8 Things That Make Costa Mesa So Special 

Costa Mesa – even the name sounds exciting! This Orange County city is a vibrant hub of culture, entertainment, and adventure, perfectly suited for everyone from foodies to art lovers and thrill seekers. If you’re looking for things to do in the city, you won’t be disappointed with these 8 things that make Costa Mesa so special!

8 Things That Make Costa Mesa So Special 

The OC Fair & Event Center Helps Make Costa Mesa Special

The OC Fair & Event Center is one of the crown jewels of Costa Mesa, and it delivers entertainment and cultural events all year long. From trade shows to motorcycle races at the Costa Mesa Speedway, there is pretty much always something happening here. And then there is the Fair itself, which is nothing short of legendary. This singular event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer, and for good reason! There’s deep-fried deliciousness, jaw-dropping rides, and live performances galore.  Learn more about the OC Fair & Event Center here.

Explore South Coast Plaza

No visit to Costa Mesa could be called complete without at least one stop at South Coast Plaza, one of the most well-known luxury shopping destinations in the world. The shopping experience here is unmatched thanks to over 250 high-end stores, including Chanel, Gucci, and Cartier. But South Coast Plaza isn’t only about shopping – the location is also home to an impressive selection of dining options. There’s everything from casual cafes to fine-dining establishments like Vaca and Water Grill, so anyone can get their fill of food.

Visit the LAB Anti-Mall

Looking for a more… unconventional shopping experience? Then head on over to the LAB Anti-Mall! This trendy and artsy hot spot stands as the opposite of what you find in most other malls. Surrounded by all sorts of eclectic boutiques, quirky shops, and unique art installations, the LAB is individuality at its best. There are also plenty of eateries, including vegan and organic spots, and visitors can enjoy frequent events like farmers’ markets, pop-up shops, and even workshops that teach everything from candlemaking to ceramic painting. 

Catch a Show at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Costa Mesa is often referred to as the “City of the Arts,” and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is just one of so many places that live up to that name! This cultural landmark is the go-to venue for all kinds of performances, including Broadway musicals, symphony concerts, world-class ballet productions, and more. Art enthusiasts and anyone just looking for a memorable night out will find something to love with the Center’s stellar lineup. 

Head Out to Fairview Park

From nature lovers to anyone who just wants to get away from the city for a bit, Fairview Park is the place to be. As the city’s largest park, it sprawls over 208 acres and five different habitats that are home to plenty of natural wildlife. The park also features various outdoor opportunities, including walking, biking, birdwatching, picnicking, kite-flying, and so much more. If you’re looking for a great day outdoors, make Fairview your destination. 

Tour the Costa Mesa Art Walk

The Costa Mesa Art Walk is a self-guided walking tour that showcases the best of the city’s creativity. There are public art installations and murals galore for visitors to discover all along the way. These artworks celebrate the best of Costa Mesa’s cultural and artistic backgrounds and are a fun, interactive way to explore the city’s creative community.

Enjoy the Flavors of the Local Food Scene

Talk about a foodie’s paradise! Costa Mesa has all sorts of places to treat yourself to an amazing meal, including farm-to-table restaurants, steakhouses, authentic ramen spots, and even food trucks. There’s something here for everyone to enjoy, and no one will leave hungry! 

Get Your Action On at the Costa Mesa Skatepark

If you’re looking for thrills, the Costa Mesa Skatepark, originally sponsored by Volcom, is a must-visit. This state-of-the-art 24,000-square-foot facility caters to skaters of all skill levels with ramps, rails, street elements, and bowls. The park offers several events throughout the year, each sponsored by local skate shops and organizations, drawing in huge crowds from the community.  Stop by for a ride or just stay and watch – either way, you’ll enjoy yourself. 

Ready to Explore Costa Mesa? 

Costa Mesa is a city that refuses to be ordinary. There’s something here for literally everyone to enjoy, from world-class entertainment and dining to cultural experiences and more, making it a must-visit on anyone’s bucket list. Check out these spots as well as other things to do in Costa Mesa and see for yourself what makes our city so special.