Looking for a quick day trip or a slow-paced weekend just a few miles from Anaheim? Old Towne Orange is a pocket of preserved history that’s easy to get to, and even easier to enjoy. Located only minutes from Downtown Anaheim, this historic SoCal district offers visitors a walkable, low-key escape filled with architectural charm, one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants, and some of Orange County’s most unique cultural attractions.

Old Towne Orange, Minutes from Anaheim

The historic Orange Circle in Old Towne Orange and Anaheim sit side by side in the heart of Orange County, just a quick 10-minute drive from Disneyland® Resort. While Anaheim hums with world-famous attractions and entertainment, nearby Old Towne Orange offers a charming contrast with its vintage shops, antique stores, and historic architecture. Orange Circle's steady rhythm makes it especially appealing for seasoned travelers looking to slow things down and enjoy a slice of California history just a stone’s throw from Anaheim. Start planning your day trip to Old Towne Orange and see what the buzz is all about!

Fun fact: Old Towne Orange was famously featured in Back to the Future, adding a touch of movie magic to your shopping stroll.

Old Towne Orange

Explore the Real-Life “Main Street USA”

At the heart of Old Towne Orange is Plaza Park, a circular green space that makes the whole neighborhood feel easy to explore on foot. In fact, the area has earned the nickname “Plaza City,” and once you visit, you’ll see why! 

 

The entire Old Towne district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with many of its buildings dating back to the early 1900s, when the county was first urbanized with the arrival of the railroad. Throughout the area, you’ll find broad sidewalks, benches and shady areas to people watch, old-timey storefronts, and more.

 

Visitors who enjoy architecture will appreciate the mix of Craftsman, Victorian, and mid-century design. And, because the district covers just one square mile, it’s easy to explore on foot at your own pace, without rushing or overexerting! 

Pro Tip: If you want to enrich your visit, check out what’s happening at the Orange Community Historical Society. They regularly host walking tours, talks, and special events that highlight the area’s history and heritage.

 

Antique mall at orange circle old towne, Orange, CA

Antique Finds and Shopping in Old Towne Orange

If you’re into antiques, Old Towne Orange has many standout shops that focus on the old-school and the hard-to-find, including:

  1. Country Roads Antiques
  2. Antique Depot
  3. Antique Station
  4. Timeless Vintage
  5. Summerhill Limited
  6. Orange Circle Antique Mall

And the best part? These businesses are all within walking distance of each other! Expect all sorts of goodies like mid-century home goods, military memorabilia, collectible toys, books, vinyl records, and other treasures. Beyond antiques, locally owned boutiques in the area offer everything from handmade gifts and art prints to vintage dresses, jewelry, and even gardening accessories!

Thrift Stores and Vintage Shops in OC

At the Orange Circle in Old Towne Orange, shopping feels like a treasure hunt. This charming historic district is packed with some of the best thrift stores and vintage shops in Orange County, where every corner offers something unique from retro fashion and antique furniture to vinyl records and collectible finds. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind outfits, mid-century décor, or just love the thrill of a great bargain, the Orange Circle is the perfect spot to shop, stroll, and soak in local charm. Here's a list of a few thrift stores and vintage shops, but keep walking around, there's more!

Orange Circle Antique Malls

  1. Now & Again Thrift Shop (Assistance League of Orange): Boutique-style items: clothing (including name-brands), shoes, seasonal décor, books jewelry
  2. DeeLux: Thrift Store known for men & women clothing
  3. The White Rabbit: Thrift store specializing in vintage clothing, jewelry, glass, china, and silver
  4. Elsewhere Vintage: Vintage and resale clothing for men & women
  5. Groovy Ghost Vintage: Great antique and vintage finds from clothing to music, games & more
  6. Joyride Vintage for Men: Find men’s tailored clothing, fine leather goods, vintage tees, jackets and more from the 1920’s-1980’s

Gabbi's

Gabbi's Mexican Kitchen

Old Towne Orange Dining

When it’s time to eat, you’re never far from a memorable sit-down meal.

  1. Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar is a modern American restaurant offering creative seasonal dishes and handcrafted cocktails in a refined yet cozy setting.
  2. Smoqued California BBQ brings a SoCal twist to classic barbecue, serving slow-smoked meats, hearty sandwiches, and freshly made sides.
  3. The Streamliner Lounge (located inside the Orange train station) brings retro charm along with hearty American fare and craft cocktails.
  4. For elevated Mexican cuisine, the award-winning Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen delivers authentic flavors and upscale dining.
  5. O SEA brings fresh, flavorful seafood to the Orange Circle, serving dishes infused with bold, modern flavors.
  6. Just outside Orange’s historic circle, Francoli Gourmet offers upscale Italian comfort classics in an elegant setting.

For the golden age traveler, most restaurants in Orange open early and remain relaxed throughout the day. Plus, many offer lunch and early-bird specials, perfect for those who prefer to dine at off-peak hours. 

Watson's Soda Fountain & Cafe in Old Towne Orange

Creative Culture and Youthful Energy in a Classic Setting

Old Towne Orange’s proximity to Chapman University adds a sprig of youthful energy to the area, especially if you’re looking to catch an art show or live performance.

On campus, the Hilbert Museum of California Art features rotating exhibitions of 20th-century and contemporary painters from across the state, making for a rewarding stop for anyone interested in California’s visual culture. The Musco Center for the Arts (also located on Chapman’s campus) brings in touring classical musicians, world music ensembles, and theater productions throughout the year. For more intimate experiences, The District Lounge regularly hosts live jazz, acoustic sets, or open mic nights. 

Orange Circle

Getting to Old Towne Orange from Anaheim

While driving is always an option, travelers can skip the car entirely and still reach Old Towne Orange with no hassle. Metrolink’s Orange Line stops right in Old Towne, with daily service from Anaheim Station. Seniors receive discounted fares, and local OCTA buses also run convenient routes throughout the week. 

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