30 Fun Things to Do in Fullerton, CA

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While you've probably heard of famous Southern California cities like Los Angeles and San Diego, there are many smaller cities well worth checking out, like Fullerton. Located in Orange County, this charming destination has a variety of attractions to enjoy.

Some of the many fun things to do in Fullerton, CA, include strolling around Laguna Lake Park, grabbing a beer at Fullerton Brew Co., and visiting the Muckenthaler Cultural Center. There are also lots of things to do near Fullerton, like planning a trip to Disneyland! Keep reading to discover all the exciting things to do in and around Fullerton.

Are you on your way to Fullerton last-minute?

When visiting Fullerton, book your accommodations and experiences before you go. Below are some top recommendations to get you started.

🏨 Top accommodations in Fullerton

• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fullerton (under $100 USD a night)
• Fullerton Marriott at California State University (rated highly)
• Doubletree by Hilton Fullerton (relax by the pool)

☂️ Top tour and experience in Fullerton

• Whale-Watching & Orange County Beaches Tour From Anaheim (rated highly)

30 Fun Things to Do in Fullerton, California

Fun Places to Visit in Fullerton, CA

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Stroll around the Fullerton Arboretum

Opened in 1979, the Fullerton Arboretum is one of the most beautiful attractions in the city. Visitors to the 26-acre botanical garden located on Cal State Fullerton's Campus can wander along scenic trails, admiring pretty plant and flower displays. As you explore, you can snap some unique photos and will also see lots of wildlife, including many bird and butterfly species.

🏨 Accommodation nearby the Fullerton Arboretum

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Anaheim Placentia Fullerton (loved by guests)

Tee off at Fullerton Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts will want to plan a trip to Fullerton Golf Course to play a round or two. The 18-hole par-67 course is located about ten minutes from Downtown Fullerton and is suitable for all golfing abilities.

You can also have lessons at Fullerton Golf Course, and there's a practice facility with a driving range. After your golfing sessions, you can get refreshments at the on-site cafe and bar.

Hang out at Craig Regional Park

Craig Regional Park is one of the best places to go in Fullerton, CA, to enjoy the fresh air. The 124-acre park features walking and biking trails, including those around a tranquil lake. There's also a beautiful rose garden to wander through, as well as a fun playground for children.

🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to Craig Regional Park

• Hyland Motel Brea (good value)
• Chase Suites Brea-Fullerton - North Orange County (top-rated)

Purchase local goods at the Downtown Fullerton Market

Visiting the Downtown Fullerton Market is a great way to mix with locals and discover some unique products. The market is located at Fullerton Downtown Plaza and runs from April through October.

Things to purchase include produce, baked goods, craft items, and much more. If you aren't in the city when this market is hosted, no problem! There's also a winter market held in December with many festive products available.

🏨 Stay nearby the Downtown Fullerton Market

• Holiday Inn Express Fullerton-Anaheim (rated highly)

Wander around Laguna Lake Park

Laguna Lake Park is the ideal place to visit on a sunny day. Visitors will find many beautiful trails to walk or bike along. You can also relax on the grassy areas next to the park's lake, enjoying the views and sharing a picnic with friends or family.

Enjoy drinks and a meal at Bourbon Street Bar & Grill

Bourbon Street Bar & Grill on Commonwealth Avenue is a popular spot to visit for a meal. The eatery focuses on Southern-inspired cuisine, with dishes like seafood jambalaya, Cajun chicken pasta, and gumbo on the menu.

Decadent desserts and a variety of cocktails can also be ordered. If you enjoy your meal, you can return for breakfast, with options like biscuits and gravy and California Cajun shrimp Benedict on the menu.

Relax with a beer at Fullerton Brew Co.

Fullerton Brew Co. is a fun spot to visit in the evening for a beer or two. You can choose from an extensive menu of craft beers and specialty ciders, with wine, whiskey, and cocktails also available. Snacks, such as tacos or tuna melts, can also be ordered, and happy hour offers are featured most days.

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View interested exhibits at the Fullerton Museum Center

The Fullerton Museum Center is another interesting cultural attraction to visit. This museum features various exhibits, including art exhibitions and science and history exhibits. Just a few of the temporary exhibits that have been featured at the center include a history of baseball exhibit, a showcase about sharks, and an exhibition on the prohibition era.

Dine at The Summit House Restaurant

If you're unsure about what to do in Fullerton, CA, for dinner, booking a table at The Summit House Restaurant is highly recommended. The hilltop restaurant offers stunning views across the city and serves dishes like prawn cocktail, a vegetable skillet with jasmine rice, and filet mignon.

To accompany your meal, specialty cocktails, beer, whiskey, and wine by the glass or bottle are available. If you have a sweet tooth, you can indulge in dessert, and alcoholic coffees and dessert liqueurs are also available.

