Things To Do
in Brea
Brea, California is a compact, family-friendly city in northern Orange County known for its shopping, arts, and outdoor spaces. The downtown area, anchored by Old Town Brea and the Brea Civic & Cultural Center, offers galleries, eateries, and regular events. Its hillside setting and nearby canyons provide quick access to outdoor recreation while maintaining a small-town feel.
With easy access to major freeways and close proximity to beaches, Brea serves as a convenient base for exploring Orange County.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Brea Civic and Cultural Center, where you can admire local art and learn about the city's vibrant history. Stroll through the nearby Brea Marketplace, enjoying a fresh breakfast at one of the local cafes. Don't forget to take some photos with the iconic bronze sculptures that dot the area.
After lunch, head to the Brea Mall for some shopping, where you can explore a variety of boutiques and well-known brands. Take a break at one of the mall's cozy spots for a quick coffee while people-watching. As you wrap up your shopping, consider catching a matinee at the nearby AMC theater for a relaxing afternoon.
In the evening, dine at a local favorite like the Cheesecake Factory situated in the Brea Mall, where you can choose from a diverse menu. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the Brea Downtown area, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and possibly catching live music. End your day with a dessert at one of the charming ice cream shops in the vicinity.
Begin your day with a visit to the Brea Art Gallery, where you can appreciate both local and national art exhibits. Spend some time in the peaceful surroundings of Brea's parks, perhaps enjoying a morning jog or a relaxing walk. The fresh air and beautiful scenery will invigorate you for the day ahead.
Post-lunch, take a short drive to the nearby Fullerton Arboretum, where you can explore diverse plant collections and scenic walking trails. Engage in a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna, making the most of your afternoon. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for unique souvenirs before heading back.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local Mexican restaurant, where you can savor authentic flavors in a lively atmosphere. After dinner, catch a performance at the Curtis Theater, which regularly hosts a variety of shows and events. Relax by reflecting on the day over coffee at a nearby café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $4-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for 1 week | $60-100 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-18 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to Orange County attractions
- Safe, family-friendly neighborhoods
- Strong shopping and dining options in Old Town Brea
- Pleasant year-round climate and nearby nature
- Good base for exploring nearby beaches and parks
- Limited nightlife within Brea itself
- Traffic during peak hours on major freeways
- Higher cost of living compared to some inland areas
- Public transit less extensive than larger cities
- Smaller cultural scene compared to bigger OC cities
Places to Visit in Brea
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant murals and vintage storefronts along the Birch Street corridor provide colorful street photography—best during golden hour.
Architectural lines, water features, and public art make a clean backdrop for urban photography.
Wide canyon views with redwoods and scenic trails ideal for landscape shots.
Quiet hillside streets with classic California homes and period details.
Light-filled spaces and people-watching scenes suitable for candid photography.
Food in Brea
Brea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional favorite featuring carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa; often found in taquerias around OC.
Must-Try!
Common at many casual grills and family-owned spots in Brea and nearby suburbs.
Popular coastal-inspired option available at many Mexican and seafood places.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmer’s markets and street food stalls highlighting local produce and prepared foods.
Seasonal markets in nearby Fullerton and Orange offer fresh produce and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Tipping is customary in service settings; greetings are polite with eye contact; use 'please' and 'thank you' in conversations.
People generally queue in order and respect personal space; avoid loud conversations in public spaces.
Casual to smart casual is common; in nicer restaurants, a neat appearance is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Brea
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, tip 15-20% of the bill before tax. For counter-service, tipping isn’t required but appreciated for good service; bar staff typically $1-2 per drink.
Most places accept cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Some small venues may prefer card; carry a small amount of cash for tips and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with occasional Santa Ana winds; seek shade, hydrate, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable hiking weather and lower chance of rain.
Mild temperatures with light rain possible; layering is enough for most outings.
Mild and vibrant with spring blooms in canyons and parks; ideal for outdoor photography and hiking.
Brea at Night
Hiking in Brea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Redwood groves and canyon trails suitable for easy to moderate hikes
Extensive hillside trails with scenic views and wildlife viewing
Airports
How to reach Brea by plane.
Closest major airport in Orange County with frequent domestic flights
Major international hub about 40-60 minutes away by car, depending on traffic
Smaller regional airport about 25-35 miles away, typically easier to navigate
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Brea, attracted by schools and parks
Commuters to OC and LA areas seeking a suburban base
Nearby colleges contribute to a diverse student presence
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools, clubs, and community leagues
Little League and recreational leagues are common family activities
Active adult and youth leagues, with parks hosting seasonal games
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie dishes; look for customizable bowls and salads; ask for no meat or dairy when needed.