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Aguidetoanaheim's Local Anaheim and Orange County Favorites!

ENTERTAINMENT

Sloppy Joe’s

31 Fortune Rd
Irvine, CA 92618
714/297-0323
Sloppy Joe's is one of Orange County's busiest nightclubs, located at the Irvine Spectrum. Open until 2am. It boasts two separate areas, two bars, and a smoking patio. Sloppy Joe's brings all ages from 18-35. For the average OC clubber, this is a great place to go. Music varies from night to night but is mostly made up of electronic and club music that includes trance, house, hip-hop, and club mixes. Bonus: Club 31 on Wednesdays provides insane lighting and sound, and the best DJ's around.

National’s Sports Grill

450 N. State College
Orange, CA 92868
714/935-0300
Sports-themed restaurant serving American food. 15 beers on tap, 4 big screens, 63 TV monitors, 11 pool tables and electronic trivia game. Located across from Edison International Field, home of the Anaheim Angels. Open daily for lunch/dinner.

AMC 30 at The Block

20 City Boulevard West
Orange, CA 92868
714/769-4262
This 30-screen shrine to cinematic art has already created a major splash with local moviegoers. Mammoth floor-to-ceiling screens and dynamic digital sound envelop viewers in a total experience and places them smack in the middle of all the action. The auditoriums boast more than 6,000 cozy loveseat-style seats that feature retractable armrests and cup holders. Staggered stadium seating and extra-wide aisles guarantee unobstructed views.

Improv Comedy Clubs

71 Fortune Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
949/854-5455
If you are looking for an entertaining and funny night on the town you have found it. The Irvine Improv is striving to become the premiere comedy venue in the country. They feature some of the most famous and hilarious comedians in the industry today. With names like Jamie Fox, Louie Anderson, Bobcat Goldthwait, and Margaret Cho you know that you will be leaving with sore ribs and a smile on your face. Best of all, ticket prices are very affordable. Dinner is available at early shows. Irvine Improv showtimes are Mon.-Thurs. 8:30 p.m. Friday 8:30 & 10:30 p.m. Saturday 7:00, 9:00 & 11:00 p.m. Sun. 7:00 p.m.

Sun Theater

2200 E. Katella Ave
Anaheim, CA, 92806
714/712-2000
The Sun Theatre is Orange County's premiere new venue for live entertainment by today's top stars. With its intimate capacity, upscale amenities and distinctive menu, The Sun Theatre provides an unparalleled experience for today's discriminating concert-goer.

SHOPPING

Irvine Spectrum Center

71 Fortune Dr.
Irvine, CA 92618
949/789-9180
Voted as the #1 entertainment venue in Orange County by local residents. The Irvine Spectrum is one of the country's premier shopping entertainment centers and has quickly become a major destination for residents and visitors alike. This state-of-the-art attraction has received international acclaim for its high quality entertainment, top-quality restaurants, architecturally pleasing ambience and superior location. Located at the heart of Orange County's burgeoning high-tech industry, Irvine Spectrum Center has become a hotbed of nightlife and entertainment that lights up the sky every night of the week. During the day, it is a gathering place for adults, a playground for kids and a voyage into a world of fun for everyone. You'll find that it's easy to relax and enjoy this venture that offers delightful dining such as The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang's, Dave & Busters and Rock Bottom Brewery. You’ll find distinctive shopping and unique performances presented by the Sidewalk Theatre. The center is anchored by the country's most visited movie theaters - a 6,400-seat Edwards 21 Cinema complex with a seven story IMAX 3D Theater. For those who like to play, the choices are limitless, including the state-of-the-art virtual reality experiences and the latest games and arcades at hot spots such as Dave & Busters. Whether you're looking for a novel gift for someone special or something unique for yourself, Irvine Spectrum Center provides fun shopping for everyone. The latest in fashion trends, home furnishings, gifts and fashion can be found in specialty shops and at unique carts and kiosks. Irvine Spectrum Center is located between Los Angeles and San Diego in what is known as Southern California's tourism corridor. Nearby John Wayne Airport and the Anaheim Resort district make the Irvine Spectrum Center tourist-friendly. Center hours: Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

The Block at Orange

20 City Blvd. West
Orange, CA 92868
714/769-4000
Welcome to The Block At Orange, Southern California's most imaginative dining, shopping and entertainment experience. Restaurants and Orange County's largest movie theaters are found next door to bookstores, boutiques, and sidewalk cafes. All located in one imaginative open-air promenade. At The Block, you can take the kids skateboarding, buy a great gift, stop off for coffee or have dinner. It's the perfect place to spend the day with the family or an evening with friends. So explore and enjoy! AMC Theatres, Borders Books, Dave & Buster's, GameWorks, Hilo Hattie, Mars Music, OFF 5th-Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet, Old Navy, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Vans Skate Park, Virgin Megastore, Athlete's Foot, Big Dog Sportswear, Corner Bakery, Frederick's of Hollywood, Skechers, Starbucks Cafe, Toys International, Cafe Tu Tu Tango, and Wolfgang Puck Café to name a few! Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10:00AM - 9:30PM Friday & Saturday 10:00AM - 11:00PM Shuttle: Pacific Coast Sightseeing/Gray Line of Anaheim.

RESTAURANTS

Cafe Tu Tu Tango

20 City Blvd West
Orange, CA 92868
714/769-2222
"Tapas with a twist" highlight the Caribbean-Spanish menu at this open, colorful loft-like space in the City of Orange, which draws a crowd that likes the concept of an all-appetizer meal and enjoys watching creativity flow from the wonderful working artists and impromptu entertainers. Open Sun. - Thurs from 11:30a.m. - 11:00p.m.; Fri - Sat from 11:30a.m. - 1:00 a.m. AE-DC-DS-MC-V.

Anaheim White House

887 S. Anaheim Blvd
Anaheim, CA 92805
714/772-1381
The Anaheim White House serves elegant Italian and seafood. Honored as one of the best restaurants in Orange County. 1999 winner of "Best Chef in Southern California" and "Golden Scepter" for Italian cuisine. This 1909 restored Victorian home is an Anaheim hidden treasure. From 1999 Zagat, "Absolutely outstanding...excellent in Italian fare...superb service...always an experience." Reservations recommended. Occasionally the entire house can be rented for private parties up to 500 people. Dressy preferred, coat and tie not required. Open for lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dinner served daily 5-10 p.m. Banquet capacity 200. AE-V-MC.

Morton's of Chicago

1661 Sunflower Ave
Santa Ana, CA 92704
714/444-2851
Morton's of Chicago is known for serving only the finest quality foods. The restaurant features hearty portions of USDA prime, grain-fed beef, live Maine lobster, fresh fish, chicken, lamb and veal. Private boardrooms available. Reservations recommended. Lunch, dinner. AE, V. C-V.

Orange County Mining Co

10000 Crawford Canyon Rd
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714/997-7411
Enjoy exquisite dining high in the hills of Orange with a breathtaking, panoramic view of the city. Mason jars, tin plates and dimly lit lanterns give the Mining Co. a casual elegance. Excellent service and delicious cuisine including filet mignon, ribs, fresh fish and chicken teriyaki make your evening memorable. Live Music AE, DC, MC, V. Dressy casual attire. Hours : Dinner Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun 4:30pm-10pm; Sun Brunch 10am.

Gordon Biersch Brewery

1623 W. Katella Ave.
Orange, CA 92867
714/288-0115
Freshly brewed authentic German-style lager beers and contemporary American cooking with international flavors in an upscale, contemporary setting. Lunch, dinner and late night dining. Patio, private dining, groups and parties. Sun. -Wed. 11 a.m.-midnight; Thurs.-Sat. 11 a.m.-1 a.m. All major credit cards accepted.

Benihana

2100 E. Ball Rd
Anaheim, CA 92806
714/774-4940
Enjoy steak, chicken, seafood and vegetables prepared right before your eyes by your very own showman chef! Winner "Best Japanese Restaurant" by the Orange County Register. Full sushi bar. Lunch Mon. - Sat., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sun. 1-4 p.m. Dinner Mon.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5-11 p.m.; Sun. 4-9 p.m. Reservations recommended. Child's menu. All major credit cards accepted.

The Catch Seafood Grill & Steakhouse

1929 S. State College Blvd
Anaheim, CA 92806
714/634-1829
The Catch Seafood Grill has been Orange County's local favorite since 1979, serving only the freshest seafood from around the world, "Certified Angus" prime rib, pastas and California's finest wines. Now open is our unique "Club Room" for your special event. Banquet capacity: 20-300 persons. Dress: Business/casual. Child's menu. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner Mon.-Thurs. 5-9:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. 3-7 p.m. All major credit cards accepted.

GOLF

Anaheim Hills Golf Course

6501 Nohl Ranch Rd
Anaheim, CA 92807
714/765-GOLF
Located in the enchanting, natural terrain of the Santa Ana Canyon the Anaheim Hills Golf Course presents a challenging 18 holes. The Course resides on the old Nohl Ranch, where valleys, slopes and ancient sycamores provide a beautiful backdrop. Anaheim Hills has a country club atmosphere, complete with a fully-stocked golf shop, restaurant, cocktail lounge and a 2-tiered, 32-station driving range. This beautifully maintained course is a popular destination for tournaments and remains one of southern California's best golf values. Green fees, including cart: Mon.-Thurs. $ 40; Fri.-Sun./holidays $ 50. Special rates for seniors. Reservations accepted one week in advance.

