A vibrant city situated at the base of the Santa Ana Mountains, Santa Ana offers a wealth of cultural attractions, a charming downtown district and world-class museums. The city is known for its parks, proximity to luxurious beaches and arts and entertainment centres.

Things to do

Visit the Bower’s Museum of Cultural Art for a walk back through time. This small museum hosts a large number of famous rotating attractions that highlight the world’s indigenous people. Tour a display of ceramics from Western Mexico, browse the Ancient Arts of China and admire the fascinating First Californians exhibit.

Head to the Discovery Cube Orange County if you’re travelling with kids. You can browse more than 100 hands-on exhibits, experience the power of a rocket launch, explore the anatomy of a two-storey dinosaur and embark on an Eco Challenge.

Animal lovers can spend an afternoon at Santa Ana Zoo. View white-faced saki monkeys in the Rainforest Exhibit, observe South American birds in the Colours of the Amazon Aviary and check out rare breeds of farm animals in the Crean Family Farm area.

History buffs should visit the Lyons Air Museum, home to historic World War II-era aircraft and vehicles. Learn about the history of the B17 “Flying Fortress”, admire the 1939 Mercedes-Benz and see the 1942 Ford GPW Military Jeep.

Getting around

John Wayne Airport is less than a 20-minute drive from Santa Ana. The easiest way to get around is by car, but the area is also well-connected by a bus system.