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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Orange

Kid-friendly outdoor spaces

Fresh air and room to move allow children to burn off energy while everyone stays comfortable.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Irvine Regional Park image 1
Irvine Regional Park image 2
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Spacious park with lush greenery and large open grass areas featuring BBQs and picnic benches. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and quiet during weekdays to active and friendly with families and teens on weekends. Offers diverse activities including a zoo, train and pony rides, paddle boats, and hiking trails.

Many activities keep kids busy, including a train ride suited for younger children and opportunities to climb trees. The park feels safe and fun for families with young kids.

Many options for outdoor fun exist, including a zoo and group activities. The park offers creative photo spots and an outdoor barbecue venue for adults.

People are saying

"This park has a zoo and train, perfect for families."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with a fun train ride."

"This outdoor space is perfect for families with a zoo and train ride."

Good to know

1

The cost to enter the park with a vehicle is $5.

2

Parking can be extremely difficult at Irvine Regional Park.

3

I need to arrive early because the park fills up quickly.

02
Orange County Zoo image 1

Zoo sits within a large park shaded by tree canopy, creating a peaceful family atmosphere. Enclosures feature water elements and offer clear views of animals like jaguars and mountain lions. A petting zoo with goats and pony rides adds interactive experiences for children.

Low entrance fee makes it easy for families to visit. The zoo offers a free petting zoo and is sized just right for young children to explore and enjoy.

People are saying

"I found the zoo to be a fun place with a great petting zoo."

"It's a great, small zoo, perfect for kids."

"You can brush and feed the goats in the Outdoor Space petting zoo."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is only $2 per person, with children under 2 entering for free.

2

Parking costs $5 per car, but finding a spot can be challenging.

3

The zoo hosts community events like Star Wars day that are enjoyable for the whole family.

03
Santiago Oaks Regional Park image 1

Trails wind through lush greenery and a running creek, creating a peaceful, natural setting that feels far from urban life. Visitors find short, family-friendly paths with shaded rest areas and a small playground. Scenic views from hilltops and a nature center add to the calm, inspiring atmosphere.

Short trails and a small children's play area make it easy for kids to explore. Features like stone steps along the water and a waterfall add fun spots for walking and playing.

Offers offroading trails and family-friendly hiking paths. Provides affordable access with hours of outdoor fun.

People are saying

"The park's trails offer a great variety for hiking and biking."

"You'll find great outdoor space with trails for hiking, biking, and horses."

"It's kid friendly with a playground and picnic areas."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $5, with parking fees of $3 on weekdays and $5 on weekends.

2

Parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended.

3

There are no public restrooms along the trails; facilities are only near the parking lot.

04
Grijalva Park image 1

Large open green spaces and multiple sports courts create a versatile outdoor environment. The atmosphere stays quiet and family-friendly, with clean grounds and playgrounds suited for children. Scenic features like a creek with a bridge and attached bike trails add to the relaxed, spacious vibe.

Playgrounds offer safe spaces with sand play areas perfect for toddlers. Families can enjoy picnics while kids play in a clean, kid-friendly environment.

Outdoor space includes shaded workout equipment and an outdoor gym. Plenty of picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and courts support various activities and relaxation.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly park with a fun playground."

"The public restrooms here are clean."

"The outdoor space has basketball courts and a playground."

Good to know

1

The park has plenty of parking available for visitors.

2

The playground is safe and well-maintained for toddlers.

3

The park requires a permit for field usage.

05
Irvine Park Railroad image 1
Amusement park

Large park offers train rides, pony rides, and bike rentals amid festive decorations. Atmosphere feels natural and peaceful with a family-friendly vibe. Seasonal events and well-lit areas create a relaxing experience for all ages.

Train and pony rides keep kids entertained while the zoo charges $2, free for toddlers. A free hay maze and haunted house offer gentle thrills, and carnival games give prizes to all children. Plenty of open space lets kids run freely.

A huge park offers cycling, paddleboat rentals, and barbecues for outdoor fun. Walking paths and resting spots create a peaceful atmosphere for family outings or solo relaxation.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with train rides and pony rides."

"The train ride through the park is charming and relaxing."

"It's a great outdoor space with pony rides and paddle boats."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5 per car to enter Irvine Park Railroad.

2

Arriving after 10:00 AM could result in waiting up to an hour to get in.

3

Online tickets for Halloween events sell out quickly, so buy in advance.

