Despite Tustin’s population of 80,000 and its location in the Los Angeles metro area, the city retains its old-world, small-town feel. After all, Tustin’s nickname is the City of Trees because – you guessed it – the streets are lined with trees. Many historic buildings still stand in the old part of the city.
Tustin is known for its pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, including stunning views of the coastline and the nearby Saddleback Mountains. It is also known for its many attractions and services, including museums, parks and a variety of restaurants serving dishes from around the world.
Marketplace, the Tustin Legacy District and Tustin Ranch Plaza are just some of the city’s shopping options.
Numerous festivals and events take place throughout the year, including Tiller Days and the annual Tustin Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in Tustin, California.
1. Relax at the lemon grove at Citrus Ranch Park
Citrus Ranch Park – So Beautiful
Wednesday, September 27, 2017 Posted by City of Tustin – City Hall
Orange County has been rich in citrus groves in the past, and Tustin’s Citrus Ranch Park is home to the last of the area’s Citrus Ranch Parks. The park was created to preserve this important part of the state’s history; there are approximately 1,000 lemon trees in the scenic 17-acre park.
The pleasant aroma of fresh citrus combines with the natural environment to create a relaxing setting away from the nearby urban environment.
As you stroll through the park, you’ll see many native plants and enjoy spectacular mountain views from the gazebo on the top of the hill. There are also playgrounds, picnic areas and walking trails on site.
2. Taste Greek food at Christakis Greek Cuisine
At Christakis Greek Cuisine in Tustin, you’ll enjoy a cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and authentic Greek cuisine prepared with love and the highest quality ingredients.
The extensive menu includes a variety of appetizers, soups and salads, and the hummus is said to be the best in Orange County. Some of the available entrees include Mousaka, Pastitsio, Spanakopita and Chicken Athenian.
3. Play a round of golf at Tustin Ranch Golf Club
While the atmosphere at the Tustin Ranch Golf Club is one of those of upscale, exclusive golf courses, this 18-hole championship golf course (rated as the best golf course in the county) is open to the public.
Designed by Ted Robinson, the course faces many challenges and is surrounded by spectacular scenery. The on-site golf school offers instruction from PGA experts.
There is also a gourmet restaurant and lounge on-site, offering a wide variety of food and beverages to satisfy your hunger after a long day on the field.
4. See local art at Chemers Gallery
If art is your thing, Tustin’s Chemers Gallery showcases a variety of art by local artists. This elegant gallery showcases and promotes artists at all stages of their careers.
As you stroll through the galleries, you’ll see beautiful works of modern and traditional art such as watercolors, oils, pastels and photography. Professional framing services, jewelry and art restoration are also available.
5. Drinks and Grub at Bar Louie
For a relaxing evening in town, head to Bar Louie, where you’ll enjoy a chic, laid-back atmosphere, quality food and a wide range of drinks.
Whether you’re craving martinis or local beers, you’ll find them on Bar Louie’s menu. You’ll also find a wide variety of pub food, including Bavarian pretzels, burgers, fried calamari and vegetarian options. Happy hour is every weekday evening.
6. Spend the day outdoors at Pepper Tree Park
Peppertree Park in Tustin is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With extensive green areas, a central area close to the city centre and many facilities available, the park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon relaxing in a peaceful and natural setting.
One of the most notable features of the park is the ringing of the bells of the nearby Tustin Presbyterian Church.
On-site facilities include BBQ facilities, a picnic area with tables and shelter, playground, restrooms and a water play area. The park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including summer concerts.
7. Admire luxury cars at the Marconi Automobile Museum
Posted by Marconi Automobile Museum on Tue, Mar 24, 2020
At the Marconi Automobile Museum in Tustin, visitors of all ages can admire luxury cars spanning decades. Dick Marconi donated the building and the vehicles inside; his family’s personal car is in the collection of 70 cars on site.
Lamborghinis, Ferraris and some muscle car samples are part of the collection, along with vehicles driven by well-known personalities.
8. Visit the Tustin Regional Museum
The best way to get to know a town or city is to visit a local museum. In Tustin, the Tustin Regional Museum showcases the unique history of the city and its people.
Located in the historic downtown area, the museum displays several historically significant artifacts, photographs, and documents.
The museum hosts an annual Tustin Old Town Home and Garden Tour. This will take visitors through Old Tustin, where they will see vintage houses and beautiful gardens reminiscent of the old days.
9. Dine on fine Italian food at Pina’s Bistro
While there are plenty of Italian restaurants in and around Tustin, Pina’s Bistro stands out.
This family-owned and operated restaurant provides visitors with a comfortable, friendly atmosphere that makes them feel like part of the family.
Open for lunch and dinner, you’ll find a variety of high-quality traditional Italian cuisine prepared with the finest ingredients. Offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, pastas, seafood dishes and a variety of desserts. Spaghetti Bolognese, Veal Parmesan, Macaroni and Peas, and Chili Sausage Pizza are just some of the entrees.
Many items, including sausages, gnocchi, bread and sauces, are handcrafted by Pina herself. Love Italian food that isn’t on the menu? Ask and you’ll receive – as long as Pina has the ingredients on hand.
10. Bowling at Bowlmor Lanes
Looking for a unique and fun way to spend an evening on the town? Bowlmor Lanes in Tustin is the place for you.
In addition to 30 bowling lanes (12 of which are used for private events), there is an arcade with modern games and a large sports bar serving a variety of traditional American dishes.
11. Take the whole family to Cedar Grove Park
Cedar Grove Park in Tustin offers a variety of facilities for adults and children. This is a beautiful green space with lots of shade to relax in the sun.
On site, you’ll find picnic spots, a fitness area for adults, several play areas for children, a basketball court, and an amphitheater. The most interesting feature of this park is that it is decorated like a tree house.
12. Stay healthy at Magnolia Park
Magnolia Tree Park – 2274 Fig Tree Drive, Tustin
Posted by Tustin Parks and Recreation on Mon Jan 7, 2013
Whether it’s walking, tennis or basketball, Magnolia Park has many facilities where you can get in a variety of sports and keep fit during your vacation. This lush, beautiful park also features picnic areas and a children’s playground.
13. Experience unique culinary delights at CHAAK
Posted by CHAAK on Sat, Sept 7, 2019
While you’ve probably tried Mexican food many times in your life, you probably haven’t tried the unique fusion of Spanish, Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisine that is a Yucatan culinary experience.
Open for lunch and dinner, you’ll find many traditional options on the menu, including pibil, recados and a variety of seafood dishes. There is also an extensive wine list.
14. Hang out in the beautiful Victory Park
Posted by PlanADayOut.com on Sunday, March 1, 2020
Victory Park is 4.7 acres of green space dedicated to adults relaxing and children playing.
This beautifully landscaped park has spacious lawns where you can find cozy cabins, perfect for a nap or a book. There is also a playground and a picnic area with BBQ facilities on site.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Tustin, CA
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