Outdoor Activities for Families in Irvine

1. Irvine Park Railroad 

This charming little train winds through Irvine Park (technically located in nearby Orange!), giving kiddos a glimpse of the ponds and woodlands in one of the OC's most beautiful open spaces. The train runs all year, but adds some extra holiday charm for the fall (pumpkin patch season) and December (when the Christmas train comes to town!) Admission to Irvine Park Railroad is free, though activities (including the train ride) cost extra. 

2. Tanaka Farms

No matter what time of the year it is, Tanaka Farms has tours and produce to pick. In the spring, the strawberries are divine. In the fall, pumpkins sprout, and in the winter, Tanaka turns into a Christmassy wonderland with Hikari: Festival of Lights. Take a farm tour and make sure to take time to say hello to the barnyard friends on site! 

3. Great Park Balloon

Have you ever seen that orange balloon rising off the 5 freeway as you speed through Irvine? Well, that's the Great Park Balloon, and kids can take a ride for free! We recently checked the balloon out ourselves— check out our Instagram reel here. Adult admission is $10. The balloon is tethered and takes a quick trip up to give visitors a bird's eye view of Great Park. The entire exterior is netted and perfectly safe for all ages. 

4. Wild Rivers Water Park 

While you're up in the Great Park Balloon, you'll catch a glimpse of some colorful water slides rising in the distance. And, if your kids are anything like mine, they will immediately start asking, "Mom, what's that? Can we go there?" Wild Rivers is a full-scale water park that is open every summer for sunny, splashy, slide-y shenanigans. There are many colorful slides, a wave pool, and a waterlogged fun zone for younger kiddos. 

5. The OC Zoo

The OC Zoo is quite possibly the most affordable in the Southland—admission is only $2 (and kids 2 and under are free). The animals and plants inside are native to the southwestern United States, including a black bear, a mountain lion, an ocelot, a kit fox, and bald eagle, and more. While technically in Orange, the OC Zoo is a quick drive from anywhere in Irvine. 

6. Irvine Ranch Historic Park

If you like historic buildings, Irvine Ranch Historic Park should be at the top of your to-do list. Irvine's 16.5-acre park holds memories of thriving citrus orchards and farmland used for agriculture and farming purposes. Visit and learn about the early days of Orange County. 

7. Boomers! 

This outdoor family fun center is packed with rides, go-karts, laser tag, and mini-golf to keep the whole family happy (and busy) for hours. Keep in mind that several of the rides have height requirements. There are several rides for kiddos 3 and up, while the high-octane go-karts are reserved for bigger kids and adults. 

8. OC Blues

Are you headed to Irvine for a club soccer tournament (there are many at Great Park every weekend)? Celebrate your win (or console your loss) with an OCL Blues soccer match, This USL Men's Leage soccer team plays at Anteater Stadium during soccer season. 

9. Horseback Riding at Country Trails

Hop on a horse and experience nature with a trail ride hosted by the equestrians at Country Trails. This stable is nestled in Irvine Regional Park in nearby Orange and offers both one-hour and two-hour trail rides for parties of two or more. 

Free Activities for Kids in Irvine

10. Irvine Spectrum

We always stop at the Irvine Spectrum when rolling through Irvine—it's the ultimate shopping destination and host to some amazing restaurants. If you're looking for entertainment, take your pick from an epic IMAX theater, the sprawling arcade that is Dave & Buster's, or a spin around the famous Irvine Giant Wheel.

There's also a beautiful carousel, the famous Hello Kitty Cafe, and a great play structure near the center of the shopping center. In the winter, the Spectrum transforms into a winter wonderland with a beautiful ice skating rink just below the Giant Wheel. While parking is free, the Giant Wheel, carousel, and other experiences come with a small price tag (around $8 per person). 

11. Adventure Playground 

This gem of a playground tucked into University Community Park is one of the best spots in SoCal. It isn't your typical playground—Adventure Playgrounds are all about fostering imagination with manipulatives and free play prompts. The creative playground includes a beautiful castle with netted walkways and open space with giant Lego bricks and endless building possibilities. 

11. Heritage Park 

Unique playground equipment and a fantastic splash pad (in the summer) make this a must-try park in Irvine. Make sure to bring a swimsuit along, and make sure to pop by the duck pond and say hi to some feathered friends. 

12. Northwood Community Park (Castle Park) 

Storm the barricade at this medieval castle-themed playground in Irvine. Knights, kings, queens, princes, princesses, and dragons can imagine for hours at this local spot. 

13. The Great Park Carousel

No, that isn't a typo. There's a reason this carousel is in the "free" section. Visitors can enjoy unlimited rides for free; we must have hopped on at least a dozen times during our recent visit. This beautiful carousel plays pop music and family movie hits while the animals spin and bob delightfully. When the kids say, "Can we go again?" you'll have no reason to say no!

