The 35 best free attractions in Irvine

This park was incredible, a must-see little adventure with your kids, and great for adults as well. If you're looking to let your little one run free without worry this is the place. If you and your partner want to take a nice stroll this is also very relaxing and scenic with some fun facts of history along the way!

Great Park in Irvine is a good spot for a relaxing day out. Whether you’re here for a walk, a picnic, or one of the many events they host, the park is always clean, spacious, and beautifully maintained. One of the best things about this place is the abundance of free parking — there are plenty of lots available, so you never have to worry about finding a spot. It’s a good place for families, couples, or anyone just looking to enjoy the outdoors.

This is a massive park very awesome for large ski sporting games. We went there for the first time for soccer tournament and although it was a lot of walking it actually was a good walk and there were countless soccer fields and softball fields so there was a lot to do it even had so many food trucks so if you ever have a chance to go here for a tournament or even just to go and hang out at a park this is one of the parks to go to cause there’s a lot to do and a lot of room for things to be moved in to do.

Great Park is becoming bigger and bigger. It is wonderful to discover and see its different courts, spaces, benches, areas, trees, flowers, birds, rabbits, lizards at every visit. It is so very well equipped and relaxing at the same time.

A nice family and pet friendly park. Chill for a late afternoon walk with clean public restroom at the back of the customer center. Sweet playground area for kids.

After reading many negative reviews, we took a chance and went to the free Jimmy Buffett tribute concert. We met great people, the band was excellent and the facility was large and clean. The biggest negative was the high prices for alcohol!

Great tribute to Taylor Swift concert. 1000s of people. Lil girls dressed in glittery clothes and boots. Good food and snacks

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Irvine Spectrum Center Mall, and I am absolutely delighted to share my glowing 5-star review of this shopping haven. From the moment I stepped foot into the mall, I was captivated by its vibrant atmosphere and impressive array of shops and attractions. The mall's modern design and inviting ambiance created the perfect setting for a day of leisurely shopping and entertainment. The variety of stores at Irvine Spectrum Center Mall is truly impressive. From well-known brands to unique boutiques, there is something to cater to every style and preference. Whether I was searching for the latest fashion trends, home décor items, or specialty gifts, I found myself spoiled for choice at every turn. In addition to its extensive selection of shops, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall boasts an abundance of dining options to satisfy every craving. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there is a culinary delight awaiting every palate. I particularly enjoyed taking a break from shopping to indulge in a delicious meal or refreshing beverage at one of the many restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the mall. Beyond shopping and dining, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall offers a variety of entertainment options to keep visitors entertained. From catching a movie at the state-of-the-art movie theater to enjoying live performances at the outdoor amphitheater, there is never a dull moment at this bustling destination. The mall's convenient layout and ample parking make navigating the complex a breeze, while its picturesque surroundings provide a delightful backdrop for leisurely strolls and people-watching. Overall, my experience at Irvine Spectrum Center Mall exceeded all expectations, earning it a well-deserved 5-star rating. Whether you're a local resident or visiting from out of town, I highly recommend paying a visit to this shopper's paradise. Thank you, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall, for a truly memorable experience--I can't wait to return!

The Irvine Spectrum is an open-air mall that has retail shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Some highlights I think worth noting about this outdoor mall is it has a ferris wheel, large easy-to-read sign when driving round the area, it’s a well-maintained mall, and it is spacious. I stopped by here on a weekday to purchase a couple gifts for family members and happened to drop by the Hello Kitty Cafe (oh so nostalgic). It wasn’t too busy or crowded mid-week so it was great to walk around and enjoy some shopping. It was also a beautiful day. There are plenty of shops here - something for everyone!

Irvine Spectrum Center is a visually appealing and well-maintained destination with a vibrant atmosphere. The layout is pleasant for walking, and the architecture gives a relaxed, open-air feel. It’s a great place to spend time with friends or family, especially if you’re looking for dining options — the center offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to suit different tastes. However, when it comes to shopping, the selection is somewhat limited. While there are a few well-known brands, it doesn’t offer the variety or depth you’d expect from a major shopping destination. If you’re planning to browse or do serious shopping, you may find the options underwhelming. Overall, Irvine Spectrum is more of a social and dining spot than a true shopping hub. It’s perfect for an evening out, a movie, or a casual stroll — but don’t expect a full-scale retail experience.

Came by to watch wrestling at the Irvine Comedy Club. Had comp tickets. There is a two item minimum, per person. Had pepperoni pizza with a side salad and nachos. Food was very good. With drinks was 68 dollars. The show was great. Fake but fun, also very athletic. Jumping, flying out of the ring. Great night.

A beautiful place to spend an evening in Irvine. There are many restaurants, cafés, and stores to explore, along with a movie theater and relaxing outdoor spaces. The place is clean, lively, and well-organized. Parking is easy and digital maps help you find your way around.

This shopping center offers a wide variety of dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and branded stores. However, the restroom facilities require immediate attention due to their poor hygiene and unpleasant odor.

It's a fun shopping mall in the area! You can get items from reasonable to high end!! It's just enjoyable walking around as window supper as well! :)

Hiking Trail Review Carlson Trail and the San Joaquin Marsh Loop - 3.1 Miles Very easy to find the trailhead. Multiple parking spots at the entrance. The trail itself is very well maintained and marked. There are many intersecting trails to extend or shorten your walk as needed. Beautiful views and loads of wildlife. The park is very dog friendly and multiple bathroom locations along the trail.

Beautiful place for bird watching in every season. Now in July we saw lots of common terns and black skimmers (they are as noisy as monkeys), various species of ducks, some snowy egrets, double-crested cormorants, black-necked stilts, coots, and two couples of western grebes. Hummingbirds, mourning doves, Canada geese, sparrows, bunnies do not count 😃 it is an amazingly quiet, secluded place hidden in the urban environment. It is perfect for walks, and great for bird watchers and wild life lovers.

This is a wonderful hidden gem. A natural area within a city, filled with many types of birds. It has a complex network of trails that allows hikers of all abilities to customize a walk that works for them.

I love this place and have been there multiple times. The over 300 acres coastal freshwater wetlands will surprise you each time you visit as you wouldn't know what animals you would encounter each time you go. If you love walking in nature and like to be able to come close to some ducks and birds, this is a great place to be spending a few hours. I certainly spend around 3 hours each time I visit. Morning is a better time to go as you would see more animals rather than in the afternoon. I have been there one early morning when it was so foggy, but I was truly entertained by a large group of geese swimming in harmony, and all I heard was their sound, loud and clear. It was such a beautiful morning.

