Orange County's Cultural Oasis
There’s a perception among some folks that California is an entertainment capital, but cultural attractions are sadly absent. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Orange County is primarily known for its beaches and theme parks, but there’s a wealth of culture to be had—if you’re so inclined and know where to look! And Orange County is one of only a handful of places that promotes cultural tourism through an organization that links many of the area’s cultural attractions.
Following is a taste of what you can find, with more to come later, in the hopes that you’ll look beyond the surface of shopping malls and sand when you visit!
Museums
Among the most famous museums of the area are the Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace in Yorba Linda, and Mission San Juan Capistrano. The Nixon Library is set amid marvelous rose gardens and includes a gallery of First Lady fashion as well as historical perspectives of the 37th President, his birthplace and burial place. Historical reenactions are regularly held on the grounds and famous dignitaries lecture here on a regular basis.
Mission San Juan Capistrano is part of the string of California missions that ran from the Mexico border to San Francisco. It’s a National Landmark and the home of the famous swallows that return—though in declining numbers—each year in March. The Mission has been undergoing a renovation for the past couple of years geared to bringing it back to its original glory. It’s a functioning church, but is also a place where open air concerts are held each summer under the stars.
Bowers Museum of Cultural Art in Santa Ana garnered attention at the turn of this century for its exhibit of artifacts from ancient China. That’s just one way the museum tries to create an aura of cultural understanding for the community through regular and visiting exhibits. It has a hands-on “Kidseum” next door and an onsite café for dining and special events.
Less well known, but fun for children of all ages, is a place like the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum in Newport Beach. Housed aboard a sternwheeler, the museum features model ships as well as more traditional art. And the Irvine Museum, housed in a high-rise in the midst of Orange County’s commercial district, features exhibits of local artists that give visitors a taste of early Orange County life.
In Corona del Mar—a section of Newport Beach—a botanical garden is tucked away between Fashion Island and the beaches. The gardens, which are also a research center, provide a museum of living plants displayed among fountains, sculptures and flowers. It’s a relaxing way to while away a hot summer afternoon in a quiet atmosphere. Another botanical garden can be found in North County at Fullerton Arboretum. This is a 26-acre display of California native plants and other rare plants, plus ponds and wildlife.
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