Orange County is the perfect California scene for families looking for a fun time. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or building out your summer travel list, the OC offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Where to Stay
If convenience is at the top of your list (especially with kids), Hilton Irvine is a great option. We stayed there after taking in a baseball game. It was so nice not having to drive back after a late evening at the ballpark. Located directly across from John Wayne Airport, this property makes travel days feel seamless while still keeping you close to beaches, shopping, and major attractions. South Coast Plaza, Newport Beach, Irvine Spectrum Center and Disneyland® Resort are all less than 15 miles away. Hilton Irvine offers the perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and California sophistication. The property features 306 recently refreshed guest rooms and suites, elevated culinary experiences, and modern meeting and event spaces designed for both business and leisure travelers. There is also a complimentary airport shuttle. And yes, it is pet-friendly!
Dining that actually stands out
One of the highlights at the Hilton Irvine is the on-site dining experience led by Executive Chef Leonel De Leon, whose approach blends global inspiration with seasonal California ingredients. A reimagined dining destination rooted in California’s coastal bounty. Trellis & Tide evokes the feeling of stepping into someone’s kitchen, where guests are encouraged to linger from morning through night for breakfast, cocktails at the bar, or a relaxed evening meal. Our family enjoyed the breakfast buffet with waffles, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit. There were plenty of options to fill everyone’s palette. For lunch, we ordered our food to go from Trellis & Tide and enjoyed it poolside. We recommend the poke bowl, ceviche, and fish tacos. They were the perfect complement to the SoCal sunny day.
Executive Chef Leonel De Leon brings two decades of experience to the Hilton Irvine, where he leads and elevates all Food & Beverage operations. His culinary journey began in childhood, choosing to watch cooking shows instead of cartoons, a passion that drove him to his first kitchen job in ninth grade. After honing his skills, Leonel graduated from the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu and worked at acclaimed Southern California restaurants like Beech Wood in Marina Del Rey. Over the last 20 years, he has excelled in the luxury hotel sector, holding culinary roles with top brands including Four Seasons, Omni, and Marriott before joining the Hilton Irvine.
Staycation Activated
We took advantage of the sunny day and played ping pong on the poolside patio as a family. After our ping pong game, we enjoyed the outdoor heated pool and whirlpool. I relaxed by the pool in a cabana while the kids had cannonball contests. During the evenings, there is also a firepit that you can gather around too. If you are looking for a day trip or staycation spot, you can also book a day pass to the pool or rent a cabana through Resort Pass.
Things To Do in the Orange County Area
Great Park Balloon
Take your trip to new heights, literally. The Great Park Balloon offers a tethered ride with panoramic views of Orange County. This is an easy win with kids. From 400 feet in the sky, a sweeping view stretches from the coastline to the mountains. It’s such a simple but memorable experience, especially at sunset. It offers an unmatched 360° view that spans 40 miles on a clear day. Kids are free and adults are $10. There is also a carousel and the rides are free! Check the website for hours of operation as rides fill up quickly.
Tanaka Farms
For something a little different, Tanaka Farms offers interactive farm tours, seasonal produce picking, and wagon rides that kids love. It’s hands-on, educational, and a nice break from the typical theme park pace. Plus they have family farm-to-table cookouts and even cooking classes. It is one of our family’s favorite spots. Each season, Tanaka Farms provides a different farm tour experience! Our favorites are the Strawberry Picking tour, Pumpkin Patch & Hikari: Festival of Lights. Bring the entire family for a fun and educational tour of a real working farm led by a knowledgeable and friendly tour guide. Most of their tours include a guided wagon ride around the beautiful thirty-acre farm, making several stops in the fields along the way to pick fruits and vegetables right where they grow!
Aquarium of the Pacific
Just a short drive away, the Aquarium of the Pacific is packed with interactive exhibits and marine life encounters perfect for the family. From touch tanks to immersive galleries, our kids love getting up close and a hands-on introduction to ocean ecosystems, conservation, and marine species. It turns curiosity into understanding, making it one of those rare spots where education feels natural.
Other Budget Friendly Family Fun
Orange County also makes it easy to keep things budget-friendly. From outdoor parks and trails to community events, there’s no shortage of free activities to explore. Here are some of our favorites:
- Beach days and tide pooling
- Nature walks and scenic viewpoints
- Outdoor parks, play areas and splash pads
- Seasonal festivals and local markets
We were hosted at Hilton Irvine. All of our thoughts and opinions are our own.