Great places for a walk, birding. Great trails, plenty of shade trees and benches around some of the ponds!

From frogs to crows to Osprey to cranes to bunnies... a 20 minute walk in the preserve is like a drive to a remote Forrest somewhere ☺️✨️❣️

It's really amazing to learn the 300 acer filter area is cleverly disguised as a nature preserve. Great for bird watching !! There are various easy walking loops which you can decide how further you would like to go. Definitely a beautiful place to enjoy the sunset, too.

An Irvine historical site that brings together the history with historical objects and the great stories by the docent. This is not only the history of Irvine from the Native Americans through the master planning of the city and stories of the progression of the West. It is a great place for all ages ( maybe not infants) to visit. If you live in Orange County or just want to understand how it became what it is, I would for sure want to visit this place.

Very interesting

As expected

We absolutely loved this park! We were in the area for a show and stopped here beforehand. It was a beautiful day to walk around, enjoying the lake and nature. Perfect place for taking pictures, having a picnic, playing outdoor games, going for a walk/jog, or just napping in the grass. There are loads of turtle, geese, ducks, and also some frogs. (Please be mindful not to feed them or leave trash, it really isn't good for them.) There is a small entry fee. The park is wonderfully maintained and we spent a good few hours there, just enjoying the afternoon. I do recommend wearing sunscreen or a hat on sunny days.

I truly enjoy visiting William R Mason Regional Park and spending quality time here with my children. It’s always clean, surrounded by lush greenery, and features a beautiful pond where turtles make their home. The park has great playgrounds for kids and offers a wonderful setting for celebrating birthdays. My only small drawback is the $5 entrance fee.

William R. Mason Regional Park – Irvine, CA Right next to UCI, clean, quiet, and huge—over 300 acres with lakes, big open lawns, paved paths, and a legit wilderness section. Great for picnics, walks, casual sports, or just zoning out. Not a lot of “activities,” but it’s well-kept and low-stress. Parking inside costs money, and most nearby streets are private, but you can usually find spots along University or near Rancho Joaquin. Solid local park if you want space to breathe.

One of the most beautiful parks in Irvine! This park is always clean —perfect for walks, picnics, or just enjoying nature. Just a quick heads-up for fellow pet owners: I’ve seen a coyote here a few times, so keep an eye on your dog.

Mason regional park is your standard community area for entertainment. It has a lake thats vibrant and filled with life - fish and ducks... it has a walking and jogging paths that extend for miles. In fact, its two parks.in one. On the east side, the park is mostly for walkers joggers bikers and people looking to just stroll. The west is mostly for families, for groups and large scale activities. Of course the west side has all the restrooms, playgrounds large fields and is the main entrance. You have the standard picnic tables, jungle gym, shaded trees, sand courts for volleyball a lake to stroll by, many sections outlined by parking areas and rolling hillsides that complement the park. The east side is coordinated by the turtle rock 🪨 trail system ..its long, curvy and built most.for people trying to do exercise by means of walk jogs and runs. There are a few area for water stations and that for the little critters also. Generally speaking, if your look for a peaceful ✌️ day, to enjoy a simple park, thats clean safe modern and visited by then local community... this would be it. Overall, I give it a strong 3.5 to 3.75 Negatives... the east side could be developed a bit more... by inputting lakes or exercise stations and or a nature center . Plus, it would help if the east side had a parking site, which it doesn't. A plus, part of the turtle 🐢 rock trail system on the east side. However, this area is mostly leveled paths and east walk ways. Continue south for more challenging trails .

Beautiful park. Many parking lots around the park. There is a parting fee. Benches throughout the park as well as a large covered entertainment area. Enjoyed a D1 Cross Country Race at this park.

Relaxing on late Sunday afternoon walk. The ducks are out and about. The turtles are lazy floating around or docked on the rocks. This what public parks should be like.

This is called suicide hill has been for decades grew up in Irvine this was a know local spot. Like 15 yrs ago we would ride our lil 50cc dirt bikes through here every so often. But definitely not something you could do today. Besides the local 411 😉 This is a nice hiking trail with beautiful scenic views!

Easy and peaceful hike with great views. The sunset scene was really pretty. Its dog friendly. They don't have doggy bags available so please come with your own. Passed a few areas where this was a problem. Other than that, a nice, short trail.

Turtle Rock Viewpoint stands as the secret spot which offers the most beautiful sunset views. The challenging hike leads to a breathtaking view that creates a feeling of standing at the highest point on earth.

Super cool place for hiking! Kids love. I come here in a very good day. Not to hot and not to cold. Love !

Beautiful little hike with a moderately difficult way to the summit. The dirt path to the summit appears intimidating once the paved path ends but just keep on trucking and you’ll be fine. Your hands will get dirty as you hold onto boulders to stabilize yourself but not that bad. It’s probably better to go with someone and make your way back down before it gets dark cause the way back is a little confusing.

It's a great short hike and a great view all around from the top. We parked at Chaparral Park 18981 Glenmont Terr Irvine, CA 92603 After the hike, our kids were able to play at the park playground, and there's also a soccer field + basketball courts. Dog friendly place.

Quick hike, a bit of a steep climb and.. Great view

I’ve been seeing Boomers ever since I moved to Orange County — it’s been around 17 years now. Yesterday, since my kids had the day off (and it was a Monday), I decided to finally take them there. When I told them, the first thing my son asked was, “What’s the rating like?” I brushed it off and told him it couldn’t be that bad. We bought the all-day pass, which costs $44 per person, and went in soon after opening. Unfortunately, we had to wait quite a bit for the rides to start since we were the only ones there for a while. Most of the other guests seemed more interested in miniature golf. There were only six rides total, and most of them felt old, slow, and honestly a bit boring for my 14- and 9-year-old. The only ones they really enjoyed were the Starship and the go-karts — those were actually fun. Everything else felt more suited for much younger kids and definitely not worth the price. If you’re into mini golf or batting cages, you might have a better time. The arcade games were decent, but i had to pay extra as the all day pass has only a very limited amount , which added to the disappointment. Would I recommend Boomers? No, I wouldn’t. Would I go again? Definitely not. For the same money, I’d rather take my kids to Knott’s Berry Farm or even Dave & Buster’s for a better arcade experience. One last thing — most of the employees looked tired and not very enthusiastic, except for two girls running the go-karts, who were actually friendly and seemed to enjoy their job. My daughter names the place Gloomers .

