Parks
44 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Madison Park1.4 mi from downtown
- El Salvador Park1.6 mi from downtown
- Cabrillo Park1.7 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Santa Ana
5 kinds of free outings in and around Santa Ana.
Good days out in Santa Ana don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Orange County Public Law Library515 N. Flower St
- Santa Ana Public Library26 Civic Center Plaza
- Garfield Community Center501 N. Lacy St
Historic places
21 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Pacific Electric Sub-Station No. 14
- Rankin's
- Santa Ana City Hall
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Brea Dam11 mi north
- Carbon Canyon Dam12 mi north
- Falcon Group24 mi east
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Fullerton Dam11 mi north
- Carbon Canyon Dam12 mi north
- Prado Dam16 mi northeast
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
We’ve rounded up a complete guide of what to do and where to dine and shop in Santa Ana. 🏠🌿
An activity Short shared by Locale .
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
50 FREE, Year-Round Things To Do in Santa Ana, California 👇
An activity Short shared by Planmyweekend.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Santa Ana?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Santa Ana this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.