Free things to do near the Richard Nixon Library

The Richard Nixon Library stands tall in Yorba Linda, shining a spotlight on presidential history and the roots of Orange County. But what if you want to soak up more local flavor—without dipping into your vacation funds? The area around the Nixon Library is packed with delightful, free things to do: relaxing gardens, scenic trails, quirky parks, and art you just can’t find elsewhere. We’ve scouted out the smartest ways for you, your friends and family to fill an afternoon (or two!) with memorable local experiences that won’t cost you a cent—you’re about to see a side of Yorba Linda that’s just as impressive as its most famous resident.

Nixon Presidential Library Gardens

 

Did you know the Nixon Presidential Library has stunning free gardens to explore, even if you don’t have a ticket to get inside? The beautifully manicured library grounds are open to the public most days–stroll through nine acres of winding paths, rosebeds and reflecting pools, all meticulously maintained. You’ll spot California poppies, native oaks, sculpted hedges and seasonal blooms that keep the landscape lively and interesting year-round. Palm-lined walkways lead you around a beautiful reflecting pool, past memorial plaques and even up to Nixon’s modest childhood birthplace—a classic white farmhouse set in its original orange grove.

What draws people here—besides the flowers and peaceful shade—is a sense of local history. Pausing at the rose garden, you’ll see flowers in the same varieties sent to the White House during Nixon’s tenure. On major holidays, you’ll find free commemorative ceremonies and sometimes live music on the broad lawns. Benches and fountains offer places to rest, journal, or simply enjoy the breeze with a view. It’s a favorite for quiet contemplation as well as family strolls and romantic selfies.

Jessamyn West Park

 

For families and fans of the great outdoors, Jessamyn West Park is a fine local staple, offering shady lawns, rolling hills and a relaxing atmosphere just a stone’s throw from the Nixon Library. Visitors praise the gentle walking loops that make for great morning or evening strolls, passing through mature sycamores and tall eucalyptus. Perched above the neighborhood, the park offers peaceful views west—sunset here is a treat, with the orange glow sweeping over the OC hills.

Play areas feature modern equipment for children of all ages, including a unique climbing wall and spinners. Open fields often host neighborhood soccer games or impromptu frisbee matches, but there’s plenty of room left for laid-back picnics under the trees. Shaded benches line the perimeter, giving parents a comfortable spot to relax while kids explore.

Susanna Bixby Bryant Ranch Museum and Gardens

 

For a fascinating window into Southern California’s agricultural beginnings, head south to the Susanna Bixby Bryant Ranch Museum. Admission to the museum is free, and the surrounding gardens deliver an extra layer of charm. The sprawling grounds were once part of the vast original Yorba–Bixby land grant. You’ll find lush lawns, native plant gardens and rows of historic citrus trees lining the entrance, with interpretive signs detailing Yorba Linda’s ranching past.

Inside the museum, you’ll encounter exhibits on the OC’s ranchero era—handwritten letters, antique farming gear, and black-and-white photographs of families who shaped the region. Volunteer docents are full of quirky anecdotes, eager to share how lemon, olive and walnut groves built the area’s identity. On weekends, living history re-enactors often demonstrate crafts or traditional games for children, keeping the local legacy alive and interactive.

Box Canyon Park

 

Tucked away in the foothills, Box Canyon Park is a hidden gem for anyone who enjoys open space and scenic views. This neighborhood favorite is well-known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent play structures. The themed adventure playground is a winner with younger children—think castle turrets, slides and a fun splash pad in summer months.

Wander along the paved trails that wind through gentle slopes and mature trees. The canyon itself is small but packed with native wildflowers and birds, drawing local birdwatchers and sunset chasers. There are free-to-use BBQ grills, shaded picnic tables and a surprising sense of tranquility for being so close to the city. Fitness-minded folks find the park’s open grassy areas perfect for yoga, casual soccer, or tai chi classes (often organized by locals and open to drop-ins).

