Old Towne Orange

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The town of Orange was built around a central plaza, dating from before the incorporation of the city (in 1888). To this day, it remains the central meeting point in the city. A quaint remnant, with much history and culture. There are great coffee shops and restaurants to replenish yourself at, so don't miss out!

Antiques

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The Old Towne of Orange is home to many antique shops. It is the haven for collectors world-wide and is a great place especially to search for Americana items. Try the Orange Circle Antique Mall (at 118 Glassell).

Festivals and Fairs

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If you time your visit around Labor Day Weekend, you will not regret it one bit! Get a feel of the community at the International Street Fair. They have Italian Street, Greek Street, and more. Basically, you'll be forced (by your own stomach) to try everything there. There are also great little booths of different organizations handing out information pamphlets, raffle tickets, and other fun freebies. Don't miss it!

The Block

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This is one of the best hangout spots for all ages. You will find an entire day is easily passed at the Block with the loads of restaurants, activities, and shopping available. Located at 20 City Drive, just off from where the I-5 and 22 fwy meet.

Shopping

The ultimate location for shopping for skaters and surfers mandates that shops like PacSun, Ron Jon, and Beach Bums Boardshops are included in the list. If your style is main-stream, there are also anchor stores such as Old Navy, Anchor Blue, and more. Ecko Ultd adds an urban flare to the list. Looking for things other than clothing and shoes? There are specialty shops galore, so just check out one of their directories when you arrive and you'll find what satisfies your needs.

Entertainment

Where on earth would you start if you wanted to be entertained? Well, you could, for one, try a matinée at the AMC Theaters, featuring 30 screens and digital 3D showings. There's also a great bowling alley to be found at the retro-style Lucky Strike Lanes. If you want more gaming and less sports, head over to D&B's (Dave and Buster's). They have billiards, games, and a great bar. Please remember that no minors (under 21) are allowed without a guardian (25+). If you're looking for the skating crowd, glide over to the Van's Skate Park (see below for more information).

Food

The selection of eateries at the Block is vast and wide. You'll find something there to satisfy nearly every appetite. I recommend Cafe Tu Tu Tango, the Alcatraz Brewing Co., and Johnny Rockets.

Van's Skate Park

The perfect destination, and essentially world-hub for all skaters. The Van's Skatepark in Orange is the largest on the planet, and one of the most technically advanced. Located at the Block of Orange.

The Village

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What used to be the Orange Mall is now The Village at Orange. It's anchor stores are Old Navy, Walmart, Sears, and JCPenney. While the renovation has brought a beautiful design to the place, I am obligated to inform that it is still just a regular American mall. Go here if you need any of the necessities.

Orange Hill Restaurant

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This place is in a category of it's own. Some of the finer American dining, accompanied by great service, and nestled in the hills of Orange, providing one of the best panoramas in the entire county. Try to get there just before sunset, so you can view it as you enjoy your meal. Make reservations always, and try to catch their new weekend brunch if the timing lines up. Restaurant's website and reservation system: http://www.theorangehillrestaurant.com/.

Connect With Nature

Irvine Park

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Attractions at this 477-acre park include the Orange County Zoo (see below for more information), nature center, lagoon, a mini-railroad, pedal boats, bike rentals, picnic areas with barbecues, and several miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails. (Map)

Orange County Zoo

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Visit your furry friends, and foes, at the O.C. Zoo. I personally love hanging out around the ocelot, but the brown bear is also reasonably friendly (just don't get too close!). For the kids and kids-at-heart, there's a petting zoo with a very sweet billy goat and more of his buds.

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

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This is a picturesque place to interact with nature and view it as is meant to be. You'll find a small natural history museum, ponds, a bird observation porch and feeders, relaxing patio and picnic areas, and some great hiking trails. (Map)

The Beach

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Head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun. Laying out over the sand (and a towel) on a warm day is a great way to catch rays, catch up on your reading, or perhaps even catch a date. Beaches in Newport Beach city limits include Newport, Balboa, and Corona Del Mar.

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Is the water more your style? Great, because Newport has some amazing surfing and body-boarding ready waves.

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Grab a board and head out to the water, it's usually warm enough to go without a wetsuit year round, so take advantage!

