Here are some of the best indoor activities in Orange County, whether it's a rare rainy day or you just want to beat the heat. Browse the list below and enjoy while staying safe!
1. SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP
Beloved by royals and celebrities alike, British brand Reiss has opened its first California boutique at South Coast Plaza. Located in the Bloomingdale’s wing, the 1,896-square-foot store houses the label’s signature coats, knitwear and eveningwear for both him and her, all marked by exquisite craftsmanship and tailoring. “California has an intrinsic sense of cool,” says creative director James Spreckley. “It’s always been ahead of the curve when it comes to lifestyle movements and ideas. It’s about craft but with freedom of spirit—the ideal complement to the creative energy we find in London.” South Coast Plaza
Located in the Saks Fifth Avenue wing, 120% Lino is the latest boutique to join the South Coast Plaza family. Featuring apparel for him and her, highlighted by the use of high-quality natural fibers and linen, the Italian-made brand’s O.C. boutique is its second flagship on the West Coast following Palm Desert. South Coast Plaza
A world of vibrant colors awaits at Psycho Bunny’s first O.C. boutique at South Coast Plaza. Known for its contemporary menswear and golf clothing, the New York-based brand has been outfitting gents in its signature Pima cotton polo shirts accented by mother-of-pearl buttons since 2005. It’s tee time! South Coast Plaza
Whimsy awaits at Lido Marina Village’s Stoney Clover Lane, where the brand’s first West Coast brick-and-mortar houses its customizable pouches, duffels, backpacks and more. Don’t miss Newport Beachexclusive apparel, including sweatshirts, T-shirts and hats, curated by founders Kendall and Libby Glazer. “We are so excited to be bringing the Stoney Clover experience to the West Coast with our Newport Beach store,” says Kendall. “From our first visit to Newport Beach almost two years ago, we fell in love and knew it was the perfect location for us.” Lido Marina Village, 3505 Via Oporto, Newport Beach
Wu Ching, “Mundane Affinity” (1995)
2. CULTURE DIVE
Laguna Art Museum, Wayne Thiebaud: Clowns
On display through April 4 at Laguna Art Museum, Wayne Thiebaud: Clowns features 46 whimsical works from the famous American painter. Inspired by Thiebaud’s memories of a traveling Ringling Bros. circus during his childhood in Long Beach, the paintings, drawings and etchings showcase the 99-year-old artist’s fascination with and appreciation for the humor, costumes and faces of clowns. Through April 4, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach
Bowers Museum, Treasures in Gold & Jade: Masterworks from Taiwan
Taiwanese artists Huang Fu Shou and Wu Ching step into the spotlight at Bowers Museum’s new exhibition, Treasures in Gold & Jade: Masterworks from Taiwan. On display through May 30, the showcase will feature 44 carvings and sculptures in jade and gold that center on nature’s beauty. Butterflies take flight, fish emerge from water, and crabs scatter across rocks in a display that’s as wondrous as it is lifelike. Through May 30, 2002 North Main St., Santa Ana
3. TASTE THE TOWN
In tandem with its unrivaled fashion offerings, South Coast Plaza will soon be home to Collage Culinary Experience, a custom dining collective that will bring more than 15 concepts together in one gorgeous 16,000-square-foot space. Anchored by beloved dumpling restaurant Paradise Dynasty, Collage will include elevated fast-casual fare, high-end sit-down eateries, full-service bars and craft coffee concepts. Come hungry. South Coast Plaza
While it’s tough to beat the oceanfront views, Las Brisas’ refreshed interiors are certainly giving its exterior a run for its money. The breezy beach-chic dining rooms complement new seafood-driven menu offerings from executive general manager Michael Gaines. Highlights include a new “for two” section on the lunch and dinner menus plus entrees like Mediterranean branzino, butter-poached lobster and more. 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434
London transplant George Barker has brought the flavors of the Mediterranean to San Juan Capistrano at his new restaurant, Mayfield. Designed by Saint Studio for Architecture and Interiors, the around-the-clock eatery is quickly growing in popularity thanks to its Friday and Saturday evening supper club, where guests can enjoy a five-course chef’s tasting menu, family style. 31761 Camino Capistrano, Ste. 5-6, San Juan Capistrano, 949.218.5140
Photography by: In order of appearance, photos: courtesy of Reiss; Wu Ching, “Mundane Affinity” (1995) courtesy of Bowers Museum; by Yellow Lemon Studio
