Costa Mesa Arts Lovers Getaway

Day 1

After a short flight to Orange County, head to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for an exclusive tour of their world-class venue. A group luncheon will be followed by check-in at our hotel conveniently located immediately next door to the arts complex. We will complete our first day with prime seats for a Pacific Symphony concert inside the acoustically perfect Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Under the baton of Alexander Shelley, the celestial-themed concert is entitled "John Williams and The Planets," and features Williams' "Suite for Orchestra" from Star Wars and The Planets by Gustav Holst. As a special treat, saxophone star Jess Gillam is the featured soloist in the symphony's rendition of Williams' "Escapades." Westin Costa Mesa South Center - 2 nights (L,D) 

Day 2

Our first stop this morning will be a tour of the Crystal Cathedral, now known as Christ Cathedral. Originally envisioned by televangelist Robert Schuller with its spectacular glass sanctuary, it was acquired by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange in 2012. This afternoon we head back to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for the matiness performance of The Great Gatsby. Based on F. Scott Fitzgerald's 1925 novel, this adaptation for the Broadway stage is big, bold and flashy - just like Jay Gatsby. Relive the adventure of this larger-than-life, enigmatic millionaire in his obsessive quest to reunite with his former love, Daisy Buchanan. Is it a grand love story or tragedy? That will no doubt be the topic conversation at dinner, an Italian feast served at Maggiano's Little Italy at South Coast Plaza. (D) 

Day 3

A scenic drive down the coastline to Laguna Beach and we find ourselves at the Laguna Art Museum for a guided tour. Las Brisas is a short walk away and is a Sports Leisure favorite for lunch before we return to John Wayne Orange County Airport for our quick trip back to Sacramento. (L)