ANAHEIM ADJACENT: TUSTIN

Tustin is a city that sits at a crossroads between old and new. Incorporated nearly a century ago, Tustin has enjoyed a recent wave of development that created a fusion of history and contemporary culture within its 11 square miles. 

From the historic charm of Old Town Tustin to trendy restaurants at Union Market laying the foundation for an emerging foodie culture, the city has ample ways to entertain. Here, learn four ways to tailor a tour of the town for any personality.

For Car Enthusiasts

An affordable afternoon excursion for all ages, the Marconi Automotive Museum houses a $30 million collection of vehicles ranging from Italian exotics to American muscle cars. It offers ample eye candy for gearheads, with displays of more than 75 rare and one-of-a-kind street and racing cars. Check out an historic 1929 Ford Model A, which is juxtaposed by the sleek and sexy lines of a 2006 Chip Foose Hemisfear—one of only five such vehicles ever built and produced. The nonprofit museum is open Monday through Friday for self-guided tours. 1302 Industrial Drive, Tustin, 714-258-3001, marconimuseum.org

For Foodies

Food halls are popping up across Orange County, and Tustin’s Union Market is no longer the new kid on the block. Located at The District at Tustin Legacy, the industrial-chic space has earned its reputation as a hot spot for hip eats and sweets. Savor mouthwatering poutine at The Kroft, poke and Spam musubi at Cubed or Southern seafood at Kettlebar, washed down with a stiff drink from Central Bar. Dessert options also abound, from chocolate chip cookie cups filled with creamy milk at The Dirty Cookie to fresh-made ice cream in croissants at Churned. 2493 Park Ave., Tustin, unionmarkettustin.com

For History Buffs

Journey back through with a trip to Old Town Tustin. It’s a slice of the city where time stands still. Start your tour with a free stop at the Tustin Area Museum, where charming gems like the city’s first fire engine help craft the narrative of Tustin’s development. The rest of El Camino Real and Main Street carries similar echoes of the past— vintage thrift stores and historic homes dating back to the late 19th century—that stand alongside modern restaurants and shops like the vegan Freesoulcaffé. 395 El Camino Real, 714-731-5701, tustinhistory.com

Family Friendly Exploration

For an all-day shopping and dining destination, explore The Market Place, a sprawling outdoor shopping center opened nearly 30 years ago. The mall spans several blocks and provides myriad options for grabbing a bite and window browsing. Start your day by getting on the waitlist at Snooze: an AM.. eatery, an American breakfast spot that draws massive crowds from across Orange County. Kid-friendly activities include the Color Me Mine pottery studio and soon-to-open Luv2Play family center featuring an indoor playground, climbing wall, arcade and pretend city. 2961 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714-730-4124, shopthemarketplace.com