06
The Outlets at Orange image 1

Open-air plaza combines outdoor walking paths with indoor shops and entertainment. Vibrant, energetic atmosphere features loud music, family-friendly activities, and a mix of dining and retail options. Skate park, cinema, and lively crowd create a trendy, fun vibe especially appealing to teenagers.

Trampolines and reverse bungee jumps offer active play options for kids. Stores cover all school needs, and entertainment spots like Thrill IT and Dave & Buster's keep children engaged.

Plenty of outdoor walking areas create a relaxed shopping vibe. Beautiful scenery surrounds the open-air outlets with genuine discounts from leading brands.

People are saying

"This mall has a great variety of shops for the whole family."

"It's a great outdoor mall for strolling and shopping."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with trampolines and a play area."

Good to know

1

Parking can get tight at the outlet, especially on weekends.

2

There is free parking available at the outlet.

3

Many brands offer good discounts during sales events.

07
Boil Daddy - Orange image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers extensive outdoor seating with some covered areas, creating a comfortable and cool atmosphere. The space is clean and well-maintained, attracting diners who enjoy unique Cajun flavors and classic seafood boils.

Kids enjoy dishes like shrimp and snow crab served with potatoes, corn, and sausage. Garlic soy hot wings also appear as a popular choice for younger diners.

Many outdoor seating options offer a clean and cool atmosphere. Ordering happens at a window or screen, then food goes straight to the outdoor tables. The patio feels fun and classic, ideal for a nice day.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood boil here was the best I ever had."

"It's a lovely spot with a nice, cool atmosphere outside."

"It's so Kid Friendly, they loved the shrimp and snow crab meal."

Good to know

1

There is a good amount of parking available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not have indoor seating; all dining is outdoors.

3

Gloves are provided for diners to use while eating.

08
Orangeland RV Park image 1

RV park nestled in a citrus grove offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere despite urban surroundings. Spacious sites with orange trees and patios create a cozy, green environment. Heated pool and hot tub add to the relaxed vibe, while fresh citrus fruit is available for picking.

An on-demand bus service runs all day with low fares for kids and adults, making travel easy. Kids enjoy the playground and pool room, while staff offer welcome packets with toys to keep them happy.

Wide sites with grass and orange trees create a pleasant outdoor setting. Many spots include patio furniture for relaxing outside. Kids find plenty of space to play outdoors.

People are saying

"I found the park and its grounds to be very clean."

"It's surprisingly quiet, even being in the middle of the city."

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming, it's really Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

There is an on-demand bus service costing $6 for adults and $2.50 for children.

2

The park is close to Disneyland with a shuttle bus directly to the park.

3

Parking at the RV park costs around $80, which is quite expensive.

09
Ayres Hotel Orange image 1

Hotel offers spacious, clean rooms with a quiet, modern atmosphere despite proximity to busy roads. Amenities include a magnificent pool and jacuzzi, a small bar, and free breakfast with varied options. Location provides easy access to nearby attractions and conveniences.

Rooms offer spacious play areas and comfortable beds with large tubs for kids. Staff provide thoughtful touches like birthday treats and special accommodations for children with mobility needs.

Landscaping outside stands out with well-kept greenery. An outdoor heated pool adds a relaxing spot to the outdoor space.

People are saying

"The hotel rooms are spacious and super clean."

"The staff here is so friendly and accommodating, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"The outdoor space is clean and spacious."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers free parking and no resort fee.

2

Breakfast is served starting at 7am, which may be too late for early Disneyland visitors.

3

The hotel is just a 10-minute drive to Disneyland Park.

10
In-N-Out Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Bright, clean space with retro theme and classic red-and-white dรฉcor creates a welcoming vibe. Lively atmosphere buzzes with energy, attracting all ages and fostering a casual hangout feel. Spacious seating inside and outside supports comfortable dining even when busy.

Kids enjoy the mustard fried cheeseburger and the rootbeer float. The menu offers simple, familiar options that appeal to young tastes.

Outside space offers a shaded pavilion and decent outdoor seating. The area feels chill and not hectic with plenty of seating inside as well.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best I've ever eaten."

"The outdoor seating area is nice and chill."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my whole family loved it."

Good to know

1

Expect long drive-thru lines after 4 pm, especially on weekends.

2

The drive-thru operates efficiently with two windows for faster service.

