15 Best Things to Do in Yorba Linda (CA)

Yorba Linda is a city of 65,000 people in Orange County. It’s a suburb of Los Angeles, which is only 37 miles away.

Although the city is mostly known for being the birthplace of Richard Nixon, it’s also known for its pleasant weather, modern equestrian facilities, and a central location close to many other towns and cities, including Anaheim, Brea, and Corona.

The city is also famous for its mix of urban amenities and small-town charm. In Yorba Linda, there are many restaurants, cultural attractions, and shopping areas, such as Yorba View Shopping Center and Savi Ranch.

Within the city limits, there are many green spaces, including more than 100 miles of multi-purpose trails. The coastline with its beautiful beaches is only a short distance away.

Many festivals and events take place in Yorba Linda throughout the year, including the Polish Harvest Festival and Fiesta Days Parade, and Family Faire.

Below are 15 of the best things to do in and around Yorba Linda, California.

1. Learn About Local History at the Yorba Linda Heritage Museum and Historical Society

Start your exploration of Yorba Linda with a visit to the place where you’ll learn about the area’s long and colourful history – from indigenous times through settlement times up to today.

The society aims to acquire and share this history with visitors through several sites, including the Susanna Bixby Ranch Museum and Botanic Garden.

At the museum, you’ll see many artefacts spread across 2,500 square feet and five rooms. There are artefacts related to all aspects of the city’s history and culture, including antique furniture, textiles and ranching tools.

You’ll also learn about the history of the botanic garden, the water wars, the bee industry, transportation, and the Yorba family. Guided tours are offered during specific times.

2. Get Outdoors at Jessamyn West Park

Jessamyn West Park is a public park in Yorba Linda perfect for a quick escape from urban life.

The park has a number of on-site facilities, including children’s playgrounds, bicycle and scooter paths, picnic areas, a garden, and basketball and volleyball courts. There’s also a memorial honouring the victims of the Challenger Space Shuttle mission.

3. Sample Local Craft Beer at Bruery Terreux

Since 2008, the boutique brewery at Bruery Terreux in nearby Anaheim has been creating farmhouse-inspired craft brews. These unique brews are traditional, inventive, and always satisfying.

The on-site tasting room is roomy and comfortable, with stylish decor. This is where you can sample a range of beers; there’s usually about 47 of them available on tap.

You can also relax on the patio. Food trucks are typically parked in front of this brewery, so you can grab a bite to eat to go with your beverage.

4. Visit The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

Richard Nixon's Childhood Home — Richard Nixon’s Childhood Home

The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum commemorates the life of former President Nixon and the legacy he left behind.

On-site, you’ll be able to visit Richard Nixon’s well-preserved childhood home. The museum highlights his life through 70 different exhibits showcasing his personal life and career.

Also on-site is the Marine One presidential helicopter, which is open to the public. You can climb inside this preserved helicopter, explore a recreation of the White House’s East Room, and conduct your own research at the library, which holds the most extensive collection of presidential archives in existence.

5. Tee Off at Black Gold Golf Club

Black Gold Golf Club is a scenic 18-hole, par-72 golf course situated in Yorba Linda. The course features spectacular views of the Los Angeles area and a range of elements, including water hazards, elevation variations, and waterfalls.

The golf carts have modern, built-in GPS systems, and a lighted driving range and putting green are on-site.

Derrick’s Restaurant features a variety of gourmet burgers and Southwestern cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

6. Dine on a Unique Blend of Cuisines at The Wild Artichoke

Since 2000, The Wild Artichoke has been serving a range of French, Italian, and Californian-inspired options made with the finest and freshest ingredients available.

At this eatery, food is a passion: creativity and expertise come together to create the delicious dishes served by the warm and friendly staff.

Appetizers and main courses such as sautéed salmon picatta, Lori’s pasta, and Barbara’s Bolognese are just some of the options available on the menu. A variety of desserts and wines are also available.

7. Explore the Fullerton Arboretum

Since 1979, the Fullerton Arboretum has been allowing guests to explore its 26-acre arboretum and botanical garden.

