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7 Free Things To Do In Orange County

7 Free Things To Do In Orange County

 

There is no shortage of free things to do in Orange County. No matter what you’re interested in, you are sure to find a budget-friendly way to spend an afternoon. But with so many choices, how do you choose what to do next? In this article we’ll explore some great options as we look at 7 free things to do in Orange County.

1. Pirate’s Cave

24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr. (The trail starts behind the Ocean Institute)

Orange County is home to dozens of hiking paths and nature trails. At the top of the list has to be Pirate’s Cave because pirates, right? Also known as Dana Point Sea Coves, this 1.4 mile round trip hike offers easy access to a series of explorable caves and amazing tide pools.

To get there you will follow the path until you don’t think you can go any farther. At that point look to the right and you’ll see the entrance to Pirate’s Cave.

A couple of notes:

  • You will get wet
  • Water shoes are encouraged
  • Low tide provides the easiest access options

Remember, you’re visiting a public park so you should not take any shells or stones from the cave. If you find any treasure though…

2. Orange County Museum of Art

3333 Avenue of the Arts

First-time visitors and long-time patrons will always find something new to spark their curiosity at the Orange County Museum of Art. That’s because there are 4,500+ objects in the museum’s collection. Some of these are on permanent display while others are featured in rotating displays.

The focus of the museum is on artists and artwork from the 20th and 21st centuries with a distinctly Californian connection. This includes artists like:

In addition to contemplating displayed art, visitors can participate in guided tours, take a class, hear a speaker and explore their own artistic side in other ways.

3. Fullerton Arboretum and Botanical Garden

1900 Associated Rd

A visit to the Fullerton Arboretum and Botanical Garden offers more than just a chance to relax with nature. It presents an opportunity to:

  • explore
  • learn
  • appreciate

the beauty and diversity of California’s natural side (along with a touch of the world).

In one afternoon you can explore:

  • an orchard
  • a farm
  • flowers
  • woodlands
  • the desert
  • and
  • Mediterranean flora and fauna

4. Old Towne Orange

186 N Atchison St

Window shopping. People watching. Culture building. Do it all and more in Old Towne.

For over a century, Californians have been drawn to Plaza Park and the myriad of shops that surround it. It’s a great place to enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon or shop for a one-of-a-kind gift.

Many people visit Old Towne to enjoy the ambiance, sights and flavors of the seasonal festivals that are held there. As you visit, keep an eye out for current and future stars as this space has been the backdrop for many popular films and t.v. shows.

5.  Huntington Beach Pier

Main Street & Pacific Coast Highway

Day or night, there is always something to see on the Huntington Beach Pier.

The iconic 1,850 ft. pier enables you to:

  • Enjoy ocean views unlike any other
  • Relax as the waves roll in
  • Thrill to world-class surfers riding by
  • Catch a perfect view of the annual air show or catch dinner, literally, by trying your hand at fishing

At night the pier becomes a perfect spot for viewing the majestic California sunsets.

6. Black Star Canyon

13333 Black Star Canyon Rd

If you like your hikes dry (and with less pirates) you may want to wander through Black Star Canyon. There are a variety of trail options here – from easy beginner paths to more strenuous advanced hikes. A favorite path to take will lead you to the Black Star Canyon Falls.

The canyon is located in the Irvine Ranch Open Space. That means it comes with all of the beauty and potential dangers the natural world provides.

And while you’re on the trails if you happen to hear the faint sound of a woman crying, don’t be alarmed. It could just be the ghost of La Llorona who is said to haunt this area. On second thought, if you hear the cries of a ghost while hiking in the woods perhaps you should be (at least a little) alarmed.

7. Old Orange County Courthouse

211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.

The Old Orange County Courthouse is the perfect place for history lovers to spend an afternoon. Today this 120+ year-old building is a national and state landmark. When it was first built though, it was the center of the county government. Taking a tour of this three story structure is like taking a trip back in time.

The building was the scene of several seminal court cases. It’s also been a favorite of Hollywood with everyone from D.W. Griffith to Steven Spielberg setting scenes to celluloid there.

Orange County is loaded with great places to eat too, so after you decide on your adventure, you can find a perfect meal to pair it with.

Did you like this article? You might also like Best OC Hikes

Noell Wolfgram Evans

Noell Wolfgram Evans

Noell Wolfgram Evans is an author, playwright and two-time winner of the Thurber Treat award.