One way to save money and still have fun is to hang out at malls and shopping centers. More malls these days are not just about shopping, but the entertainment they can provide the shopper. Of course, for the frugal person, a night of shopping will only end in guilt and remorse. The following is a list of places to people watch, window shop, and more. Many have music playing in the common areas, often with visual accompaniment, and sometimes you will find live entertainment.
Word of caution: leave your wallet at home or in the car so you are not tempted to splurge. Impulse buying is detrimental to the frugal lifestyle.
GardenWalk – Anaheim
This one has the feel that is a mix between an outdoor and indoor mall, as the buildings are close together and there is an upper level around the edges. It doesn’t have as many trees and foliage as one would expect with such a name, but it’s not lacking in the greenery department either. There are plenty of benches scattered amidst the occasional statue or waterfall. There is also a small stage for live events. Parking in the adjacent structure is free for two hours.
Downtown Disney – Anaheim
Downtown Disney is almost the complete opposite of GardenWalk when it comes to building spacing. There is a huge walkway between the two rows of buildings, which is necessary because it can get pretty packed. There is live entertainment, water fountain, and the whole place looks great at night. The shops are big and many fun to play in (Rainforest Cafe, Lego Store). Parking in the adjacent lot (be sure it is marked Downtown Disney, and isn’t Chip & Dale or Lion King, which are for the theme parks) is free for the first three hours.
It’s also a great place to watch the Disneyland fireworks from. The benches fill up quick in the actual Downtown area, but many people watch by sitting on the ground in between the Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure gates. That point is past the bag check, though, so even though you aren’t in the park, no outside food or drink is allowed.
The Block at Orange – Orange
The block is probably the biggest one on this list. It’s not a square, but the word block refers to a city block. It does have a feel of strolling through a mini city. There is live entertainment, a fountain, a large decorative circle in front of the AMC with modern benches, and various benches scattered throughout. If you do want to do some shopping, there are some outlet stores here. A bit of trivia: the Virgin Megastore was featured in Borat. There is plenty of free parking in the large lot surrounding the Block. There is just one section that costs, the valet parking in the back for the day spa.
The District – Tustin
This one is my favorite. It is much like the others, with lights, a fountain, stage, and plenty of benches. However, there is also a trackless train for kids, and video screens on the walls. The parking is not only free, but close to the shops. The seating is not only more abundant than the other malls, but there are sections with tables not assigned to any one store, and fireplaces, which is great for winter nights. It may not get that cold here in southern California, but we generally don’t want to be sitting outside at night. This solves that problem.
Irvine Spectrum – Irvine
Many of the other malls are compared to this “outdoor lifestyle center,” as it is the largest and most extravagant. It is very popular and boasts many stores, Dave & Busters, a theater (including an IMAX), and even a Ferris Wheel and Carousel. I don’t have a lot of frugal experiences with this one, although I image it’s not a difficult task, with it’s size and architecture.
The parking structure is impressive in its own right. Not only is it free, but there are sensors so the number of open spots are posted at the entrance. Also, the valet parking has car detailing while you shop. It may not be frugal, but I admire the fact that it exists.
Did I miss anything? What is your favorite free place to hang out in orange county? Please let me know in the comments!