This was a fun place with games, rides, go carts, bumper boats, miniature golf, batting cages, later tag and a place to eat. They also have prizes from the tickets you win. The games have bright colors and working with driving, back throwing, bean bag tossing, and different ways of winning tickets. group enjoyed all the things to do but it’s definitely hard to keep track when you have some that want to do different things, like inside or outside but everyone managed. The go carts are quick with some rules so those using must obey or have to leave. There’s also a smaller go cart and track for the younger ones. Since we had a pretty large group, our pass that we purchase gave us unlimited games and access to specific rides which worked out perfect; however, there are no tickets given which was okay. They have a food court with a decent size sitting area but there are also sitting areas outside that were nice. There were rooms which I’m guessing are for reserving for parties. They also have some staff members walking around keeping things in order. Everyone has a good time!!

Excellent place for family fun. Wasn't busy on a Sun afternoon. Clean bathroom and gaming area. Go kart ride was a blast for $17.99 per driver. Child passenger was free. Prizes weren't bad either. Played the fishing game and won 1200 tickets to get about 4 prizes. Staff was friendly. Would definitely come here again. Great way to spend and relax with kids and family on the weekend or weekday. They also had cabana areas for party rentals. Not a bad place for a kid's party. This location is next to Irvine Lanes.

I was debating the four or five stars. The reason that I chose four was actually because of the food and drink prices. They also ran out of the only pop i drink. Diet coke. Nothing too serious. The Games were all working. Outside was a bit odd where there wasn't always an employee there and we couldn't tell what was working and what wasn't. It could be a better system, Same with the go carts. There was always somebody there but it could have been a better system for smaller people (like the parent kid system at Universal?) I could have ridden six times while I was waiting for a double car for my daughter and I.

First time visiting Boomers and it didn't disappoint! Was looking for a place that offers a variety of attractions and looks like I found it. Arcades, go carts, mini golf, bumper boats with a water cannon, Lazer tag, small food court and a few carnival flavored rides. $60.00 all you can ride day pass is worth every penny. The arcade area is well laid out and not congested like most arcades. Plenty of space to navigate with clean open space. Staff is decent however management carries the weight with spectacular customer service! Food prices a little high however re-entry is allowed without checking in and out. Open front door to come and go. Why 4 stars you might ask. Well they were out of souvenir cups which was disappointing since my kids and I make memories together everywhere we go. Would've been nice to have a cup as a trophy of another conquered location. One of the attractions was also down and not functional and batting cages are also a separate cost. Girl at the counter could've smiled a bit and since she's the welcoming face of this establishment. All in all it's definitely worth revisiting. Go ahead and dive in! You and your family are sure to have a great time!

Best Boomers location now that they demolished the location in Fountain Valley. Paying at the front desk was confusing, due to options for the passes for the attractions. But the park attendants were awesome. Any kids ride they would open and run, all we had to do was request an attendant and they'd come over. If the kid was the only 1 in line they would extend how long they would run that ride. So definitely above and beyond customer service. The best rides were the Go-Karts. We weren't able to do the mini golf course due to time and also it was super crowded. The batting cages looked awesome. The arcade was the other place we spent most of the time. The range of games is great and we didn't have to wait long to use them. Definitely recommend for a fun day. Spent 3 hours there and definitely would've stayed longer.

We brought our kids here today and I was beyond impressed with a staff member, Deon. He went above and beyond - truly excellent at his job. He was kind and went the extra mile to make sure our kids had a great time on the rides. Our kids love this place. Thank you Deon!

Went here to get our marriage license and it was very quick and easy to do so. The building is very beautiful and I would get married here if we had not already planned for a church wedding.

Beautiful building with free admission. The building consists of 3 floors, the first floor (which is more like a basement) consists of the county’s archives and historic memorabilia. The second floor was jam packed with people taking wedding pictures or waiting for passport appointments (you can get your passport done here btw. The third floor was where the historic courthouse was. Overall, beautiful architecture and plenty of OC history. Just be aware it will be filled with people getting their wedding pics taken.

The museum was empty because they have not placed displays out yet during the reopening from COVID. Not sure when that happens with the timeline. Beautiful building! Luckily, I had a OC Parks pamphlet from before COVID that provided a lot of information that I might have missed. It might be a better trip to wait for when things fully reopen? UPDATE! Don't miss downstairs! All of the history is there...

I love this old court house. I have photographed many a civil marriage here. It never get's old....see what I did there?

Business is back to "usual" at the Old OC Courthouse. - Couples can have 0-2 witnesses sign their marriage license. - Couples can bring guests for their onsite ceremony, which takes place in front of an altar again (room A or B) or at the superior courtroom if you pay the additional fee (highly recommended if you have a larger group). - If you get married during a busy day (Friday or the one Saturday a month they are open), allow extra time in case you need to park at the nearby parking lots or structures since the little courthouse lot does get full quickly. - The city contracted a third party, and parking tickets *are* being issued. - You can pay with coins or credit card but need to be careful about the expiration time. - You can use the convenient phone app, but you will pay 20 cents extra per hour (whyyy). - Also, allow time for construction traffic. Many streets are either half closed or one way. In summary, it is the most practical, affordable, and beautiful venue to get married in OC. Best wishes!

This past Friday 2/5 was my first time photographing a ceremony at this beautiful courthouse. While still under Covid guidelines, we (couple + myself) make the most with our surroundings. I was able to capture a first look, gorgeous portraits on the staircase, and we even did a petal toss. If you're wanting to capture your moment, I can be there for you! ~Maria, Owner/Photographer of Pink Heart Photography by Maria Evins

I got married here way back in 2014. Decided to walk thru on my lunch break when I was serving jury duty. It really brought back many memories and the place looks just like it did then. Also, fun fact this is one of the filming spots for legally blonde

If you’re in Newport Beach, this is worth a visit! Amazing views and not very much crowding. Be prepared to walk up and down steep trails to get to the beach. Beautiful scenery

We love this State park. Make sure to go at Low tide so you can enjoy the many tide pools. We have found some cool things in them from Lobsters and an Octopus once. The walk on the beach is awesome from pelican point south to Beachcombers and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner on the beach. But make reservations or it’s an hour wait. The walking trails are awesome overlooking the ocean.

Crystal Cove State Park is absolutely stunning! From the moment you arrive, the views of the ocean and coastline take your breath away. The hiking trails are well-maintained and offer a mix of easy strolls and more challenging climbs, all with incredible scenic overlooks. Walking along the beach, especially at low tide, reveals tide pools full of fascinating sea life. The beach itself is pristine, with soft sand, clear blue water, and plenty of rocky areas for kids and adults to explore. There are several access points and parking lots, making it convenient to find a spot. The visitor center is helpful and welcoming, and the bathrooms are clean, definitely a plus! We enjoyed stopping at the nearby restaurants along the beach for a meal while soaking in the ocean views. Whether you’re hiking, exploring tide pools, or just relaxing by the water, Crystal Cove is the perfect getaway. Highly recommend bringing a camera. The sunsets here are unforgettable!

what to expect: follow your GPS to the location. It tells you where the state park is only to be stopped by a passive aggressive security guard who pointed out that there was a stop sign behind the tree. The guard will become a little nicer and then point out that there is parking across the street for a mere $15 but there is a shuttle. He fails to tell you that the shuttle cost two dollars each way so you take all of that and you eventually get down to a mediocre beach with a pretty good restaurant, not much else actually. There are some quaint houses that you can rent out and that seems appealing, but as far as the whole package is concerned, unless you’ve never been to the beach before, it is a pass.

What great beach. $20 a day pass. Clean, blue water. Rocks to climb on. There are several paths to get down to the beach. Upon entering, make a left and park at the end of the lot. Take the paved path next to the bathrooms down to the water. Its still pretty steep. Kids had a blast.

I love to go to this place. I went super early and got to see the sunrise. Beach was not too crowded when I got there in the morning. Water was very clear and clean. I saw about six different species of fish swimming in the kelp/ sea grass and rock reef while snorkeling. Be prepared to walk down to the beach and uphill back to the parking lot but it's definitely worth it.

Absolutely Serene. I visited on a weekday. This place felt very open to our sky, ocean and natural world. Crystal Cove was not crowded with people. Good place for relaxation & recreation with a view. Pack a picnic lunch or find nearby park concessions. Purchase a California State Park Day or Multi-Day Pass. Enjoy this beauty and other California state beach parks on a day journey along the Pacific Coast Highway. Tip: The stairs leading to beach have an uneven surface and are a bit wonky to walk down. There is a walking ramp located nearby that is a more stable alternative to provide better footing, if needed.

What an amazing collection this museum has. I was not aware of it until the I vote for an after hours event landed in my email. I highly recommend giving them several hours of your day to have a chance to see everything. I will be back.

Recently went to see the Terracotta Warriors exhibit. Well curated and not too crowded. We went on a day where there was a separate festival in the courtyard. The permanent exhibits are also enjoyable. Parking can be tricky, especially on weekends where there are other activities going on; however, there were other additional overflow lots and street parking. Street parking may be free or metered and may be less than the on-site parking fees. Ate at the Tabata restaurant and the food was good. The hostess did a great job accommodating our large party as a walk-in request.

Took the family here during the Terracotta Warriors exhibit. After exploring that, we checked out the other parts. We were there for six hours and still haven't seen everything. It's definitely a place to come back to over and over. Staff was friendly and professional. The facility was clean and modern. Highly recommended for visitors of all ages.

Great ambience. Interesting artifacts (I was especially fascinated by the Oceania exhibit). The crown jewel was without a doubt the teracotta warriors special exhibit, and there were free guided tours. One can easily spend three or more hours there.

The entry price is reasonable, lots of parking including several handicapped. The exhibits are interesting, from different regions and countries and special exhibits are always interesting (Right now, it's the Chinese terracotta soldiers.) It is on the smaller side so people should have no problem viewing everything. The employees are pleasant and helpful. The atmosphere is quiet and leisure.

I’ve visited the bowers twice now. They have amazing Hindu art, and indigenous Taiwanese style works. I loved the American Impressionism as well. The second time we had gone for the terracotta warriors in china. It seems that the bowers receives some rare exhibits every now and then so it’s worth checking in multiple times especially if you are local to the area.

Generally, I am not a fan of art museums. But Bowers Museum isn't like a lot of art museums. Today they have a special exhibit on the Terracotta Warriors. Permanent exhibit include Sacred Realms which is Buddhist painting. Masters of Silver, Arts of the Pacific Islands and more. All items and their history were all explained well. They even offered tours but we didn't take it. Even if you don't care for Art Museums this one is worth a look

This place keeps getting worse every year. To start, in the last five years they have closed ALL water side trails to hikers. This was the best part about coming here. 90% of the interesting native plants and animals are down in the tidal zone. Closing all single track hiking trails only makes the other hot and dusty road trails that much more crowded. When I am hiking I want to see no cars, bikes, or other people, just nature. Closing the water side trails makes this place a joke. On top of this they cemented the once nice crushed granite parking lot and made the spaces tiny. This is why locals now park on the street, they don't want dented cars! Just too many people at this place now. They should just close this whole park down and fence it off for just the wildlife if they are not going to let people hike down at the waters edge. All you are going to see on the dusty dirt roads are cars, bikers, and hikers surrounded by dry brown fields. I posted some pictures of the lower waterside trails to show you what you are now missing!

Amazing place to take a walk anytime if the day and even more beautiful during sunset! I wish it hadn't taken me 25 yrs to finally decide to explore the area. I was always deterred by the smell that sometimes accompanies the tide changes. Haven't noticed it at all now that I frequently ride my bike down the trails that go around the back bay.

Peaceful, beautiful preserve where I was there to plein air paint with a group. There were so many painting opportunities that it was hard to choose a scene. The Muth center is there and has a great little store with souvenirs and painting to take home!

This was a nice walk/hike. There are several trails to choose from so you can make your own trail. The weather was great and you get a nice breeze in this area. Would definitely come back.

If you’re looking for an easy to moderate walk, I highly recommend checking out the Nature Preserve. There are several trail options to choose from, including paved paths that are perfect for a scenic run. I’ve been coming here for years and love the peaceful atmosphere. There’s also a free parking lot available, but it tends to fill up quickly on weekends—so plan accordingly!

There are two nature centers and a rest area with faded panels about wildlife. Plenty of walk out platforms. Two lane road and a bit of slanted gravel lakeside. Only thing is it isn’t a total loop. Had to cross via pch south side and jamboree north side with some diverted in residential streets.

First time here and I was blown away by the wide open views and variety of trail options. I wasn’t expecting such a peaceful escape in the middle of the city. You’ll see everyone here—from first-time visitors and families with strollers to runners, joggers, and even pet parents. It’s definitely a spot for all kinds of outdoor lovers.

I wanted to share with you my recent experience at Pirate Cove Beach. This hidden gem turned out to be an amazing destination that I believe you would thoroughly enjoy visiting as well. Pirate Cove Beach is a pristine location, known for its immaculate cleanliness. The beach is conveniently located right by the harbor, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. During my visit, I was struck by the stunning views that the beach offers. The crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it a perfect spot for relaxation and unwinding. What truly stood out to me during my time at Pirate Cove Beach was the friendliness of the people. Whether it was the locals or fellow beachgoers, everyone I encountered was warm and welcoming. The sense of community at the beach only added to the overall positive experience. While the water at Pirate Cove Beach may be a bit cold, especially if you're used to warmer temperatures, I found it to be surprisingly enjoyable. The refreshing dip in the ocean was rejuvenating and added to the allure of the beach. In conclusion, I highly recommend visiting Pirate Cove Beach if you are looking for a memorable beach experience. The combination of cleanliness, stunning views, friendly atmosphere, and enjoyable water make it a top destination for travelers and beach enthusiasts alike. I hope this information encourages you to consider including Pirate Cove Beach in your future travel plans. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need more details about my experience at the beach.

This must me the coolest Beach in the entire world. I was blown away by all of the wild rock formations, and tucked away location. Too Cool.

This beach is beautiful ❤️ we got baptized here. the neighbors were friendly as my brother and I made our way down to the rocks. The beach looks really cool with how the sand hardened into a small cliff and was walkable (use support if your balance is unsteady) there were tiny crabs on the smaller rocks that create a barrier for the sidewalk it was cute to see them waving at us haha

Nice place to go on a small walk with friends, family or your dog. You meet new people the view is out of this world and it just makes you think of life.

The beachh is a small cove in the side of the cliffs that can be accesed by paddling in from the bay or parking in the nearby lot.

We enjoyed our visit. No one was at the Pirate's cove beach, but we could see a lot of sailboats coming and going from the harbor. Parking was $2.40 for an hour at the kiosk at the Corona Del Mar Beach next to it. Restrooms were nice at the parking area. You have to walk up rocks to get to the beach area at Pirate's cove. Walk in by the picnic tables for an easier route. Once at the top of the rocks, walk toward the steps to get down to the beach. There was some glass on the beach.

Cool spot to chill n hang out. Kinda hard to find, I usually go in by paddleboard, or boat. When the tide is high, usually ur not able to access the beach area cause it's a small beach. If u come from the corona del mar side, there is a parking lot but u gotta climb over a rocky hill to access the beach. Rocks r kinda sketchy their slippery from the sand so ur better off not wearing shoes. Night time is treacherous. Not suppose to be down there at nighttime but we always go it's chill. Have a lil 🔥 going. Cops go down there sumtimes but not to often.

This was a fun day out with the family. Advice: arrive early! We checked in at 11:30am on a sunny Sunday in March and the wait was 1 hour. It's $10 for adults and free for kids. By 12:30pm they had sold out of daytime flights. I was curious what would happen in the very unlikely event that the tether broke and the balloon floated free. It turns out that in this kind of emergency the operator can vent Helium and land.

I had such an amazing time. I was a little apprehensive about being that high in the air but something in my gut told me to just go forward and do it and I’m glad I did. It was so peaceful. It was fun. It was exciting all of those things wrapped into one I felt very secure. The weather was perfect. The cost was $10 for the ride and while you wait for your turn, you have the choice to get on the merry-go-round. There’s also a park for children to play while you wait I definitely plan on going again

Took my nephews to the Great Park Balloon for the rides—what a beautiful day! The views were amazing, and it was such a wonderful way to spend time with family. Highly recommend for a fun family outing!

A fun park to go and walk your dog they have a carousel and a balloon ride. It’s great for kids and adults a like. We went on a Saturday just to check out the park and the huge balloon that you can ride on for $10. They have a visitor center that caters some snacks and drinks for purchase. The staff were friendly and accommodating. They also have this merry go round to ride on for everyone. They play good background music that was really entertaining.

Here is a great place If you like to try the very first-time hot balloon ride! The price is fair, the ride is safe, and family friendly! We didn’t make reservation, but I recommend to call for the day you visit, the ride is available depending on the weather!! The visitor center told us to register first and wait for the text if the weather is good enough to start ballon ride. From receiving the text to lining the ride wasn’t too long. The view in the sky was stunning ! The whole ride was about 20-30 mins. I wouldn’t tell too many details, go check yourself 😁~

Unfortunately I was disappointed by service. If you really want to get there after 1 hour driving from LA, get there in a morning, they work from 9am. I literally just wasted gas because we were going there specifically for this and we were told that everything is booked already and they don’t have reservations. I can’t say it was a lot of people who’s waited outside. We saw just a few people riding on a ballon so I don’t know what was the problem exactly, maybe they can’t just put 10 people for a balloon ride. I am definitely not gonna come back there, to actually try to ride on a balloon, it’s just not worth of my time.

Hi everyone, I hope you're all doing well. Today, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting the Great Park Balloon Ride, and I have to say, it exceeded all our expectations. The park itself was absolutely beautiful, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. To top it off, there was also a farmers market happening while we were there, adding to the overall atmosphere. The balloon ride itself was nothing short of spectacular. The views were breathtaking, and it was such a unique and enjoyable experience for all of us. We were so impressed that we're already thinking of planning a second trip in the near future. Just a heads up - if it's a windy day, the balloon won't take off, so keep that in mind when planning your visit. I highly recommend this experience for families looking for a fun outing together, as well as couples wanting to enjoy a unique and romantic activity. Trust me, you won't regret it.

