Yorba Linda is a city in northeastern Orange County, set on rolling hills along the Santa Ana River below the Chino Hills, about 35 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. The name joins the Yorba family, whose Spanish-era rancho covered much of the area, with the Spanish word linda, meaning pretty. In the early 1900s the Janss Investment Company subdivided the land into citrus and avocado farms, and in 1913 Richard Nixon was born here in a small farmhouse his father built from a kit.
Yorba Linda stayed a quiet farming community until the 1960s, when suburban growth reached the hills and the city incorporated in 1967. Today it is a residential city of around 68,000 people, known for its large lots, horse trails, well-kept parks and a slogan that calls it the Land of Gracious Living. The small historic center along Main Street keeps a village feel, while the Savi Ranch area near the river offers shopping and dining.
The city's best-known attraction is the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, which preserves Nixon's birthplace home along with presidential exhibits, gardens and the graves of Richard and Pat Nixon. Nearby, the Bryant Ranch house museum recalls the area's ranching past, the Santa Ana River Trail offers long rides and walks, and the views across the hills toward the Santa Ana Mountains are part of the city's everyday scenery.
Best seasonYear-round; spring brings green hills and wildflowers, and fall is warm and clear, though Santa Ana winds can raise fire risk.
Ideal stayA half day for the Nixon Library and birthplace, with time for Main Street or the river trail.
ArrivingJohn Wayne Airport is about 30 minutes away and Ontario International about 35 minutes, and the SR-91 and SR-57 freeways and Highway 90 serve the city.
7 Ways to Experience Yorba Linda
Museums 1
Museums
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum covers the life and presidency of Richard Nixon, with galleries on the Cold War,...
The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum covers the life and presidency of Richard Nixon, with galleries on the Cold War, the opening to China, the space program and Watergate, plus his presidential helicopter. Nixon and Pat Nixon are buried on the grounds. Allow at least two to three hours to see the galleries.
History 1
History
Richard Nixon Birthplace
The Richard Nixon Birthplace is the modest farmhouse his father built from a kit in 1912, where Nixon was born in 1913, now preser...
The Richard Nixon Birthplace is the modest farmhouse his father built from a kit in 1912, where Nixon was born in 1913, now preserved on the grounds of the presidential library. It is furnished with original family items and is a National Historic Landmark. It is included with library admission, and guides explain the family's story.
Neighborhoods 1
Neighborhoods
Old Town Yorba Linda
Old Town Yorba Linda along Main Street keeps the small-town feel of the early citrus settlement, with restored buildings, local re...
Old Town Yorba Linda along Main Street keeps the small-town feel of the early citrus settlement, with restored buildings, local restaurants, cafes and shops near the historic railroad route. Community events and holiday celebrations take place here. It is a short drive from the Nixon Library, and parking is free along the streets.
Arts 1
Arts
Yorba Linda Public Library and Cultural Arts Center
The Yorba Linda Public Library and Cultural Arts Center, opened in 2021 at the Town Center, combines a modern library with arts st...
The Yorba Linda Public Library and Cultural Arts Center, opened in 2021 at the Town Center, combines a modern library with arts studios, classrooms and a performance space for concerts, workshops and community events. Its plaza is a lively gathering spot. Check the city calendar for classes and free events.
Entertainment 1
Entertainment
Black Gold Golf Club
Black Gold Golf Club is a public 18-hole course in the hills of Yorba Linda, named for the area's oil history, with dramatic eleva...
Black Gold Golf Club is a public 18-hole course in the hills of Yorba Linda, named for the area's oil history, with dramatic elevation changes, canyon views and a clubhouse restaurant. It is known as one of Orange County's more scenic public courses. Book tee times ahead, and expect hilly walks if you skip a cart.
Parks 1
Parks
Hurless Barton Park
Hurless Barton Park is a long, narrow park in Yorba Linda that follows a wooded canyon, with a creek, shady picnic areas, a playgr...
Hurless Barton Park is a long, narrow park in Yorba Linda that follows a wooded canyon, with a creek, shady picnic areas, a playground and a trail popular with walkers and horse riders. It links to the city's larger equestrian trail network. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for shade, and keep dogs on a leash.
Hikes 1
Hikes
Santa Ana River Trail
The Santa Ana River Trail runs along the river below Yorba Linda, part of a long regional bike and walking path that leads through...
The Santa Ana River Trail runs along the river below Yorba Linda, part of a long regional bike and walking path that leads through the Santa Ana Canyon and down to the Pacific at Huntington Beach. The canyon stretch has views of the hills and river habitat. There is little shade, so carry water and ride early on hot days.
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