The array of activities Orange County has to offer this summer are endless. And with only a few weeks left of the sun, choosing how to spend the rest of your summertime can be a difficult choice to make. Whether you are an Orange County local, or a traveling tourist passing through, we want to help you find the perfect way to savor the rest of the season.
The Heart of Orange
If you’re a foodie, or simply enjoy food festivals in general, we highly recommend checking out the International Food Festival. This annual festival takes place in the Orange Circle and offers and array of food options to choose from. Hundreds of vendors line the streets, all selling Italian, Asian, Greek, and German foods. These are but a few of the many international-based streets visitors get to buy food from. For those 21 and over, alcoholic beverages can be purchased any time before 9 PM.
In addition to food, local bands are scheduled to play across the three-day period the food festival will be in full swing. Moreover, artisans will be present to showcase their work that is available for purchase. This event also gives tourists an amazing opportunity to experience the beauty of the Orange Circle. It serves as a great date idea or family outing. If you’re free anytime from September 1st through the 3rd, this is an event worth your while.
Bask by the Shoreside
A list of fun things to do this summer in Orange County would not be complete without mentioning the sandy shore. While Laguna Beach may be a more popular destination spot for tourists, you may want to head over and see what Newport has to offer. One of the most popular activities for locals to participate in is to take a Duffy Boat tour.
If you’re over the age of 21, you’re allowed to invite up to 9 other people to take a sunset boat tour along Newport’s waters. Bringing food and beverages is encouraged. Children 12 and under can ride along too, as long as they wear a life jacket. In fact, even furry friends under 25 lbs are allowed to join in on the fun! These boats are super easy to steer and only reach up to 5mph. But if driving a boat isn’t really your speed, you can also visit the Wedge. This is a great spot to escape the summer heat. The Wedge became a popular destination spot for locals and tourists alike who want to ride (or watch others ride) the 30ft waves.
Visiting a Mission
A large part of Californian history is the Spanish missions, and it just so happens that one is located in Orange County. Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776 and is the 7th out of 21 missions in the state of California. What better way to celebrate the end of summer than by visiting the birthplace of Orange County? This mission also serves as a museum and can be visited Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. In a year, the mission receives about 300,000 tourists.
While visiting San Juan Capistrano, it’s worth it to check out the surrounding area as well. Take a bite to eat at a local restaurant like Trevor on the Tracks and watch the trains pass by or see a play at the local playhouse. It happens to be just a few feet away from the mission itself! But make sure to arrive early, as parking can be difficult when the weather is as beautiful as it is now.