10 Best Places to Go with Kids in Orange County, California (That Won’t Drive You Completely Insane.)
Let’s be honest: entertaining kids all day is a full-time job... on top of your actual full-time job. Whether you're running on caffeine, Goldfish crackers, or pure survival mode, sometimes getting out of the house is the only way to stay sane. If you're a mom in Orange County, California, you’re in luck—we’ve got sunshine, beaches, and tons of kid-friendly places that might even feel fun for you too.
Here are 10 of the best places to go with kids in Orange County (yes, we’re talking tantrum-tolerant, stroller-friendly, semi-relaxing kind of spots).
1. Irvine Regional Park – Orange, CA
This park is a total mom win: wide open spaces, shady trees, pony rides, and even a little train that your toddler will be obsessed with. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and maybe even a blanket so you can pretend you’re the kind of mom who picnics.
2. Pretend City Children’s Museum – Irvine, CA
If the weather’s weird (or your patience is), this indoor children’s museum is a lifesaver. It’s like a mini city just for kids—grocery store, post office, dentist, you name it. Your child can play adult while you sip lukewarm coffee in peace.
3. Balboa Island + Ferry – Newport Beach, CA
Walk the adorable island, grab a frozen banana, and hop on the ferry for 5 minutes of excitement that costs less than your latte. Pro tip: toddlers love boat rides even when they’re this short.
4. Zoomars at River Street Ranch – San Juan Capistrano, CA
Petting zoos can go either way, but this one is a hit. Goats, guinea pigs, train rides, and a little miner’s camp for digging. Kids get messy, animals get fed, and you get a decent photo for Instagram.
5. Great Park Balloon Ride – Irvine, CA
Yes, a real (tethered) hot air balloon. It’s quick, safe, and gives your little ones a thrill while giving you a chance to take in some quiet(ish) sky views.
6. Adventure Playground – Huntington Beach, CA
This spot is for the mess-loving, water-splashing, mud-digging kind of day. Think: rope bridges, rafts, and freedom to get dirty. Wear clothes you don’t care about.
7. Dana Point Harbor + Baby Beach – Dana Point, CA
Calm water, sand for digging, and zero waves—aka mom-safe. Baby Beach is perfect for toddlers, and the harbor has nearby food and ice cream, which let’s be real, is the real draw.
8. Tanaka Farms – Irvine, CA
Strawberry-picking in spring, pumpkin patches in fall. Plus tractor rides, farm animals, and fresh produce. Great for making memories and getting your kid to eat a vegetable.
9. Bowers Museum + Kidseum – Santa Ana, CA
When you want to feel vaguely educational while still having fun, Bowers Museum and its Kidseum are perfect. Hands-on activities, multicultural exhibits, and air conditioning? Yes please.
10. Crystal Cove State Park – Laguna Beach, CA
This one's for when you need some ocean air and your kids need space to run. Tide pools, hiking, and beachfront views that remind you the chaos is worth it. Mostly.
Final Thoughts (Because You’re Probably Skimming Anyway)
You don’t have to plan the perfect outing. Just getting out of the house and into the sunshine (or AC) is enough. These spots aren’t just for the kids—they’re for you too. Because your mental health matters, and sometimes that starts with a change of scenery and a churro.
Looking for more ways to feel like yourself again—beyond the playground?
I offer virtual therapy for moms across California who are ready to stop just surviving and start healing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or like motherhood swallowed your identity whole… let’s talk.
Contact me at TherapyForCaliforniaMoms.com