Situated on the California State University campus in Yorba Linda, this beautiful facility is the biggest botanical garden in Orange County.

More than 4000 plants are on-site. Some of these plants are nearly extinct, while others are extinct in the wild. As you explore the facility, you’ll see native plants, citrus, and a rare fruit grove.

Also on site is the Heritage House, which was built in 1894 and showcases a museum dedicated to 19th-century medical procedures.

8. Take a Stroll through Yorba Linda Historic Cemetery

Source: Paul Castro / Facebook

Part historic site, part final resting place for many former residents, the Yorba Linda Historic Cemetery is one of the oldest in Orange County.

Established in 1834, many pioneers are buried in this cemetery. It’s open to the public on a limited basis, and guided tours are offered on certain days of the year.

9. Ride in the Cockpit at the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center

At the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center in Anaheim, you’ll have the opportunity to ride in a cockpit and fly an airplane – well, not really. But the on-site simulators will make it feel like you are actually flying a plane.

You can choose from several different experiences, including a Boeing 737 and an F-16 Fighting Falcon. During your simulated flight, you have full reign of the controls.

10. Sky Zone Anaheim Indoor Trampoline Park

The Sky Zone Anaheim Indoor Trampoline Park is the first indoor trampoline park in the world. Since 2012, it has been entertaining guests of all ages.

Whether you want to get an invigorating cardio workout or have a blast bouncing to your heart’s content, this modern, fun facility provides the perfect escape from the real world for a while.

Other facilities include a Foam Zone foam pit and a Skyslam court. You can also participate in a game of Ultimate Dodgeball or a Skyrobics Fitness Class.

11. Shop, Eat and be Entertained at CTRCity

Situated in the downtown area of Anaheim, CTRCity is a lively cultural district that was once the site of the Anaheim Packing House. Today, this location showcases various shops and restaurants, and live entertainment performances take place there.

Some of the businesses you’ll find at the CTRCity include the Anaheim Brewery, Okayama Kobo Bakery and Cafe, Muzeo Museum Cultural Center, and RARE, a thrift store carrying items you won’t find anywhere else.

12. Spend an Exciting Day at Adventure City

Situated in Anaheim, Adventure City is a two-acre amusement park that combines history with exciting rides and attractions.

Some of the on-site attractions include a 1938 mini railroad, an arcade, a theatre, a petting zoo, and a rock-climbing tower.

Some of the rides include a 1946 carousel, the Rewind Racers shuttle coaster, a Ferris wheel, a tower drop, and the Spinning Balloon.

13. Enjoy Dinner at Gusto D’Oro Italian Cuisine

When it comes to Italian fare, Gusto D’Oro Italian Cuisine takes it to another level.

This family-run eatery offers visitors a comfortable, relaxing environment in which to enjoy a delicious, expertly-prepared meal.

While all your favourite traditional Italian dishes are on the menu, you’ll also see some you’ve never heard of, and everything is fresh and homemade.

A variety of appetizers, salads, pasta dishes, seafood dishes, pizzas, and house specials such as chicken fiorentina and grilled Italian sausages are just some of the options available.

Vegan dishes are also served, and you can choose from a wide selection of Italian and domestic wines. Outdoor seating is available.

14. Soak in the Excitement of the Downtown Disney District

Although the Downtown Disney District in Anaheim is a part of the Disneyland Resort, visitors don’t need tickets to enter because it’s open to the public. This pedestrian area is home to a range of eateries, shops, and entertainment venues.

Some of the on-site attractions include AMC Theaters Disney 12, The House of Blues, and the Walt Disney Travel Company.

15. Spend a Day in Nature at Yorba Regional Park

Situated near the Santa Ana Canyon, Yorba Regional Park is a beautiful spot to relax or participate in outdoor activities. The park consists of 140 acres of natural green space on the banks of the Santa Ana River.

There are hundreds of picnic tables and barbecues. Volleyball courts, cycling trails, and walking trails are also on-site, and the four lakes inside the park are popular spots for fishing.