Top Things to do in Orange County
Top Hotels in Orange County
- 1. The Westin Anaheim Resort
- 2. The Anaheim Hotel
- 3. Capri Laguna On The Beach
- 4. Hampton Inn & Suites Anaheim Resort Convention Center
- 5. Cortona Inn & Suites Anaheim Resort
- 6. Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa
- 7. Best Western Los Alamitos Inn & Suites
- 8. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Anaheim Maingate
- 9. Kings Inn Anaheim
- 10. The Westin Anaheim Resort
10 History Museums in Orange County That You Shouldn't Miss
Beyond its epic theme parks and perfect weather, Orange County is celebrated for outdoor dining, entertainment and beach-bound adventure. Treat yourself at South Coast Plaza for the finest in luxury shopping and superlative restaurants. Spend an afternoon aboard a whale watching cruise in Newport Harbor, or cast a reel from the Huntington Beach Pier. Stop to smell the flowers at the Sherman Library and Gardens, or explore Laguna’s vast variety of boutique shops along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Restaurants in Orange County
1. Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 917 reviews
With a visit to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, guests can tour the most modern presidential museum in the country to learn about Richard Nixon the man, his life, and his presidency. The twenty-eight-year-old presidential museum went through a complete renovation less than two years ago. The all-new museum features nearly 70 new major exhibits, 30 unique multi-media experiences, 11 original films, 12 custom digital interactives, 10 curated archival film sequences, more than 600 photographs, 8,000 square feet of wall murals and more than 300 artifacts. There is so much history in itself at the Nixon Library. Enjoy tours of Richard Nixon's original birthplace and boyhood home, walk through the presidential helicopter that flew four Presidents, take in the splendor of the White House East Room and pay respects at the final resting places of President and Mrs. Nixon.
Reviewed By Nostalgiyeah - Bellevue, United States
Turned out to be a memorable and informative visit for me. The Nixon Presidential Library and Museum not only holds the displays and artifacts during the time related to the time in office of President Nixon, but also includes his childhood home (which has been restored) and also the Army One helicopter used by four presidents, including Richard Nixon. The emphasis of the museum is, as expected, surrounding the life and circumstances of Richard Nixon when he was in office. There are exhibits about his childhood years, time in the military and his terms as a Senator and as the Vice President under President Eisenhower as well. The exhibits in the museum are divided into sections and are quite lucid and detailed. At the beginning, there is an exhibit about Vietnam war and how Nixon won the 1968 Presidential election promising to reduce the number of American troops in Vietnam and how he went about achieving that. Substantial emphasis is given to foreign policy under Nixon and probably one of the most important exhibits is the famous China trip of President Nixon. The exhibit details the back channel negotiations prior to the trip, the flight to China, the days of the visit and its impact on Sino-American relations. His visit to Moscow and impact on the Soviet-US relations are also documented as well. There are also exhibits dedicated to domestic affairs during the Nixon administration like establishment of the EPA, ending of military draft and lowering of voting age to 18. He was the President during a significant portion of NASA's Apollo space program (including moon landings). Other exhibits included the Middle East, Nixon Presidential campaigns and his vice presidency. But arguably one of the largest exhibit, is the coverage of Watergate scandal and how that consumed his presidency. Another thing I found insightful is the coverage of First Lady Pat Nixon, which did justice to her role in the Nixon presidency. There is a replica of the Oval Office in the White House inside the museum. This museum is also the final resting place of Richard Nixon and Pat Nixon, in the midst of a beautiful and picturesque rose garden.
2. La Habra Historical Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
3. Bowers Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 396 reviews
Take a trip around the globe at the Bowers Museum! Opened in 1936, the Bowers prides itself on showcasing world-class arts and cultures in a warm, inviting space located in the heart of Orange County. Bowers has been voted "Best Museum in Orange County" by OC Register for 26 years and has organized more than 50 special exhibitions in just the past 15 years in partnership with some of the greatest museums in the world. Recent highlights include blockbusters such as Terra Cotta Warriors, Mummies: Treasures from the British Museum, Guo Pei: Couture Beyond, and Inside the Walt Disney Archives. Over 100,000 square feet and surrounded by lush gardens, the Bowers campus includes a 296 seat auditorium, 12,000 square feet of event space, a Patina-owned Tangata Restaurant, a robust Gallery Store, 8 permanent exhibitions, and spectacular featured exhibits on rotation, to ensure a full day of engaging fun with every visit. Bowers Museum, bringing the world to you.
Reviewed By TommyTucker321 - Beverly Hills, United States
Don’t rush through here like somebody trying escape from a burning building. This museum offers much to see and enjoy for all ages. Take your time and immerse yourself in the culture and history of a people and place long forgotten.
4. Brea Museum & Heritage Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
5. Heritage Museum of Orange County
6. Stanley Ranch Museum & Historical Village
7. Founder's Park
8. Balboa Island Museum & Historical Society
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 19 reviews
The Balboa Island Museum was founded in 2000 to preserve the history of the unique communities of Balboa Island and Newport Beach. It is located on Balboa Island's "main street", Marine Avenue in a vintage cottage that was built in 1947. Noted as one of the best small museums, it showcases artifacts and photographs depicting early life.
Reviewed By Jaxbally
Balboa Island is a tiny place that I wish woudl remain a hidden gem. However people have heard of it and they come visit and I think if you do you should understand the really intersesting, and unique to california, history. History is so important to all of us and I believe it behooves us all to know what transpired before our visit that makes any place worth visiting!
9. Heroes Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Heroes Hall Veterans Museum and Education Center is dedicated to celebrating the legacy of Orange County veterans, honoring their sacrifices, and educating the community through their stories and personal experiences. Rotating exhibits are open to the public and housed in a former barracks that was used during World War II at the Santa Ana Army Air Base (SAAAB).
Reviewed By 722ameliap - Costa Mesa, United States
I've been here for a few different events that honor all branches of the military. Excellent museum with very helpful volunteers that are eager to give service to visitors. Events are well-planned and all that I have attended were also attended by Mayor Katrina Foley as she is a strong supporter of all branches of the military. I highly recommend.
10. Montanez Adobe
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By 598marisap - Dallas, United States
This house was built in 1794 to house the Native Americans neophytes. Polonia Montañez was the owner in the 19th century, and was in charge of giving Catholic formation to the town people. The house is made of adobe and has a beautiful landscaping with wild flowers.
