Best Budget Attractions In OC
Orange County is famous for its fantastic theme parks and luxurious beach resorts, but there is so much to do in OC that won't break the bank. History and art museums are ubiquitous and offer a rich, culturally diverse experience that's hard to find anywhere else. There are also parks and arboretums for a relaxing retreat from the urban atmosphere. Taking advantage of these financially friendly attractions guarantees a fun, guilt-free visit to Orange County.
Laguna Beach Art Walk
307 Cliff Drive
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-8971
www.lagunaartmuseum.org
Since 1998, the First Thursdays Art Walk in Laguna Beach has been highlighting the city's rich art scene and offering a free art education to the public. This three-hour tour, held on the first Thursday of each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. year round, is divided into north, south and central galleries so guests can focus in on one area without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer multitude of art studios throughout the city. Visitors can stroll through this charming seaside town on their own, or take the free shuttle as they enjoy free art, wine and hors d'oeuvres. The city has numerous eateries and shops to explore amongst all of the art galleries, so it's best to just enjoy a nice leisurely evening and plan on coming back next month for another small taste of art and culture.
Orange County Great Park Balloon Ride
Sand Canyon and Marine Way
Irvine, CA 92618
(866) 829-3829
www.ocgp.org/visit/balloon
Conveniently located in the heart of Orange County, the Great Park Balloon Ride is a great way to get a sky-high view of OC at a rock bottom price. For just $10, adult visitors can soar hundreds of feet in the air for a panoramic vista of Orange County's colorful canyons and pristine coastline. Kids ages 12-18 riding with an adult are free, and for those without an adult, the cost is just $5. For an additional bargain, visitors who buy four adult balloon rides earn a fifth breath-taking ride for free!
Bowers Museum
2002 North Main St.
Santa Ana, CA 92706
(714) 567-3600
www.bowers.org
Set in the heart of downtown Santa Ana, the Bowers Museum is a great way to have an inexpensive, yet rich, cultural experience. General adult admission is just $13 on weekdays ($15 on weekends), but thanks to a grant from the Target Corporation, the first Sunday of every month is free to all visitors. Not only that, but residents of Santa Ana can visit the museum for free every Sunday. From now through March, guests can explore the China's Lost Civilization exhibit and learn about an archaeological discovery that has changed what we thought we knew about Chinese history. Discover the Bowers Museum for an exciting cultural history at an amazing price.
Fullerton Arboretum
1900 Associated Rd.
Fullerton, CA 92831
(657) 278-3407
www.fullertonarboretum.org
In the middle of suburban Orange County, just off the bustling 57 Freeway, lies the serene oasis of the Fullerton Arboretum. Entrance to the garden is free, though there is a suggested donation of $5, which guests can deposit at the entrance. This nominal gift is well worth it to stroll through 26 acres of exotic trees and flowering plants from around the world. Two large ponds are home to ducks, turtles, red-winged blackbirds and other wildlife to photograph, draw or simply observe while relaxing on a lakeside bench. Unlike a spa day, guests will leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, with money still in their pockets.
Mission San Juan Capistrano
26801 Ortega Highway
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 234-1300
www.missionsjc.com
For less than $10, visitors to Mission San Juan Capistrano can wander through the ruins of an original California mission and take an award-winning audio tour featuring stories, music and history of this "Jewel of the Missions." Younger guests can visit the Mission Clubhouse and weave a basket or spin the Wheel of Mission Jobs and learn how to perform some of the daily tasks required on the mission hundreds of years ago. The Mission Clubhouse is open daily, and other activities such as panning for gold or adobe brick making are available on specified days throughout the week. For affordable hands-on historical family fun, Mission San Juan Capistrano is a must-visit attraction.
Related: Best Literary Landmarks In OC
