Take a weekend train adventure to a city you’ve probably passed many times but not properly explored. Orange County travelers, meet Fullerton.
When you get off at the Fullerton Metrolink Station, you may think you’ve reached your final destination. After all, the area is surrounded by some fine places to eat and drink, particularly Hopscotch Tavern, locally world famous for its food, beer, and extensive cocktail selections – especially those involving whisky. Fortunately, you’re traveling by train.
But don’t stop there! Move on to the Fullerton Museum, voted "Best Art Museum" by the OC Weekly. It’s just a short walk from the station and worth every step. Fun exhibits, a great and affordable gift shop, and a permanent exhibit in the Leo Fender Gallery. Who is Leo Fender? Considered the inventor of the electric guitar, this son of Fullerton influences every guitar solo (real or air) ever played.
From there, leave eave the world’s hustle and bustle behind and enter the charming Villa del Sol, built in 1922 as one of the premier living-cum-retail spaces in town. Today, the apartments have been converted to offices, but the magic remains in the lovely courtyard surrounded by one-of-a-kind cafes, restaurants, and shops that will have you in an Instagram frenzy. Enjoy something delicious at Café Hidalgo, Green Bliss Café, or the Brownstone Café, discover unique, affordable clothing at lolo, a boutique, and unleash your inner designer at Gilding the Lily, an affordable treasure trove of vintage jewelry and items to help you make your own.
All the places mentioned in this article offer discounts to those who show their Metrolink tickets. Learn more about Metrolink Deals here.
We’re celebrating Fullerton as our Station of the Month with a chance to win 4 Metrolink tickets, 4 tickets to the Fullerton Museum, and a $50 gift certificate to Hopscotch Tavern. Find out more here.
And remember, on Saturdays and Sundays you can ride wherever Metrolink travels for only $10 with the Metrolink Weekend Day Pass. Discover it here.