80+ Best Things to Do in Irvine, CA (2025) – Kid-Friendly, Outdoor & Cultural Attractions
Table of Contents
Planning a day (or weekend) in Irvine? This 2025 guide rounds up 70+ best things to do in Irvine, from kid-friendly parks and playgrounds to easy hikes with scenic views, peaceful nature & gardens, and the most convenient beaches near Irvine. You’ll also find museums & exhibits, performing arts, can’t-miss cultural festivals & events, plus the city’s top shopping & entertainment hubs like Irvine Spectrum and Diamond Jamboree. Traveling with a pup? We’ve included a pet-friendly list, too. Use the table of contents to jump to the section you need!
Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Irvine
Public Parks & Playgrounds
1. Adventure Playground (University Community Park)
Adventure Playground is one of the most popular family-friendly parks in Irvine, where kids can climb, dig, and build in a safe outdoor space. If you’re searching for the best playground in Irvine for creative play, this is it! This park is only open to service animals–no pets.
2. Victory Park
Victory Park is a local favorite with open fields and a modern play area, making it a great spot for kids’ activities in Irvine. Families come here for its easygoing vibe and shaded picnic spots.
3. Heritage Community Park
Heritage Park is one of the largest and most kid-friendly parks in Irvine, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and even a pond. It’s an ideal destination for a family outing in Orange County. There’s also a wide variety of spaces that you can reserve for hosting your next kids’ event!
4. Bill Barber Park
Bill Barber Park, also known as Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park, combines playgrounds for kids with athletic fields and shady picnic areas with shelters and barbecue amenities. It’s perfect if you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Irvine with children of all ages.
5. William R. Mason Regional Park
Mason Regional Park is a 345-acre space featuring a lake, trails, and wide lawns. It’s one of the best Irvine parks for families who want both nature and playground time in the same trip.
6. Orange County Great Park
Great Park is home to playgrounds, sports fields, and attractions like the Great Park Balloon and carousel. It’s one of the top things to do in Irvine with kids, especially if you want a mix of recreation and entertainment.
7. Irvine Regional Park
Irvine Regional Park is one of the most iconic Orange County parks for kids, offering multiple playgrounds, shady picnic areas, and wide open lawns. Families especially love the Irvine Park Railroad, the seasonal pumpkin patch and holiday events, and the Orange County Zoo, which has kid-friendly animal exhibits.
8. Bosque Playground
Bosque Playground sits along the Great Park Trails and is designed with nature-themed play structures that blend into the surroundings. Kids can climb ropes, scale boulders, and swing high, making it one of the best Irvine playgrounds for adventurous families who want a mix of hiking and playtime.
9. Castle Park (Northwood)
Castle Park at Northwood Community Park (also often called Treehouse Park) features a whimsical castle-themed play structure complete with towers, bridges, and slides. This imaginative spot is a favorite for kids who love pretend play, and it’s often called one of the most unique playgrounds in Irvine.
10. Sweet Shade Neighborhood Park (one of the most accessible parks!)
Sweet Shade Universal Playground is Irvine’s first inclusive playground, designed so kids of all abilities can play together. With adaptive swings, a space-themed play structure, and a sensory garden, it’s one of the best kid-friendly parks in Irvine for families looking for accessible fun.
For Toddlers & Preschoolers
11. Pretend City Children’s Museum
Pretend City is one of the best children’s museums in Orange County, built as a kid-sized city where your little ones can role-play as doctors, shopkeepers, or firefighters. With hands-on exhibits and rotating special events, it’s a must for toddlers and preschoolers in Irvine.
12. Irvine Park Railroad
Climb aboard the one-third-scale train at Irvine Regional Park for a leisurely ride past lakes and shaded trees. Families love this classic kid-friendly Irvine attraction, especially during seasonal events like the pumpkin patch and holiday light train.
13. Orange County Zoo
Located inside Irvine Regional Park, the OC Zoo is small, affordable, and perfect for younger kids. Children can get close to native California animals like black bears, mountain lions, and owls, making it an easy stop for a family day in Irvine.
14. My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Irvine
My Gym offers structured classes that help toddlers develop coordination, balance, and confidence through play. With trained instructors and age-specific programs, it’s a go-to for parents searching for enrichment activities for toddlers in Irvine.
15. Pumpkin City’s Pumpkin Farm (seasonal)
Every fall, Pumpkin City transforms into a toddler-friendly wonderland with pony rides, a petting zoo, and gentle carnival rides. Families flock here for one of the most beloved seasonal activities for kids near Irvine.
For Elementary Age Kids
16. Boomers Irvine
Boomers Irvine is packed with mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and arcade games, making it one of the top spots for family fun in Irvine. Kids in elementary school especially love the variety of attractions that keep them entertained for hours.
17. Tanaka Farms
Tanaka Farms is famous for its pumpkin patch, strawberry picking, and Hello Kitty-themed events, but the farm is open year-round with fresh produce and family activities. It’s a top choice for outdoor things to do with kids in Irvine.
18. San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary
For a free and educational outing, the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary offers 11 miles of flat trails surrounded by ponds and wetlands. Kids can spot ducks, turtles, and herons, making this one of the best nature walks in Irvine for families.
19. Spectrum Climber at Irvine Spectrum Center
Elementary-age kids will love the Spectrum Climber, a colorful 18-foot-tall climbing structure with dozens of platforms to scramble up and explore. It’s one of the most fun active play attractions in Irvine, perfect for burning off energy during a family trip to the Spectrum Center.
For Teens & Pre-Teens
20. The Escape Game Irvine
Crack codes and race the clock in immersive escape rooms right at the Escape Game Irvine at the Spectrum Center. Teens will love this interactive experience, one of the best brain-teasing things to do in Irvine with friends or family.
21. Great Park Ice & FivePoint Arena
Looking for cool fun? Great Park Ice & FivePoint Arena is a four-rink ice complex that offers public skating sessions, hockey clinics, figure skating, and even curling. Teens can skate, learn new moves, or catch a game. It’s one of the best indoor teen activities in Irvine.
22. K1 Speed Indoor Karting
For teens with a need for speed, K1 Speed offers electric go-kart racing in a high-energy indoor arena. Perfect for group outings or birthday parties, it’s a top choice for adrenaline-pumping teens in Irvine.
Outdoor Things to Do in Irvine
23. Quail Hill Loop Trail
The Quail Hill Loop is one of the easiest and most popular hikes in Irvine, offering a flat, two-mile trail surrounded by rolling hills. It’s stroller-friendly and great for families looking for a quick dose of nature.
24. Bommer Canyon Preserve
Bommer Canyon Preserve features rustic trails winding through oak woodlands and rocky outcrops. Popular for hiking and biking, it’s a favorite scenic spot in Irvine with both guided programs and self-guided access.
25. Turtle Rock Viewpoint
If you’re after sweeping views of Orange County, the Turtle Rock Trail is a moderate hike that rewards you with panoramic vistas. It’s one of the top scenic hikes in Irvine for older kids and active families.
26. Jeffrey Open Space Trail
Stretching over three miles, Jeffrey Open Space Trail connects neighborhoods with open space, picnic spots, and public art. It’s ideal for a family walk, bike ride, or jog in Irvine.
27. Chaparral Park
Tucked into the Turtle Rock neighborhood, Chaparral Park offers a charming community playground, open lawns, and fitness stations, but the real gem is the adjacent trail that climbs to Sunset Point, one of the highest vantage spots in Irvine. It’s a scenic short hike that rewards families with panoramic views of the cityscape and a peaceful taste of nature.
Nature & Gardens
28. Sherman Library & Gardens
Sherman Gardens is a beautifully curated garden with a “Discovery Garden” designed for kids, featuring storytime and hands-on nature experiences.
29. Farm + Food Lab (Great Park)
Previously listef as a kid-friendly spot, Great Park’s Farm + Food Lab is an an interactive outdoor classroom with themed gardens, composting demos, and edible plants, perfect for curious kids learning about urban farming.
30. Limestone Canyon Regional Park
Just outside Irvine’s borders, Limestone Canyon Regional Park is a rugged preserve that feels like a mini–Grand Canyon, with limestone outcrops and oak woodlands that inspire nature play.
31. Turtle Rock Nature Center
Turtle Rock Nature Center is a five-acre nature preserve offering self-guided trails, wildlife morning walks, and an educational escape that’s still right in the city.
32. San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary
Wander through the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, 300 acres of wetlands with 11 miles of flat trails where you can spot ducks, turtles, and herons. It’s one of the best places in Irvine for family nature walks and birdwatching.
Beaches Near Irvine
33. Crystal Cove State Park
Just 20 minutes from Irvine, Crystal Cove offers sandy beaches, tide pools, and coastal hiking trails. Families love Crystal Cove for a mix of beach fun and outdoor adventure. As a plus, Crystal Cove’s paved bluff trail is dog-friendly!
34. Newport Beach
A classic SoCal destination, Newport Beach is known for its piers, long sandy shoreline, and whale-watching tours. It’s one of the most family-friendly beaches near Irvine.
35. Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach combines stunning coves and tide pools with a vibrant arts scene. It’s a go-to for families who want both scenic beaches and cultural attractions.
36. Corona del Mar State Beach
Nicknamed “Big Corona,” this Corona del Mar State Beach is popular for swimming, perfect for picnics, and beginner-friendly surfing. It’s one of the most popular beaches near Irvine for families with kids. Dogs are allowed in the early morning or after 4:30PM only.
37. Little Corona del Mar Beach
Tucked into a small cove, Little Corona is famous for tide pools and gentle waves. It’s a favorite spot for toddler-friendly beach days and exploring sea life.
38. Huntington State Beach
Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington State Beach is lively with volleyball courts, basketball courts, fire pits, a multi-use trail, and surf breaks. Families come for the classic Southern California beach experience.
39. Bolsa Chica State Beach
Bolsa Chica State Beach is a wide, sandy beach ideal for kite flying, biking along the paved trail, or roasting marshmallows at night. It’s a quieter alternative to Huntington Beach.
40. Treasure Island Beach (Laguna Beach)
Located near the Montage Resort, Treasure Island Beach has calm water and tide pools that are great for kids. It’s one of the most scenic family beaches near Irvine.
41. Marina Park Beach (Newport Beach)
Marina Park Beach is a beach by the bay that features a playground, grassy picnic areas, and calm waters. It is ideal for toddlers and families seeking a safe beach near Irvine.
42. Aliso Beach Park
Aliso Beach features tide pools, gentle surf, and even a beachfront playground. Families love it as a one-stop spot for both nature and play by the ocean.
Cultural & Educational Attractions
Museums & Exhibits
43. Beall Center for Art + Technology
The Beall Center for Art and Technology is a contemporary spacethat focuses on the intersection of art and technology, with rotating exhibits on robotics, AI, and interactive media. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in STEAM exhibits in Irvine.
44. Irvine Museum Collection at UC Irvine
Housing a major collection of California Impressionist art, the Irvine Museum Collection at UCI is perfect for art lovers. Exhibits showcase landscapes and cultural works tied to California’s artistic heritage.
45. Irvine Fine Arts Center
In addition to its classes, the Irvine Fine Arts Center also features rotating exhibitions of local and regional artists. It’s a hub for exploring community art and cultural events in Irvine.
46. UCI Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
The Langson IMCA highlights a diverse range of voices and artistic styles that explore what defines California art. Art ranges from 19th-century Impressionism and landscapes to post-war and contemporary creations. Langson IMCA is one of Orange County’s top cultural attractions.
47. University Art Gallery (UAG) at UC Irvine
Ok, we’re recommending UC Irvine quite a bit, but hear us out. UC Irvine’s University Art Gallery showcases its students’ and faculty’s creative research projects. This gallery, which opened in the late 1960s, continues to host conferences, artist lectures, film series, and other events, all of which are open to the public.
48. Great Park Gallery
The Great Park Gallery highlights contemporary art in a family-friendly setting. With free admission and community-focused exhibits, it’s a great free museum-style experience in Irvine.
49. Irvine Historical Museum
Operated by the Irvine Historical Society, the Irvine Historical Museum is the oldest standing house in Irvine and tells the story of the city’s ranching past. A must for visitors who want a local history experience in Irvine.
50. Great Park Hangar 244 Exhibits
Hangar 244 at the Great Park displays aviation and military history, including a WWII-era aircraft. It’s an engaging stop for families interested in history exhibits in Irvine.
51. Irvine Ranch Historic Park
Once upon a time, the Irvine Ranch Historic Park was one of the greatest producers of Valencia oranges. This historic park contains 24 original ranch structures that you can explore on your way to visit their library.
Performing Arts
52. Irvine Barclay Theatre
With its intimate setting, the Irvine Barclay Theatre is one of the best places in Irvine to experience live performance arts up close and personal. It is located on the UCI campus and hosts world-class performances in music, dance, and theatre.
53. Soka Performing Arts Center
If you’re a music lover, the Soka Performing Arts Center is for you. Featuring a wide range of concerts from classical to jazz, Soka is a must-visit, famous for its stunning acoustics and architectural beauty.
54. Musco Center for the Arts (Chapman University)
Although it’s a few minutes outside of Irvine, the Musco Center for the Arts is worth the drive. Here, you can find Broadway-style productions, orchestral concerts, and cultural showcases.
55. Irvine Valley College Performing Arts Center
Looking to stay more local and in tune with the Irvine community? The Irvine Valley College Performing Arts Center is a great place to see student productions, symphonies, and dance performances.
Cultural Festivals & Events
56. Irvine Global Village Festival
The Global Village Festival is one of Irvine’s signature annual events and brings together food, music, and performances from around the world. It’s the ultimate multicultural celebration in Irvine!
57. Irvine Korean Cultural Festival
The Irvine Korean Cultural Festival is a family-friendly festival that highlights Korean food, music, dance, and traditions. It’s one of the most vibrant cultural events in Irvine, celebrating the city’s diverse community.
58. OC Night Market / 626 Night Market (OC Fairgrounds, near Irvine)
If you’re willing to drive a bit outside of Irvine, we highly recommend the 626 Night Market! Here, you can find dozens of Asian food vendors, performers, and artists. It’s very popular with families and teens looking for a unique evening cultural experience.
59. Irvine Fine Arts Center Holiday Faire
Looking for a festive vibe? Check out the Holiday Faire held each November featuring local artists who sell handmade gifts, ceramics, jewelry, and more. It’s a fun, low-key way to experience arts and culture in Irvine while supporting the local community and its artists.
Shopping & Entertainment in Irvine
Shopping Destinations
60. Irvine Spectrum Center
The city’s most famous lifestyle hub is the Irvine Spectrum Center. With 100+ retailers, dining, and attractions like the Giant Wheel and Spectrum Climber, you can shop, grab a bite to eat, and catch your new favorite movie!
61. Diamond Jamboree Shopping Center
Known for its late-night Asian dining, karaoke, and international shops, Diamond Jamboree is a hotspot for food and entertainment.
62. The Market Place Center
The Market Place Center is a massive open-air complex spanning Irvine and Tustin, offering big-box retailers, casual restaurants, yoga studios, and convenient shopping.
Entertainment Venues
63. Regal Irvine Spectrum
One of the largest theaters on the West Coast, Regal Irvine Spectrum features IMAX, RPX, 3D, and luxury seating. A must for catching the latest blockbusters!
64. Irvine Improv
Located at the Spectrum, Irvine Improv brings nationally known comedians and live shows to Orange County. Perfect for a night out.
Farmers’ Markets & Seasonal Events
65. Great Park Farmers Market
If you’re looking for a weekly and reliable farmers market, check out the Great Park Farmers Market. Every Sunday, you’ll be able to find produce, food trucks, live music, and artisan goods. It’s one of the most popular recurring cultural events in Irvine.
66. Irvine Spectrum Seasonal Events
If you’re looking for more variety, check out the seasonal events at the Irvine Spectrum. From holiday light shows to live music, Spectrum’s year-round events turn shopping into an entertainment experience.
