Ranked as one of the 50 best places to live in the United States, Mission Viejo is not your ordinary medium-sized city in South Orange County. Home to 100,000 residents, this lovely urban space nestled in Saddleback Valley boasts a wealth of natural surroundings, recreational opportunities, award-winning schools, a storied Olympic history, and family-friendly activities.
Let’s explore some of Mission Viejo’s top attractions and amenities that make it a great place to live.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
O’Neill Regional Park draws outdoor enthusiasts to explore more than 4,000 acres of true wilderness. Oak and sycamore trees are abundant in this park, and 23 miles of trails here are available for hiking, cycling, horseback riding, or simply strolling to take in the views. Winding through the park is a pair of creeks for fishing or bird-watching.
Oso Creek Trail spans 5.5 miles along a creek with a network of trails and various wildlife. The pathways showcase butterfly paintings, community murals, mosaic history walls, and the Peace Obelisk sculpture which was erected as a memorial to the victims of 9/11.
Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park is a 544-acre wildlife sanctuary with three main trails: the 3-mile Wagon Wheel Canyon and Oak Canyon Trail, the Mule Deer and Oak Canyon Trail Loop, and the Vista Ridge and Oak Canyon Loop – the last two of which are both two miles long.
FAMILY FUN
Oso Viejo Community Park is a cool spot to relax and spend time with family. This 52-acre park features football and soccer fields, picnic spots, and walking trails. Children young and old can have fun at the playground while the adults can explore the Oso Creek Trail found behind the park.
Lake Mission Viejo is perfect for boating and fishing activities. This popular man-made recreational lake runs 70 feet deep with a depth of 35 feet. Within the area, there are walking trails, picnic benches, and a full-service marina.
The Sky Zone Trampoline Park is where everyone can jump to their heart’s delight in 50,000 square feet of connected trampolines. This enormous indoor playland is where patrons can indulge in activities including freestyle jumps, dodgeball, wall-climbing, parkour, and many more. Facilities include a zipline, air court, trapeze and swing, drop slide, toddler zone, and a ninja warrior course.
Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club is the hub for golf aficionados. Located on the grounds of the Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo, this 18-hole championship course features dramatic elevation and multi-tiered greens that offer a challenge and enjoyment to golfers.
SHOPPING AND DINING
The Shops at Mission Viejo is one of the largest malls in Orange County. Indulge in retail therapy with over 150 stores, including luxury brands. Fast food and high-end restaurants are available to cater to your cravings.
A Hidden Vine on the Lake gives you stunning views of Lake Mission Viejo paired with the best-tasting wines of the region. Nestled on the shores of the lake, this popular winery offers wine-tasting sessions with charcuteries and flatbread to match.
Antonucci’s Italian Cucina is the oldest Italian restaurant in Mission Viejo. Home to traditional Italian fare, this popular dining has a casual, and yet elegant atmosphere.
Ready to experience everything that Mission Viejo has to offer? Let me, Tony Florez, one of the top real estate agents in South Orange County, assist you in finding your dream abode among the homes for sale here. Call me at 949.378.7276 or send an email here to get started.