Irvine in 3 Days: City, Nature, and Culture

Experience the best of California's sunshine and technology hub in Irvine.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Irvine, United States, you'll have the opportunity to explore a beautiful and bustling city in Southern California. You can visit the Irvine Spectrum Center, a popular outdoor shopping mall, and indulge in gourmet dining experiences at one of the many restaurants, while also enjoying the scenery of the city. You can also spend a day at the nearby beaches for sunbathing, surfing, and boating.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

City Slickin' in Irvine

  • Check into the ultra-modern and chic Hotel Irvine sleek, stylish, and utterly Instagram-able!
  • Start the day with a gourmet breakfast at The Eatery, where you can chow down on divine omelets and freshly-baked pastries while enjoying views of the gorgeous Southern Californian landscape.
  • Soak in the sunshine and fresh air at the Great Park Balloon, where you can ascend 400 feet above ground level in a giant helium-filled balloon!
  • Stroll around the incredible Irvine Spectrum Center, a shopper's paradise complete with a ferris wheel, an outdoor theater, and over 130 stores and restaurants.
  • End the day with dinner at the buzzy and bohemian Urban Seoul, where Korean and Mexican cuisine collide in a palette of vibrant flavors and cultural influences.
Day 2

Nature is Calling

  • Fuel up with a hearty and healthy breakfast at the charmingly rustic Old Vine Kitchen & Bar, where you'll find a flavor-packed farm-to-table menu.
  • Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to the Laguna Beach, where you can hike or bike along sandy trails that overlook the azure ocean water.
  • Spend the afternoon admiring the natural beauty at Crystal Cove State Park or Irvine Regional Park, both perfect for a picnic or a leisurely bike ride.
  • Tuck into a sumptuous seafood dinner at The Cannery, situated in a historic building that was formerly a fish canning factory, and boasting picturesque waterfront views.
  • End the night at the bustling karaoke bar, Koreatown Plaza, where you can sing your heart out and rub elbows with some of Irvine's most colorful and passionate personalities.
Day 3

Arts & Culture Extravaganza

  • Indulge in a lavish breakfast at Cucina Enoteca, a stylish and eclectic eatery that boasts a menu of beautifully crafted Italian-American fare.
  • Get your art fix at the prestigious UC Irvine Art Galleries, showcasing contemporary and experimental exhibitions from globally acclaimed artists.
  • Dive into Irvine's rich cultural heritage at the Rancho San Joaquin Historical Society, where you can explore historic buildings, ranch equipment, and other artifacts that celebrate the area's agricultural roots.
  • Stop by the incredibly ornate Irvine Barclay Theatre, which hosts cultural performances from all over the world, and take in a live show that will leave you breathless.
  • For dinner, check out the unforgettable Mead's Green Door Cafe, offering eclectic vegetarian and vegan fare such as acai bowls, savory sandwiches, and irresistible smoothies.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Irvine, United States by plane is to fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) which is located about 10 minutes away from Irvine. Airlines such as Delta, American, and United offer flights to John Wayne Airport from major cities across the US.

Car

The best way to get to Irvine by car is to take the I-5 or I-405 freeway depending on your location. If you are coming from Los Angeles, take the I-5 South and if you are coming from San Diego, take the I-5 North. Once you reach Irvine, there are several parking options available.

Train

There is no direct train service to Irvine. However, you can take the Amtrak train to the nearby town of Santa Ana and then take a taxi or bus to Irvine.

Boat

There is no direct boat service to Irvine as it is a landlocked city. However, you can take a boat to nearby coastal cities such as Newport Beach or Long Beach and then drive or take a taxi to Irvine.

Bus

Taking a bus to Irvine is a good option if you are coming from nearby cities such as Los Angeles or San Diego. Greyhound and Megabus offer services to Irvine Transportation Center, which is located just outside the city.

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