6 Unforgettable Things To Do In Orange County With Toddlers

If your family is like mine, finding the perfect adventure to create special memories often poses a challenge. As a mom, I’ve had my fair share of Google searches looking for things to do on the weekends or just a day off with the kids. Luckily, my family has crafted their list of favorite things to do in Orange County with toddlers, so you don’t have to. From taking adventures to seeing some animals or even grabbing a fun, sweet treat, there’s so much to be discovered in the area.

Create Special Memories With These Things To Do In Orange County With Toddlers

Pretend City

29 Hubble Irvine, CA 92618 

Pretend City is an Orange County adventure for imaginative and curious toddlers. Built to mimic “the world in a nutshell,” this space is designed to teach children how the real world works. Pretend City Children’s Museum is a unique educational experience designed specifically for children ages infant to 8 years old. Spanning over 17,000 square feet, this interactive museum offers a dynamic environment where children can learn through play and exploration. 

Modeled after a small city, Pretend City features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that mimic real-life experiences. This allows children to engage in imaginative role-playing and hands-on learning. From a grocery store and bank to a construction site and farm, each exhibit is carefully crafted to provide opportunities for children to develop essential life skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. 

Additionally, Pretend City hosts daily educational programs and workshops led by experienced educators. They cover topics ranging from science and math to arts and culture. With its focus on experiential learning and creative play, it serves as a valuable resource for families fostering the growth and development of their children. All in a fun and stimulating environment.

Irvine Park Railroad

1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869

Irvine Park Railroad, nestled within the scenic Irvine Regional Park in Orange County, California, offers a delightful adventure for families and toddlers of all ages. Established in 1996, this charming attraction is renowned for its miniature train rides that wind through the picturesque park, providing passengers with panoramic views of lush greenery, scenic ponds, and towering trees. 

Additionally, the railroad also features other attractions. Including paddle boats, bike rentals, and pony rides, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Moreover, Irvine Park Railroad hosts special events throughout the year, such as the annual Pumpkin Patch and Christmas Train, which draw crowds with festive activities, seasonal decorations, and holiday-themed entertainment. With its tranquil surroundings and nostalgic appeal, Irvine Park Railroad remains a beloved destination for families seeking outdoor fun and memorable experiences.

OC Zoo

13042 Old Myford Road ​​Orange, CA 92869

The OC Zoo, situated within the sprawling Irvine Regional Park in Orange County, is a beloved destination for toddlers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 60,000 acres of natural habitat, this quaint zoo is home to a diverse collection of native California animals, including black bears, mountain lions, bald eagles, and more. 

Established in 1985, the OC Zoo serves as a vital educational resource. They offer visitors the opportunity to learn about local wildlife conservation efforts and the importance of preserving natural habitats. Beyond its animal exhibits, the zoo features educational programs, interactive displays, and guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. Providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s rich biodiversity. Additionally, the OC Zoo hosts special events throughout the year, such as animal feedings, keeper talks, and seasonal celebrations, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to discover. 

Discovery Cube

2500 N Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705

The Discovery Cube of Orange County became a premier science center dedicated to inspiring and educating toddlers and visitors of all ages about the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With over 100 interactive exhibits, the Cube offers hands-on learning experiences. These engage visitors in the scientific process and foster curiosity and critical thinking skills. From exploring the inner workings of the human body to experimenting with renewable energy sources, visitors can immerse themselves in a wide range of STEM topics. 

Additionally, the Cube features a state-of-the-art theater, planetarium, and outdoor science park, providing additional opportunities for discovery and exploration. Moreover, the Discovery Cube offers a variety of educational programs, workshops, and camps. All designed to supplement school curricula and inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators. With its commitment to making STEM education accessible and engaging, the Discovery Cube serves as a valuable resource for families, educators, and the community at large, fostering a lifelong love of learning and inquiry.

Seascape Kids Fun

4771 E. Hunter Ave Anaheim, CA 92807

Seascape Kids Fun, located in Anaheim, California, is a vibrant and dynamic indoor play center designed to ignite the imagination and foster creativity in children. Seascape offers a myriad of exciting activities and attractions that cater to children of all ages. From colorful and elaborate play structures to engaging arcade games and thrilling rides, there’s something every little adventurer can enjoy. The centerpiece of Seascape Kids Fun is its massive indoor playground, featuring slides, tunnels, ball pits, and interactive elements that provide hours of endless entertainment. 

Additionally, the Orange County facility hosts birthday parties for toddlers, group events, and field trips, complete with customizable packages and dedicated party hosts to ensure a memorable experience for all. Safety is paramount at Seascape, with certified staff members closely monitoring all activities and maintaining a clean and sanitized environment. With its commitment to providing a fun and safe play environment, Seascape Kids Fun stands as a premier destination for families seeking wholesome entertainment and lasting memories.

Candeeland

Multiple Area Locations

Candeeland is an immersive, enchanting indoor playground and candy store with tons of locations. This children’s heaven emphasizes movement and inspires creativity to provide an engaging experience for exploration and creativity. Inspired by the founder’s childhood memories of candy-filled adventures, this enchanting destination offers a unique fusion of a playground and a candy emporium. As visitors step inside, they are greeted by vibrant hues and the tantalizing scent of confectionery delights. The playground boasts an array of candy-themed attractions. From towering lollipop structures to candy cane slides, they created an immersive experience that sparks joy and wonder. 

Meanwhile, the candy shop is full of shelves brimming with a diverse selection of treats, including nostalgic favorites and artisanal creations. Whether it’s gummy bears, chocolate bars, or sour candies, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Families can also partake in interactive arcade and ninja courses where sweet dreams come to life. 

I Hope Your Family Loves These Adventures and Things To Do In Orange County With Toddlers As Much As Mine

This area offers so many wonderful and unforgettable things to do with toddlers in Orange County. From exploring Discovery Cube to the sweet fun in the store at Candeeland, there is something for the whole family. Whether looking for a fun outdoor activity or something educational, spending quality time with your child is a breeze. 

As a mom, I love spending quality time with the kids. So, I know how important it is to capture those important memories. If you need some captured moments, then I would love to assist you. During the entirety of our time together, I will take care of all of the details so you can focus on your family. Then, we can turn those memories into keepsakes that will last a lifetime. If this interests you, contact me today to get the conversation started.

On a separate note, if you’re traveling for your baby moon to Europe, my friend Miriam who focuses on family vacation photography in London, UK, has a great blog you should check out!