Irvine, United States: A 4-Day Epic Family Adventure!

Discover family fun in Irvine - where memories are made and adventure awaits!

19 July 2023

Irvine, situated in California's Orange County, is an ideal destination for a memorable family-friendly trip. Offering a plethora of attractions, this vibrant city boasts beautiful parks like the expansive Orange County Great Park, with its hot air balloon rides and bike trails, as well as numerous kid-friendly activities such as the Pretend City Children's Museum and the Irvine Regional Park, complete with its zoo and miniature train rides. With its safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and wide array of family-focused amenities, Irvine ensures an enjoyable and relaxing experience for all ages.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Vibrant Irvine!

  • Check into the Atrium Hotel, boasting a tropical pool and charming garden views. Family-friendly vibes guaranteed!
  • Begin your adventure at Pretend City Children's Museum, where little ones can explore an interactive mini version of Irvine.
  • Head to Irvine Regional Park for a picnic surrounded by nature. Don't forget to say hello to the park's resident peacocks!
  • Take a leisurely bike ride around the beautiful Irvine Spectrum Center, indulging in some retail therapy and tasty treats.
  • Round off the day with dinner at Diamond Jamboree, a melting pot of international cuisines that will satisfy every taste bud.
Day 2

Unleash Your Inner Explorer

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at The Stand Natural Foods, known for their lip-smacking acai bowls and hearty vegan options.
  • Embark on an outdoor adventure in Bommer Canyon, exploring scenic hiking trails and learning about the area's rich history.
  • Head to the Orange County Great Park for some family fun. Ride the iconic Great Park Balloon and enjoy a picnic on the expansive lawn.
  • Indulge in Southern California's beach culture at Crystal Cove State Park. Take a dip in the refreshing ocean and search for seashells.
  • Savor a delightful dinner at Taco Rosa, where mouthwatering Mexican flavors blend perfectly with a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Day 3

Immerse in Irvine's Cultural Scene

  • Start with a yummy breakfast at Cream Pan, a local favorite bakery known for their heavenly pastries and fluffy Japanese-style bread.
  • Explore the visually stunning Irvine Museum, showcasing masterpieces celebrating the beauty of California's landscapes.
  • Wander through the University of California, Irvine campus, mesmerized by its architectural gems and vibrant student life.
  • Visit the Irvine Historical Society, where you can delve into the city's past through fascinating exhibits and guided tours.
  • Treat yourself to dinner at Eureka!, a hip gastropub offering a diverse menu of gourmet burgers, craft beers, and handcrafted cocktails.
Day 4

Epic Adventures Await

  • Begin the final day with a scrumptious breakfast at Bruxie, where inventive savory and sweet waffle sandwiches are the star of the show.
  • Take the family to the Irvine Spectrum Center's Ferris wheel for a bird's-eye view of the city and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Play a few rounds of mini-golf at Boomers! Irvine, a hub for family-friendly entertainment with thrilling rides and arcade games.
  • Experience the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFLY, where you can defy gravity and feel like a true superhero.
  • Bid farewell to Irvine with a special dinner at The Ranch Restaurant, known for its top-notch farm-to-table cuisine and remarkable ambiance.

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.

More travel plans

5-Day Fun Guide to Irvine, USA

Irvine is a charming city located in the heart of Orange County, California, that offers a variety of activities and attractions for tourists. Visitors can explore the Irvine Spectrum Center, a premier outdoor shopping mall with a wide range of stores and restaurants, or go on a hike in the nearby Irvine Regional Park. Additionally, Irvine is home to numerous beaches, including Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, each offering their unique coastal scenery and activities.

Irvine on a Budget: 3 Days of Adventure!

Visiting Irvine, United States on a limited budget can still be a great experience. Start off with a hike at Bommer Canyon or Mason Regional Park for some stunning views. Check out the Irvine Spectrum Center for shopping, dining, and entertainment, and finish off with a visit to the OC Great Park for some outdoor fun.

Irvine, USA: A 2-Day Adventure Getaway!

Visiting Irvine, United States on a budget is a breeze with plenty of free or low-cost attractions to check out, including the picturesque Mason Regional Park and the Irvine Historical Museum. Accommodation options such as the La Quinta Inn & Suites offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices, while eating out is easy thanks to numerous budget-friendly restaurants. To save on transportation costs, consider renting a bike to explore the city's many bike lanes and trails.

Surf's Up: Three Days of Fun in Irvine

A family-friendly trip to Irvine, United States offers a plethora of exciting activities for all ages. From visiting the Irvine Spectrum Center, a vibrant shopping and entertainment complex with an array of captivating attractions, to exploring the Irvine Regional Park, where families can engage in outdoor recreation, picnicking, and train rides, there is something for everyone. Additionally, families can delve into educational experiences at the innovative Pretend City Children's Museum, where kids can learn through play and hands-on exhibits.