Orange County Kids Fun

Marconi Automotive Museum

2008-02-07T00:21:00.001-08:00

Marconi Automotive Museum
1302 Industrial Dr., Tustin
714.258.3001
www.marconimuseum.org
The Marconi Automotive Museum is home to many fabulous and fast cars and motorcycles. First opened in 1994 by founder Dick Marconi, this nonprofit museum has accumulated an impressive $30 million collection of historical, exotic and classic cars. Come visit the museum for a great experience.

Pacific Electric Red Car Museum

2008-02-07T00:20:00.001-08:00

Pacific Electric Red Car Museum
Electric Avenue and Main Street, Seal Beach
562.683.1874
Open on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from noon-3 p.m., the museum holds a rare Pacific Electric tower car built in 1925, which serves as the museum's headquarters. The museum displays photographs of early Seal Beach, Indian artifacts and seashells, as well as a reference library of local history and detailed regional maps.

Centennial Heritage Museum

2008-02-07T00:19:00.001-08:00

Centennial Heritage Museum
3101 W. Harvard St., Santa Ana
714.540.0404
www.centennialmuseum.org
The Centennial Heritage Museum offers a hands-on experience of life as it was a century ago in Southern California. The 11-acre site includes restored 19th-century homes, a blacksmith shop, citrus groves, four gardens and a 5-acre Nature Center.

Bowers Kidseum

2008-02-07T00:18:00.001-08:00

Bowers Kidseum
2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana
714.567.3600
www.bowers.org
After extensive renovation, Kidseum will swing open its doors in late October. Visitor can experience the world's cultures through music and mask, storytelling and song, and art and artifacts. The popular Pre-School Discoveries program will be back in full force on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to delight the younger set with music and movement, whimsical art projects, stories and nutritious snacks. Visit their website for updates and the scheduled opening.

Zoomar's Petting Zoo and Bird Park

2008-02-07T00:16:00.000-08:00

Zoomars Petting Zoo and Bird Park
31791 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano
949.831.6550
www.zoomars.com
Zoomars Petting Zoo and Bird Park claims to be the last working farm in South Orange County and it's open to the public. Children can ride ponies, go on train rides and pet the many animals that call this farm home. Animals include bunnies, goats, llamas, alpacas, sheep, chickens, geese, ducks, a miniature donkey, Chex the horse and Ruby the pig. General admission is $5, $4 for seniors over 60 and $3 for kids with a Zoomars Kid's Club Membership (available online). Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Scooters Jungle

2008-02-07T00:13:00.000-08:00

Scooters Jungle
921 Via Rodeo, Placentia
714.223.5730
www.scootersjungle.com
Kids can go wild and burn off a day's worth of energy. Scooters Jungle offers “All Ages” open play time and drop-off camps during winter break. Visit their website for Family Fun Nights each month.

Vans Skate Park

2008-02-07T00:08:00.001-08:00

Vans Skate Park
One City Blvd., Orange
714.769.3800
Skate with your kids at the world's largest skate park. At 46,000 square feet, Vans Skate Park can host skaters of any age and caliber. Or, come and watch the action. Open daily from 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Holiday Skate Center

2008-02-07T00:07:00.000-08:00

Holiday Skate Center
175 N. Wayfield, Orange
714.997.5283
www.holidayskate.com
Roller skate at Orange County's No. 1 roller-skating facility. From Flashback Skate Night to a morning kids skate (10 and under with parents) or discounted Family Night on Saturday and Sunday, rolling around the rink with the family to high-energy music and bright lights provides tons of flash-back fun.

Eisenhower Park

2008-02-07T00:06:00.001-08:00

Eisenhower Park
2894 N. Tustin Ave., Orange
714.744.7272
This charming little park has an animal farm with goats, sheep, chickens and ducks for children to see and pet. A small lake is also filled with trout. This location is perfect for a family picnic.

Irvine Park Railroad

2008-02-06T23:52:00.000-08:00

Irvine Park Railroad
1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, California 92862

LOCATION
Irvine Regional Park is located at the far east end of Jamboree in the City of Orange. Irvine Park Railroad is located inside Irvine Regional Park in the city of Orange, California. We are centrally located just 20 minutes east of Disneyland and 20 minutes north of John Wayne Airport.

Irvine Park Railroad, located in Orange County, is the perfect location for a company picnic, birthday party or other group event. The railroad is fun for children of all ages and is also enjoyed by adults. The train ride, which takes passengers on a ride through beautiful Irvine Regional Park, is just one activity available to visitors. Other activities include paddle boat rentals, bike rentals, moon bounce rentals, The Orange County Zoo and pony rides. Private party pavilions are available to rent for your event. A concession stand offers hot and cold food for sale.

