The land, where Irvine currently sits, was once owned by the Spanish and Mexican governments. It was purchased in the second half of the 1800s by James Irvine. For many years, missions, cattle grazing and agriculture were the main activities in the Irvine area. But due to its proximity to L.A. and perfect convertible weather, Irvine is now home to several Fortune 1000 companies including Standard Pacific, Gateway, Broadcom, New Century Financial and Allergan.
Irvine is home to:
the University of California'
Irvine (UCI)'
the Orange County Center of University of Southern California'
Irvine Campus of Alliant International University'
Concordia University and Irvine Valley College.
Like any good college town, Irvine is not short on things to do. When you are looking for arts, entertainments and other attractions don't miss:
The Irvine Museum
The Irvine Barclay Theatre
The Irvine Fine Arts Center
The Arboretum at UCI
The Irvine Ranch Land Reserve.
And don't forget, Los Angeles provides many more attractions and numerous professional sports teams ' a short 48 mile drive to the northeast.