History & Culture in Santa Ana: Discover Orange County’s Downtown Gem

Oct 3

Adventure is calling in the heart of Orange County — and Santa Ana is waiting to be explored! Known as the “downtown of Orange County,” Santa Ana combines rich California history, cultural heritage, and vibrant neighborhoods filled with art, architecture, and adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or thrill-seeker, Santa Ana offers some of the best things to do in Orange County.

Santa Ana’s Roots 🌳

Santa Ana’s story stretches back centuries. First home to the Chumash people, the region became part of Spanish exploration in the 1700s. In 1869, William H. Spurgeon purchased 70 acres of farmland, laying the foundation for the city. By 1886, Santa Ana was incorporated, and just a few years later, the Southern Pacific Railroad connected it to booming trade routes. In 1889, Santa Ana was named the county seat, solidifying its place as Orange County’s cultural and governmental hub.

Today, Santa Ana stands as the second-largest city in Orange County and a destination known for history, culture, food, and nightlife.

Discover Santa Ana Architecture 🏛️

For visitors interested in historic architecture in Orange County, Santa Ana offers incredible landmarks. Don’t miss:

Old Orange County Courthouse — a Romanesque Revival building that now houses a museum of local history.
Spurgeon Building — Santa Ana’s first skyscraper, completed in 1913, with a clock tower that remains a city icon.
Santora Building — a one-of-a-kind architectural fusion, often referred to as America’s first “architectural mashup.”

Many of Santa Ana’s historic buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making downtown Santa Ana a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Adventure Awaits in Downtown Santa Ana 🚶‍♀️🔎

Looking for a fun and interactive way to explore the city? Try a self-guided Santa Ana scavenger hunt through the charming streets of downtown. Along the route, you’ll uncover the history of the Santora Building, learn how the Old Courthouse became a Hollywood star, and discover hidden gems you’d never find on your own.

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