What exactly did they renovate? They had closed for like a month, but there are no changes except that The water at the kids fountain does not work, sothere is no longer any mud for kids to play with. I asked and appears there is no urgency to fix it. The positive is that it is enclosed and spacious, kids still had fun.

Great little playground. Come bring the family. Kids can play with the giant Lego blocks. There’s nice pathways to walk around , nice big playground with slides and obstacle course style stuff. Some shaded areas. There’s bathrooms, water fountains, a foosball table and even a ping pong table. Just remember to sign in near the front of this free play area. We like this place our friends like this place. We would come back anytime. Highly recommended.

Awesome park! All my kids loved it. Ages 10, 8, 5 & 3. Bathroom had a changing table which is awesome. And there were picnic tables to bring lunch. Be sure to walk all the way around the park. Lots of fun features. Including a mud play area and a mini garden maze.

Amazing playground for all ages! This is the best playground I think I've ever been to. Lots of natural things to play with/on, as well as great play equipment, huge building blocks, slides, sand and water, & ping pong and foos ball tables. There are also shaded picnic tables with bathrooms nearby, drinking fountains, and a hose to wash off.

This is a great, almost secret, playground in Irvine. It's really awesome, for young and old alike - though most of the features are oriented more towards kids above the toddler age. The big selling point is free play and construction, with lots of supplies for both. They have sand and sand toys, a water/sand/mud feature with excavation equipment, and giant Legos suitable for building castles and houses big enough to fit people. Of course they also have a traditional playground as well as some other amenities (fusbal, ping pong, and it looked like some books to read). On the whole awesome. And free. Because of all the supplies it has set hours and is gated. But free. Very well kept secret and I (and my kids) love it. Though cleanup after the mud feature can be rough. My kids beg to go here.

What a cool place for the kids , sign in sheet when you arrive to make sure everyone leaves accounted for. Large mud pit for the kiddos , concrete slides and shaded areas to munch and lounge at . Tonka trucks and large lego building blocks for forts , sandbox and clean restrooms. It's attached to the public library parking lot be sure to visit the library too.

Beautiful playground with unique plays. I really like the large Lego sets that allow kids to be creative to build their own castle and gates. It’s also big enough for at least a dozen kids to play without getting on top of each other. The restroom is definitely a plus. It’s rare for public restroom to stay so clean and even more rare to have changing tables. Highly recommend!

I really enjoyed my visit to Centennial Farms at the Orange County Fair. I learned about oxen, saw newly born piglets, and watched a cow milking demonstration.

Tiny but plenty of species. Both animal and plants. Kids having fun here, a nice place to learn how plants grow and observe the animals.

If your child has any interest in gardening, nature, farming this place is a must go for the family! There are so many fun experiences for inquisitive children including some hands on experience. Highly recommend!

The cutest little farm. My toddler enjoyed seeing the baby lamb, piglets, bunnies, and cows! It’s very clean and kept up. They have hand washing stations all around to make sure you’re staying clean.

Great place for the kids to get a farm type experience. Grounds are well maintained and clean. See the farm animals and farm produce grown on site. Parking is free as long as there aren't any events going on. There are picnic tables by hero hall if you need to take a quick snack break

Awesome place to take your kids for a good time and have interactions with animals walk in the garden and learn about different vegetables planted in the farm they can pet the animals, learn how to milk a cow, learn about the rabbits, peacock and chickens. The best part that is free from 1-4pm Monday to Friday free parking too.

It's a FREE little farm to go visit if your in the OC. They have sheep, goats, pigs...... They have a very interesting museum too. It's free to go in. They open at 1. But check their website for more info.

I came here with my team to record our into videos for my company Instagram page and it offered the perfect backdrop. Nature, greenery, life all around, and a water fountain. Absolutely peaceful.

Pros: - A wider place for family enjoyment provides ample space for various activities, allowing kids and adults to play freely and engage in different games like basketball and locket ball in Irvine. - The City of Irvine music festival offers entertainment and cultural experiences, adding an enjoyable and vibrant atmosphere to the gathering. - Bringing camping chairs and a parasol ensures comfort and shade, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the festivities without worrying about seating and sun exposure. Cons: - A wider place might mean more walking or potential difficulty in keeping track of young children. - Carrying camping chairs and a parasol might be cumbersome

It's always fun to go to one of the Summer Concerts put on by the City of Irvine. Tonight's concert featured Acme Time Machine. The band played hits from the 50's and 60's including some great to see concerts of songs by Elvis Presley, Richie Valens, and Buddy Hollie as well as many others. It was fun! The next concert is in August. Bring a picnic or buy something from the food trucks. Be sure to bring some chairs, an umbrella or a hat for shade.

Beautiful large park with a bike/walking path around the park, basketball & racquetball courts. Large grass area in the center & lake across the street along Alton.

A really nice park with sports fields and during the summer they have a free concert series with surprisingly good bands.

Early morning stroll with Elvis. Enjoyed the beautiful lake and the visiting geese. Chased a cat off the path and with a deep breath, gave thanks for the beautiful place we get to call home.

My family and I had a great time listening to a 60's cover band at the concert at the park.

Old construction with tons of noping quarter pipes. The transition is horrendous especially in the bowl. But the up flat down ledge is good and it does have a good round double kink rail which is a rare find.

The design of this skate park is horrible. The city hired someone to spread around some concrete. Everything is super tight in a small space. Start over. I understand why it was dead

Very dated. Not my cup of tea. I'm trying to find something nice to say about it but I'm struggling. The hip is okay I suppose. Just a really old lumpy bumpy park. The locals knew how to rip it though. Free parking but the park is locked out of hours so check before you go. #1000skateparkchallenge #cementurians

Great place for kids to practice writing their scooters and skateboards. I definitely recommend elbow and knee pads though there are some bigger drops. Best part it is free!

What the other guy said about it being old was correct, but just the fact that it is still here in 2020s is nice. It's also free to use. In covid-19 era any public place open is a blessing.

It's an ok park. One thing i will say is that it is very old and needs to be redone. the bowl is shaped super weirdly and the whole place is mobbed with scooters and snakes. Lots of the ramps are super steep and weird. There is a pyramid bank right in the middle which nobody really uses. one thing i gotta say is to please remodel the park and make a rule or something for no kids under 7 or 8 years old. They are mostly the problem.

