Costa Mesa, California, is a vibrant Orange County destination where contemporary art, world-class shopping, creative restaurants, and Southern California culture come together. Known as the City of the Arts, Costa Mesa offers much more than shopping centres. Visitors can explore sculpture gardens, attend Broadway shows, discover independent boutiques, enjoy local cuisine, and take short trips to nearby Pacific beaches.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a stop on a California road trip, there are plenty of things to do in Costa Mesa for different interests and budgets. You can spend a morning exploring modern art, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, browse creative shopping districts in the afternoon, and finish the day with live entertainment.

1. Explore South Coast Plaza

South Coast Plaza is one of the city’s most recognizable attractions. This major shopping destination features designer boutiques, international fashion brands, restaurants, and impressive architectural details. It is particularly popular with visitors interested in luxury fashion and upscale retail experiences.

You do not need to be a dedicated shopper to enjoy a visit. Browse the stores, admire the displays, stop for coffee, or plan a meal at one of the restaurants. The centre’s proximity to Costa Mesa’s arts district also makes it easy to combine shopping with a museum visit or an evening performance.

2. Watch a Performance at Segerstrom Centre for the Arts

The Segerstrom Centre for the Arts is a major reason Costa Mesa has earned its reputation as the City of the Arts. Its venues host Broadway productions, ballet, concerts, symphony performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.

Check the event calendar before your visit to see whether a musical, dance performance, or concert fits your schedule. Even without tickets, the surrounding arts campus is worth exploring for its striking architecture and outdoor sculptures.

For an evening that combines culture and dining, consider having dinner nearby before attending a show.

3. Discover Contemporary Art at the Orange County Museum of Art

The UC Irvine Longson Orange County Museum of Art showcases modern and contemporary art through exhibitions, educational programs, and public events. Its contemporary building, designed by Morphosis Architects, is also an architectural highlight of the city’s arts district. General admission is free, although visitors should check current exhibition details and any special program requirements.

Spend time exploring the exhibitions and learning about different artists and creative movements. The museum works well as a shorter cultural stop, especially when combined with nearby public art or shopping.

4. Explore the California Scenario Sculpture Garden

One of the more distinctive things to do in Costa Mesa CA is visiting California Scenario, also known as the Noguchi Garden. Designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi, this outdoor installation interprets California’s landscapes through stone, water, plants, and carefully arranged landforms.

The garden offers a peaceful contrast to the surrounding office buildings and busy commercial areas. Its thoughtful design makes it interesting for photography, architecture, and contemporary art enthusiasts.

Because it is a relatively compact installation rather than a large botanical garden, you can fit a visit into a morning of exploring Costa Mesa’s arts district.

5. Browse Independent Shops at The LAB Anti-Mall

The LAB Anti-Mall offers a different shopping experience from conventional malls. Its name stands for Little American Business, reflecting its focus on independent retailers, creative spaces, and locally oriented businesses. The open-air setting includes shops, restaurants, and distinctive visual details.

You can browse unusual gifts, discover independent brands, enjoy a casual meal, or photograph the colourful surroundings. The LAB is a useful stop for travellers who want to experience Costa Mesa’s creative side rather than focus entirely on major retail chains.

6. Enjoy the Relaxed Atmosphere at the CAMP

Located near the LAB, The CAMP brings together independent shops, restaurants, and an outdoor setting influenced by active and environmentally conscious lifestyles. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it an appealing place to take a break during a day of sightseeing.

The LAB and The CAMP are close enough to visit during the same outing. Browse the stores, enjoy lunch, and explore the courtyards without rushing between attractions.

7. Experience Costa Mesa’s Diverse Food Scene

Food is a major part of Costa Mesa’s appeal. The city has a diverse restaurant scene, with international cuisine, neighbourhood cafes, chef-led restaurants, and creative dining concepts. Its food culture is one reason the destination attracts visitors beyond traditional shopping and sightseeing.

Consider trying a new cuisine, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or choosing a restaurant close to the arts district. Visitors interested in special dining experiences can also research the city’s Michelin-recognized restaurants and make reservations in advance where necessary.

Exploring local food businesses adds another dimension to a trip and offers a taste of Costa Mesa’s varied culinary culture.

8. Discover Public Art and Colourful Murals

Art in Costa Mesa extends beyond galleries and performance venues. The city features public sculptures, large murals, and installations that bring colour and creativity to its streets and commercial districts. The official tourism guide highlights work by established artists and local creatives throughout the city.

A self-guided art walk is a flexible way to discover these works. You can explore the sculpture collection around the arts campus, photograph murals, and stop at nearby cafes along the way.

The Costa Mesa Art Walk also provides an opportunity to learn more about selected artworks through its self-guided audio experience. Check the current guide before setting out to plan your route.

9. Enjoy Open Space at Fairview Park

Fairview Park offers a quieter side of the city. The park contains extensive natural open space, landscaped areas, and walking and cycling trails. According to the City of Costa Mesa, it covers 208 acres in total, including 195 acres of open space.

Visitors can walk along the trails, observe local wildlife, enjoy the open landscape, or have a picnic where permitted. It is a good place to take a break from shopping and indoor attractions.

Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and follow posted guidance to help protect the park’s natural habitats.

10. Spend Time at TeWinkle Park

TeWinkle Park is another option for visitors who want to enjoy some outdoor time. Its recreational spaces make it suitable for families, casual walks, and breaks between sightseeing activities.

If you are traveling with children, a park visit can balance a schedule filled with shopping, museums, and restaurants. You can enjoy the green surroundings, let children play in designated areas, and relax before continuing your day.

Check local park information for current facilities, opening details, and rules regarding picnics or group activities.

11. Visit the OC Fair & Event Center

The OC Fair & Event Center hosts the annual OC Fair alongside concerts, exhibitions, and other scheduled events. During the fair, visitors can enjoy food vendors, entertainment, exhibits, and traditional fairground attractions.

The atmosphere and available activities depend on the event taking place. If you are visiting outside the annual fair season, check the venue’s calendar for concerts, exhibitions, or other public events that coincide with your dates.

12. Attend a Concert at Pacific Amphitheatre

The Pacific Amphitheatre is an outdoor performance venue located on the OC Fair & Event Centre grounds. It hosts selected concerts and special events, providing an option for travellers who want to include live music in their itinerary.

Review the performance schedule before your trip, since the lineup changes throughout the year. Check ticket details, parking arrangements, and entry requirements before making plans.

13. Take a Coastal Trip to Newport Beach

Although Costa Mesa is slightly inland, the Pacific coast is only a short drive away. Newport Beach is a convenient destination for enjoying ocean views, walking along the sand, and experiencing the Southern California coastline.

You can spend a few hours by the water, explore the waterfront, or make the beach part of a longer Orange County itinerary. Travel time depends on traffic, your starting point, and parking availability, especially on warm weekends and holidays.

If you plan to swim, check local surf and water safety advisories before entering the ocean.

14. Explore Independent Cafes and Coffee Shops

Not every activity needs to involve a major attraction. Costa Mesa’s cafes and independent food businesses offer opportunities to slow down, enjoy a coffee, and experience the city’s everyday atmosphere.

Stop for pastries and a morning coffee before exploring the arts district, or take a break between visits to The LAB and South Coast Plaza. Depending on the neighbourhood, you may find specialty coffee, light meals, and locally owned businesses.

A relaxed cafe stop can also be a useful way to plan the next part of your trip without rushing through the day.

15. Plan an Evening of Dining and Live Entertainment

Costa Mesa is particularly enjoyable in the evening when dining and performing arts can be combined into one outing. The area around Segerstrom Centre for the Arts and South Coast Plaza offers opportunities to enjoy a restaurant meal before a scheduled musical, ballet, concert, or theatrical performance.

City of Costa Mesa

If no performance matches your travel dates, consider a restaurant-focused evening instead. Checking the event calendar and making reservations ahead of time can help you plan a more relaxed night.

How to Plan Your Costa Mesa Visit

When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Mesa?

Costa Mesa’s mild Southern California climate makes it suitable for visiting throughout the year. Spring and fall can be comfortable for walking, exploring parks, and visiting outdoor art installations. Summer is popular for beach trips and seasonal events, while winter can be a good time to focus on shopping, museums, restaurants, and theatre.

Check the forecast before planning a full day outdoors, and confirm dates if the OC Fare or a particular performance is important to your trip.

How Do You Get Around Costa Mesa?

A car can be useful if you plan to explore several neighbourhoods or visit nearby beaches. Rideshare services and public transportation may suit selected routes, but plan ahead when attractions are spread across different parts of Orange County.

You can visit The LAB and The CAMP together, while South Coast Plaza and the nearby arts district make another convenient combination.

Can You Visit Costa Mesa on a Budget?

Yes. Free public art, park visits, and the Orange County Museum of Art’s free general admission provide ways to enjoy the city without spending heavily on tickets. You can also compare restaurant prices and choose a mix of casual meals and special dining experiences.

A Simple Two-Day Costa Mesa Itinerary

Day 1: Art, Culture, and Shopping

• Morning: Explore the Orange County Museum of Art and California Scenario.
• Afternoon: Visit South Coast Plaza and enjoy lunch.
• Evening: Attend a performance at Segerstrom Centre for the Arts if a suitable show is scheduled.

Day 2: Local Experiences and the Coast

• Morning: Browse The LAB and the CAMP.
• Afternoon: Walk at Fairview Park or relax at TeWinkle Park.
• Late afternoon: Head to Newport Beach for coastal scenery, allowing extra time for traffic and parking.

This itinerary can be adjusted based on opening hours, the weather, and your interests.

Final Thoughts

Costa Mesa offers a distinctive mix of art, food, shopping, entertainment, and coastal experiences. From exploring South Coast Plaza and viewing contemporary art to discovering independent businesses and relaxing at nearby beaches, there are many ways to enjoy the city.

The best things to do in Costa Mesa California depend on your interests and the time you have available. Art enthusiasts can explore museums and sculpture gardens, families can enjoy parks and seasonal events, and food lovers can discover the city’s diverse restaurant scene. With a little planning, you can combine these experiences into a memorable Southern California getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions