Irvine, United States: 5 Days of Family-Friendly Fun
Unforgettable family adventures await in Irvine, USA!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Irvine, United States offers a family-friendly trip with plenty of activities and attractions for all ages. Explore the beautiful Irvine Regional Park, where you can enjoy picnics, hiking trails, playgrounds, and even a zoo. Visit Great Park Balloon, the Orange County Great Park's iconic attraction, which offers breathtaking panoramic views and exciting adventures for the whole family. Don't miss the Pretend City Children's Museum, a hands-on learning center where kids can engage in imaginative play and educational activities.
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- Check into the Atrium Hotel, a gem with retro vibes and a stunning courtyard pool.
- Tap into your inner artist at the Irvine Fine Arts Center, where creativity flows like a funky fountain.
- Unleash the hiker in you at Bommer Canyon, a rugged wilderness ready to be conquered by your adventurous spirit.
- Chow down on Vietnamese fusion delights at the SideDoor, where traditional banh mi gets a modern twist.
- Catch a flick under the stars at the iconic Edwards Irvine Spectrum Outdoor Cinema, where blockbuster dreams come true.
- Kickstart your morning with caffeine magic from Portola Coffee Roasters, brewing beans with a passion.
- Soak up the sun at Crystal Cove State Park, a coastal wonderland where nature waves its wand.
- Explore the magical world of Disneyland, where Mickey and friends will whisk you away on unforgettable adventures.
- Savor a mouthwatering BBQ feast at Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, where the meat melts and flavors explode.
- Dance the night away at The Copper Door, a hipster hideout serving up craft beer and live music galore.
- Start the day right with fluffy pancakes and bacon at the bustling Rooster Café, where comfort food reigns supreme.
- Embark on a culinary adventure at the Irvine Global Village Festival, where diverse flavors from around the globe collide.
- Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Seoul at Anjin Korean BBQ, where sizzling meats and banchan steal the show.
- Indulge in whimsical desserts at Little Sweet Dessert House, where sweet dreams are beautifully crafted.
- Sip on craft brews and share stories at Barley Forge Brewing Co., a local brewery where camaraderie is always on tap.
- Brave the exhilarating rides at Knott's Berry Farm, where adrenaline junkies find their sanctuary.
- Cool off at the Soak City Water Park, a watery wonderland with twisting slides and wave pools to beat the California heat.
- Get a dose of history and science at the Discovery Cube, a hands-on museum for curious minds of all ages.
- Take a leisurely stroll through Irvine Regional Park, where nature shows off its vibrant colors and furry critters roam free.
- Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Habana, a Cuban oasis that serves up authentic flavors in a tropical paradise.
- Find retail heaven at the Irvine Spectrum Center, a shopper's paradise filled with chic boutiques and trendy eateries.
- Get your adrenaline pumping with indoor go-karting at K1 Speed, where speed demons rule the track.
- Explore the hidden gems of Irvine's Farmers Market, where local produce and handmade crafts steal the spotlight.
- Savor a farewell dinner at Andrei's Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails, a sustainable haven with farm-to-table delights.
- Bid adieu to Irvine, cherishing memories of its eclectic charm and family-friendly wonders. Safe travels!
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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.