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Best Neighborhood To Go On A Shopping Spree In OC

- Muse Boutique - Orange County Laguna Beach OC
(credit: Gina Gonzales)

Clothes, shoes, electronics, appliances - you name it, and it is in Orange County. One can shop in air-conditioned comfort, so perhaps this is a more attractive option during the dog days of summer, when the mercury seems to be endlessly rising. The shops are locally owned and have been for many years. There are also some very worthwhile coffee shops and eateries in the area.

old towne orange
(credit: Old Towne Orange)

Old Towne Orange

There are few things more relaxing, than a walk around the historic Orange Circle. Although there are no large department stores within the area, there are plenty of specialty stores and antique shops. The shops are locally owned and have been for many years. While there is no food court, there are some very worthwhile coffee shops and eateries in the area. One of the most notable dining establishments is Felix Continental Cafe. Even if you have had Cuban cuisine in the past, you owe it to yourself to stop in. The food is delectable, the service is friendly and this is the perfect way to finish off a leisurely day of shopping.

LagunaArtMuseum
(credit: Laguna Art Museum)

City Of Laguna

If boutique shopping is your thing, then Laguna Beach is the place for you. This historically artsy community offers some a wide variety of specialty shops, with the added allure of being located in close proximity to the ocean. There are also a number of independent art galleries which showcase some of the fine local artistic talent. Shopping is not just about buying things, it is about bonding and truly enjoying the day. With the combination of boutiques, art galleries, palate-pleasing cafes and an ocean view, a day of shopping in Laguna Beach is hard to beat.

Related: Best Outlet Malls Near Orange County

The LAB antimall costa mesa
(Credit: The LAB)

City Of Costa Mesa

Home to the famous South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa offers a much less rustic shopping experience. One can shop in air-conditioned comfort, so perhaps this is a more attractive option during the dog days of summer, when the mercury seems to be endlessly rising. Here, one can find virtually anything one may need. Clothes, shoes, electronics, appliances -- you name it, it is here. As usual, one of the other perks of shopping in Costa Mesa is easy access to some high-quality restaurants. For those whom would like to unlock their own inner-chef, a visit to Sur La Table is in order. The aforementioned offers a splendid variety of chef's tools and cookware -- if cooking is one of your passions, this is a must. The area is also home to the LAB Antimall, which features a number of terrific shops.

Related: 15 Best Restaurants In Orange County

tustin brewing company
(credit: Joe T./Yelp)

Old Town Tustin

The city of Tustin was established in 1927. One can almost feel all the history taking a stroll down El Camino Real in the heart of this cozy little town. Tustin provides a friendly atmosphere and plenty of options for a day of shopping. There are many locally-owned stores, restaurants, and breweries, as well as a Farmer's market which takes place every Wednesday from 9am to 1pm. Tustin is a great place to not only shop, but also to soak up the flavor of a unique city which soon will reach it's 100 year anniversary. If antiquing is your thing, don't miss Tustin's Vintage flea market, which takes place on the last Sunday of every month from 8am to 3pm, located at 474 El Camino Real.

Asian Night Market
(credit: Natasha K./yelp)

City Of Westminster

In 1988, Westminster was dubbed "Little Saigon" due to it's large Vietnamese population. The city now provides the perfect opportunity to absorb some of the southeast Asian culture while doing some shopping. While walking through this unique city, perhaps you will be lucky enough to stumble upon the Asian Night Market, which provides one of the great shopping experiences in Orange County. Located in the Asian Garden Mall, the market provides not only a wide variety of vendors offering virtually everything one might need, but also a most spectacular outdoor food court. A wide variety of of flame-broiled meats and seafood, featuring lobster-on-a-stick, are just a few highlights of the scrumptious Asian cuisine. If you care to, you can wash it all down, with some delicious freshly-pressed sugar cane juice. Beginning on June 17, this year's Asian Night Market will run Friday-Sunday nights from 7pm - 11pm It ends on Sept. 3. Give it a try, you will love it.

Born in Los Angeles, CA - Charles Smith Jr loves southern California, sports, food and life. Mr. Smith is a straight shooter who always 'keeps it real.' A passionate writer, his main goal is to create understanding and make a difference. He readily welcomes all feedback.
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