Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buena Park to Costa Mesa

Buena Park and Costa Mesa are two of Southern California's most popular tourist destinations. Buena Park is home to the famous Knott's Berry Farm, while Costa Mesa boasts a vibrant nightlife and world-class shopping. While the two cities are only 10 miles apart, the drive between them can be surprisingly scenic if you know where to look. Here are five unexpected places to stop and enjoy the journey.

Halfway Point: Westminster, CA

Westminster is halfway between Buena Park and Costa Mesa, making it the perfect place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. The city is known for its Vietnamese population, and there are plenty of restaurants where you can sample authentic dishes. Try the banh mi at Banh Mi Che Cali, or the bun thit nuong at Pho Dakao.

1. Mile Square Regional Park

Mile Square Regional Park is a sprawling 640-acre park in Fountain Valley. It's a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or play a game of frisbee. There are two lakes in the park, and you can rent paddle boats or fishing gear if you want to get out on the water. Deeper in the park, you'll find a golf course, Archery Range, and the Orange County Model Engineers, a miniature train club that offers rides to the public.

Food to try: If you're feeling hungry after exploring Mile Square Regional Park, head to the nearby Maru Maki Sushi for some fresh sushi rolls.

2. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Just a few miles down the road from Mile Square Regional Park is the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. This wetland boasts 1,200 acres of protected habitat for birds, fish, and other wildlife. The reserve has several hiking trails that wind through the marsh, as well as a visitors' center where you can learn about the ecosystem. Be sure to bring your camera - the sunsets over the wetlands are breathtaking.

Food to try: After a day of hiking, head to Donut City for a sweet treat. The shop is famous for its blueberry cake donuts, which are freshly made every morning.

3. Newport Beach Back Bay

Newport Beach is known for its beautiful beaches and high-end shopping, but the Back Bay area offers a quieter, more natural side of the city. The Back Bay is a 1,000-acre nature preserve that's home to dozens of bird species, as well as coyotes and bobcats. You can explore the reserve by bike or on foot, or rent a kayak and paddle through the calm waters of the bay.

Food to try: For a taste of the sea, head to Bear Flag Fish Co. in the nearby Crystal Cove Shopping Center. The menu changes daily depending on what's fresh, but you can't go wrong with the fish tacos.

4. The Lab Anti-Mall

The Lab Anti-Mall is a quirky shopping center in Costa Mesa that's unlike anything you've seen before. The stores here are more like galleries, with unique clothing, art, and home goods that you won't find anywhere else. The atmosphere is laid-back and bohemian, with plenty of outdoor space to relax and people-watch.

Food to try: If you're in the mood for something sweet, head to Hopper & Burr and order the lavender honey latte. It's a unique twist on a classic drink, and the pastries are delicious too.

5. The Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a stunning performing arts complex in Costa Mesa. The center hosts hundreds of events each year, ranging from Broadway shows to ballets to concerts. Even if you're not catching a performance, the architecture of the center is worth seeing. There are several public art installations on the grounds, as well as a beautiful fountain that's lit up at night.

Food to try: Before or after a show, head to The Capital Grille for a delicious steak dinner. The restaurant is known for its dry-aged beef and extensive wine list.

Conclusion

While the drive between Buena Park and Costa Mesa may be short, there are plenty of unexpected places to stop and explore along the way. From natural reserves to quirky shopping centers, there's something for everyone. So the next time you're embarking on this journey, be sure to take your time and enjoy the ride. Who knows what hidden gems you might discover?