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9 Cool Shopping and Dining Adventures

Imagine an escape with friends for a day of shopping and discovering new restaurants, bistros and boutiques. Most are an easy stroll from the Metrolink station.

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1. Olvera Street and Phillipe’s

Just a five-minute walk from LA Union Station and you'll be in the heart of Olvera Street. The birthplace of Los Angeles features 27 historic buildings and a traditional Mexican-style plaza with excellent food and shopping. Walk one block further and you’ll find Philippe The Original, home of the French Dip sandwich.

2. Dragons and dim sum in Chinatown

There’s always something exotic around every corner in Chinatown. Search for some great Instagrammable sites such as the Dragon gate. Or stroll through souvenir shops looking for paper lanterns. Don’t forget to leave time for some delicious dim sum. From the LA Union Station, it’s a 10-minute walk or take the Metro Gold Line one stop.

3. Antiques and antojitos in Orange

Downtown Orange is known for great antique shops, but the dining scene is just as amazing. From the Jalapeños to the Euro Caffe you’ll find excellent local hot spots for lunch while on your antique shopping adventure. Just a five-minute walk from the Orange Metrolink station along Chapman Avenue.

4. Ferris wheel and fun in Irvine

There’s always something new to do at Irvine Spectrum Center, one of Southern California’s most popular shopping, dining and entertainment lifestyle destinations. Recently renovated, the center features a giant Ferris wheel, 21-screen theater and distinctive eateries and stores. From the Irvine Station, take the Irvine Connect to the Spectrum.

5. 150 shops in Mission Viejo

Find something for everyone at this family-friendly indoor mall. One of OC’s premier shopping spots, The Shops at Mission Viejo are close to the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station. Hop on OC Bus Route 85 or 91 or the MV Shuttle and ride from the station to the mall.

6. Eat play live at Mission Viejo

Experience Kaleidoscope, a lifestyle center featuring entertainment, shops, restaurants and arts and culture. The innovative venue offers activities for all ages and stages. Hop on OC Bus Route 85 or 91 and ride from the station to Kaleidoscope.

7. Hidden treats and treasures in SJC

San Juan Capistrano is filled with cool places to dine, shop and enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy lunch at Trevor’s at the Tracks and a latte at Hidden Coffee House, then stroll the shops in the historic Los Rios District and at The Old Barn Antique Mall on Camino Capistrano. All are located within a few steps of the San Juan Capistrano Metrolink station.

8. Savings and scenery in San Clemente

Shop 60+ big brands at deep discounts in a Spanish-style village overlooking the Pacific Ocean. At the Outlets at San Clemente, you can combine shopping and saving with a trip to the beach. Take Metrolink to the San Clemente North Metrolink Station, then take the free trolley, either red or blue line, to the outlets.

9. Boutiques and brews in Oceanside

The craft beer craze is alive and well in Oceanside with an amazing array of taprooms within an easy walk from the station. They include: Mission Ave. Bar and Grill, Stone Company Store, Kilowatt Brewing, and Barrel Republic Oceanside. Besides brews, numerous boutiques and thrift stores line Coast Highway. All are located within walking distance of the Oceanside Metrolink Station.

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