Exploring the Diverse Delights of Santa Ana, California

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore the diverse delights of Santa Ana, California, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the city’s vibrant arts scene, rich history, and exciting attractions.

Santa Ana pulsates with energy. It’s a city where cultures collide and creativity thrives.

This vibrant city of Southern California city has cultural gems, historical sites, green spaces, and family-friendly attractions. With 310,227 residents, this is Orange County’s second largest city. Yet Santa Ana retains a small-town soul beneath its bustling veneer.

So, what exactly can you do here? Let’s dive into the top things to do in Santa Ana, California:

1. Connect with Nature at the Santa Ana Zoo

The 20-acre Santa Ana Zoo is a delightful retreat. Located at 1801 E Chestnut Ave, it’s home to over 120 species, many native to Central and South America. Don’t miss these highlights:

• The Crean Family Farm, where kids can pet sheep, goats and pot-bellied pigs

• The Zoofari Express, a mini-train that winds through the zoo

• The Colors of the Amazon Aviary, a walk-through exhibit with exotic birds

Pro tip: Bring quarters to feed the goats and sheep at the farm! The zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Santa Ana California for families.

2. Step Back in Time at Santa Ana’s Museums

• Bowers Museum is a cultural gem. Housed in a 1936 Mission Revival building, it boasts an impressive collection spanning 120,000 objects. Key exhibits include:

  • Spirits and Headhunters: Art of the Pacific Islands

  • Ancient Arts of China: A 5000 Year Legacy

  • First Californians, showcasing Native American art and artifacts

     

• Heritage Museum of Orange County is housed in a restored 1898 Kellogg House and had lush historic gardens. The 12-acre nature preserve is a cultural and natural history centre that features hands-on exhibits.

  • Rocket Lab, where they can learn about space exploration

  • Eco Challenge, an immersive exhibit about environmental conservation

  • The Dino Quest, featuring life-size dinosaur replicas

  • The Kellogg House, an 1898 Queen Anne style home

Pro tip: Allow at least 2-3 hours to browse the exhibits.

3. Explore the Downtown Santa Ana Historic District

The heart of Santa Ana is its downtown historic district. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this area is packed with preserved early 20th-century architecture, galleries, theatres, artisanal shops, etc. Top spots to visit downtown:

• The 1913 Yost Theater, a historic vaudeville theater-turned-performing arts venue

• Grand Central Arts Center, which hosts contemporary art exhibits and performances

• 4th Street Market, a trendy food hall with local vendors

• Mural Walk in Downtown Santa Ana that has over 60 murals

Pro tip: Do not miss the colorful murals that adorn many buildings. They tell the story of Santa Ana’s history and culture.

4. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping with Outdoor Activities

• Channel your inner ninja at the American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park, an obstacle course park, and test your agility on challenges like warped walls, cargo nets, rope swings, etc. The park offers classes, open gym sessions, and special events.

• Aviation aficionado should make a beeline for the Lyon Air Museum. This museum houses a fascinating collection of historic aircraft and vehicles, including vintage military planes, rare automobiles, WWII memorabilia

5. Sample Local Flavours of Santa Ana

Foodies, come hungry. Santa Ana is known for its diverse, flavorful cuisine, especially authentic Hispanic fare. Must-try dishes:

• Tamales – steamed masa dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves. Find them at Sarinana’s Tamale Factory.

• Tacos – soft or crispy tortillas topped with meat, onions, cilantro, and salsa. Try the carnitas tacos at El Rincon Chilango.

• Tortas – Mexican-style sandwiches on crusty rolls, piled high with meat, cheese, avocado, onions, and jalapeños. Don’t miss the ahogada (drowned) torta at Las Barcas, smothered in spicy salsa.

For global flavors, head to 4th Street Market or McFadden Public Market. These food halls host an eclectic mix of local vendors serving up everything from poke bowls to wood-fired pizza to gourmet waffles.

6. Attend Community Events

Santa Ana hosts a variety of community events throughout the year. A few highlights:

• Artwalk – on the first Saturday of each month, local galleries and studios open their doors for an evening of art, music, and food.

• Fiestas Patrias – a two-day festival in September celebrating Mexican independence with live music, folkloric dance, artisan vendors, and traditional food.

• Noche de Altares – Santa Ana’s version of Día de los Muertos, featuring elaborate altars, face painting, live entertainment, and a traditional procession.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Santa Ana, California adventure today. This vibrant city is ready to welcome you with open arms.