Downtown Fullerton is a shining example of how civic involvement and a solid revitalization plan can invigorate an urban section. The oldest section of Fullerton is on the rise, with leading alternative newspaper, the OC Weekly, calling the section the “Bourbon Street West” because of its influx of hip music venues, nightclubs and top-notch restaurants. It’s become a prime location for young, hip professionals in Orange County.
The approximate boundaries of Downtown Fullerton include Valencia Boulevard on the south and Berkeley Avenue on the east. The western boundary extends north on Euclid Street from Valencia Boulevard to Commonwealth Avenue, on Ford Avenue to Wilshire Avenue, on Malden Avenue to Chapman and on Harbor Boulevard to the northern loop of Berkeley Avenue. It incorporates ZIP code 92832.
Housing in Downtown Fullerton is highlighted by the large number of upscale apartments and condominiums in the area; there are also several townhouses and smaller, single-family units in the residential areas on the outskirts of Downtown Fullerton. Streets are wide and lined with trees and street lamps, providing easy walking and biking access to residents traveling to the commercial area for shopping, dining or entertainment.
One of the highlights of living in Downtown Fullerton is having access to many different artistic venues. A monthly Downtown Fullerton Art Walk is a great way to experience many of the artistic highlights of the area. More than 20 different venues provide free tours and viewing of artistic installations, arts and crafts and other elements, along with serving free food and drinks.
Downtown Fullerton has become a hot spot for popular music in Orange County. Local nightclubs and restaurants offer a nightly mixture of jazz, rock and dance music. The Rockin’ Taco Cantina boasts that it has the longest bar in Orange County, and patrons delight to the sound of dueling pianos. Residents and visitors looking to test their pipes can take part in karaoke nights held at Downtown Fullerton bars throughout the week.