Whether visiting or living in this California destination, there are many things to see and do. Here are attractions, activities and events of interest:

Attractions

Dining

Events

Festivals

Shopping

Sports

Vacations

Aliso Viejo is a fairly new south Orange County city no more than a 10 minute drive and five miles from the beach and coastal Dana Point. Located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego along the 5 Freeway and the 73 Toll Road, the city is a popular residential area but also home to Soka University of America, a 103-acre private liberal arts college and graduate school that attracts top students from around the world. The setting for the university includes spacious, pristine grounds, fountains, and unique architecture. The campus can be enjoyed each year at the annual Soka University festival, normally held in May or June.

Aliso Viejo incorporated just after the turn of the millennium as Orange County's 34th city, approving and receiving incorporation in 2001. Bordered by Laguna Beach on the west / southwest, Laguna Hills on the east, Laguna Niguel on the southeast, and Laguna Woods on the north, the city enjoys 4,000 acres of glorious nature that comprise Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. More than 30 miles of interconnecting trails encourage hiking, equestrian uses and mountain biking. Hikers and bikers can also use the trails to connect to Laguna Beach, Dana Point and the Santa Ana mountains.

Ideal for families, the city has an amazing and fairly new infrastructure with amenities such as Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center and one of Orange County's few year-round indoor ice rinks.

Aliso Viejo Town Center and The Commons are the city's two primary local shopping centers, though there are many major malls not far away.

For those who want to stay overnight in hotels, Renaissance ClubSport, a Marriott $85 million investment offers a unique blend of full-service hotel, day spa and a world-class sports club provides complimentary access to a 75,000-squarefoot fitness facility. There is also 3,000 square feet of meeting space to accommodate corporate and community events.

Private Aliso Viejo Country Club 18-hole championship is Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course.