Balboa Fun Zone

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This area really was great for kids of all ages. There is a merry-go-round, ferris wheel, and a whole bunch of history (it's been around since 1936). Unfortunately, they have been dismembering the Fun Zone for the past couple of years and nothing else remains besides the two rides. In its place will stand a nautical museum sometime in the future.

The Piers

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The picturesque Newport Pier provides not only for lovely photographs, but also has a great little restaurant towards the end of it. It's a romantic little place, and you're best off to be seated just before sunset.

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Balboa pier is at the more southern end of the Newport Beach strip. It's a great place for fishing for smaller fish, so be sure to grab your reel and rod before leaving home. If you're lucky, you can even see some starfish at low tide. To finish off a long day, don't forget to stop into Ruby's (on the pier) for a burger and a shake.

Newport Harbor

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Newport Harbor is touted as one of the finest small boat harbors in the world. Both visitors and locals take advantage of the many boat rental and yacht charter opportunities to enjoy the Harbor’s beauty.

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Unfortunately for them, but fortunately for boaters, the city of Newport Beach is trying to push out all sea lions from the harbor. However, maybe you can catch one of these cuties on camera, poking their heads out from the water.

OC Museum of Art

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If you're an art and design fanatic like myself, a must is to stop over at the Orange County Museum of Art. They have a rotating collection and tons of exhibits. Check their site for more information.

Fashion Island

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Who wouldn't love to spend the day at the mall. Entrapping the essence of every lady's fantasy, Fashion Island is an aesthetically beautiful and fully loaded place to indeed use up the entire day and night on. With anchor stores, like Bloomingdale's, Macy's, and Neiman Marcus and plenty of boutique shops, you're sure to find the right outfit for the occasion. As a special treat, stop into Teusher Chocolates and Cafe to enjoy one of their delicious, gourmet truffles.

Newport Aquatic Center

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Before you get ready to leave Newport Beach, be sure you checked off the Newport Aquatic Center on your list. They have classes and rentals for kayaking and rowing. I personally prefer the kayaks, but either way both are great to roam around the water in. Enjoy Newport!

Sundress or Sarong

Ladies, this is your chance to make a great first impression with that hot guy laying on the sand as you pass by. Show off those sexy legs of yours and a little cleavage too. You will want a loose fitting sundress or sarong. Comfort is as important as style and color.

Bikini or Swimsuit

The most important thing about your bikini is that it fits properly. Head to the local bikini shop or at your nearby mall. Select a design that works well with your body type. Then look for colors and patterns. Guys seem to love vibrant colors and especially when on a string bikini.

Sandals

Your shoes should compliment the rest of your attire. The beach is all about sand and water. Flats are most appropriate for this occasion. Rubber beach thongs, or leather sandals are fantastic!

Towel

Beach towels come in a large variety of colors and patterns. Lightweight towels dry faster than the thick plus ones. You will be laying on this for the good part of the day. It is your choice. Matching your swimwear never hurts.

Sunglasses

You get what you pay for, especially with sunglasses. The $5 pairs you find at the gas stations do not protect your eyes. Invest in a good pair of polarized sunglasses. A larger frame is especially nice for the beach.

Sunscreen for body, face and lips

Hawaiian Tropic, Tropical Blend, Banana Boat, and Coppertone, are all good brands of sunscreen. Bring a minimum of SPF 15 and apply frequently. For those hard to reach areas, ask one of the guys for assistance.

Hat

Beach hats are practical and stylish. Go neutral tones to match everything or something bright to match your outfit. We must protect our beautiful skin.

Limited cash

Stash your credit cards in the trunk of your locked car, but try to carry less than $20 cash on hand. It is easy to return to your car for more money if needed.

iPod and Cellphone

Like American Express cards, never leave home without them.

Anytime you park your car whether it is at the beach or a mall, never leave anything in plain sight. Leave your valuables at home or secure them in the trunk. Remember, “out of sight, out of mind”!

Be safe and enjoy your day at the beach!

One thing that can get lost in all of the glitzy and fun atmosphere of the state's more popular attractions is just how beautiful the natural scenery of California can be. If you're looking for a holiday retreat, but one that's still environment friendly, Laguna is a great destination.

A young woman enjoying sunflowers at a local florist.

While they are each separate cities, we are grouping together Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, and Laguna Woods into one (Las Lagunas - Spanish: The Lagoons - I like to call them).

