10 playgrounds in Orange County, CA worthy of designation as destinations! Courtesy of FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
25555 Alicia Parkway
Laguna Hills, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
"Dinosaur Park for fossil fun"
Dinosaur Park in Laguna Hills is pure prehistoric fun. I've heard it called Dino Park and the official name is Prehistoric Park. The kids love the climbing on the whale fossil and going down the double metal slides. Some parents don't like it because it's on two separate levels so it's hard to watch multiple kids. Older kids especially love it. Read more on FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
4531 Bryan Avenue
Irvine, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
"Castle Park is great for pretend play"
The castle structure surrounds the park like a fortress which the kids absolutely love. Clamber over a bridge, duck your head in the tunnel, and scale walls and rocks to conquer the cinderblock castle. There is something here for all ages and it's easy to see kids from every angle. Read more and see a photo slideshow at FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
399 Camino Tierra Grande
San Clemente, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
"Red barn for pretend farming"
Tierra Grande is a farm-themed playground complete with corral, tractor truck, and ride-on farm animals. It's often called "Red Barn Park." Small grass hill right off playground good for rolling and reclining to watch the clouds go by. There's also a HUGE covered picnic area with lots of seating. Read more at FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
19251 Seapoint Avenue
Huntington Beach, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
"Futuristic play structures in natural setting"
Very unique play structures both for toddlers and bigger kids. The big kid play structure looks more like a work of art than a playground, and the toddler structures are spread out and encourage exploring and fun. There are lots of opportunities to spot nature here with bird life from the nearby ecological preserve. Go on a mini-adventure with your kids and see what they spot. Read more on FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
Foxtail Drive
Yorba Linda, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
"Pirate ships and castles"
This is THE most accessible playground I’ve visited. Not only are there ramps up to the pirate ship and castle play structures, a kid-sized wheelchair can actually navigate around the structures with big loops to make around the walkways (no backing up). There are even bridges to cross! See the slideshow at FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
Broadway St.
Laguna Beach, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
The location of this playground is outstanding. There is one bench swing and one baby swing near the beach. The play structure has tunnels and slides. Most kids just like to balance on the small fence surrounding the play equipment. Use caution here because it's busy and you can't always see your kids. Read more on FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
10250 Pioneer Road Park
Tustin, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
"Log cabin picnicking and uncovered wagons"
Three “covered wagons” are definitely the highlight of this Western-themed park. They are actually play structures. There are also swings and a log cabin picnic area. I like how there are plenty of places to sit and it's easy to observe the kids playing. There's a water play area for hot summer days (only runs in summer – 10am-4pm daily through Labor Day). See the slideshow at FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
Sand Canyon and Marine Way
Irvine, California
reviewed on: September 22 2010
"Kids Rock Playground teaches the water cycle"
The Kids Rock playground sits outside the OCGP Visitor Center under the big orange balloon. It has a naturescape style with lots of artificial rocks and logs. The cloud-like misters keep it cool on a hot day. Picnic tables near the play area make it easy for supervising young kids. Read more on FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
2864 North Tustin Avenue
Orange, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
"Streams, a lake, and multiple playgrounds"
The most notable feature of the park is its stream with fountains. Water runs under bridges and along paths to a large lake off Lincoln Avenue. Be aware: no swimming or wading! Families abound here – playing at the playgrounds, napping on the lawns, picnicking, fishing, and strolling. See slideshow at FunOrangeCountyParks.com.
13630 Atlantis Way
Garden Grove, California
reviewed on: October 07 2010
There is a sister playground to Atlantis Play Center in LA. It's called Vincent Lugo Park in San Gabriel. I like how the restrooms here are painted with murals of mermaids and mer-men. It never seems busy when we visit. See the slideshow at FunOrangeCountyParks.com.