Tustin: History, Architecture, and Events

Tustin offers several specific points to consider when choosing a travel destination: historic buildings, recurring events, and connections to golf and hiking. If you’re looking for a hotel in Tustin, it may help to first determine the purpose of your trip. The town’s history is especially appealing to travelers who want to include architecture and historical context; events can provide a reason to travel in their own right, while golf and a park hiking trail cater to other interests.

Historic Buildings and Architecture

At the heart of Old Town Tustin is a group of historic buildings along Main Street and El Camino Real; the buildings date from the 1880s. The historic virtual tour of Old Town Tustin is self-guided and includes 14 historic sites. The locations along two streets and the number of tour sites offer different ways to explore history, whether you’re looking at it through the area as a whole or through individual sites.

The Stevens House combines a specific construction date with details about its material and origin: it was built in 1887 from redwood shipped from Eureka. It is also a classic Victorian house in the Queen Anne style. The Leihy House is an example of a California Craftsman bungalow. The two houses therefore represent two differently named architectural styles. If architecture is one of your travel interests, you can compare not only the styles but also consider the Stevens House’s construction date, material, and the origin of its wood together.

The Tustin Hangars are on a different architectural scale: they are among the two largest wooden structures ever built. While specific architectural styles take center stage with the houses, the hangars offer another perspective on Tustin’s building history through their size. Architectural interest thus ranges from the classification of individual houses to an exceptionally large wooden structure.

Events and Recreation

Events can also provide a specific reason to plan a trip. The Tustin Tiller Days have been held annually since 1957. Their recurring nature makes them a possible point of reference if you’d like to visit Tustin as part of a festival. The Tustin Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off is held annually on the streets of Old Town Tustin. It includes food and chili booths, as well as craft beer and wine. Dates, programs, and offerings may vary from one event to the next; therefore, check the dates and program for the relevant event before traveling.

There are also specific Tustin attractions for visitors interested in including golf or a hike in their travel plans. Tustin Ranch Golf Club features a signature golf course designed by Ted Robinson. Cedar Grove Park has a hiking trail that connects to regional trails. The activities are distinct: golf is associated with a named club and course design, while hiking is associated with a trail in a park and connections to regional trails. Park amenities may change; check the latest information before planning a visit.

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For the broader travel overview: Orange.