Things To Do
in Tustin
Located in Orange County, Tustin sits between Santa Ana and Irvine, offering a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences. It preserves its Old Town Tustin Historic District with brick storefronts and a small-town atmosphere that contrasts with nearby urban centers. Residents and visitors enjoy parks, trails, and family-friendly attractions that make it a convenient base for exploring coastal Orange County.
Its central location provides easy access to beaches, museums, and the broader Southern California highlights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the local favorite, The Filling Station Café, where you can enjoy classic American breakfast dishes. After refueling, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Old Town Tustin, admiring the well-preserved historic buildings and unique boutiques. Don’t forget to stop by the Tustin Area Museum to learn about the rich history of this quaint city.
For lunch, indulge in some delicious Mexican food at El Toro Bravo, known for its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere. Post-lunch, take a short drive to the nearby Tustin Ranch Golf Club for a round of golf or enjoy the scenic views of the lush landscape. If golf isn’t your thing, consider a visit to the nearby local parks for a relaxing afternoon walk or a picnic.
As evening falls, head back to Old Town for a delightful dinner at the renowned The Hobbit, offering a unique dining experience with an exceptional multi-course menu. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the beautifully lit streets, perhaps stopping for dessert at a local ice cream shop. Cap off your night with a nightcap at one of the local bars that feature live music, bringing the community vibe to life.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Corner Bakery Café, where you can fuel up on fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, head to the nearby Tustin Sports Park, where you can enjoy a morning jog or a leisurely walk surrounded by nature. The park features beautiful trails and lush greenery, perfect for reconnecting with the outdoors.
For lunch, pack a picnic or visit a nearby deli to grab some sandwiches before heading to the Tustin Marketplace. Spend the afternoon exploring the various shops and boutiques, indulging in some retail therapy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out the trampoline park or go bowling at the entertainment center.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at one of the outdoor dining establishments in the Tustin Marketplace for dinner. Enjoy a variety of cuisines, from Asian fusion to Italian, while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the marketplace. After dinner, catch a movie at the nearby cinema or enjoy a dessert at a local café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12–$18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3–$6 |
| 🏠Rent (1 bedroom, city center) | $2,000–$2,800 per month |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4.00–$5.50 |
| 🔌Utilities (monthly) | $150–$300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic charm with modern amenities
- Proximity to beaches and major OC attractions
- Diverse dining options and family-friendly activities
- Good base for exploring Orange County and beyond
- Limited nightlife within Tustin itself
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours on major arteries
- Higher cost of living relative to some inland areas
- Some attractions and services require driving to nearby cities
Places to Visit in Tustin
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful brick storefronts, vintage signage, and period street lamps provide classic architectural photography, especially during golden hours.
Contemporary plazas, water features, and landscaping offer clean lines and vibrant color palettes for lifestyle photography.
Short drives to hillside viewpoints around Orange County yield sweeping panoramas of the valley and coast, ideal for landscape shots.
Food in Tustin
Tustin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A West Coast staple combining carne asada, French fries, cheese, refried beans, and pico de gallo in a hearty wrap.
Must-Try!
Crispy or grilled fish tucked into corn tortillas with cabbage slaw, lime, and salsa—common at Mexican and seafood spots.
Slow-braised meat in tortillas served with consommé for dipping; increasingly popular in Orange County taquerias.
Rice bowls with marinated beef or pork, kimchi, and veggies from local Korean eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods near the Old Town area.
Occasional street-food vendors and food trucks around Old Town and The District during events and weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite, queue patiently, and greet staff with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi' when entering shops or cafés.
Dress modestly in residential areas; avoid loud music late at night; respect local rules and posted signs.
Safety
Tipping in Tustin
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and service venues, 15-20% pre-tax is standard. For counter service or café counters, rounding up or tipping 10-15% is common.
Cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild daytime temperatures with blooming landscapes; great for outdoor walks, parks, and street photography.
Warm to hot days with little rain; stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days and cooler evenings; comfortable for outdoorExploration and harvest-related events.
Generally mild to cool with occasional rain; versatile for indoor cultural activities and light layering for evenings.
Tustin at Night
Hiking in Tustin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Varied loops with canyon views, shaded sections, and city views—suitable for all skill levels.
Hilly, scenic trails with expansive views; a short drive from Tustin for more challenging hikes.
A broader regional option with varied terrain, bluffs, and coastal foothill scenery.
Airports
How to reach Tustin by plane.
Closest major airport serving the region, about 5–15 miles from Tustin by road depending on route.
A regional option about 25–35 miles away, with domestic flights and convenient access from OC via I-10 and I-60 corridors.
Smaller hub about 25–35 miles away, often favored for domestic flights and shorter security lines.
Major international hub roughly 40–60 miles away, depending on traffic, with extensive domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of White, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and multiracial households, reflecting the broader Orange County diversity.
Close-knit communities with access to colleges, tech/healthcare employers, and professional services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common in schools and local leagues; community centers host pickup games and clinics.
Youth and adult leagues are active across parks and school facilities.
Numerous public and private courses within a short drive offer weekend rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tustin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer veggie options; look for salads, veggie bowls, quesadillas, or veggie burritos; ask for modifications to avoid meat-based stock.
Ask about plant-based dishes and request dairy-free cheese or mayo alternatives; many places can adapt with advance notice.
Many menus include gluten-free options; rely on rice, corn tortillas, and salads, and communicate restrictions to servers to avoid cross-contamination.