9 Fun Things to Do in Irvine

In the heart of Orange County sits everyone’s favorite city, Irvine. The master-planned city and economic powerhouse has developed so rapidly that it quickly became one of the best places to live in the nation. A family-oriented multicultural community and exciting job opportunities paired with lots of fun things to do make Irvine a lovely place to live and visit. Don’t believe us? See for yourself. 

Exciting Activities in Irvine To Enjoy

1. Ride a Hot Air Balloon Over Orange County Great Park

We’ve all seen photos of the orange balloon rising to the sky, and we’ve all secretly hoped we saw the view from the top. Make your way to Great Park to find the huge balloon waiting for you to hop on. At 400 feet above ground level, you’ll get to see 360-degree views of Orange County and beyond. But for extra gorgeous vistas, try going up once in the morning and once at night—the California sunrise is as gorgeous as the sunset. 

2. Check out the Cool Exhibits at Pretend City Children’s Museum

Pretend City Children’s Museum is the most fun your kids will have in Irvine. A bank, fire station, cafe, beach, farm, post office, grocery store, farm, theater, and construction site teach the little ones how to deal with everyday chores and responsibilities. With 17 overall exhibits and highly professional staff, you’ll be amazed at how much your kids will learn within a few hours. This hidden gem in Orange County is one you must visit with your family ASAP.

3. Take Photos of the Animals at San Joaquin Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary

The San Joaquin Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary is Irvine’s definition of an escape. 300 acres of pure gorgeousness and 11 miles of hiking trails is what every nature lover’s dreams are made of. Here, you’ll encounter ponds of different sizes and wildlife that can’t be found elsewhere. Birds and fish of all sorts, raccoons, coyotes, and bobcats will accompany you on your outdoor adventures. You’d better have your camera ready—you’ll be using the photos for postcards. 

4. Cheer For The UC Irvine Anteaters 

University of California, Irvine takes pride in having 18 sports—baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field, volleyball, and water polo—and the mascot is none other than Peter the Anteater. Collectively, the UC Irvine Anteaters have won 28 national championships and 53 of their members have competed in the Olympics. With so many accomplishments under their belt, you should totally attend a game when you’re in town. Bring your pom-poms along, pick a sport, and cheer on!

5. Hike the Trails of Irvine Regional Park

This Irvine attraction opened its doors to the public in 1897 and was the first of its kind in Orange County. Spanning over 475 acres of land, Irvine Regional Park is the perfect place to wind down after a long day, whether you’re a resident or a tourist. Dirt trails and paved paths allow hikers, bikers, and horseback riders to enjoy nature. Those who can’t stay away from the water too long are welcome to go boating in the park’s lakes. Did we mention the park also has a nature center and a zoo? It’s unbelievable how many fun and free things you can do in Orange County.

Things To Do In Irvine At Night

6. Enjoy a Date at Irvine Spectrum Center

Ask any local about fun things to do in Irvine at night and they’ll direct you towards Irvine Spectrum Center. Featuring retail shops ranging from local sellers to popular brands, the center is any shopaholic's go-to destination. But there’s more to do than just shopping. This is where you’ll plan the coolest date nights in the OC; you can have a fancy dinner, catch a flick at the cinema, or challenge each other at the arcade. If Irvine Spectrum Center isn’t the perfect date night idea, then we don’t know what is.

7. Catch a Performance at Irvine Barclay Theatre

If live entertainment is on your mind, then the Irvine Barclay Theatre is the place to be. With a national reputation for its great acoustics, intimate feel, and high quality of its production facilities, the theater promises a good time for every visitor. Entertaining musicals, mind-boggling theatrical, and impressive dance performances mesmerize the audience. And if you’re not visiting at night, touring the area is just as enjoyable. The best part about the Irvine Barclay Theater is it encourages local and regional talents and provides them with a platform—you’ll be surprised how gifted Californians are.

8. Bring Your Inner Child Out at Boomers Irvine

Out of all the fun activities one can do in Irvine, a visit to Boomers Irvine remains the best—but beware, the amount of fun you’ll be having at this awesome amusement park can get pretty intense. Between go-karting, laser tag, rock climbing, and bumper boats, you’ll get lost in all the exciting rides and activities you want to try next. And if you thought the park is limited to those rides, think again. There’s an indoor arcade with virtual snowboarding and racing games, as well as the famous Buccaneer Cove that features wet tunnels and slides. Still thinking about the best things to do in Orange County? You got your answer. 

9. Attend a Show at Irvine Improv Comedy Club

You may have been to plenty of comedy clubs, but let us tell you why Irvine Improv Comedy Club is extra special. Rumor has it that stand-up acts that do well here go on to have great success in the world of comedy. Jay Leno, Paul Reiser, and Drew Carey are just a few of the many successful comedians who have had gigs at the Improv. Be one of the 500 audience members at the Irvine Improv Comedy Club and have a mix of upstarts and A-listers crack you up. Now that you know that the club is one of the best places to go in Irvine, go ahead and book your seat.