Tucked between Anaheim and Brea, Fullerton is Orange County’s best-kept secret, blending college-town energy with historic charm and outdoor adventures.
Think vintage downtown diners, hidden hiking trails with canyon views, and a music scene that launched punk rock legends.
This isn’t just another suburb—it’s a destination with soul, flavor, and surprises around every corner.
From train museums to mouthwatering taco spots, Fullerton packs a punch with experiences that feel authentically Southern California.
Whether you’re a local looking for fresh weekend plans or a visitor exploring beyond Disneyland, these 12 best things to do in Fullerton, California will show you why this city deserves your attention.
1. Downtown Fullerton – Best Overall & For Nightlife
The historic core of Fullerton buzzes with college kids, live music, and some of OC’s best eats.
By day, browse indie boutiques like Modern Mouse for vinyl records and quirky gifts. By night, catch emerging bands at legendary venues like The Slidebar (co-owned by a member of No Doubt).
Foodies shouldn’t miss Fuoco Pizzeria Napoletana, where the wood-fired Margherita pizza tastes straight from Naples.
For dessert, Fluff Ice serves Taiwanese snow ice that’s like fluffy frozen clouds.
Pro tip: Park in the structure on Wilshire Ave—it’s free for the first 2 hours and walking distance to everything.
2. Fullerton Arboretum – Best For Nature Lovers
This 26-acre botanical garden at CSU Fullerton is a peaceful escape with 4,000+ plants from around the world.
Stroll through the Mediterranean garden, redwood grove, and citrus orchard bursting with oranges and lemons.
Kids love the heritage house and pond full of turtles, while photographers go wild for the rose garden in spring.
Best part? Admission is free (donations appreciated).
Local secret: Visit in early morning to spot roadrunners darting between the cacti.
3. The Night Owl – Best For Breakfast & Vintage Vibes
Step into a 1960s time capsule at this sunny-side-up institution. Their chicken and waffles draw crowds, while vegans swear by the tofu scramble.
The retry orange booths and jukebox make every meal feel like a retro party.
Don’t skip the house-made cinnamon rolls—they’re the size of your face and worth every calorie. Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to beat the brunch rush.
Fun fact: This spot inspired scenes in That Thing You Do!—ask your server about the Hollywood connection.
4. Laguna Lake Park – Best For Families & Water Views
This 100-acre oasis centers around a sparkling lake perfect for duck feeding and paddle boating (rentals available weekends).
The 2-mile loop trail is stroller-friendly with mountain views, while the playground keeps kids entertained for hours.
Fisherman love the stocked trout in winter, and the picnic areas under massive sycamores are ideal for birthday parties.
Keep an eye out for great blue herons stalking the shoreline.
Weekend tip: The model airplane field draws hobbyists—kids love watching the mini jets take off.
5. SOCO Collection – Best For Upscale Shopping
This open-air lifestyle center mixes boutique shopping with Instagram-worthy dining.
Browse Anthropologie for boho finds, then refuel at Greenleaf Kitchen (their ahi tuna wraps are legendary).
The central lawn hosts free yoga classes and outdoor movie nights in summer.
Don’t miss Milk + Honey for small-batch ice cream in flavors like lavender shortbread.
Parking hack: The structure near Whole Foods always has spots, even on busy Saturdays.
6. Hillcrest Park – Best For Panoramic Views
Fullerton’s highest point offers sweeping vistas from downtown LA to Catalina Island on clear days.
The historic 1930s stone bridges and rose garden make perfect photo backdrops.
Hikers can tackle the 1.5-mile trail to Craig Regional Park, while kids burn energy on the woodland-themed playground.
Early mornings are magical when hot air balloons drift over the hills.
Local love: Couples often get engaged at the scenic overlook at sunset.
7. The Cellar – Best For Date Night Dining
Hidden beneath downtown, this 1920s-inspired speakeasy serves elevated comfort food in a candlelit vault.
The wild mushroom ravioli and filet mignon are standouts, while the chocolate torte is pure decadence.
Request the “Wine Room” for intimate brick-arched seating.
While they specialize in craft cocktails (whoops—scratch that), their house-made sodas like blackberry-lavender are just as special.
Reservation must: Book 2+ weeks ahead for weekend tables—this place is no secret.
8. Ralph B. Clark Regional Park – Best For Fossil Hunting
Dig into prehistoric SoCal at this park with real Ice Age fossils on display.
The interpretive center shows mastodon bones found onsite, while the fishing lake and hiking trails offer modern-day fun.
Kids adore the “dig pit” where they can uncover replica fossils. The 3-mile perimeter path is perfect for jogging with views of the Coyote Hills.
Cool fact: Paleontologists still occasionally find 10,000-year-old specimens here during digs.
9. Hibbleton Gallery – Best For Local Art
This indie gallery in a converted house showcases emerging OC artists in rotating exhibits.
From surreal paintings to interactive installations, the creativity here buzzes.
First Fridays mean artist talks and live music with the downtown art walk. Don’t miss the hidden backyard sculpture garden—it’s like a mini secret oasis.
Support local: Most pieces are under $500, making art collecting accessible.
10. Fullerton Museum Center – Best For History Buffs
Housed in a 1922 Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores Fullerton’s citrus boom days and railroad history.
Current exhibits highlight Chicano art and vintage surf culture.
The Leo Fender Gallery pays tribute to the local inventor who revolutionized electric guitars. Kids love the hands-on “History Detective” activities.
Freebie: Admission is free every first Sunday—perfect for budget-friendly learning.
11. The Road Less Traveled Store – Best For Unique Souvenirs
This fair-trade shop stocks handmade goods from global artisans—think Guatemalan textiles, Moroccan lanterns, and Thai silks.
Every purchase supports ethical wages abroad.
The smudge stick selection is the best in OC, and the gemstone jewelry makes meaningful gifts. Staff can tell you the story behind every item.
Conscious consumer tip: Bring reusable bags—they’re plastic-free.
12. Bastanchury Park – Best For Sports & Recreation
With 4 baseball fields, tennis courts, and a skate park, this local hub stays busy day and night.
The walking path circles grassy fields where families fly kites on breezy afternoons.
The spray ground operates Memorial Day through Labor Day, while the shaded picnic areas host weekend barbecues.
Check the board for free summer concerts.
Early bird perk: The fitness circuit gets packed by 7 AM with workout groups.
Final Thoughts
From downtown dive bars to fossil-filled parks, Fullerton proves Orange County has more than just beaches and theme parks.
These 12 best things to do in Fullerton, California showcase its unique mix of history, creativity, and outdoor fun.
So what’s first on your list? Hunting for mastodon bones? Catching a punk show? Or maybe just sipping coffee in a retro diner? Whatever you choose, Fullerton’s ready to impress.
Which Fullerton experience speaks to you? The arboretum strolls? The vintage shopping? Or those legendary breakfast spots? Hit the road and discover OC’s coolest college town!