🏨 Stay in close proximity to the Summit House Restaurant

• Residence Inn by Marriott Anaheim Brea (rated highly)
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Brea - North Orange County (unwind poolside)

Enjoy a meal at Les Amis Restaurant & Lounge

Another of the excellent eateries in Fullerton is Les Amis Restaurant & Lounge, located on West Wilshire Avenue. This Lebanese restaurant serves dishes such as falafel, hummus or baba ghanoush with pita, and Shawarma wraps, among many other delicious options.

The restaurant also has sharing platters, along with many small plates, making it easy to try lots of dishes within your dining group. In addition, various Lebanese desserts, like baklava are available to finish your meal.

Attend a show at the Maverick Theater

The Maverick Theater is another excellent performing arts venue in Fullerton. Shows to see include plays and musicals, with reproductions of well-known shows and more unique productions hosted. You can also attend other events, like comic book readings and seasonal shows.

Try to break out of an escape room at Wild Goose Escapes

Trying to get out of an escape room is a fun activity for almost everyone! Wild Goose Escapes offers a few different themes of varying difficulty levels to choose from at the Downtown Fullerton location.

Options include zombie apocalypse and serial killer-themed games. No matter which you choose, you and your group will have an hour to solve clues and puzzles in an attempt to escape.

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Watch a show at the Clayes Performing Arts Center

The Clayes Performing Arts Center is located at California State University and hosts a range of performances. Shows to see include theater productions and dance shows, all of which are performed by students in performing arts programs. No matter what show you see, you'll have a unique and memorable experience!

🏨 Stay in close proximity to the Clayes Performing Arts Center

• Best Western Plus - Anaheim Orange County Hotel (relax by the pool)

Unwind with a glass of wine at Twisted Vine

Spending a few hours at Twisted Vine is definitely one of the most fun Fullerton, CA, things to do in the evening. The wine bar serves many reds and whites by the glass or bottle, with sparkling wine also available.

If you can't decide which blend to try, you can opt for a wine flight. Snacks such as charcuterie boards, flatbread pizzas, and dips are also available to accompany your drinks.

Get brunch at Green Bliss Cafe

Green Bliss Cafe is a quaint cafe serving healthy brunch dishes, as well as breakfast and lunch. Menu items include many vegan and vegetarian options like avocado toast with red pepper tapenade, a BLT with vegan bacon, and indulgent affogato with coconut ice cream. You can accompany your meal with fruit smoothies or hot or iced tea or coffee.

See historic trains at the Fullerton Train Museum

Fullerton has no shortage of unique attractions and specialty museums, like the Fullerton Train Museum. The museum is open on the first and third Saturday of the month and features historic train cars that ran on the transcontinental railroads. As you explore, you can learn more about each train's history and the history of the Southern California railroads.

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Go to a movie at AMC Dine-In Fullerton 20

AMC Dine-In Fullerton 20 is one of the popular and laid-back attractions in Fullerton. The movie theater is slightly different from your average movie theater as it features reclining chairs and in-seat dining. Menu items include salads, burgers, flatbread pizzas, and more. You can also get classic movie snacks like popcorn and candy.

Grab a specialty coffee at Dripp

There are many trendy coffee shops in Fullerton, like Dripp. Menu items to order include classic coffee drinks and more unique options, like an espresso tonic fused with yuzu or a rose latte.

A variety of hot and iced teas and soft drinks, such as peach lemonade, are also available. To accompany your beverage, you can order sandwiches or treat yourself to baked goods.

Bike or hike the Fullerton Loop - MTB & Hiking Trail

The Fullerton Loop - MTB & Hiking Trail is one of the many Fullerton attractions that allow you to explore the outdoors. The loop trail covers around 11 miles and is ideal for hikers and bikers of most levels. Along the route, you'll pass parks, lakes, and hilly landscapes. There are lots of places to stop for a break and admire the views as well.

Visit the Muckenthaler Cultural Center

The Muckenthaler House, also known as the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, is one of the most fascinating attractions in Fullerton. The center is housed within a Spanish Colonial Revival building that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

At the venue, you can view many cultural and art exhibits and also participate in events and workshops. Things to do include attending ceramics classes, exploring a sculpture garden, and seeing unique craft items in a California pottery exhibit.

Fun Things to Do Near Fullerton, CA

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Explore the Anaheim Packing District

Located only ten minutes from Fullerton when driving, the Anaheim Packing District is a cool place to visit in the evening or around lunchtime. This upscale food court features various vendors selling dishes from many cultures, including classic American dishes, Mexican cuisine, and Japanese food. You can also get sweet treats, and there are multiple bars serving craft beer and signature cocktails.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to the Anaheim Packing District

• SunCoast Hotel Anaheim, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (scored highly by guests)
• Clementine Hotel & Suites Anaheim (take it easy by the pool)

Go to Ralph B Clark Park

Ralph B Clark Park sits on the city border between Fullerton and Buena Park and covers around 100 acres. At the park, you can follow hiking and biking trails, including paths around a scenic lake.

