TOP 10 Best Zoo visits for children in Orange, California

The Orange County Zoo is a charming wildlife sanctuary located within Irvine Regional Park in Orange, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about native California wildlife in a beautiful park setting. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including black bears, mountain lions, bald eagles, and more. Guests can explore the exhibits, attend educational programs, and even participate in interactive experiences. With its picturesque location and diverse collection of animals, the Orange County Zoo is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Heritage Museum of Orange County is a unique and fascinating museum located at 3101 West Harvard Street in Santa Ana, California. This institution is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of Orange County through its diverse exhibits and collections. Visitors can explore historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and interactive displays that offer a glimpse into the region's past. Whether you're interested in local history, architecture, or simply looking for a fun and educational experience, the Heritage Museum of Orange County is a must-visit destination for all.

Pretend City Children's Museum, located at 29 Hubble in Irvine, California, is a unique museum and tourist attraction designed for children to learn about the world in a fun and interactive way. The museum is like a child-sized city where kids can explore and try out different real-world roles, sparking their creativity and imagination. Members have the special privilege of entering one hour before general admission, except on the second Sunday of every month. Pretend City also offers the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) to assess children's developmental performance in various areas, helping to identify any potential delays that may require further evaluation.

Cheyenne Arabians Pony Rides & Petting Zoo is a charming animal attraction located at 1927 Orange Avenue in Ramona, California. Visitors of all ages can enjoy pony rides and the opportunity to interact with a variety of friendly animals in the petting zoo. From adorable ponies to cuddly farm animals, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this family-friendly institution. Come visit Cheyenne Arabians Pony Rides & Petting Zoo for a fun-filled day of animal encounters and outdoor adventures.

Irvine Regional Park is a beautiful 495-acre park located at 1 Irvine Park Road in Orange, California, United States. Nestled among heritage Oak and Sycamore trees, the park offers a serene setting for leisure activities. Santiago Creek runs through the park, and a pond with a stone-work waterfall adds to its natural beauty. The park features a variety of landscapes, including rolling foothills filled with wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a paved bicycle/walking trail, six playgrounds, four softball fields, two horseshoe pits, and a lake. There is also a three-mile equestrian trail that provides scenic views of the park. Additionally, Irvine Regional Park is home to the OC Zoo, which is a must-visit for animal lovers.

Irvine Park Railroad is a beloved amusement park, tourist attraction, and zoo located at 1 Irvine Park Road in Orange, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy a scenic train ride through the park, explore the zoo featuring a variety of animals, and partake in a range of family-friendly activities. With its picturesque setting and fun-filled attractions, Irvine Park Railroad offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Citrus Ranch Park is a charming tourist attraction located in Tustin, California. This beautiful park is nestled at 2910 Portola Parkway and offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, fragrant citrus groves, and picturesque walking paths, Citrus Ranch Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic with family and friends. Visitors can also enjoy the park's playgrounds, sports courts, and open grassy areas for outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or simply enjoy a breath of fresh air, Citrus Ranch Park is a must-visit destination in Tustin.

The San Bernardino County Museum is a must-visit tourist attraction located in Redlands, California. Situated at 2024 Orange Tree Lane, this museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history, culture, and natural environment of San Bernardino County. With exhibits showcasing everything from Native American artifacts to local wildlife, the museum provides an enriching and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in exploring the region's past or simply looking for a fun day out, the San Bernardino County Museum is sure to captivate and inspire.

Spreckels Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 601 Orange Avenue in Coronado, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, beautiful flower gardens, and towering palm trees. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, have a picnic on the grassy lawns, or relax on one of the park benches. Spreckels Park also features a playground for children, making it a perfect destination for families. With its serene atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Spreckels Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and connect with nature in Coronado.

Discovery Cube is a vibrant institution located at 2500 North Main Street in Santa Ana, California. It is not just a museum, but also a book store, cafe, food stop, store, and tourist attraction all rolled into one. Our goal is to ignite a lifelong passion for learning and discovery in young people through interactive science-based exhibits and programs. With two campuses in Orange County and Los Angeles, we offer a wide range of hands-on exhibits, educational programs, science camps, and special events that aim to inspire the next generation of scientific thinkers. Come visit us and explore the wonders of the world around you while having fun and learning at the same time.

Nature Center - Irvine Regional Park is located at 1 Irvine Park Road in Orange, California, United States. This park is a serene oasis nestled among heritage Oak and Sycamore trees in the rolling foothills. Santiago Creek runs through the park, adding to its natural beauty. The park features a pond with a stone-work waterfall and footbridge, as well as a variety of wildlife and landscapes. Visitors can enjoy leisure activities in the shaded turf areas, explore the paved bicycle/walking trail, and visit the OC Zoo located within the park. Irvine Regional Park offers picnic areas with tables, barbecues, and restroom facilities. There are also playgrounds, softball fields, horseshoe pits, and a lake for recreational activities.

Area 2 Irvine Park is a charming institution located on Irvine Park Lane in Orange, California. This picturesque location offers a serene and peaceful setting for visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and events. Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful gardens, Area 2 Irvine Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this institution provides a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere for all who visit. With its convenient location in Orange, California, Area 2 Irvine Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Pony Rides is a charming institution located at Horseshoe Loop Trail in Orange, California, United States. Our facility offers a unique and exciting experience for children and families to interact with gentle and friendly ponies. Whether it's a birthday party, special event, or simply a fun day out, Pony Rides provides a safe and enjoyable environment for riders of all ages. Our experienced staff ensures that each rider receives personalized attention and guidance to make their pony ride a memorable and magical experience. Come visit Pony Rides and create unforgettable memories with our adorable ponies!