14. Farm + Food Lab

Learn more about where your food comes from and how to cultivate healthy habits and culinary skills at this unique agricultural classroom with themed planters and information displays. The Food + Farm Lab is nestled within OC Great Park. 

15. Turtle Rock Nature Center 

Explore nature and look for wildlife at this outdoor classroom with trails perfect for little feet and curious minds. 

17. Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve

Did you know that there is a mini Grand Canyon near Irvine? A beautiful limestone canyon and a geographical phenomenon, "The Sinks," will wow visitors, young and old. The best way to see the sights is to book a free docent-led tour. Pre-register for your customized hike online. All hikes and tours are free. 

18. IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary

Discover the wildlife, flora, and fauna of these beautiful coastal, freshwater wetlands in Irvine. Admission to the wildlife sanctuary is free, and kids and adults alike will love meandering along the paths that trace the water. There are more than 300 species of birds within the area- bring those bird-watching binoculars along.

Indoor Fun for Families in Irvine, CA

19. Pretend City 

I could write an entire article just about how much I love Pretend City. This adorable children's museum is perfect for the toddler and younger elementary set, with pint-sized versions of real-world places like Trader Joe's (yes, an actual kid-sized Trader Joe's), an auto body shop, a playhouse, a yoga studio, a doctor's office, a library, and more. Kids can feel "grown up" as they putter around town (in Little Tykes cars) and check errands off their to-do list. When the day ends, the staff rally kids to march in a parade, which gracefully leads everyone to the exit (genius). 

20. The Irvine Museum 

If you're into impressionist art, The Irvine Museum hosts an impressive collection of California-based impressionist pieces. This visit is probably best for older kiddos, as there isn't much to entertain young ones. 

21. K-1 Indoor Go-Kart Racing

Kiddos over 48" can zip around this indoor go-kart track at hair-raising speeds, and then hit the arcade once the race is over. Junior and adult races are available. While walk-ins are welcome, families can also pre-book their races online. 

22. Irvine Inline 

Take a spin around the rink at this inline skating spot with 90-minute skating sessions for only $7. The '90s energy is strong here. 

23. Manassero Farms Market 

Pick your own herbs and grab some hand-jarred jams, jellies, pickles, salsas, and more at this charming spot in Irvine with all the cozy, cottage comfort.

Family-Friendly Restaurants Your Kids Will Love in Irvine 

24. The Layover

Inflatables and amazing burgers? Say less. Kids can bounce and play on inflatables (purchase a $5 kids zone wristband for access) while parents enjoy a cocktail, beer, and some amazing food at this unique spot inside Great Park Live. As of October 2025, The Layover is closed, but we are eagerly awaiting its reopening. 

25. Hello Kitty Cafe 

Located at the Irvine Spectrum, the Hello Kitty Cafe is the perfect spot for a mother-daughter date you'll never forget. If you love all things pink, plus tasty treats and creative beverages (or if you're just a fan of Sanrio's adorable characters), then make sure to stop by this awesome cafe for a bite.

26. Hanger 24 Craft Brewing 

I've found that breweries are often some of the best places to bring kids along, and Hangar 24 is no exception. The sprawling patio and lawn are the perfect places for rowdy kiddos to get their energy out after dining on craft American fare. Mom and Dad can relax with a drink while the kids have a blast, and everyone will go home full and happy. 

27. Postino Park Place

Even the kids' menu at this Italian dining spot will have you drooling. Postino is known for decadent dishes that pair well with a good glass of wine (for Mom and Dad). They also serve delicious food boards that are easy to share with the whole fam. 

28. Puesto 

Every time we are south of LA, we look for a Puesto. These gourmet tacos are out of this world good, and the chips served before the meal are sure to keep the kids from getting hangry while they wait. The Puesto in Irvine is located at Park Place and has a great patio where the kids can be kids without disrupting others. 

Hotel Recommendations for Families in Irvine 

29. Hyatt Regency Irvine

The Hyatt Regency in Irvine is truly exquisite, with two water slides, a beach-entry pool, and even bunk bed suites for families. From the elegant lobby to the delicious on-site restaurant, Warehouse 72 (make sure you order a s'mores plate for dessert!), this is the perfect spot to stay with your kids.

The family probably won't even want to leave the hotel—but if you do, Disneyland is a quick drive away, and all the other activities listed above are within a few minutes of your location. We loved our stay here earlier this year; it's our top recommendation! 

30. Embassy Suites by Hilton

If you're looking for a complimentary breakfast, the Embassy Suites delivers with a highly-rated meal. This atrium-style hotel is clean, beautiful, and even features an indoor pool.

31. Homewood Suites by Hilton

Homewood Suites are typically pretty basic, but they're also spacious, which is a top priority for a big family. The Irvine hotel has plenty of different large-room options, with pet-friendly accommodations available in case you want to bring Fido along on a trip.