The Mayor's Vision for a Happier Mission Viejo

One of Mission Viejo’s jewels is the 5.5-mile Oso Creek Trail network of multi-use paths for pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists. Mission Viejo residents can go from neighborhood to shopping centers, schools, and parks through the wooded scenery that makes Mission Viejo special. 

Summary: Lovers of a quick wilderness hike will love the proximity to homes and shopping centers. Families and seekers of exercise will enjoy the paved trails and shaded pathways of this route which runs from (near Olympiad) to the on Marguerite.

The trail takes you along a concrete- and stone-paved stream course shaded by ashes, oaks, and sycamores. The natural effect of the corridor is landscaping dominated by eucalyptus trees, pines, and palms. Along the way you will discover a Peace Obelisk (see photo), a Rotary Grove and a few other surprises. 

What Makes a Perfect Community?

Residents of Mission Viejo are thriving with a sense of purpose, meaning that a majority of them expect things will get even better. And they are not only happy in their city, but also happy with their city. So, this begs the question: How do we do it? What can we learn from other cities' experiences? Can you actually plan a city to become one of the safest and happiest in the United States?

A perfect city would be a place with good schools, good day care centers, safe neighborhoods and diverse places of worship. Bars, cafes and social clubs or organizations would abound, and sidewalks would connect them all. Nature—not suburbs—would surround a quiet yet culturally vibrant downtown. Outdoor recreation would be accessible to everyone.

The lesson: Make walkable, bikeable cities with high-quality parks a priority, not an afterthought.

In Mission Viejo we invest deeply in public spaces, such as playgrounds and parks. Walkways and bike lanes line major streets, making exercise easier. Places like Mission Viejo are great because they are attractive, open to everyone, and you don’t need to spend a lot of time or a lot of money to enjoy them.

Mission Viejo is a town that prides itself on making recreation and social interaction easier. Streets and homes were laid out in such a way as to maximize safety, security and views. It is said: "If your home doesn’t have a view, your neighbor probably does."

Provide More Community Space:

In Mission Viejo, our community develops parks, vibrant city corridors, outdoor restaurants, public gardens and pedestrian trails, making it easier for citizens to socialize. Since we know people are generally happier the more they socialize, the key is to make socializing the easy option.

The Arts:

Art gardens, theaters, dance centers, museums, and even street artists not only provide venues for social interaction, but also cultivate an authentic happiness.

Encourage Walkability:

Healthy people are happier people. Research shows that cities that build sidewalks, add bike lanes and create a feeling of safety—making the active option the easy option—tend to increase the activity levels of residents.

Happiness Tricks:

Socialize: Even introverts tend to be happier when they are around people.

Own a pet: Many studies suggest pet owners are healthier and happier. If a dog needs to get walked every day, guess who else tends to get walked?

Grow a Garden: Several studies show that gardening lowers stress hormones.

Develop Arts Appreciation: Learning to appreciate the painting of favorite artists can set you up for a boost in happiness every time you see their work.

Volunteer: One of the surest ways to increase your well-being is to volunteer.

Civics and Arts Appreciation: Engaging in civic participation and arts appreciation facilitates a fulfilling adulthood.

Encourage Sports: A recent study showed that when teenage kids participate in sports, it helps them succeed later in life. Athletes have higher rates of employment and higher education.

Thank you,

Mayor – City of Mission Viejo