Things to do in Orange County

From strawberry fields and splash pads to coastal kite-flying and science museums, this county delivers sunshine, sweet treats, and so much farm-meets-beach fun.

Great Park Balloon & Carousel

Location: 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: Soar 400 feet in the air on a giant tethered balloon, then spin on a classic carousel and explore sprawling playgrounds nearby.

Pro Tip: Balloon rides depend on the wind—check the website before you go!

Icon Tags: Bucket List, Budget Friendly, Insta Moments

Tanaka Farms Wagon Tour

Location: 5380 ¾ University Dr, Irvine

Best For Ages: 2+

Why It’s Awesome: Hop aboard a tractor-pulled wagon and pick fresh fruits and veggies. Meet animals and taste your way through the farm.

Pro Tip: Spring strawberries and fall pumpkins are the most popular—book early!

Icon Tags: Farm Day, Foodie Fun, Outdoor Learning

Irvine Park Railroad & Pony Rides

Location: 1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange

Best For Ages: 1–10

Why It’s Awesome: Choo-choo trains, pony rides, paddle boats, bike rentals, and a zoo—all in a shady, historic park.

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and make a whole day of it—you won’t run out of things to do.

Icon Tags: All-Day Fun, Wheels & Things, Outdoor Adventure

Bolsa Chica State Beach & Tide Pools

Location: Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: Play in the surf, explore tide pools, or stay for a bonfire under the stars—classic SoCal beach day vibes.

Pro Tip: Bring s’mores kits and a kite. Fire pits are first-come, first-served!

Icon Tags: Beach Day, Nature Lover, Chill Vibes

Centennial Farm at OC Fairgrounds

Location: 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa

Best For Ages: 3+

Why It’s Awesome: Visit pigs, chickens, goats, and garden beds in this totally free, hands-on learning farm.

Pro Tip: Avoid field trip hours by visiting after 1 PM on weekdays.

Icon Tags: Animal Lover, Educational Fun, Budget Friendly

Environmental Nature Center

Location: 1601 E 16th St, Newport Beach

Best For Ages: 3–12

Why It’s Awesome: 15 native habitats and an indoor discovery room make this a great nature walk spot with educational flair.

Pro Tip: Bring a nature journal or scavenger hunt printout for extra fun.

Icon Tags: Nature Explorer, Budget Friendly, Quiet Time

Noguchi Garden (“California Scenario”)

Location: 611 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa

Best For Ages: 6+

Why It’s Awesome: This secret sculpture garden hides in plain sight and represents the entire California landscape—artsy and peaceful!

Pro Tip: Bring sketchpads—kids love recreating the abstract shapes.

Icon Tags: Chill Vibes, Artsy Spot, Insta Moments

Discovery Cube Orange County

Location: 2500 N Main St, Santa Ana

Best For Ages: 2–12

Why It’s Awesome: STEM fun at its best with rocket launches, climbing towers, grocery games, and eco exhibits.

Pro Tip: Annual passes pay off quickly if you're local!

Icon Tags: Science Buff, Indoor Fun, All-Day Play

Fullerton Arboretum

Location: 1900 Associated Rd, Fullerton

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: 26 acres of nature paths, kids’ garden zones, and global plant life make this a hidden calm zone in the middle of the city.

Pro Tip: Donations are encouraged—bring snacks and wander until naptime hits.

Icon Tags: Nature Walks, Botanical Beauty, Chill Vibes

Pirate’s Cave Mini Golf & Arcade

Location: 15560 Beach Blvd, Westminster

Best For Ages: 4+

Why It’s Awesome: Put-put fun in a pirate-themed course with glow-in-the-dark holes and a quirky arcade.

Pro Tip: Perfect for family night—go midweek for fewer crowds.

Icon Tags: Just for Fun, Indoor/Outdoor, Themed Play