TL;DR Travels

Catch What’s Happening at South Coast Plaza

Address: 3333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Cost: Free

Ideal For: Families

South Coast Plaza is definitely Costa Mesa’s most famous landmark. However, aside from shopping, you can also find some special events and shows throughout the year. Most events are geared towards kids, but there are a few special exhibitions that everyone can enjoy. And even without a special event, South Coast Plaza is a great place to explore.

Find more information about South Coast Plaza and other places to shop here!

Check-Out a Free Plaza Event at Segerstrom Center for the Arts (SCFTA)

Address: 600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Hours: Varies

Cost: Free Entry; Paid Parking

Ideal For: Everyone; Families

SCFTA will often host free events or cheap events (including dancing, movie nights and more) out on their Plaza. In fact, OC’s Lantern Festival is happening March 2nd and 3rd! Stay up-to-date on what’s coming next

Find a Deal at the OCC Swap Meet

Every weekend, the OCC Swap Meet hosts a variety of vendors, bringing you a variety of items (which can make it feel like a bit of a treasure hunt) and great food. If you are looking for more fresh food items, take the short drive over to SOCO on Saturdays for a Costa Mesa Farmers Market.

Centennial Farm

Address: 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Hours: 1PM-4PM (Monday-Friday); 10AM-4PM (Saturday-Sunday)

Cost: Free

Ideal For: Families

Centennial Farm is a local favorite. Get up-close and personal with the different farm animals and plants. For more information, check out the Centennial Farm TL;DR Guide here!

Orange County Museum of the Arts (OCMA)

Located on the corner of Segerstrom Center for the Arts, OCMA has quickly become a go-to destination for locals. If you love art of want a new place to explore, then you should definitely stop by this museum! While entry to the museum is free, there are fees associated with the nearby parking structures. However, there is a lot to explore on the Segerstrom Center campus, so I recommend building in some time to eat and explore around the area once you are done with the museum (and get the most out of your paid parking!).

Noguchi’s California Scenario is a peaceful sculpture garden hidden away off of Avenue of the Arts. Completed in 1982, California Scenario is an ode to California’s varying landscapes and natural beauty. See why it’s worth the hype here!

Enjoy Fairview Park

Address: 2525 Placentia Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA

Hours: 8AM-5PM

Cost: Free

Ideal For: Exploring – Families, Solos, Groups

One of my favorite places to get outside and explore is Fairview Park, a great expanse of land and hiking/biking trails in Costa Mesa. There are different walking trails to explore, making it a great place for people with varying fitness levels. Or, you can pack a picnic and relax in the sunshine!

Check out the Scenery in TeWinkle Park

With a lovely duck pond and an easy to access playground, TeWinkle Park is a local favorite for a day of sunshine! However, keep in mind that many families come enjoy the parks facilities on the weekends – if you are looking for some peaceful time on your own, I recommend coming during the week or in the morning.