A great skatepark! Small, with a lot of small kids on scooters and skateboards. Clean, with a few trash cans nearby. No trash on the ground and a large grass park with a bathroom adjacent. No issues with the locals. I am a 45 year old dad and my son is 14. We wear helmets at all skate parks and recommend you do the same.

My first time visiting. Because I visited at around 2:30 pm in late July, I saw hardly any people, 5 people altogether. I saw one lady just returning from her bike ride. And as the map shows, people can even ride horses here (from May to November). It was quite breezy and it was great while resting in the shade of tall oak trees at the trailhead but out on the dirt trail not so much. If you visit here during day in summer, don’t forget to bring a lot of water and a hat.

YOU, yes you should come to the quail trail. A stroll in the quail whether with your dog or your friend will indulge you in the beauty and complexity of nature. To hear natures voice in a world engulfed by the urban sprawl is a opportunity to bring calm to anyone and everyone. I would highly recommend taking your time to visit quail loop trail it will not disappoint

Great trails. Side-by-side paved and hard dirt. Nice clean bathrooms and water by parking lot. Trail to seasonal pond was closed at this time. Obey signs or you may damage land AND there is a $300 fine if you are caught.

A fair trail and also an easy one! The restroom’s very clean and maintained well.

Loved the scenery and optional dirt trail vs. Asphalt. Great place to hike with my pup! Wasn't too busy either!

Amazing trail! Beautiful scenery. Paved bike trail and dirt trail. Good 4 to 6 miles but not sure exact miles. Nice view of Irvine.

It was good I was biking on the dirt path but there is so many bumps and dips that you cant see and I ended up falling on a dip and got road rash all over my left side of my body and a deep cut on my right hand that needed stitches. Me personally I wouldn't go back but that on you.

I found the park to be nicely restored and very welcoming. It's great to see what the Irvine home looked like many years ago and learn about the lifestyle of the farm workers. I was a lifeguard for the ranch pool 45 years ago. The pool is now filled in with concrete. See picture. Worth a visit. I think the park can be reserved for group events as there is a BBQ and picnic area.

Nice walk among the old buildings which housed farm workers and foremen and their families. Buildings were not open except for the now library which used to be Mr Irvine’s house. We have toured that in the past, full of antiques, old photos which showed how the extremely rich landowners lived.

Great park to walk and learn the beginnings of Irvine and the county itself. There are a couple of preserved buildings with information about each one.

The Wheeler library is located at the same area. Super nice staff. 👌

Great place for the family. Make sure you spend time in the library. It's very cozy

Cool place! Old buildings from the early days of Irvine. There are signs around the property that give tidbits of information about the buildings and life during the time that the ranch was a viable business.

This place feels like a hidden gem with its immaculately landscaped and maintained grounds that surround a well-appointed and handsomely decorated branch of the OC public library system.

There are many points here that will tickle your adventurous spirit！ Car wreck trail, Oak Grove trail are my favorite. The trail is a bit steep at some parts, but let's take it easy while enjoying the nature.

An amazing trail for hiking and mountain biking. Nice view of the ocean and canyon. The trail is very well maintained and plenty of signs to show the directions. Highly recommended. Plenty of parking at the entrance during weekdays.

Great hiking trails . Crowded on laguna side but once you take the extra trails so peaceful and beautiful. Car wreck trail is my fav

After discovering our intended hiking trail was not open until 8am (we were trying to do a sunrise hike) we drove over and did this trail at Top of the World... So glad we did! The views were incredible especially as the sun came up... Well marked trails with maps...

This is the top of the Car Wreck Trail, which is an amazing hike with waterfalls.

Great wilderness park that overlooks Laguna Beach. Great place to hike, but an even better place to mountain bike due to the variety of trails here

One of my favorite places to run, short trails, long trails. Intense short climbs to long climbs.

Nice park with 2 good playgrounds it is adjacent to Culverdale Elementary, which has two additiona playgrounds at the elementary school.l There is a baseball field and soccer field. Bathrooms are open from dawn until dusk. My wife said the women's bathroom is good. The men's bathroom needs work. Ample parking and the place gets very busy with soccer and baseball season.

Pretty good park, there lots of grass, trees and places to sit down. The jungle gyms are good and it also has a giant rock where you could climb. A tire swing and restrooms and its next to the school which is open to another place to play in. My 3 year old and 9 month old had a great time.

Beautiful. clean, bathroom were good, toys for little ones and big kids

We love the park, but bathrooms are not always clean.

A peaceful and cozy park, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature away from the busy city.”

Too many Canadian geese each morning, 30, flying in to make a mess and then taking off.

Just what I needed. A good experience overall.

This is a nice place to live in the UCI campus. I lived as a sub-leases and had good experience in the community. However, the owner of the apartment was not nice and clear. That was only the worst experience.

Definitely livable. Comfortable rooms (just a bit dated and has some wear and tear on the walls, floor, and furniture). The kitchen floor plan is cramped, but it has everything you need. Quiet environment conveniently near the science buildings. Maintanene is hard to get a hold of from time to time, but they do their job. Parking, on the other hand, is an expensive nightmare. Over $100/month and it is often difficult to find an open spot. Living is quite overpriced as well, but this is quite unfortunately normal for in-campus living in any college you go to. Overall: livable (comfortable, even) and conveniently located. However the high price and the nightmare called "parking" do not make this housing area ideal.

"Cheap housing" but when you think about it, this place is close to 2700 altogether. Because of this I'm moving off campus next quarter since I know I could get a better deal. The parking passes are 100 a month which suucks. Although, it's quiet and utilities, furniture are included... it's just a place to live honestly. Things break a lot. It's very dated bUT livable.

Best location for any UCI sort of living. Literally 2 min walking distance to BS3 or the Science library. Would not really recommend bringing your car unless you want to go out often. Apartment has two lots, one near the basketball courts and one near Lot 3 Zone parking. You most likely wont find parking in the afternoon fyi.

Nice area, very close to campus so if you live here commute time is almost 0. Have not lived there myself but few friends lived there and liked it.

Pretty cool, some kids smoke and it bothers some other residents otherwise pretty chill and close to campus

You can’t even get mail delivered here. Office staff use to be able to, but now they won’t help

Dated clubhouse, with dated furniture and a dated game that not very many people are playing anymore.

4 tennis courts. Usually all taken on weekend mornings.

Dont want to share our beautiful community, but it is worth sharing.

