Welcome to Mission Viejo
One of the original slogans created to advertise the up-and-coming community of Mission Viejo read, “There’s a place where everything you like about California is everywhere you look.” It is safe to say that statement is still very much alive in Mission Viejo today.
Mission Viejo is one of the largest master-planned communities in the United States with a population of just over 100,000. In 2007 it was proudly named Safest City in the United States by Morgan Quitno Press. The city is bordered by Lake Forest, Trabuco Canyon, Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel, and Laguna Hills and is ideally located near the major commuting artery of Interstate 5.
The planning for Mission Viejo dates back to 1965 when a master plan was approved by the Orange County Board of Supervisors. The land was originally deemed “undevelopable” however, some creative thinking was done and Mission Viejo began to take shape around the existing geography. Those original designs are still evident today as you drive down roads paved through canyons and see unique homes built into existing landscapes affording many residents extraordinary views of South Orange County. The majority of shopping centers and homes in Mission Viejo are Spanish Mission Style.
Mission Hospital, the largest hospital in Orange County, and the region's main trauma center are located in Mission Viejo. Home to some of the best amenities in Southern Orange County including The Shops at Mission Viejo, an upscale mall that includes shops such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstroms, and Macy's. Nearby Kaleidoscope Courtyards is a shopping and entertainment destination featuring everything from a movie theater, spas and salons, restaurants, and numerous activities such as laser tag and an indoor playground. Several recreation and community centers are also located throughout the city, guaranteeing residents can always find something to participate in.
Beautiful weather year-round means outdoor amenities are abundant as well. Centrally located lake Mission Viejo is a recreational paradise, available exclusively to Mission Viejo resident members and their guests. Residents can enjoy a day of sunbathing on one of the numerous sandy beaches, swimming, fishing or choosing to spend a day on the water by selecting one of the several boat rental options available. Enjoy summer concerts, picnics, and community-hosted events.
Sports and recreation are big draws to Mission Viejo, including the popular youth sports organizations, but additionally the nationally renowned Mission Viejo Nadadores Swimming and Diving teams. Hikers enjoy year-round access to nature trails, and the Oso Creek Trail is the “backbone” of it all. The paved trail features many natural and cultural attractions including a peace monument and hedge maze.
Mission Viejo residents attend schools in both the Capistrano Unified and Saddleback Valley Unified School districts. There is also a private elementary school, as well as Saddleback Community College.
