10 Things to Do in Irvine at Least Once
Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Irvine is a vibrant city bursting with cultural diversity, outdoor adventures, and a plethora of free activities waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a resident or just passing through, there's no shortage of fun to be had. From scenic parks to outdoor shopping, here's a guide to some of the best things to do in Irvine.
Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
This outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex features a wide range of shops, restaurants, a Ferris Wheel, and even a giant carousel!
Explore Great Park
Originally an airbase, this park offers sports fields, a farmers market, walking trails, and the iconic Great Park Balloon which you can ride FOR FREE and experience panoramic views of the city.
Experience the Pretend City Children’s Museum
Perfect for families with young kids, this interactive museum encourages imaginative play and learning through various exhibits. The museum is a child-size interconnected city designed for children to learn how the real world works while engaging their curiosities and imaginations. General Admission tickets are $19.95.
Hike Bommer Canyon
Irvine boasts several scenic hiking trails and Bommer Canyon offers beautiful landscapes and is especially popular during wildflower season. Discover the story of Irvine’s ranching past through signs placed throughout the garden. Formerly a cattle camp, this space was used to brand, disinfect, and inoculate cattle against diseases in the late 1800s. You can also download free field guides to enhance your visit!
Discover the UC Irvine Campus
UCI has a beautiful campus with many walking and biking paths, gardens, and outdoor art installations. You can spend hours exploring the different areas of this campus and taking in the scenery. You can also attend a lecture or event! UCI hosts many guest speakers, lectures, workshops, and events throughout the year that are open to the public. Explore events to attend HERE.
Visit Tanaka Farms
Barnyard friends, strawberry picking, goat yoga, wagon rides, and more are all hosted at the famous Tanaka Farms! With General Admission starting at $5, there’s something for people of all ages here. Plan your visit today!
Explore Nature at Quail Hill Loop Trail
The Quail Hill Trailhead spans 2.8 acres and serves as an ideal starting point to access the extensive trail network in southern Irvine. Situated at the endpoint of Sand Canyon Road, this trailhead signifies the beginning of the Quail Hill Loop Trail. This two-mile natural surface trail, nestled at the base of Quail Hill, offers a leisurely trek for hikers of all levels and is accessible to the public from dawn until dusk.
Irvine Farmer’s Market
Nestled in Great Park, this farmer’s market is headlined by fresh produce and fun every Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM. The farmer’s market features fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables for sale. Parking and admission is free.
Explore Irvine Regional Park
Technically located in the City of Orange, this park is nestled among Oak and Sycamore trees and celebrated its 125th anniversary in October 2022. This 495-acre park features paved trails, six playgrounds, four softball fields, two horseshoe pits, and a lake. Admission is $3. Learn more by visiting OC Parks.
Enjoy Global Cuisine
With nearly 40% of the population being Asian, Irvine offers true global cuisine with a wide variety of restaurants from China, Taiwan, Japan, Vietnam, Korea, and more!
