Irvine City Guide

Welcome to Irvine, California! Located in the heart of Orange County, Irvine is a master-planned city known for its beautiful neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and thriving business community. With a variety of attractions, shopping, and dining options, Irvine offers something for everyone. Here’s a quick guide to help you explore the best that Irvine has to offer.

  1. Attractions:
    • Orange County Great Park: Enjoy a variety of recreational activities at this massive park, featuring sports facilities, walking and biking trails, playgrounds, and a carousel.
    • Irvine Spectrum Center: Visit this premier entertainment and shopping destination, featuring retail stores, restaurants, a movie theater, and a Ferris wheel.
    • Pretend City Children’s Museum: Ignite your child’s imagination at this interactive museum, designed to encourage learning through play in a child-sized cityscape.
  2. Food and Dining:
    • North Italia: Savor authentic Italian cuisine, including handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza, in a contemporary setting at this popular restaurant.
    • Urban Plates: Enjoy made-from-scratch meals, including salads, sandwiches, and grilled entrees, at this casual eatery focused on fresh, wholesome ingredients.
    • Din Tai Fung: Indulge in world-renowned soup dumplings and other Chinese delicacies at this acclaimed restaurant located in the Irvine Spectrum Center.
  3. Shopping and Services:
    • The Market Place: Shop for your favorite brands at this expansive outdoor shopping center, featuring over 120 stores, restaurants, and services.
    • Quail Hill Shopping Center: Browse a variety of retail stores and dining options in this conveniently located neighborhood shopping center.
    • Los Olivos Marketplace: Discover unique shops, restaurants, and services at this upscale shopping center in the heart of Irvine.
  4. Outdoor Activities:
    • Jeffrey Open Space Trail: Take a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride along this scenic trail, which spans several miles through Irvine’s picturesque neighborhoods.
    • William R. Mason Regional Park: Enjoy the outdoors at this beautiful park, featuring a lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.
    • San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore these tranquil 300-acre wetlands preserve, home to a variety of bird species and offering picturesque walking trails.
  5. Fitness and Recreation:
    • 24-Hour Fitness: Access state-of-the-art fitness equipment, group exercise classes, and personal training services at this popular gym.
    • Irvine Ranch Water District Community Garden: Cultivate your own plot at this community garden, featuring individual garden beds and educational programs.
    • Oak Creek Golf Club: Play a round of golf at this public 18-hole golf course, featuring challenging holes, picturesque landscapes, and a driving range.
  6. Events and Festivals:
    • Irvine Global Village Festival (October): Celebrate the cultural diversity of Irvine at this annual event, featuring live music, dance performances, international cuisine, and family-friendly activities.
    • Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch (October): Enjoy a festive fall experience at this popular pumpkin patch, featuring train rides, hayrides, and seasonal activities for all ages.
    • Concerts on the Green (Summer): Relax on the lawn and enjoy live music performances during this summer concert series, held at the Mike Ward Community Park.

Be sure to check local event calendars for additional activities and festivals during your visit. Enjoy your stay in the beautiful and dynamic city of Irvine!