Established in 1936, Bowers Museum is likely the best all-around museum in Orange County. With funds donated by Charles Bowers, the complex was built in the style of the California Missions and is adorned with murals honoring that motif. Originally focused on local history, the museum has since enlarged its focus to incorporate artifacts from the cultures of Southeast Asia, Oceania, Mexico, and Native America. Several interesting exhibitions are often featured at the museum. This place is a must-visit for those who are passionate about the past.

Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano is a California icon. Perhaps most famous for visits from its annual guests of honor, the swallows, the Mission means many things to many people. For Californians, it is a powerful symbol of the state's complicated colonial history. For Catholics, it is a profound religious site, indicative of the Church's own complex heritage. History buffs spend hours reveling in the facility's many exhibits and displays, connecting viscerally with the sights, sounds and feelings of generations long past. For visitors of any background, it is an undeniably gorgeous place to spend an afternoon-replete with striking architectural elements and lovingly cared-for gardens.