Headed to WonderCon? Enjoy a Weekend Stay in Santa Ana

Whether you’re a business traveller coming to the Anaheim Convention Center for work or a consumer heading to WonderCon, the annual comic book, science fiction, and pop culture convention, check out the city of Santa Ana for a memorable, leisurely stay.

“Santa Ana stands apart as a vibrant destination where culture, creativity, and commerce meet,” said Wendy Haase-Roberts, president and CEO of Travel Santa Ana. “Our city offers business travelers an inspiring place to stay and explore. Between meetings, they can experience over 200 murals, a unique culinary scene, historic landmarks, and distinctive shopping.”

Courtesy of Santa Ana Tourism

One of the coziest places to stay is Hotel Zessa, a DoubleTree by Hilton property, that’s dog friendly — check out their interesting neon sign in the lobby!

“Hotel Zessa, a DoubleTree by Hilton, provides the best of a unique boutique hotel with the quality of the Hilton brand,” said area director of sales, Karen Finerman. (This means you can get points if you are a Hilton Honors member!)

“Our newly renovated guest rooms put guests in comfort at the epicenter of Orange County,” said Finerman. “Special features include Blend, a 24-hour grab and go outlet in our lobby for late night cravings or early morning caffeine drinks, Hush Pods for private calls in the lobby, and a complimentary shuttle to/from the airport ,and within 3 miles of the hotel to reach many shopping and dining options in the area.”

Business travellers can kickstart their day by swimming in the outdoor pool and whirlpool, or exercise in the evenings at their fitness center and yoga studio. All guest rooms are equipped with a refrigerator, coffee maker, large screen television and clothes steamer to stay fresh.

“Hotel Zessa is very proud of its TripAdvisor Traveler Ranking in the Top 5, currently #2, in all of Orange County’s over 400+ hotels!” said Finerman. “This commitment to the guest experience is what sets Hotel Zessa apart from other hotels.”

For executives who want to hold meetings at the hotel, there’s 12,000 square feet of event space. Best of all, hotel guests get a delicious DoubleTree cookie upon arrival!

Courtesy of Santa Ana Tourism

The hotel has an impressive restaurant onsite, called Citra Bar & Kitchen.

“For our visitors to the restaurant, expect to have a variety of tasty dishes like our jerk chicken wings, mushroom quesadillas and ribeye!” enthused Citra’s Executive Chef, Michele Bailey.

From her grandmother’s kitchen in Jamaica to culinary capitals around the world, Bailey’s journey brings global flavor, rich heritage, and sustainable cooking practices to every plate.

Hotel Zessa pool, photo by Susan Hornik

“I love incorporating my heritage into the food we serve,” said Bailey, who recommends guests try a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes.

At Citra Restaurant, photo by Susan Hornik

The recently renovated venue is five minutes from South Coast Plaza shopping via their free three-mile shuttle. Disneyland Resort, Angel Stadium, Anaheim Convention Center and Newport Beach are within 20 minutes.

If you’re on a business trip and you have forgotten something, Santa Ana has MainPlace Mall — many of the stores are locally owned. If you are looking for more handcrafted items, Collective2One9 is located downtown.

Hotel guests who have their pups with them can get doggie treats delivered to their room! Photo by Susan Hornik

While not in Santa Ana, South Coast Plaza is next door in Costa Mesa. One of the city’s highlights is Triangle Square, one of the region’s most popular dining and entertainment destinations. There’s also a terrific Spanish -themed restaurant and tapas bar there called Cafe Sevilla.

”For over 30 years, Cafe Sevilla has captured the essence of Spain, featuring rich flavors, sights, and sounds for an immersive guest experience,” said Cafe Sevilla owner and CEO, Eric Van de Haute.

Cafe Sevilla, photo by Susan Hornik

“From our tapas bar, to dinner and brunch menus, award-winning sangrias and Latin-inspired craft cocktails, Cafe Sevilla has show-stopping paellas and a renowned Flamenco Dinner Show on the weekends. Costa Mesa and Triangle Square in particular is Orange County’s premier destination for dining and entertainment, and we’re thrilled to share our Cafe Sevilla’s own Spanish culture through authentic ambiance, cuisine, and the flair of Flamenco.”

Cafe Sevilla, photo by Susan Hornik

For more information on Santa Ana, the official 2026 Santa Ana Visitors Guide is also a great resource. https://issuu.com/travelsantaana/docs/travel_santa_ana_visitor_guide_2026

Hotel Zessa/Citra Restaurant 201 E MacArthur Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92707

Triangle Square, 1870 Harbor Blvd. (at the end of the 55 Fwy., where Newport Blvd. intersects with Harbor Blvd. and 19th St.), Costa Mesa, CA 92627.