Irvine, CA

Answer 1

Irvine, CA became a city in Orange County on December 28, 1971, though the city's major development began in the 1960's. With a population of more than 212,000 people, the city was designed the 4th best place to live in the country in 2008. The city was settled by the Gabrielino Indians about 2,000 years ago and they established their villages in the area. During World War I, agriculture in the area flourished, especially lima beans. The city's development increased with the establishment of the University of California, Irvine in the last 1950's.

Irvine, CA is situated about 50 miles south of Los Angeles and 80 miles north of San Diego. Closer to Irvine are Laguna Hills and Newport Beach. Boasting a Mediterranean climate, the summer highs are typically below 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter lows in the city are generally above 40 degrees.

William Pereira was proposed a plan for the city of Irvine when the University of California was built. He planned the city's layout, establishing themes for each area of the city, such as Spanish and Tuscan.

Institutes of education are abundant in Irvine. The city is home to a University of California, Concordia, and a satellite of the University of Southern California. Besides a community college, the city also boasts satellite campuses for at least four other universities.

Irvine welcomes the annual Global Village Festival each October. It is meant to encourage and celebrate the diversity of the city. Notable natives and residents of Irvine include Will Ferrell, Dita von Teese, and Mark McGwire.

Irvine is a desirable city to visit because it is home to over forty community and neighborhood parks. Bike riders will enjoy Irvine for more than 280 miles of bike lanes and more than 40 miles of off-road bike trails. Mason Park and Heritage Park are two other notable parks. For concert-goers, the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater has hosted musical artists like Miley Cyrus and No Doubt.

Transportation is easy to come by in the city. Roads around the city are easy to use and they are meant to sustain high traffic levels. There are also local buses and a MetroLink for Orange County. For those flying in and out of the city, there is a shuttle that goes to the nearby John Wayne Airport.