Pet-Friendly Things to Do in Irvine
Dog Parks & Trails
67. Central Bark Dog Park
Irvine’s most popular off-leash park, Central Bark offers separate areas for large and small dogs, shaded seating, and water fountains. It’s handicap accessible, has a watering facility for your pup, and offers covered seating for you. It’s the go-to dog park in Irvine for local pet owners.
68. Great Park Trails
Although The Great Park’s trail network doesn’t allow your dog to roam off-leash, it welcomes leashed dogs and gives your pets plenty of open space to sniff and explore. Families love it as a dog-friendly hiking option in Irvine.
69. Jeffrey Open Space Trail
This long, landscaped path is perfect for walking or jogging with your pup. It’s a scenic and safe choice for dog walks in Irvine.
70. Orange County Great Park
Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the Great Park’s wide-open trails, sports fields, and green spaces. It’s one of the best dog-friendly parks in Irvine for long walks, outdoor events, and enjoying the scenery with your pup.
71. Turtle Rock Community Park Trails
With hilly paths and shaded areas, Turtle Rock is a favorite for locals looking for a mix of exercise and nature with their pets.
Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Irvine
72. Huntington Dog Beach
Just a short drive from Irvine, Huntington Dog Beach is one of the most popular off-leash beaches in Orange County, where dogs can splash and run freely.
73. Corona del Mar State Beach
Dogs are welcome at Corona del Mar State Beach before 10 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. daily, making it a great family beach option for early morning or evening walks with your pup.
74. Crystal Cove State Park
Leashed dogs are allowed on paved areas and bluff-top trails of Crystal Cove State Park, offering gorgeous coastal views. While pets can’t go on the sand, it’s still a scenic outing for dog owners.
75. Newport Beach Boardwalk
Leashed dogs are welcome on the Newport Beach Boardwalk before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m., perfect for a breezy walk with ocean views!
76. Woodbridge Lake
Woodbridge Lake is right across from the Woodbridge Village Center and is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll with your dog. As long as your pup is leashed, you can grab a bite to eat at the village center and then walk around the lake to enjoy the view
Pet-Friendly Dining Spots
77. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
With a dog menu and outdoor patio seating, Lazy Dog is one of the most popular pet-friendly restaurants in Irvine.
78. Cut – Handcrafted Burgers
Cut is a local burger spot that offers outdoor seating where pups are welcome. It’s a tasty stop for pet owners looking for dog-friendly dining in Irvine.
79. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
Known for Southern-inspired food and whiskey, Bosscat also has a welcoming outdoor patio for dogs, making it a trendy option for pet-friendly brunch or dinner in Irvine.
80. Left Coast Brewing Company – Irvine Location
Left Coast Brewing Company offers a dog-friendly patio and a rotating lineup of craft beers. It’s a great place to relax with your pup while enjoying Irvine’s local brewery scene.
81. North Italia at the Irvine Spectrum Center
At North Italia, dogs are welcome on the spacious outdoor patio. Enjoy handmade pastas and pizzas while your pup lounges nearby.
82. Bear Flag Fish Co. at Irvine Spectrum Center
A casual spot for fresh seafood, Bear Flag Fish Co. has a pet-friendly patio where dogs can join their owners for a breezy lunch or dinner.
Events for Pet Owners
83. Irvine Animal Care Center Super Pet Adoption
Held annually, the Super Pet Adoption at Irvine Animal Care Center brings together dozens of rescue groups with hundreds of adoptable pets. It’s one of the biggest pet adoption events in Orange County.
84. Pet-friendly Events at the Orange County Great Park
Seasonal events at the Great Park often include pet-friendly festivals with vendors, contests, and activities for dogs. You can check out their website for seasonal events.
85. Dog-Friendly Farmers Markets
Many Irvine farmers markets, including the one at the Great Park, welcome leashed dogs. It’s a fun way to shop local while enjoying a day out with your pup.
Conclusion
Irvine makes it easy to mix outdoor adventures, family fun, and culture in one trip. If you’re relocating or hosting visitors, share this guide to help them discover the best things to do in Irvine!
Steve Welty
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