Laguna Beach

The Laguna Shore

Laguna has always been one of the best beaches, in my mind. While it can be a little more rocky than other Orange County beaches, it is so beautiful and has many lovely nature reserves and spectacular view points.

Laguna Hills, Niguel, and Woods are mostly residential areas, so the Beach and its surroundings are the real hot spots. Don't forget to check out the amazing tide pool by Heisler Park.

Tour the area surrounding the main beach for a fun, local sort of feel. Those producers at MTV didn't choose this location for their hit show for nothing.

Get That Inspired Feeling: Your Great Escape

Crystal Cove State Park

Laguna Art Museum -

A beautiful way to spend an afternoon... exploring history, culture, and thought expressed visually. The permanent collection of the museum has over 3500 works of art, many a great portrayal of California itself. The museum is in Laguna Beach on Cliff Drive.

Crystal Cove State Park -

Take a hike! That's right, take a hike on one of the lovely wilderness trails in the Crystal Cove State Park. This is a beautiful, natural reserve where you can literally spend the entire day just enjoying the fresh air and outdoors. Pack a lunch and a blanket so you can stop along the trail to sit and enjoy the scenery.

Sea Lion Kayak Tours -

Feel great by getting out there and loosen up a bit while kayaking through lovely coves of Laguna Beach. For those of you that haven't been out in a kayak before, no worries, it's simple to learn and La Vida Laguna will provide lessons before each tour.

A Taste of Laguna

Lunch at Las Brisas

The Gourmet Cheese and Wine Shop -

An extension of Laguna's school for Culinary Arts, the cheese and wine shop is filled with "a fabulous selection of cheeses, delicacies, food-friendly wines and lunchtime fare. Their lunch menu contains a nice selection, and you can either sit in the cafe or take your food to go. My favorite is the traditional fondue, best to share amongst friends/family, although the sandwiches are very reasonably priced and taste wonderful. Map.

Laguna Canyon Winery -

Take a break in the middle of your day and enjoy a few sips of vino. The Laguna Canyon Winery offers wine tasting in their tasting room Tuesday-Sunday, 11a-6p. My pick from this local winery is their sultry Cabernet Sauvignon, although most of my friends love the raspberry sparkling wine. Map.

Las Brisas -

Not only is this place practically a landmark at the north end of the main beach, it is a favorite of my mother's.The Sunday Brunch is legendary and an absolute must if your timing allows for it. If not, try to get a seat on the patio and order the delicious mahi mahi tacos. You won't regret it!

Sweet Dreams: Where to Rest Your Head

Comfort Inn, Laguna Hills -

This is one of only a handful of Orange County hotels participating in the state's Green Lodging Program. The accommodations are quite reasonable for a "Choice Hotel" (not known to necessarily be the best quality of lodgings), and some great features include free wireless internet, well-designed bathrooms, and a comfortable place to relax.

Casa Laguna Inn & Spa -

My expensive taste never fails me when it comes to accommodations, but Casa Laguna does offer rooms at reasonable prices. For instances, they have the tasteful courtyard rooms, with cottage-like decor starting at $150 per night. I personally prefer the Laguna Suite, which was incidentally featured as a "Romantic Stay" in Sunset Magazine and nightly rates start off at a more steep $400 per night. Whichever room you choose, you still have a fabulous spa to go to for a replenishing massage, along with all the other normal resort features.

Getting Around

EV Rental Cars

Because Southern California is the capital of cars, driving, and freeways, you almost can't get around without one. EV Rental Cars are partners with Fox Rent-a-car. They have a selection of three hybrid vehicles: the Honda Civic, Toyota Prius, and the Toyota Highlander. I recommend renting the Highlander, since you may find yourself wandering into an area without fully-paved roads. Pick-up station is available at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana.

OCTA: Cruisin' on the Bus

The Orange County buses are not known to run late or often, but they do have routes that cover nearly every section of the county. For bus routes/maps/schedules, click here.

Knott's Berry Farm

Rich in history and local tradition, Knott's Berry Farm (known simply as Knott's, or even KBF to us locals), is more than just a theme park, it is a tribute to good old-fashioned Western America culture.

