Disneyland gets enough attention, so on your next trip to Southern California, skip the theme park behemoth and head to nearby Santa Ana where you can give the family a fun-filled vacation to introduce them to the culture Southern California is known for.
As you explore the city, you’ll get to know its unique personality through the public art representing its diverse population. Whether it’s sculptures of coyotes or murals honoring notable Santa Ana natives, art is part of the lifeblood of the city.
One of the must-see attractions for families with kids is Discovery Cube Orange County, an attraction designed to promote curiosity and STEM exploration in little ones. The exhibits include helicopter simulator rides, a sea lab and a rainforest exhibit, among others, all designed to encourage learning through play.
You can get the kiddos outside to enjoy the year-round sunshine Southern California is known for with a visit to Santa Ana Zoo. The zoo is fairly small, so you don’t need a whole day to discover the plants and animals of Central and South America that call the zoo home. The kid-friendly rides, including a Ferris wheel and train ride, are a bonus to make a day at the zoo even more fun for the family.
Wrap up your day with a visit to 4th Street Market in Downtown Santa Ana, a hotbed of food and fun where locals and visitors alike go to try new foods and enjoy a meal in the open air and kids also have plenty of room to play. Whether you want to spend several days getting to know Santa Ana or just have time to squeeze in a day during your trip to Southern California, you’ll find a hidden gem of fun and culture in this beautiful Southern California city.
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