If you haven’t already made this mandatory stop, get in gear and cruise on over to the California Welcome Center, Santa Ana.  This is Orange County’s exclusive visitors’ information agency and the best place to begin your trip.

Free Literature
The CWC covers all the bases.  You’ll find walls and walls of free literature.  From camping guides, to brochures on OC, LA, SD, the Inland Empire, Central and Northern CA, to valuable coupons on local lodgings.  This is the place to gather everything you need for an amazing stay in the Golden State. 

Souvenir Section
Of course, there’s also a big ol’ gift shop.  Cool finds include Sunkist Fruit Gems, kitschy Route 66 shot glasses, postcards, cds, beach towels, t-shirts, maps, atlases and awesome books on local hiking and the history of California. 

Free Internet
What really makes this place special are the smiling folks who volunteer here.  These super knowledgeable locals will help you look up phone numbers, get you discounts, and even call you a cab if you need one.  And get this: they offer up free internet for you to check your email or grab some facts on your next destination. 

Sponsors
And don’t forget to check out some of CWC’s awesome sponsors who make this free hub of information possible:
- Dana Point
     Harbor Association
     Wharf Sportfishing
     Whale Watching
- Disneyland Resort
- Knott’s Berry Farm
- Laguna Beach
     Visitors and Conference Bureau
     Festival of the Arts
     Pageant of the Masters
- Newport Beach
     Waterfront Dining
- Santa Ana
     Bowers Museum
     Discovery Science Center 

Open 7 days a week until 6pm.  Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter Sunday. Located where the 5, 22 and 57 freeways meet at Westfield MainPlace.  2800 North Main Street, Santa Ana.   714-667-0400.  www.visitcwc.com.