Best Downtowns in Orange County, CA (2024)

Although the city of Santa Ana claims the title of “downtown Orange County,” Orange County is made up of 34 individual cities so there are numerous downtown areas.

Most of Orange County’s downtown areas can be found in North OC since it is the older part of the county.

What exactly is a downtown?

Downtown areas are city hubs that combine residential, commercial, and civic buildings.

1. Old Towne Orange

Old Towne Orange is one of the few downtown areas in Orange County that has retained that downtown feel from an earlier time. There are several antique stores and you can often see antique cars driving around the central roundabout known as “The Circle”.

Want to learn more? Check out: Old Towne Orange: Top Things to Do

2. Downtown Fullerton

Affectionately referred to by the younger crowd as DTF, Downtown Fullerton is known for its vintage clothing stores and nightlife. On Thursday-Sunday nights, venues are packed with the college crowd (Downtown Fullerton is walking distance from Fullerton College and just a few-minute drive from Cal State Fullerton).

If you enjoy architecture, consider a self-guided walking tour of Fullerton’s historic buildings.

3. Downtown Santa Ana (DTSA)

Downtown Santa Ana is one of our favorite downtown areas in Orange County. Many small businesses are located here including jewelry stores, hair salons, apparel stores, and of course, bars/restaurants.

Right in the heart of DTSA is 4th Street Market, a dynamic food hall with a variety of food/drink vendors.

DTSA recently underwent construction to accommodate the OC Streetcar project.

If you’re planning to visit Downtown Santa Ana, check out our guide: Things to Do in Santa Ana, CA: The Ultimate Guide (2024)