Knott's for Thrill Seekers -

Start off early in the morning, ideally when the park opens its gates (at 10 a.m.). If you need, there's a nice Starbucks down the street (Beach Boulevard, north of La Palma) to pick up a coffee to start your day. Before you get too much filling your stomach, which will be easy with the delicious funnel cakes and boysenberry topping with powdered sugar, hop on all of the jolting rides first. You'll also avoid longer lines near the end of the day by going on early. This means you will be starting at the Boardwalk section of the park, running to be one of the first on Boomerang. Afterwards, go strap yourself in at the Supreme Scream station as you prepare for a crawl to the top of a 254 foot high tower and take a deep breathe before the quick and forceful drop down (said to be a mere 3 seconds). Heart pumping yet? How about a slide down “The World's Tallest, Steepest and Wettest Water Ride!” The Perilous Plunge will get you and everyone pointing at you wet... a great way to cool yourself off in the middle of the day.

Wait... we know your clothes have stopped leaving a puddle behind you. It's time to change that! Walk across the path, over to Rip Tide. Choose a seat in the middle for maximum effect as you tumble around the spouting fountain. Okay, now it is time to dry off again, for the meantime. Head over to the Xcelerator (the big, tall red one) and zoom around corners like you're racing in that t-bird. Get out of the sun and sit under a lovely umbrella in Fiesta Village... while spinning around at the Hat Dance. Your head will certainly be spinning afterwards. If all that activity has really stirred up your appetite, stomp over to the Bigfoot Broiler for a juicy burger. When done chomping that beef, it is required to go to Bigfoot Rapids (you're in the area, anyway). As they say, you will get wet, and you just may get soaked (if you sit at the seat that swerves under the waterfall). For dessert, and a quick drying off, saunter on back to Fiesta Village for Montezooma's revenge. Once that is done, relax, grab a funnel cake (it's a requirement to have it with boysenberry sauce), and catch one of the Old West shows back in Ghostown.

Knott's for Families -

Begin your day with a serving of the classic pancake breakfast at IHOP, across the street from KBF's entrance. The park will open at 10 o'clock, so it's best to get there at the time to allow yourself to maximize the day at this multi-faceted theme park. Make it a fun history lesson for the kids by pretending they're going off to work in a gold mine on Ghost Rider, a roller coaster said to be one of the longest and tallest in the world. After that little bit of exhilaration, pan for gold over at the Gold Rush Camp and possibly strike it rich! Cool down from the heat of the day on the Timber Mountain log ride, a Knott's classic.

Take a break from all of the excitement of the Old West and enjoy a delicious burrito or other Mexican fare at La Victoria Cantina in Fiesta Village. Once the food settles, be prepared to discover ancient mysteries on the always adventurous Jaguar ride. Don't worry, Camp Snoopy is next! Great for kids of all ages (but still best for the young ones), this offers many cute attractions for the family. I remember around the age of 5 having my picture taken on the Huff and Puff mining cars, while pumping and moving the car all by myself.

Near the end of your day, take a tour on the Ghost Town Calico Railroad... just be sure to watch out for flying bullets, as handkerchiefed bandits may board your train. Finish off with a supper at Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant. Just be sure to make the reservations in advance, otherwise the wait is destined to be terribly long any day of the week. For a map of the park's location, please check here.

So, what else is there to do here? There is also the Knott's newer sister park, Soak City, which is mainly used by locals to cool off from the Southern California heat and nothing I would particularly recommend going out of your way to visit.

Don't pack your bags just yet, Buena Park still has more to offer than a family themepark.

Dinner and a Show

Medieval Times -

A classic in its own right, Medieval Times is the ultimate place for "chivalry, rivalry, and revelry."  Feast on a meal fit for royalty while watching, and perhaps even taking part in, a medieval tournament. Located on Beach Blvd. in between La Palma and the 91.

Pirate's Dinner Adventure -

A result of the late pirate-craze, the old Wild Bill's Dinner Theater was renovated into the Pirate's Dinner Adventure. A stunning show accompanies a decent dinner, and preceeded by a reasonably-sized appetizer buffet, pre-show. Just be sure you practice your swordsmanship before entering this territory. Also located on Beach Blvd, just south of the 91 freeway.

No Dinner, but a Bit of a Freak Show

Ripley's Believe it or Not! Museum -

Get weirded out by this museum full of real (or not?!) oddities recorded throughout history and throughout the world by Robert Ripley. This is a good stop for some fun if you have an extra hour or two in your agenda. The boys will love all the exhibits meant to gross you out. Located on Beach Blvd, north of La Palma.

Buena Park is a great down filled with the necessities for suburban life and more. The historic, but entirely renovated Buena Park Mall, now known as the Buena Park Downtown (on La Palma, between Stanton and Dale), hosts a variety of stores, eateries, and a huge new movie theater. At Beach and Orangethorpe sits Golden Nights Restaurant, a fun Middle Eastern dining experience. This city is also filled with a variety of lodgings at your service (searchable on any travel site). Enjoy your stay!

Welcome to Anaheim. The one-time Bavarian delight along the Santa Ana River and previously filled with great citrus and walnut trees is now nearly half Hispanic and an established center of a metropolitan region in its own right.

Disneyland

Yes, it is a staple of visiting the Southland and you are obligated to visit if you're in the area and haven't been before. California Adventure is adjacent to the park and is just a pretty waste of time, so I recommend saving your money and going to see the real things the state has to offer. If you're limited on time and want the best of the rides, head first to the Matterhorn to wake you up and help get you pumped for the remainder of your day. Run over to Space Mountain and soar through the stars … and try to think of Michael Jackson when he wasn't so odd.

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Stop off at the Café Orleans for a yummy crepe or sandwich. Mosey on down to the Pirates of the Caribbean cruise and relax, enjoy a boat ride while your food settles. Don't move too fast, you can take a fascinating show of outer space while sitting in the theater in Star Tours… be careful, your seats do move in correspondence with the show. You'll come outside and the difference between an air-conditioned theater and the Southern California heat will hit you. Skip over to Splash Mountain for a refreshing cool down… and be careful, you will get wet!

Cruise through Autopia and let a breeze dry you off a bit, and then hit the Indiana Jones adventure for a shaky Jeep ride. It's now time for a little meet and greet with some characters, which is best done in Toon Town (my favorite part as a child). Minnie's house is a little girl's dream and the boys should really enjoy the Chip n'Dale Tree House.

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All the sugar and candy is done (and don't forget to buy some edible and non-edible treats at the Gag Factory before you leave), dusk should be hitting, and there's some sort of eerie feel as the breeze of the Santa Ana winds hit you and you wonder where the sun has gone. Well, it's the perfect timing for the trip to the Haunted Mansion. Will you see a ghost? Once you get over being spooked, run to Fronteirland for a place close to the water to get the best view of the Fantasmic special effects show performed on the lake. The showing should be at about 9, and following it will be a spectacular firework show. You should head back to your hotel room after this… get some rest and instruct the baby sitter… because now it's time to party!

Map of the park's location

Nightlife

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The Grove - This is a hot event venue, located on Katella east of State College. Its stunning exterior architecture and generally fabulous feel will make you feel like a movie star as you saunter in here. For upcoming events, go to their event schedule page.

House of Blues - The famous spot for some amazing live performances, located in the Downtown Disney District. You'll find all sorts of music being played here, and even though food is served, you'll likely find yourself moving those hips the entire time. For more information, head to the House of Blues website.

J.C. Fandango - Thespot to hit for a fun night of moving to the Latin groove. This is now technically in the city of Garden Grove, located on Chapman (west of Harbor… this is for your taxi driver), but it was previously in Anaheim so I'm including it… Anyway, they have all the best Latin music, a vibrant crowd, excellent DJs and even offer Salsa lessons. Check out their website to find out more.

Sports

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The Concourse Entertainment Center (Bowling) - For some reason, I think us Anaheim folks love to bowl. Well, this is the place to try your luck at a strike. They even have fun theme nights to enjoy. Located on La Palma, east of Kraemer.

California Angels - (had to be old school with the name) This is the baseball team that hadn't one a game for decades, and out of the blue took the World Series by storm in 2002. They play a great game, and if you have a chance, you should take the opportunity to see one. Go here for their schedule and watch them play at the Angel Stadium.

Anaheim Ducks - Are you Canadian and bored by the prospect of being without your beloved hockey while on vacation? Don't be! You can watch the Ducks play with the sticks and the puck (when it's the season). Schedule available here to see them play at the Arrowhead Pond.

Anaheim Hills Golf Course - Anaheim Hills is for sure the most beautiful part of this city. If you're seeking a relaxing afternoon and want to take a swing, The Hills golf course is a lovely spot to play a round of golf at. Phone 714-998-3041