For families, the bonus is a little ‘fossil dig’ sandbox filled with replica dino bones, sparking plenty of creative play. The views from the park’s higher ground are spectacular—on clear days you can see past Yorba Linda to the coastal hills. It’s an ideal spot to relax, recharge, and let kids expend some energy—without spending anything.

Black Gold Golf Course scenic overlook and trails

 

Swinging a club here ain’t free, but the walking trails and overlook points at Black Gold Golf Course most definitely are. Though the course draws plenty of golfers, locals know that the public nature trails skirting the property offer some of the best panoramic vistas in Yorba Linda—for zero bucks. The trails start near the course parking lot and wind through native sage brush, chaparral and cactus clusters, offering peeks of the manicured green fairways and the wide sweep of the valley beyond.

There are benches perfectly placed for sunset or sunrise watching: on a clear day, you’ll catch a glimpse of Catalina Island in the distance. Fitness fans use the loops for brisk walks and jogs, while families and photographers come for the golden-hour lighting and peaceful setting. You’ll often spot hawks circling overhead or rabbits darting into the brush. It’s a perfect, low-key way to soak up Southern California’s natural beauty and get those steps in after a morning at the museum.

If you’re traveling with a canine companion, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails—just bring water and your camera for a few unforgettable snapshots along the way.

Oak Canyon Nature Center

 

For anyone seeking a deeper connection with local wildlife, Oak Canyon Nature Center is a pristine urban wilderness that feels miles from civilization, but is just a 15-minute drive south of Richard Nixon Library. Free to enter and wander, the 58-acre nature preserve boasts four miles of well-marked trails that wind through oak woodlands, coastal sage scrub, babbling streams and forests heavy with the scent of eucalyptus. Each path offers a different microhabitat—you might spot a family of deer, a red-tailed hawk, or even a lizard lounging on a rock.

Interpretive signs line the trails, sharing details about ecosystems and the native Tongva people who first stewarded this land. Inside the John J. Collier Interpretive Center (open weekends), kids love peeking at local taxidermy and hands-on science displays. Monthly nature walks and bird-watching workshops—always free—give curious families a new way to see the park.

Veterans Park

 

Veterans Park blends community pride and family fun in the form of wide lawns, shade trees, and a dazzling, patriotic war memorial at its center. Locals love it for its peaceful vibe—there’s always a quiet corner to spread out a blanket or enjoy a group picnic. The creative playground features climbing boulders and slides, while the butterfly garden next door thrives with native plants and (natch) fluttering monarchs.

History fans will enjoy reading the names on the memorial wall, designed to honor Yorba Linda’s servicemen and women. In the evening, locals gather for free outdoor concerts, movie nights and city-led seasonal festivals—a true slice of California community life. Poetry readings and storytimes are regular fixtures, and there’s ample information on local hiking routes and the city’s historical sites posted near the entrance.

Yorba Regional Park

 

Yorba Regional Park stretches for over a mile along the Santa Ana River, weaving together groves of mature sycamores, connected lakes, bike paths and playgrounds into one vast green oasis. There’s no entrance fee, and parking in the main lot is free during off-peak hours; otherwise, you can park along La Palma Avenue for zero cost and walk straight in.

Locals flock here for walking, biking, rollerblading and paddling—bring your own gear or just stroll as far as your feet will take you. Up for birdwatching? Great blue herons, ducks and egrets love the lakeside shallows, and you might even spot a turtle or two along the way. Families often gather for picnics under the many shelters, while others use the exercise stations sprinkled along the walking course. There’s a little something for everyone: kids’ play areas, shaded picnic zones, and even a model boat cove where hobbyists race RC boats on weekends.

If you’re keen to see how Orange County relaxes, Yorba Regional is lively, friendly, and always photogenic—especially at sunrise and sunset, when the lakes light up with color.

Looking for more L.A. inspo? Find free things to do near Knott’s Berry Farm, and check out our pick of the city’s best Pride festival events.

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started!