Environmental Nature Center

2008-02-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

Environmental Nature Center
1601 Sixteenth St., Newport Beach
949.645.8489
www.encenter.org
The Environmental Nature Center is home to 14 of California's native plant communities. The Discover Room is packed with cool things to touch and learn about.

Balboa Island Museum

2008-02-06T23:45:00.002-08:00

Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society
502-A S. Bayfront, Newport Beach
949.675.3952
www.balboaislandmuseum.com
The Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society is a nonprofit organization formed by island residents. It is a place for visitors and residents to remember and enjoy the history of the island. Open Saturdays & Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

Balboa Island and Pier

2008-02-06T23:45:00.001-08:00

Balboa Fun Zone
600 E. Bay Ave. Balboa, CA 92661
949.673.0408
http://www.thebalboafunzone.com/
Besides taking the ferry to or from Balboa Island and Balboa Peninsula, you can dine at tasty restaurants and shop, ride the Ferris Wheel or visit the pier (the first Ruby's diner location) and enjoy the beach area.

Balboa Bike and Beach Stuff

2008-02-06T23:44:00.001-08:00

Balboa Bike & Beach Stuff
601 E. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach
949.723.1516
From beach cruisers and boogie boards to tandem bikes and low riders, families can enjoy a day skimming the surf or coasting the Newport Beach boardwalk on a variety of rentals. Special packages are available for families on a daily or weekly basis.

Etnies Skate Park of Lake Forest

2008-02-06T23:42:00.000-08:00

Etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest
20028 Lake Forest Dr., Lake Forest
www.etniesskatepark.com
Riding down ramps and catching some air, the Etnies Skatepark for all ages is where skaters and BMX riders test their skills. The park does not charge any fees. Knee and elbow pads, and helmets are required. Hours for BMX and skating sessions vary.

Orange County Natural History Museum

2008-02-06T23:39:00.002-08:00

Orange County Natural History Museum
28373 Alicia Pkwy., Laguna Niguel
949.831.3287
The Orange County Natural History Museum is dedicated to preserving both the past and present through the display of its unique collection of artifacts. Nature walks, tours, and youth and school programs teach visitors about California's natural history year-round. Additionally, volunteer specialists and local professors conduct a monthly lecture series and facilitate special programs. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Laguna Niguel Skate and Soccer Park

2008-02-06T23:39:00.001-08:00

Laguna Niguel Skate and Soccer Park
27745 Alicia Pkwy., Laguna Niguel
949.916.7755
Spend the afternoon kicking a soccer ball around or watching local teams play. Bring your skateboard and ride through the skate park. The skate park is open from noon-9:30 p.m. Helmets, knee pads and elbow pads are available for rent.

Soul Surfing School

2008-02-06T23:37:00.000-08:00

Soul Surfing School
Laguna Beach
877.SOUL.SRF
www.soulsurfingschool.com
The school offers wetsuit, body board, surfboard and snorkel gear rentals, as well as private surf lessons, surf clinic parties and after-school programs for kids ages 3-6 and 7-18, Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from 4-5:15 p.m. Home-school physical education programs are also offered and tailored to group and individual needs. Workout programs for adults are also available.

Turtle Rock Community Park and Nature Center

2008-02-06T23:36:00.001-08:00

Turtle Rock Community Park & Nature Center
1 Sunnyhill Dr., Irvine
www.cityofirvine.org
This nature center is home to snakes, raccoons and turtles. Exhibits are informative, illustrate how we can protect our environment and are available at the perfect eye level for kids.

Adventure Playground

2008-02-06T23:34:00.000-08:00

Adventure Playground
1 Beech Tree Ln., Irvine
949.786.0854
www.irvineadventure.org
Adventure Playground is an enclosed area dedicated for children to develop their imaginations and enjoy the benefits of natural play. Activities include climbing, exploring, jumping and crawling, as well as the opportunity to create your own fun with challenging play structures.

Atlantis Play Center

2008-02-06T23:33:00.000-08:00

Atlantis Play Center
9031 Westminster Ave., Garden Grove
714.892.6015
Atlantis Play Center is a large, enclosed play area for kids of all ages. There are several playgrounds scattered throughout the park that feature tubes, swings, sand pits, slides and concrete aquatic creatures to play on. There are numerous picnicking areas, and a snack bar is available.

