Tustin, California, is a breathtaking land full of hidden gems. Whether you call this place your home, like me, or you are just passing through, I’m positive there’s a spot just waiting to help you make lifelong memories! As an Orange County family photographer, I adore working with parents to help them find the best places to add to their list of future destinations. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Tustin, CA!
8548 Canyon View Ave, Orange, California 92869
If you’re in the mood for a Tustin, CA hike, Peters Canyon Regional Park is the spot for you! This incredible, picturesque park offers several trails where you can travel for some jaw-dropping views. They welcome mountain bikers, horseback riders, and everyday hikers just looking for some exercise. As you head up, be sure to keep your eyes open so you can see several breeds of hawks! It is dog-friendly, but be sure to stick to the trails as rattlesnakes have been known to be a threat.
12850 Robinson Drive, Tustin, California 92782
Tustin Sports Park is always one of my top recommendations when you simply just need to get out of the house in Tustin, CA! This large park has a bit of everything including tennis courts, soccer fields, a baseball diamond, and a shaded playground. They have picnic tables where you can share a lunch, and there are on-site restrooms that you can use at any point. Also, check out the amazing restaurant there called Bageled, a dog-friendly spot with incredible bagels, coffee and a true community vibe.
Main Street, Tustin, California 92780
Old Town Tustin, CA is one of my favorite local places! My photography studio is located right in the heart of it, and I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of its incredible community. Old Town is an area centered around a group of historic buildings located on Main Street and El Camino Real which date back to the 1880s. You can walk the 1.5 miles and stop into the most incredible shops (including my favorite, Morning Lavender!) and restaurants whenever you feel the itch. If you’d prefer, you can take a sidewalk tour and follow the signs to learn all about the history of this scenic town!
395 El Camino Real, Tustin, California 92780
If you feel like diving a little deeper into Tustin, CA’s history, head over to the Tustin Area Museum built by the Tustin Area Historical Society. Here, you can check out exhibits that teach you about early businesses, local athletes, the Marine Air Station, and the town’s first pioneers. They also host regular events, including Tustin ghost tours!
1801 East Chestnut Avenue, Santa Ana, California 92701
The Santa Ana Zoo is one of my favorite recommendations for Tustin, CA, families with younger kids. The museum lets you get up close and personal with some of the best animals, like sloths, anteaters, lemurs, macaws, and pythons. You can hop on the train and explore the grounds from the comfort of your seat. They have additional rides like the Ferris wheel or the carousel, plus they have a play area that lets kids 2-5 explore the zoo in their own way!
With these things to do in Tustin, CA, you can have a family day you’ll never forget! If you could still use some extra help making memories, though, just let me know. I am an Orange County family photographer, and I adore working with parents to plan photo sessions that let them make the most of every moment. I would love to sit down and have a conversation so you can decide if my style matches yours. Send me a message today if you’d like to learn more!