In addition, there are picnic areas and sports facilities, like softball fields and tennis courts. Your dog is also welcome to explore the park with you as long as they are kept on a leash.

Have a fun day at Disneyland!

Disneyland is a famous landmark in California that's exciting for kids and adults. Conveniently, the park in Anaheim is located just 30 minutes away from Fullerton and is easy to reach via public transport.

At the park, you can enjoy an array of rides and meet all your favorite characters. You can also shop for merchandise, dine at Disney-themed eateries, and grab some Mickey Mouse snacks, like the iconic Mickey beignets. No matter your age, going to Disneyland is a memorable and fun experience!

🏨 Accommodations near Disneyland Park

• Alamo Inn & Suites - Convention Center (unwind poolside)
• Sheraton Garden Grove-Anaheim South (4-star rating)

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Tour the Stanley Ranch Museum and Historical Village

The Stanley Ranch Museum and Historical Village is located around 30 minutes outside Fullerton in Garden Grove. This interesting attraction features old-fashioned buildings, including a studio used by Walt Disney in 1923. Other buildings to see include a schoolhouse and a post office.

Tours of the ranch and village are offered at 1.30 PM on the first and third Sunday of the month. Despite tours being infrequent, exploring Stanley Ranch Museum and Historical Village is one of the best things to do near Fullerton, CA, and visiting for the tour is well worth it!

Plan a trip to Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a well-known city in the United States that's located only an hour from Fullerton, depending on traffic. Due to its close proximity, planning a day or overnight trip from Fullerton is a fun idea!

Things to do in Los Angeles range from seeing iconic landmarks, like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, to checking out trendy coffee shops or bars and hiking at Runyon Canyon Park. If staying overnight, other activities to add to your LA itinerary include watching a Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena or seeing the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

🏨 Accommodation near Los Angeles

• The Los Angeles Athletic Club (rated 4-stars)

See vintage cars at the Marconi Automotive Museum

Going to the Marconi Automotive Museum is a must for those interested in luxury and vintage cars. The museum features over 100 vehicles, including those used in movies, like the Batmobile! Other cars include Ferraris and Jaguars, with race cars, motorbikes, and some other vehicles also displayed.

🏨 Nearest accommodation to the Marconi Automotive Museum

• Residence Inn by Marriott Tustin Orange County (highly acclaimed)

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Marvel at the Crystal Cathedral

Located in Garden Grove, about 15 minutes from Fullerton, the Crystal Cathedral is a must-see landmark. The building is officially called Christ Cathedral but gets its informal name from its stunning reflective mirror exterior.

The cathedral's interior is just as unique, with illuminated white tiles covering the walls and ceiling. The church is said to house one of the world's largest pipe organs as well.

Experience a Pirates Dinner Adventure

If you're looking for a memorable dining experience, attending a Pirates Dinner Adventure is a must! The event takes place in Buena Park, around ten to 15 minutes from Fullerton. Diners can enjoy an exciting pirate show aboard a pirate ship.

A variety of appetizers and main courses can be ordered while watching the show, as can pirate-themed alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. Guests of all ages can join the fun, making it a great family dinner idea.

🏨 Accommodations nearby the Pirates Dinner Adventure

• Good Nite Inn Buena Park (good value)
• Hampton Inn & Suites Buena Park (rated highly)

Spend the day in Huntington Beach, Orange County

Huntington Beach is only 30 minutes from Fullerton. Planning a trip to the coastal destination is one of the best things to do in Orange County.

Once you arrive, you can see landmarks like the Huntington Beach Pier, wander around the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, and go to the International Surfing Museum, among many other activities.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to Huntington Beach

• Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort (scored highly by guests)
• Paséa Hotel & Spa (breathtaking waterside views)

Organize a weekend getaway to San Diego

Another fun Southern California city to visit is San Diego. It makes a great weekend getaway destination and is located around an hour and a half to two hours from Fullerton, depending on traffic.

Activities to add to your San Diego weekend itinerary include visiting the Fleet Science Center, exploring Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, and enjoying the views of San Diego Harbor. You can also book many San Diego tours and excursions, like sunset cruises and seal-watching trips.

🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to San Diego

• Staypineapple, Hotel z, Gaslamp San Diego (rated very highly)
• Best Western Plus Bayside Inn (unwind poolside)

In Conclusion

If you're visiting the area soon and have been wondering what to do in Fullerton, California, this list should have given you a good idea of all the activities you can enjoy. From exploring museums and tackling escape games to dining at top eateries, there's no shortage of fun and memorable things to do in Fullerton!

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