Fullerton Museum Center

2008-02-06T23:26:00.000-08:00

Fullerton Museum Center
301 N. Pomona, Fullerton
714.738.6545
This cultural museum has two galleries with traveling exhibits that often appeal to kids. Past exhibits have included "The Nature of Collecting," "Touchable Sculptures" and "Anne Frank." School tours and family workshops are available.

Boomers!

2008-02-06T23:25:00.001-08:00

Boomers!
Multiple Locations, Fountain Valley
714.842.1111
www.boomersparks.com
16800 Magnolia St., Fountain Valley, 714.842.1111
3405 Michelson Dr., Irvine, 949.559.8341

Boomers! is fun for the whole family. Attractions include miniature golf, bumper boats, batting cages, go-karts and the Kiddie Big Top, featuring carnival rides. Boomers! is a perfect place for celebrations or just hanging out.

Volcom Skate Park

2008-02-06T23:24:00.001-08:00

Volcom Skatepark
900 Arlington, Costa Mesa
714.754.5326
Located across from the Orange County Fair & Exposition Center, this 15,000-square-foot, free outdoor skate park has ramps, rails, steps and slopes for skaters of all ages, ranging from beginners to experts. Elbow and knee pads, and helmets are required. Hours are 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Costa Mesa Bark Park

2008-02-06T23:23:00.001-08:00

Costa Mesa Bark Park
Corner of Arlington Avenue and Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa
www.cmbarkpark.org
This 2-acre, fenced, off-leash park is the perfect destination to play with the family pup. The park offers a double-gated entrance, trees, benches, doggy water dispensers, restrooms and dog waste bags. The park is open Wednesday through Monday from dawn to dusk and is closed Tuesdays for park maintenance.

Pirate's Cove

2008-02-06T23:20:00.000-08:00

Pirates Cove
Ocean Boulevard and Harbor Channel, Corona Del Mar
949.644.3309
Pirates Cove is popular with families because of the gently rolling sandstone rock faces that surround it. The small caves and easy rock climbing are fun for children and toddlers to explore, while a confined area and no waves keep parents' minds at ease. Pirates Cove can be accessed through Big Corona State Beach.

Oak Canyon Nature Center

2008-02-06T23:16:00.000-08:00

Oak Canyon Nature Center
6700 E. Walnut Canyon Rd., Anaheim
714.998.8380
www.Anaheim.net
Oak Canyon Nature Center is a 58-acre natural park nestled in the Anaheim Hills. A year-round stream meanders through the park. Consisting of three adjoining canyons, four miles of hiking trails traverse one of the few remaining areas of oak woodland and coastal sage scrub in our region. Numerous fun and educational programs offered for children each month.

House of Bounce

2008-02-06T23:15:00.000-08:00

House of Bounce
4771 E. Hunter Ave., Anaheim
714.970.1756
www.houseofbounceparties.com
House of Bounce has fun for all ages and is only a jump away. This center includes two arenas with a 30-by-45-foot inflatable that supports 26 obstacles, vintage arcade games, air hockey and basketball. Open play is available on Tuesday from 10 a.m.-noon and Thursday from 10 a.m.-noon and 3:30-5:30 p.m. The cost is $7 per child, with $2 pizza and drink to follow.

Hobby City Toy and Doll Museum

2008-02-06T23:14:00.000-08:00

Hobby City Toy and Doll Museum
1238 S. Beach Blvd., Anaheim
714.527.2323
www.hobbycity.info
Take a walk down memory lane as you explore this museum's distinct toy collection. The approximate 3,000-piece collection is housed in a half-scale model of the White House. Dolls include Star Wars figures, Barbie and Strawberry Shortcake, as well as a number of rare items.

Disneyland Resort's Magical Beginnings

2008-02-06T23:13:00.001-08:00

Disneyland Resort's Magical Beginnings
1301 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim
714.781.7290
www.disneyland.com/littleones
Disneyland has launched a new program devoted to families with young children called Magical Beginnings, which offers age-appropriate attractions, entertainment, special services, tips and tools to help parents plan a memorable visit with their little ones.

Disneyland

2008-02-06T23:12:00.001-08:00

Disneyland
1300 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim
714.781.7290
www.disney.go.com
For more than 50 years, the Magic Kingdom has provided families with a fairy-tale place of wonder. Explore the eight fantastic "lands" of excitement, color and delight while parades packed with your favorite Disney characters bustle in the streets. Attractions, amusements, fireworks, thrills and adventure for every age really make visitors' dreams come true.

