About Brea...

One of Orange County’s oldest cities, Brea officially incorporated in 1917, after its land was re-branded after an amalgamation between the unincorporated villages of Olinda and Randolph.  Spanish for the word “tar,” Brea was a boom town in the early part of the 20^th century because of the copious amounts of petroleum that lay in abundance beneath its soil.  Once the pumping of oil slowed, orange and lemon groves were planted to allow Brea to share in the OC’s standing as a national force of citrus production.  By the time the 70’s rolled around, the farmlands were converted to business complexes and residential areas, and Brea was able to utilize this renaissance to cultivate a reputation as being one of the OCs most desirable areas to work and live, so much so that Sunset Magazine recognized the burg as one of the West’s top places to reside in 2006. 

Brea is also rapidly growing a sterling status as being one of the OC’s premier places to play.  At the heart of this movement lies the completely renovated Brea Downtown section of the city.  Spanning four city blocks and fusing slight metropolitan ambience with the city’s signature relaxed suburban style Brea Downtown beckons people from all over Northern Orange County with an alluring array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.  At the core of this haven for fun times lies the world famous Brea Improv comedy club.  Established in 1991, the venue is renowned as being one of Southern California’s essential destinations for the stand-up circuit, from up-and-coming talents to well-established veterans.  Of course, people looking for a more traditional Southern California option to spend their fun money will feel right at home walking the massive sprawl of the Brea Mall.  Featuring 175 stores and eating establishments, the two-story structure truly has something for everyone, from unique boutiques to high-end retailers.