Description
Park Overview
Heritage Hill Historic Park is situated on the northwest corner of Lake Forest Drive and Serrano Road, sharing parking facilities with the adjacent shopping center. The site opened in 1978 and features four historical buildings that represent two distinct eras of local history.
Historical Eras and Buildings
The centerpiece of the park is the Serrano Adobe, which is the only historical structure in its original location. Constructed in 1863, it represents early California life when the land was part of the expansive Rancho Cañada de los Alisos.
The three other historical buildings were relocated to the park and represent the post-rancho era:
- The old grammar school (1890)
- The Episcopal church (1891)
- The Harvey Bennett Ranch House (1908), an early American Craftsman Bungalow previously located on a nearby citrus ranch.
Additionally, Native American replica huts have been added to acknowledge the land’s history prior to colonization.
Non-Historic Amenities
- The back of the park offers a short, shaded trail network on a sloping hillside (currently inaccessible).
- Picnic tables are located next to the adobe.
- A gazebo area with seating is to the left of the entrance.
- The Wagon Wheel Corral, an empty area in the back of the park for various activities.
Visitor Information
Visitors are welcome to stop by anytime during normal operating hours. For more information, please call (949) 923-2230.
Fee if wanting to reserve
This venue can be reserved for events like weddings, parties, or organized community events. The historic church has been used for wedding ceremonies and so has the gazebo area. Receptions are usually held in the rodeo styled Wagon Wheel area next to the ranch house. OC Parks also throws their own annual community events here for Christmas and Halloween among others sporadically throughout the year. Call (949) 923-2230 for fees and to reserve.