Never had been lawn bowling before, it is different than bocce. The bowling courts were excellent 👍

Ever tried lawn bowling? A game of skill and tactics. Played in a beautiful setting on a manicured lawn. Try it!

Where else can you have fun with friends with the challenge if lawn bowling?

Beautiful park and tennis courts plus 3 clean restrooms

Plenty of parking and entrance pathways for all levels of accessibility. It’s a small market but has the essentials! Wish their vegetable and fruit vendors had more but still good selection!

Google Maps has the pin leading to a separate area that's completely blocked off. The farmers market is actually held in the parking lot! Went there this past weekend, and it's definitely a smaller market. One stand of veggies, with a balance split between food and craft vendors. Ended up driving to another market to get my fruit and veggies. There is one vendor that I stopped by just because I didn't want to leave empty-handed. Thankful that I did, because this pistachio crossaint is the best crossaint I've ever had?! The pistachio creamed filling is to die for, and the sizes of their pastries make my heart very happy. Might actually revisit this market just for these pastries!

I wanted to love this market, but I found it to be underwhelming. Not many places to sit down and eat at, and not a lot of vendors to choose from.

No farmers market here. No contact info, site says it’s open but it’s just not here. Don’t waste your time.

Really nice market Nice food 😋

Lots of good fruit and produce...Love the Bee Ladies Honey and Sals Pizzeria....

It's a good farmer's market with good prices. Parking is awful though when it gets busy.

If you are running or walking watch out for bike riders with no recognition of posted right of way or speed restrictions.

Wild nature, unique environment close to urban area offering a great place to hike and connect with nature.

Outstanding scenic views of Orange County

Great view

Don't follow Mapquest. The river trail is closed in a lot of places.

Beautiful marsh! Great easy bike ride!

My favorite bike/walking trail in the county. It’s easy to access and run from Los Olivos on Irvine Center all the way to Balboa Bay. There are great exit points with restaurants, bathrooms, and grocery stores for a drink or snack.

Great for biking

Cool

Nothing there

Cool

Great place for kids to be kids and have fun. Water is shallow so it is safer for small kids ( 2 life guards on duty). They have Inner Tubes, mudslide, rope bridge, water gun tubes, giant Legos, axe throwing and giant connect four. Plenty of shade for adults under trees, chairs everywhere. Lunch tables. Porta potty's, one outdoor shower and changing rooms.

Loved it! Clean, well maintained, staff everywhere watching the kids, 'lake' is super shallow (like child size knee high). Enough variety to keep the kids' interest. Outdoor Showers and changing stalls.

It’s not like I remember it, it seems so bubble wrapped now and lame, I pumped this up to my 5 and 8 year old sons cuz I remember his place in the 90s and it was bigger and better and dirtier. The water is MAYBE 18 inches deep. This place would be awesome for 2-3 year olds but that’s really it.. they took out the tree houses , zip lines, the ability to use tools to help build forts and stuff. Instead of tree houses they have raised platforms and legos to build with instead of hammer and nails and saws. It’s just seems all watered down and lame now.

Open Mon-Sat from 10a-4p June-August (unclear if open outside of summer. Unfortunately I came by on a Sunday so was unable to enjoy it, but did look pretty cool from the outside looking in. Signs say closed toe shoes required

I came here as a kid in the 1970's and 80's, and we brought our kids in the early 2000's. Hopefully I will be able to bring our grandkids here one day. Just a safe, fun place for kids to play outside.

Very small. Little to do. Kind of shabby. Terrible slide. Tiny area for the tubes. Beautiful library right outside where you park.

Tim Sawyer at the pond for kids. FIRST…No flip flops. 2nd, they are open summer only. $4.00 what? WOW such a deal. Kids play on the slide and in inner tubes. Bring a chair and a hat, limited tables are available. Make a day of it and bring lunch. Change of clothes and some zip locks. There’s a life guard ❤️😊

This is a great park. Well maintained but it is sad that we need to have such a place and you hope that no more names will need to be added to the list of people who have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our safety and way of life. May we always remember and honor our servicemen.

Built locally, but felt internationally. This stands in a quiet park, but shouts out with gratitude for those who stood for us. Thank you, we love you.

Pleasant Park, beautiful playground!!

Very nice

Beautiful park!

Beautiful

Nice and easy trails for the family. Some historical points of interest and regional flora to see. Bathrooms at the trailhead and Irvine police randomly pass through.

Beautiful hiking trails. Small parking lot but a larger lot is availability across the street. The trails lead up to the 73 freeway and eventually connect to Chrystal Cove state park.

A fairly simple hiking attraction in the middle of Irvine. The set of trials vary in difficulty: at first the trials are easy, but if you're athletic, you can hike more rigorous challenging trials later in the hike. A believe the canyon is free of charge and that's always a plus side. Not the most beautiful trail in Orange County (partly because Orange County has tons of beautiful trials), but sill a gorgeous place to hike! Be warned: there is seldom any shade on the trail, be ready to get a lot of vitamin D!

An island of wilderness in the middle of Irvine. Many trails for walking, biking, running--open every day. Other trails open during special events--on the third Saturday of each month. Area is particularly verdant in April 2019 after winter rains.

One of favorite place to go on hiking in southern OC!

Awesome park, with good hiking trails.

Beautiful place year round to mountain bike or hike, especially sunrise / sunrise! Amazing place for camping, so peaceful and quiet.

Such a cute and peaceful park with playground and swings for kids

There is a stream that goes through the park and there are a lot of ducks that's walk around us in the stream. It has several tennis courts. It provides all tonight tennis. There are picnic tables and also there are barbecue grills there's a place for volleyball and a field that you can throw ball around. It's a good place to have a birthday event or a gathering it's very quiet and nice to walk and meditate

Nice little park.They have a small parking space.They got tennis court and basketball volleyball picnic tables.It's okay, it's not that big.And they have restroom area.

Beautiful park and safe playground. We can see a bit of wildlife as well. A lot of tables for picnic.

It's a park. I got a complaint about SOMETHING though... Let's see. Too many kids and too many senior citizens. Where are the parks for people 30-50yrs old??? C'mon orange county. Build THAT park. Just a park filled with people on their phones, with aching knees

small but clear and peace. nice place to do sports and picinic

SUPER CHILL!!! has restrooms and is secluded near great trails, tennis and picnic tables