Camelot Golf Land

2008-02-06T23:11:00.001-08:00

Camelot Golf Land
3200 Carpenter Ave., Anaheim
714.630.3340
www.anaheim.golfland.com
With its towering castle, fire-breathing dragons and knights in shining armor, this family-fun park has some-thing for everyone. Bring your princesses and princes to play miniature golf, laser joust and enjoy Camelot pizza.

California Adventure

2008-02-06T23:10:00.001-08:00

California Adventure
1300 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim
714.781.7290
www.disney.go.com
Discover the magic of the Golden State by immersing in an exquisite festival of attractions, shows and amusement, celebrating California's storied past and exhilarating future. Disney animation, electrical parades, big thrills, family adventures and fun for the little ones, with influence from timeless California allure, create a playful package of family fun.

Build-A-Bear

2008-02-06T23:08:00.000-08:00

Build-A-Bear Workshops
1540 Disneyland Dr., Anaheim
714.776.5980
www.buildabear.com
Have fun creating your own bear, with different outfits and accessories, such as the limited Pawsome Pumpkin Teddy for Halloween.

Newland House Museum

2008-02-06T23:06:00.000-08:00

Newland House Museum
19820 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach
714.962.5777
Explore this Victorian farmhouse, which is one of the oldest homes still standing in Huntington Beach. Built in 1898, it was once inhabited by Native Americans. Self-guided tours are available Wednesday through Thursday from 2-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon-4 p.m. The home served as a centerpiece of Newland Ranch, which was in operation until the mid-1940s and has been restored as a museum with authentic antiques, as well as a gift shop.

Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum

2008-02-06T23:04:00.000-08:00

Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum
411 Olive St., Huntington Beach
714.960.3483
www.surfingmuseum.org
Dive headfirst into a wealth of knowledge about surfing sports history, particularly on its introduction to the mainland from Hawaii around 80 years ago. Go through a collection of memorabilia, surfboards, films, music and learn about longboard legends in the walk and hall of surfing fame.

Color Me Mine

2008-02-06T23:03:00.000-08:00

Color Me Mine
Multiple Locations, Brea
714.671.2808
www.colormemine.com
260 W. Birch St., #5, Brea, 714.671.2808
949 South Coast Dr., Ste. 103, Costa Mesa, 714.241.8072
200 Main St., #109, Huntington Beach, 714.960.3834
27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., #304, Mission Viejo, 949.367.9757
2931 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.505.3975

Let the creative juices flow and paint ceramic keepsakes that will last a lifetime. Choose from more than 1,000 pottery pieces, including giant mugs, plates, statues and more. Paint with more than 65 glazes. Pieces will be fired in kilns on the premises and taken home to enjoy. Art Adventures painting classes are available for children, allowing them to learn history and fun scientific facts while creating artwork inspired by master artists.

Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve

2008-02-06T23:01:00.000-08:00

Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve
Pacific Coast Highway and Warner Avenue, Huntington Beach
714.840.1575
Bolsa Chica, perfect for a family nature getaway, is a pocket of wilderness tucked into the middle of the urbanized coast of Orange County. More than 200 species of birds make temporary homes here during yearly migrations. Signage recognizes the evolution, disappearance and restoration of these wetlands, which is divided into two bays. A 1.5-mile loop trail and tour is available around the inner bay and sand dunes.

Best Friend Dog Park

2008-02-06T22:59:00.000-08:00

Best Friend Dog Park
Inlet Drive and Edwards Street, Huntington Beach
714.536.5672
Located near Huntington Beach Central Park, dogs and their owners are welcome to play at the nonprofit park. When entering the gated facility, there is a "Doggy Walk of Fame," where tiles inscribed with patrons names and paw prints lead to the entrance. The park is open from dawn to dusk.

Orange County Zoo

2008-02-06T22:27:00.000-08:00

The Orange County Zoo is located inside beautiful Irvine Park in the city of Orange. The Zoo is nestled among the majestic 477 acre wilderness park.

The Zoo's focus is on animals and plants native to the southwestern United States. Animals on exhibit include black bears, mountain lions, bald eagle, island foxes, ocelot, red-tailed hawk, great horned owls, porcupine, coyotes, turkey vultures, coati and more. The zoo also features a barnyard with domestic goats, chevoit sheep, jacob sheep, pot-bellied pigs, doves and pheasants.

Orange County Zoo - Admission Fee:
$2.00 per person ages 3 years and over; Ages 2 years and under are free

Entry Fee for Irvine Regional Park:
$3.00 per vehicle weekdays & $5.00 per vehicle weekends (Major Holidays: $7.00 to $10.00 per entry as posted)

Please click on "Programs" & "Events & Programs" for a current listing of educational programs and special events offered at the Orange County Zoo.

