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Local picks in Costa Mesa

Unique kid-friendly spots

A day out with the kids requires somewhere that feels different from the usual routine.

Based on 690 Opinions
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01
Lyon Air Museum image 1
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Converted hangar next to an active runway offers intimate exhibits of WWII aircraft and vintage vehicles. Quiet atmosphere with interactive zones where kids can explore cockpits and military jeeps. Visitors hear planes taking off nearby, adding a unique front-row aviation experience.

Kids explore vintage cars and climb inside cockpit displays. Friendly guides and a fun mission game keep children engaged.

A huge display case on the second floor shows very unique aircraft models. The gift shop offers plenty of unique gifts for both beginners and experts of the air.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; my son loved the museum and planes."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $14 for adults and $7 for children over 4 years old.

2

The museum is located next to an active runway, allowing visitors to watch planes take off and land.

3

There are usually special exhibits that visitors should check out.

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Small bistro with Parisian decor and red-and-white checkered tablecloths creates an authentic French atmosphere. Cozy space with 7-8 tiny tables offers a peaceful, relaxing vibe. Games and toys for kids add a welcoming touch during wait times.

A box of toys and games keeps kids busy while waiting. The owner gives children a small Eiffel Tower keepsake and brings out games to play. Nutella crepes and other treats appeal to young diners.

Menu offers unique crepes and sandwiches with a classic French taste. Chocolate Croissant stands out with its distinctive flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The owner's unique Parisian charm makes everyone feel so welcome."

"It's so kid friendly, they even give little Eiffel Tower keepsakes!"

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the gas station, but it can get crowded.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The café offers a variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options.

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Ice cream shop blends diner vibes with modern twist featuring memorabilia and musical instruments that create a fun, cozy atmosphere. Energetic music and occasional live performances add to the inviting, lighthearted energy. Seating is available inside and outside, making it a comfortable spot for casual hangouts.

Kids enjoy the Cookie Monster milkshake and staff show care by adjusting the heater near the fire TV for them. The spot offers a fun alternative to regular milkshakes from fast food places.

Milkshakes come in a variety of unique flavors that blend multiple tastes in one. The menu stays simple yet creative, making it a cool spot for something different.

People are saying

"The milkshakes here are perfection, and my kids loved them."

"I found the milkshakes to be tasty and unique."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough at The Straw: Modern Milkshakes.

2

Karaoke on Friday nights starts at 8pm with no cover charge.

3

The portion of the milkshake is very generous and can be split.

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Ice cream shop with clean interior and friendly staff creates a welcoming atmosphere full of fun energy. Customers enjoy a wide variety of unique flavors and custard options that stand out from typical frozen treats. The place offers thoughtful touches like free ice packs for takeout to keep desserts fresh.

The owner treats kids with kindness and offers free samples to picky eaters. The kids scoop is large and includes two flavors, often mixed into Italian ices for custom treats.

Combining ice cream, soft serve, and Italian ice creates unique textures and flavors. The rotating options and delicate blends offer a distinctive experience not found in typical grocery brands.

People are saying

"The unique flavor combinations here are delicious and keep the menu interesting."

"The ice cream and Italian ice here are amazing and kid friendly."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a huge variety of flavors and fun options.

2

Parking is available in a large lot next to the shop.

3

To use the restroom, request the key from an employee.

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Small Japanese restaurant with authentic decor and warm yellow lighting creates a cozy, immersive atmosphere. Busy and popular spot, often filled with couples and groups enjoying fresh, high-quality sushi. Outdoor seating with heaters and a nearby ice cream shop add to the relaxed vibe.

Soft, flavorful caterpillar roll and kid-approved crab sticks and chicken bento box make meals easy for kids. Booth seating and a classic Japanese vibe create a comfortable atmosphere for families.

Fresh sushi includes a wide variety of rolls like the classic spicy tuna and the unique Bikini Roll. Smaller cut rolls come in 4 or 5 pieces, and the scallop sashimi with truffle oil stands out. The to-go bag is a unique orange tote that adds a touch of luxury.

People are saying

"The avocado roll for the kid was surprisingly fresh and creamy."

"The ingredients here are so fresh, it's unbelievable."

Good to know

1

The wait can be up to 2 hours long for 2 people, so I recommend RSVPing or arriving early.

2

There was a large parking lot available for guests.

3

Expect an hour wait on the weekend.

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Compact space blends New York feel with Cali vibe featuring creative decor and neon signs. Atmosphere stays cozy and casual with excellent music enhancing the relaxed mood. Small bar seating and limited outdoor tables create an intimate setting for enjoying artisan pizza with unique flavors.

High school kids use this spot to hang out and socialize. Kids around 10 years old find it engaging while waiting for orders.

Slices feature unique flavor profiles like bonito flakes with miso kewpie sauce and a taco-inspired chorizo pastor. The crust stands out as thicker yet airy and chewy, blending deep dish and focaccia qualities.

People are saying

"The pizzas here have unique flavor combinations, like the Japanese one."

"The pizza here is delicious and reminds me of Rome."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during busy holidays like July 4th.

2

Seating is very limited, with only high stools available.

3

Pizzas are sold by the square slice, priced at $8 each.

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Fantasy-themed tea bar resembles a medieval tavern with wizard costumes and magical decor. Atmosphere feels cozy and immersive, with secret rooms offering games and interactive experiences. Visitors engage in themed activities like wizard tests while enjoying unique boba and ice cream offerings.

Fun magic-themed ambiance with servers in costume handing out wands creates a playful experience for kids. A secret entrance and elf characters add to the sense of adventure and wonder for children.

A magical vibe fills the space with unique recipes and storytelling atmosphere. The drinks offer great flavors that stand out from typical boba spots.

People are saying

"The decor here is unique, totally immersing you in a magical world."

"It's a magical experience with awesome atmosphere and staff."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but fills up quickly, so plan ahead.

2

They prefer card payments over cash and do not provide change.

3

The menu features fewer than 10 items, all cold drinks and no food.

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Large space with modern Chinese decor and plenty of seating creates an elegant atmosphere. Background music plays, sometimes loud, contributing to a lively but occasionally noisy environment. The setting suits date nights and casual dining with a mix of Northern and Southern Chinese cuisine.

Kids enjoy the Vegetable and Pork Dumplings with their soft wrappers and balanced filling. Families celebrate birthdays here, making it a spot that welcomes children warmly.

Rainbow xiao long baos offer unique flavors with juicy, flavorful fillings. Seasonal options like Dungeness chili crab soup dumplings add to the distinctive menu.

People are saying

"The panda chocolate lava bun was a hit with the tweens."

"The colorful dumplings had unique, juicy, and flavorful fillings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2:30 pm to 5 pm with 40% off select items.

2

During happy hour, many dishes are 40% off with few menu restrictions.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

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Casual cafe with modern design and ample outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and vibrant indoors to loud and lively on the patio, making it suitable for social occasions. Crowds are common, so reservations help avoid waits.

Kids get breakfast served quickly with friendly service. The kids' meal includes fruit, but some fruit showed mold. Pricing runs around $63 for one adult and one child.

Menu features unique flavors and well-executed dishes not commonly found elsewhere. The cinnamon roll latte and biscuits with gravy offer distinctive tastes that stand out.

People are saying

"Their unique cinnamon roll latte is delicious and strong."

"The giant cinnamon roll is a massive treat, perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

The wait time can be quite long during busy brunch hours.

3

Parking is limited and can be frustrating to find.

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Costa Mesa, California

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