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Top Hidden Destinations To Visit In Orange County

laguna beach lighthouse
(credit: Nicole C./yelp)

Whether you're looking for a drink or a quiet place to spend the day, Orange County is full of hidden destination spots. From rustic lighthouses to older bars and more, the OC offers the very best for tourists and residents alike. Individuals can choose from culturally diverse activities and locations to some of Southern California's best local amenities.

laguna beach lighthouse
(credit: H.Q./yelp)

Laguna Beach Lighthouse

Built in 1926, the Laguna Beach Lighthouse is a charming piece of Victorian style architecture nestled among modern day mansions and beach real estate. While some believe it was a pirate fortress, the lighthouse isn't quite that old. The tower was built for California State Senator William Edward Brown as a way for him and his family to get from their house to the beach below. Now, the lighthouse remains a beautiful artifact that is fun to explore during low tide.

centennial farm
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Centennial Farm

While Orange County is booming with live entertainment, amusement parks, bars and restaurants, it also has a quainter side. Located at the OC Fair and Event Center, Centennial Farm is a three-acre farm created to educate people about agriculture and its importance to daily life. The farm houses fruit, vegetable gardens and livestock. The farm is free for all, and is open weekdays 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A banh mi sandwich sits prepared for eat vietnamese
(credit: SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

Little Saigon

Located just a few miles away from the Disneyland resort, Little Saigon in Anaheim provides individuals with a day of shopping, eating and exploring. Little Saigon stretches just three square miles, but houses the best in Vietnamese cuisine and shopping. From pho noodle houses to cafés and bakeries, there is always something new to try, and after lunch the Asian Garden Mall offers a variety of clothing stores and trinket shops.

Related:  5 of OC's Best Hidden Gems

treasure island park
(credit: P Luly W./yelp)

Treasure Island Park

With numerous trails, pathways and benches, Treasure Island Park in Laguna Beach is one of OC's most picturesque destinations. The park's many cliffs offer a spectacular view of the ocean, and there are several walkways that connect cliff trails to the beach below. The park, trails and beach is open to the public, though it feels as though you are experiencing one of the OC's best kept secrets.

continental room
(credit: Miss J./yelp)

The Continental Room

Located in Downtown Fullerton adjacent to the Metrolink Station is the Continental Room, an inconspicuous bar with a lot of history. Opened in 1925, the Continental Room is one of Fullerton's oldest bars and also one of its most interesting. The inside houses a beautiful lounge with booths and a large bar table reminiscent of a 1920s speak easy. Live music and DJs often perform on a cabaret looking stage tucked away in the corner.

Related: Best Tequila Bars in Orange County

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