Old Orange County Courthouse Santa Ana
A historic 1901 courthouse in Santa Ana, offering free admission to explore its architecture, archives, and exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer wedding parties
Old Orange County Courthouse Santa Ana
Best Time
Fewer wedding parties
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1901 courthouse in Santa Ana, offering free admission to explore its architecture, archives, and exhibits.
"Beautiful building with free admission, a popular spot for weddings and history buffs."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The courthouse lot fills quickly, especially on busy wedding days. Consider nearby parking structures. :car:
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
This spot is a photographer's paradise, ideal for weddings, elopements, and portraits. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Entire Building
Step back in time with stunning early 1900s architecture, a photographer's dream.
Orange County Archives
First Floor
Explore local history and memorabilia in this fascinating archive, a hidden gem.
Wedding & Elopement Venue
Ceremony Rooms & Courtroom
A beloved spot for civil ceremonies and elopements, offering a beautiful backdrop.
Passport Services
Second Floor
Conveniently get your passport processed amidst historic surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Wedding & Passport Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The courthouse lot fills quickly, especially on busy wedding days. Consider nearby parking structures. :car:
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
This spot is a photographer's paradise, ideal for weddings, elopements, and portraits. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Explore All Floors
Don't miss the archives on the first floor and the historic courtroom on the third! :world_map:
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Expect crowds and potential construction delays, especially on Fridays. :hourglass:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The courthouse lot fills quickly, especially on busy wedding days. Consider nearby parking structures. :car:
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
This spot is a photographer's paradise, ideal for weddings, elopements, and portraits. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Explore All Floors
Don't miss the archives on the first floor and the historic courtroom on the third! :world_map:
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Expect crowds and potential construction delays, especially on Fridays. :hourglass:
💳 Parking Payment Options
Pay for parking with coins or credit card; the phone app incurs a small extra fee. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Orange County Courthouse for its stunning, historic architecture and free admission. It's a popular and beautiful venue for weddings and passport services, offering a glimpse into local history. However, be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, due to its popularity for ceremonies and photoshoots.
"Beautiful building with free admission. The building consists of 3 floors, the first floor (which is more like a basement) consists of the county’s archives and historic memorabilia. The second floor was jam packed with people taking wedding pictures or waiting for passport appointments (you can get your passport done here btw. The third floor was where the historic courthouse was. Overall, beautiful architecture and plenty of OC history. Just be aware it will be filled with people getting their wedding pics taken."
TheDoRanger
"Went here to get our marriage license and it was very quick and easy to do so. The building is very beautiful and I would get married here if we had not already planned for a church wedding."
Catherine Do
"The museum was empty because they have not placed displays out yet during the reopening from COVID. Not sure when that happens with the timeline. Beautiful building! Luckily, I had a OC Parks pamphlet from before COVID that provided a lot of information that I might have missed. It might be a better trip to wait for when things fully reopen? UPDATE! Don't miss downstairs! All of the history is there..."
Jennifer Cleary
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Orange County Courthouse is located at 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701. It's accessible by car, with nearby parking lots and structures. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving downtown Santa Ana.
Yes, there is a small lot at the courthouse, but it fills up quickly, especially on busy days. Paid parking is available in nearby lots and structures. Be aware that parking tickets are issued, and the city has contracted a third party for enforcement.
Yes, you can use a convenient phone app for parking, but it may incur an additional charge per hour. Alternatively, you can pay with coins or a credit card directly at the meter.
Visitors should allow extra time for potential construction traffic, as many streets in the area may be partially closed or one-way.
The courthouse is generally open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, but specific hours for archives, exhibits, and services like passport appointments may vary. It's best to check the official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Old Orange County Courthouse is free, making it an accessible historical landmark to explore.
Absolutely! The Old Orange County Courthouse is a very popular venue for civil ceremonies and elopements. You can have a ceremony with witnesses and even rent larger rooms for a small fee.
For information on booking wedding ceremonies, including details on witnesses, guests, and room rentals, it's recommended to contact the Orange County Clerk-Recorder's office directly.
While the courthouse offers passport services, it's advisable to check if appointments are required or recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure a smooth process.
Yes, guided tours are available, offering insights into the building's history and significance. Check with the courthouse or OC Parks for tour schedules and availability.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic architecture, visit the Orange County Archives on the first floor, view temporary and permanent exhibits on local history, and witness or participate in wedding ceremonies.
Yes, it's an incredibly popular spot for wedding photography, elopements, and general portrait sessions due to its beautiful historic architecture and grand interiors.
The courthouse hosts temporary and permanent exhibits focusing on local and regional history, including the 'Other Side of Memory: Photographs by Luis C. Garza' exhibit.
Photography is generally permitted, especially for personal use and wedding photos. However, be mindful of ongoing ceremonies and other visitors. Professional photographers often capture couples here.
Information on accessibility for individuals with disabilities should be confirmed directly with the courthouse management. Elevators may be available for accessing different floors.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand staircase, the historic courtroom, and the exterior architecture are all popular spots for wedding photos. The interior spaces offer a warm and intimate feel.
Yes, many photographers specialize in courthouse weddings and are familiar with the Old Orange County Courthouse. They can help capture your special day beautifully. +1
While generally allowed, be respectful of ongoing ceremonies and other visitors. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas.
Both natural light and posed shots work well. The historic ambiance lends itself to classic, romantic, and even dramatic photography styles. +1
Yes, the courthouse is a beautiful and historic location for engagement photos, offering a variety of backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💍 Couples Planning a Wedding
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Many creators use it for 'behind the scenes' content, showcasing the process of capturing beautiful moments. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and always be respectful of ongoing events. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hub for Civil Ceremonies
Couples can bring a limited number of guests and witnesses, and there are options for renting specific rooms or even the superior courtroom for a more private ceremony. The process is often described as quick and straightforward, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable and beautiful wedding experience in Orange County.
A Glimpse into Orange County History
The building houses the Orange County Archives on its first floor, offering a treasure trove of local history, memorabilia, and historical documents. Temporary and permanent exhibits are also featured, providing visitors with insights into the region's heritage. One notable exhibit, 'The Other Side of Memory: Photographs by Luis C. Garza,' showcases powerful black-and-white images that tell compelling stories.
Visiting the courthouse offers a unique opportunity to connect with the history of Santa Ana and Orange County in a visually stunning setting.Photography Hotspot
Many creators on TikTok and Instagram showcase their work here, emphasizing the timeless beauty and romantic atmosphere. Whether it's capturing a couple's first kiss, a joyful exit, or intimate portraits, the courthouse offers a classic and elegant setting. Photographers often highlight the warm, intimate feel of the interior spaces, making it a versatile location for various photography styles.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit