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment perfect for all visitors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
M BAR
6.6 km
Experience the stylish ambiance and exceptional cocktails at M BAR, Costa Mesa's premier destination for a chic night out.
K1 Paddock Lounge - Sports Bar & Restaurant - Irvine, CA
6.6 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at K1 Paddock Lounge in Irvine, where thrilling races meet delicious dining in a lively setting.
TheCave Sports Bar
7.0 km
Experience the thrill of live sports at TheCave Sports Bar in Anaheim, where the atmosphere is electric and the food is delicious.
Lopez & Lefty's
7.1 km
Experience the energy of live sports and delicious dining at Lopez & Lefty's, Anaheim's premier sports bar.
Hangar 24 Orange County
7.1 km
Discover the lively brewpub experience at Hangar 24 Orange County, where craft beer meets delicious food and live music in a vibrant setting.
Thirty Four Bar & Bistro
7.7 km
Discover the delightful fusion of bar and bistro at Thirty Four Bar & Bistro in Irvine, California, for an unforgettable dining experience.
Mesa
7.8 km
Discover the sophisticated blend of gourmet dining and vibrant nightlife at Mesa in Costa Mesa, California.
Foundation Room Anaheim
7.8 km
Discover the ultimate venue for dining and entertainment at Foundation Room Anaheim, where fine dining meets vibrant nightlife in a stunning atmosphere.
The Huddle
7.8 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and friendly atmosphere at The Huddle, Costa Mesa's go-to bar for craft drinks and great company.
The Front Room Lounge
7.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Front Room Lounge in Anaheim, where refreshing drinks meet a cozy ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
FLOE Lounge
7.9 km
Experience the sophisticated ambiance and delightful menu at FLOE Lounge, a perfect retreat in the heart of Irvine, California.
Y.N.K
7.9 km
Discover culinary excellence at Y.N.K Restaurant in Irvine, where exceptional flavors and a welcoming atmosphere await every guest.
Kitsch Bar
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Costa Mesa at Kitsch Bar, where eclectic decor meets an exciting drink menu.
The Guild Club
8.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at The Guild Club, a must-visit bar in Costa Mesa, California.
RISE Rooftop Lounge
8.0 km
Discover the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere at RISE Rooftop Lounge in Anaheim, a perfect retreat for tourists seeking a unique bar experience.