Tustin Ranch Golf Club

12442 Tustin Ranch Rd
Tustin, CA 92782
714/730-1611
A golfer’s true paradise is experienced on this championship 18-hole, Ted Robinson designed course. This outstanding resort-style public course was recently awarded a 4-star rating by Golf Digest Magazine in their 2000/2001 “Places to Play,” and is consistently voted one of the best Orange County golf courses by the readers of the OC Register. Amenities unique to the par 72 course include their private caddie service and replay rate which is offered Mon.-Fri. Additional amenities include a full service clubhouse restaurant, wedding and banquet facility, pro shop, driving range, tournament services and more. The golf school features instruction from PGA teaching professionals. Putting greens, chipping/bunker area and a night-lit driving range are available for warm-ups or practice. Green fees: Mon.-Wed. $ 85; Thurs.-Fri. $ 100; Sat.-Sun./holidays $ 135.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Huntington City & State Beaches

714/536-1454
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (summer); 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (winter)
Parking: $ 3 all day; A total of 2,500 spaces are located at lots found at Beach Blvd., Newland Street, Magnolia Street and Brookhurst Street.
Tourists flock to the city beach during summer to enjoy all that is the heart of Surf City, USA. The ratio of kids to adults probably jumps from 50/50 during the winter to 80/20 in summer. Parking is close, food is easily found, rentals of all types abound (especially near the pier), and lifeguards are on duty daily. Surfing is restricted during heavy crowds between the pier and Beach Blvd. A paved boardwalk — ideal for biking and skating — runs the length of the beach, separating the parking lot and sand. Plus, dog owners will absolutely love Dog Beach , found at the northernmost end of the city beach at Seapoint Avenue. Dogs are allowed during the same hours as the rest of the public. The state beach is also quite family friendly, with much of it a little removed from the downtown/pier scene. It's also very popular with groups. The numerous fire rings are ablaze on many nights. Rentals of all sorts are run seasonally. A paved boardwalk — ideal for biking and skating — runs the length of the beach, separating the parking lot and sand.

Laguna Beaches

949/497-0706
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Parking: Private fee lots and street (some metered) parking in the surrounding neighborhoods. Glenneyre Street is the best bet. A pay structure is at Glenneyre and Park Street.
Main Beach: Parking difficulties aside, this may be OC's premier beach if the blend of locals and tourists from around the world is any indication. It's quaint and picturesque, yet has plenty of attractions: Basketball courts, volleyball courts, a nearby concentration of shopping in downtown, and decent waves. Sand too crowded? Head north or south to the more secluded bays and coves. North Beach: Because of the difficult parking, locals dominate these secluded coves. Teens tend to gravitate to Crescent; Santa Ana attracts more couples and families; sports enthusiasts favor Boat and Divers; and Heisler draws a lot of tourists from the local hotels. South Beach: Maybe it's the lack of tourists or the great skim and boogie boarding, but teens particularly like this stretch of beach. The difficult parking and the steep path down to the sand makes it most accessible to locals and the able bodied. Park as close to Nye Avenue as possible, walk under the bridge and veer left down to Victoria Beach.

Irvine Regional Park

1 Irvine Park Rd
Orange, CA 92862
714/633-8074
Irvine Regional Park is nestled among a grove of heritage Oak and Sycamore trees. The rolling foothills surrounding the park are filled with a variety of wildlife. Many trees and shaded turf areas provide a serene setting for leisure activities. Santiago Creek bisects the park and a pond with stone-work waterfall and foot bridge is located in the center of the park. The variety of landscape greatly enhances the park's beauty. Picnic tables and barbecues are located throughout the 477 acre park with convenient parking and restroom facilities nearby. A paved bicycle/walking trail meanders through the central park providing easy access to six playgrounds, four softball fields, two horse shoe pits, volleyball courts and lagoon. A four mile equestrian trail skirts the perimeter of the central park providing scenic views of the park and it's natural scenery. Horse trailers can be parked on the north perimeter of the train station parking lot. A lookout trail is on the north slope of the natural area where a covered shelter, watering trough and water fountain are available.

Bonus: The Orange County Zoo is located inside beautiful Irvine Park. The zoo specializes in the animals and plants from the southwestern United States. This emphasis on native species is very important for the understanding and education of the public.

OTHER

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa

25000 Glen Ivy Rd
Corona, CA 91719
888/CLUB-MUD
Just beyond the bustle of the city lies a hideaway nestled in a hidden canyon, Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa. The spa offers natural mineral waters, massage and salon services, and Club Mud group rates (available October - March). Corporate programs and hotel packages are also available. Come experience the promise of paradise or enjoy the spa at home with Glen Ivy's Spa Treatments skincare product line. Affordable luxury is only minutes away.

Fullerton Arboretum

1900 Associated Rd
Fullerton, CA 92831
714/278-3579
Located at Associated Rd. and Yorba Linda Blvd., one block west of the 57 freeway. The Fullerton Arboretum is a twenty-six acre botanical garden with plants from around the world. California natives display, Sonoran Desert area, rare fruit orchard, drought-tolerant slope plantings and the children's garden are a few of the highlights. Self-guided tour brochures highlight a leisurely stroll through the grounds with ponds, streams, and wildlife. Heritage House, an 1894 Victorian cottage which serves as a museum of turn-of-the-century family life and medical practice, is open Sundays from 2-4 p.m. The grounds are open daily 8 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Call for information on events, classes, or group tours.


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