3

Parking is ample, making it easy to visit during busy hours.

11
Super Dumpling image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Open kitchen reveals chefs hand-making dumplings, creating a transparent cooking experience. Spacious interior and covered outdoor patio offer a clean, modern, and welcoming atmosphere with a distinctly LA vibe. Halal Chinese cuisine draws a diverse crowd seeking authentic dumplings in a cozy yet lively setting.

Beef buns serve as a kid-friendly option that kids enjoy eating with their hands. Sasame Balls appeal to both adults and kids, making them a popular choice for families.

Ample outdoor patio space accommodates strollers and wheelchairs comfortably. The patio seating offers a relaxing atmosphere suitable for large group celebrations.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious Halal Chinese food."

"I loved the juicy dumplings and crispy pan-fried beef buns."

"The beef buns and chocolate bao are a hit with kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot due to high demand.

2

The wait time can be long during weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

All menu items are halal, ensuring a worry-free dining experience.

12
everywhere image 1
Brewery

Brewery offers indoor and outdoor seating with a dog-friendly patio featuring shade, heaters, and string lights. Atmosphere stays relaxing and mellow with good music, often 90's hip hop, and a neighborhood feel. Craft beers include juicy hazy IPAs and West Coast styles, paired with daily food trucks and pop-ups.

Surprisingly family friendly with most kids well-behaved and parents responsible. Some hazards exist like potted cacti that can cause minor injuries.

An excellent patio area offers plenty of outdoor seating with a good-sized space for relaxation. The spot is pet friendly, allowing leashed, friendly pets outside.

People are saying

"I found the beer here to be top notch and really good quality."

"I found the beer here to be very good quality."

"It's surprisingly Kid Friendly with responsible parents."

Good to know

1

Parking is mostly street parking, but there is a good parking lot available.

2

The brewery gets busy on weekends and at nights, so plan accordingly.

3

There is often a food truck at the brewery; check social media for updates.

13
Moreno's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio seating under a huge tree creates a relaxed atmosphere with patio lights enhancing evening vibes. Strong, well-crafted margaritas complement the setting. The space features old style architecture and a panaderรญa adding fresh-baked aromas to the experience.

Shaded patio offers a comfortable spot for families with kids. Kids can enjoy sizable burritos that appeal to younger appetites.

A beautiful patio surrounded by lush greenery offers a great spot to sit outside. The outdoor space shines on a clear California day and creates a lovely dining atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be amazing and authentic."

"The patio is shaded and great for families."

"The food here is classic and generous, with sizable portions."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features tacos priced at $2.50 each.

2

Margarita Mondays offer special pricing on drinks.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy times to secure seating.

14
Nexx Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Modern, clean hamburger restaurant with an open layout and outdoor patio seating featuring umbrellas. Atmosphere varies from calm and peaceful outside to noisy and lively inside with loud pop music. Offers fast drive-thru service and table pagers for order convenience.

Offers $2 burgers on weekdays that kids enjoy. Includes chicken strips as a combo upgrade, sized well for toddlers.

Plenty of outside seating and a nice patio area offer options for dining outdoors. The spot also has handicap accessibility and a drive-thru for convenience.

People are saying

"These burgers are really, really good and taste great."

"It's a nice patio area with good lighting."

"The burgers here are so good, my kids ask for them instead of other places."

Good to know

1

They offer a burger deal every day for less than $4.

2

A $1.95 burger special runs from Monday to Thursday.

3

Expect difficult parking; it can be a challenge.

15
Best Western Plus Meridian Inn & Suites, Anaheim-Orange image 1

Rooms open to an atrium with pool and hot tub create a unique layout, while outward-facing rooms feature brick and glass. Spacious, carpeted rooms include living areas with sofa beds and dining tables, giving an apartment-like feel. The outdoor courtyard offers a family-friendly atmosphere with safe, shallow pools and play areas.

A gorgeous outdoor enclosed area features a pool, small Jacuzzi, fountain, and tables. A courtyard offers space for kids to play, and a patio with tables under umbrellas provides a spot for al fresco dining.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is top notch and has a nice selection."

"The outdoor space has a pleasant fountain and a pool."

"It's a short drive to Disneyland, making it super convenient."

Good to know

1

The hotel is conveniently located near Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center.

2

Rooms are spacious and newly renovated, providing a comfortable stay.

3

The hotel offers a free breakfast for guests every morning.

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Orange, California

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