Top 10 Things To Do In Orange County (For Incoming Students)
Hi everyone ! My name is Alexia and I am a guest writer for Unfiltered Life!
I am an international student born in Spain, but raised in Hong Kong, so I was able to get the best of both worlds. As an incoming freshman, I was in the dark when it came to anything Orange County. I didn’t know where the good restaurants, nice beaches, or fun activities were located. I was clueless. so to ease this transition for new residents, I have compiled a list of ten things to do, see, and/or experience here in Orange County:
1. Go for a swim at Newport Beach
Newport Beach is known for its sandy beaches and sunny skies. If you want to spend a hot day near the beach and a cool evening in the town, Newport is perfect for you. The Newport Beach Pier has a beautiful harbor, exquisite restaurants, and incredible views.
2. Smash some pumpkins at Tanaka Farms
Tanaka Farms is a 30-acre family-run farm that grows over 60 different organic fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Here, you can make a reservation to pick fresh strawberries, visit the produce market, and take a pumpkin home.
Open every day of the week, the farms are also full of activities and attractions like the wagon ride, petting zoo, corn maze, carnival games, arts and crafts activities, and tractor rides. Make a stop during October to get the perfect pumpkin for Halloween. Located at 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612, United States.
3. Release your inner child at Boomers Irvine
Boomers Irvine is a small amusement park at the heart of Irvine that features their famous go-kart, mini-golf, bumper boats, arcade games, and more. After spending half the day on attractions and games, you can take a break at their food court that has a great selection of delicious food. Located at 3405 Michelson Dr, Irvine, CA 92612, United States.
4. Explore Asian cuisine at Diamond Jamboree
Diamond Jamboree is a unique plaza that offers a variety of international cuisines from Korean, Vietnamese to Mediterranean food. Their dining options include some of the most sought-after food in California, including Haidilao Hotpot, Tim Ho Wan dim sum, Somi Somi, 85ºC Bakery Café, among many others. This plaza also has the famous H Mart, a Korean-American supermarket chain. Located at 2700-2750 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92606, United States.
5. Discover fresh produce at Irvine Farmers Market
Irvine Farmers Market is a great place to bring friends and family to enjoy the food and sights, and to buy fresh produce. They offer a large selection of fruits, vegetables and baked goods. The market is open every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm with free parking and admission. Located at 5001 Newport Coast Dr, Irvine, CA 92603, United States.
6. Test your drifting skills at K1 Speed Irvine
K1 speed is an indoor go-kart racing operator that will bring you the thrill and excitement you seek. At K1 speed, drivers can select from not one, but two professionally designed indoor tracks. While waiting, you can stop by their Paddock Lounge, VR lounge, or their arcade full of fun games. Located at 17221 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92614, United States.
7. Visit the Happiest Place on Earth
Disneyland is the happiest place on Earth where dreams come true, only 20 minutes away from UCI. It is an incredibly magical experience to enjoy the rides, meet Disney characters, and dine in their exquisite restaurants. Located at 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States.
8. Hop cver to Disney California Adventure
If you want to experience the magic of Disneyland without the extremely long lines and more intense rides, hop on over to Disney California Adventure Park. Visit the Pixar Pier, the Animation Academy, or enjoy the rides throughout your day. Located at 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States.
9. Get a rush of adrenaline at Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is a 160 acre amusement and theme park home to world-class rides, thrilling roller coasters, and family-style dining. It is one of the oldest and largest theme parks in the United States, where adrenaline junkies go to test their limits.
The park offers more than a dozen rides, a replica of a ghost town, and numerous seasonal events. Visit any time of year to experience different shows and entertainment. Located at 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620, United States.
10. Go for a hike at Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park is a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of UCI. It has 2,500 acres of land and over 3 miles of beach with 15 miles of established trails ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert.
Crystal Cove State Park is perfect for those of you who love hiking, running, bike riding, due to their expansive trails, while water lovers get to enjoy the stunning beaches. Located at 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, United States.
