Founded in 1869, Santa Ana is part of the greater Los Angeles area, with an estimated population of 332,000 inhabitants.

Borrowing its name from the nearby Santa Ana River, the city was originally known as Vallejo de Santa Ana following the 1769 expedition led by Gaspar de Portola out of Mexico City. After the ending of the Mexican-American war in 1848, American settlers began to arrive in the area, and by 1877 the Southern Pacific Railroad had constructed a branch line leading from L.A. to Santa Ana.

Fast-forward to World War II, when the U.S. Air Force established a base and training center in Santa Ana, which was directly responsible for continued population growth in the area. Many veterans moved to the city to raise families following the end of the war.

Since the 1980s, efforts to revitalize the downtown district have become part of a campaign to encourage young professionals and entrepreneurs to relocate to the area. Known for its strong work ethic and diversity, Santa Ana maintains a balanced community with economic vitality, artistic vision, and laidback livability.

Their primary industries are aerospace and electronics, with one of their most notable businesses being Rickenbacker musical instrument company, whose bass guitars and electric guitars garnered fame in the hands of many rock and roll legends.

Unlike some of Orange County's more pretentious tourist towns, Santa Ana is home to an extensive collection of fun and funky galleries, boutiques, theaters, and sidewalk cafes. Get familiar with the city's artistic side at the bohemian-hip Artists Village, implemented by Cal State Fullerton's Grand Central Art Center. ArtWalk occurs on the first Saturday of every month, where more than 20 galleries open their doors, street vendors market their wares, and local musicians play on street corners.

The Bowers Museum on Main Street, a beautiful Spanish-style complex built in 1936, is home to a permanent collection of traditional African wooden masks, Native American artifacts, and Pacific Islander headhunter adornments and tools.

Walt Disney's world-renowned Disneyland Park is only a short 11-minute drive from the heart of Santa Ana. Kids will also enjoy the 100-plus interactive science exhibits housed in Discovery Cube Orange County.

Santa Ana also boasts a thriving and exciting culinary scene. For the adventurous diners, be sure to check out creative chef Jason's Quinn modern gastropub, The Playground. For the health-conscious, try Crave Restaurant, a relaxing and vegan-friendly cafe located downtown. For authentic Mexican food, head over to Sarinana's Tamale Factory, Santa Ana's longest established restaurant with over 75 years in business.

After a solid bite to eat, venture over to Santa Ana Zoo, a 20-acre zoo home to a wide variety of Central and South American plants and animals.

Referred to as "The Golden City," Santa Ana boasts a diversified community, thriving economy, and rich history. For all that it offers, who could have time or energy to tend to their landscaping needs? A simple solution? Download the LawnStarter app and get connected to the area's most reputable landscaping professionals in the blink of an eye. LawnStarter will even coordinate all details and communications. Isn't it time you head out and explore everything Santa Ana has to offer?