free things to do in orange county
Orange County, California, is a beautiful place with plenty of activities to enjoy without breaking the bank. Here are some free things to do in Orange County:
- Beaches: Orange County is famous for its stunning beaches, and visiting them is free. Some popular ones include Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point.
- Hiking Trails: Orange County has many hiking trails that offer breathtaking views and are free to access. Some popular trails include the Santiago Oaks Regional Park, Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, and the Laguna Coastal Trail.
- Irvine Regional Park: This 477-acre park offers a lake, walking trails, and a botanical garden, all free to visit.
- Orange County Great Park: This 1,300-acre park in Irvine features a carousel, a children’s playground, and a farmers’ market (on Sundays). Admission is free.
- Balboa Fun Zone: Located in Newport Beach, the Balboa Fun Zone is a historic amusement park that offers free admission. You can walk around, take photos, and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Fullerton Arboretum: This 26-acre botanical garden on the campus of California State University, Fullerton, is free to visit and features a variety of plants and trees.
- Laguna Beach Art Walk: On the first Thursday of every month, the city of Laguna Beach hosts a free art walk, where local galleries and studios open their doors to the public.
- Dana Wharf: In Dana Point, the Dana Wharf offers free parking, beautiful harbor views, and a chance to see sea lions and dolphins.
- Soka University: Located in Aliso Viejo, Soka University is a beautiful campus with stunning views of the surrounding hills. You can take a self-guided tour of the campus, which includes a Peace Bell and a beautiful garden.
- Orange County Farmers’ Markets: Many cities in Orange County host free weekly farmers’ markets, where you can sample local produce, artisanal goods, and street food.
- Muirlands Nature Preserve: Located in Lake Forest, this 14-acre nature preserve has trails, gardens, and a variety of wildlife, all free to visit.
- Newport Bay Nature Preserve: This 1,000-acre nature preserve in Newport Beach features trails, bird-watching, and stunning views of the bay, all free to visit.
- Crown Valley Regional Park: Located in Laguna Niguel, this 430-acre park offers trails, a lake, and picnic areas, all free to visit.
- Sea and Sage Audubon Society: Located in Irvine, this organization offers free guided bird-watching tours and nature walks.
- University of California, Irvine (UCI) Campus: Take a self-guided tour of the beautiful UCI campus, which features a variety of public art installations and stunning architecture.
Remember to always check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm hours and availability.