Orange County Zoo
1 Irvine Park Road
Orange, CA 92869
(714)973-6847

Huntington Beach Shipley Nature Center

2008-02-06T22:18:00.000-08:00

About Shipley Nature Center

Opened in 1974, the Shipley Nature Center is an 18-acre fenced natural area within Huntington Beach Central Park, CA. Named after former Mayor Donald D. Shipley, the center is owned by the City of Huntington Beach.

History
After years of neglect, the Nature Center became overrun with invasive, exotic plant species that crowded out more desirable native plants on which local native wildlife depends. Non-native tamarisk and giant reeds depleted the ground water. Dead Monterey pines and giant reeds, were a fire risk and needed to be removed. The Blackbird Pond suffered from lack of oxygen, especially during the summer months. With donations and grants and both paid and volunteer labor, the Friends of Shipley Nature Center and the City of Huntington Beach spearheaded a complete restoration. Included in the restoration was the removal of invasive, non-native plants, upgrade of the trail system, installed a drip irrigation system to enhance water conservation, and planted 50,000 California native plants. Water feature restoration included the creation of a freshwater stream to provide pond circulation and aeration. The stream will provide a powerful lure for migrating and resident birds. Restoration will greatly enhance habitat value for wildlife and will provide improved opportunities for environmental education.

Today
The Center includes 4,000 feet of well-maintained trails that meander through several habitats, including oak woodlands, Torrey pines, meadows, and Blackbird Pond, a natural freshwater wetland with mature willows and sycamores. Within the Nature Center is a 1,500 sq. ft. Interpretive Building with exhibits on local wildlife and ecology.

Mission Statement

The Friends of Shipley Nature Center is a non-profit organization formed to manage the nature center as an ecological sanctuary for California native plants and wildlife and to provide environmental education in an urban setting in partnership with the City of Huntington Beach and the local community, and with the wider world.

View the Shipley Nature Center website to find out current events.

My Gym

2008-02-06T22:15:00.000-08:00

My Gym
For children 6 weeks to 12 years of age.
Located in Huntington Beach, these structured, age-appropriate classes incorporate music, dance, relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, sports and other original activities. My Gym kids have fun as they gain strength, balance, coordination, fine and gross motor proficiency, agility, flexibility and social skills. My Gym offers both parent participation and independent classes.

Huntington Beach Public Libraries

2008-02-06T22:12:00.000-08:00

CENTRAL LIBRARY

Laptime Storytime (18 months to 3 years old)
Tuesdays: 9:15 a.m., 10:00 am and 11:00 am
Saturdays: 10:00 am

Preschool Storytime (3 years old to 5 years old)
Fridays: 10:00 am and 11:00 am

School Age Storytime and Crafts
(5 years old to 9 years old)
Thursdays: 3:30 pm to 4:15 pm
Saturdays: 11:00 am to 11:45 am

For All Ages...

Family Fun Storytime
Sundays: 2:00 pm

Family Evening Storytime
Second Thursday of each month: 7:00 pm

Grandparent Read-Aloud, School Year Hours: Monday, Tuesday 3 – 5 p.m.

Wednesday 2 - 5 p.m.

Summer Hours:
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday. 2 - 4 pm

HELEN MURPHY BRANCH

Preschool Storytime
(3 years old to 5 years old)
Mondays: 10:00 am, and 11:00 am

(Open Monday for Storytime only)

BANNING BRANCH

Preschool Storytime (3 years old to 5 years old)
Thursdays: 10:00 am and 11:00 am
(Open for Storytime only during this time)

Grandparent Read-Aloud

Thursdays 2:30 to 3:00 p.m.

MAIN STREET BRANCH

Laptime Storytime

(18 months to 3 years)

Wednesdays: 10:00 am

Preschool Storytime
(3 years old to 5 years old)
Wednesdays: 11:00 am

OAK VIEW BRANCH

Bilingual Spanish/English Storytime
(2 years old to 4 years old)
Fridays: 10:00 am

School Age Storytime (5 years old to 9 years old)
Wednesdays: 12:30 pm
Saturdays (with crafts): 10:30 am
(Open for Storytime only)

All Ages, Grandparent Read-Aloud
Tuesdays and Fridays: 2:00 pm to 4:00 p.m.

For more information, please view the Huntington Beach Public Library website.

Storytimes at Orange County Public Library

2008-02-06T22:09:00.000-08:00

Various branches of Orange County Public Library offer Storytime, where the librarian or volunteer read stories and/or organize crafts for your children.

Calendar of Events