Keeping your kids entertained can sometimes feel like a daunting feat. Luckily, there is no shortage of things to do in Orange County with kids. So much of it is perfect for the whole family to enjoy! If you are looking for an exciting day trip (or even a staycation!), check out these local spots to make new memories with your entire family.
3 Things To Do In Orange County With Kids for Fun-Filled Days
Dana Point Whale Watching
We are lucky enough to live in a part of the world that is uniquely rich in marine life. Dana Point Whale Watching is home to the world’s best year-round whale watching. The area’s underwater coastal canyons and large kelp beds draw in many species of ocean life, many of which are diets for whales and dolphins.
From Dana Point, you can spot Blue Whales, Fin Whales, Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, and Minke Whales all year long, and Killer Whales, Sperm Whales, and Pilot whales during specific seasons. Plus, Dana Point has more dolphins per square mile than anywhere else in the world – over 450,000 dolphins call Dana Point home!
The moderate weather and mild ocean conditions all year round make it ideal for visiting, whatever the season. Additionally, no towering buildings, oil rigs, or large ships interrupt the pristine and spectacular views.
Make a weekend out of your visit and stay at one of the area’s luxurious resorts or a moderately priced hotel. Or, just spend the day on a whale-watching tour, spotting whales and dolphins from boats of all sizes!
Disneyland
How cool is it that we live in a place that people come to visit from all over the world!? Disneyland is a must-see attraction for everyone, regardless of age, and it’s here in our backyard! When you visit Disneyland, you experience Disney’s magic firsthand.
With two parks (Disneyland Park and Disney’s California Adventure Park), there is something for everyone to enjoy. For those who love the classics, check out attractions like Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Pirates of the Caribbean, It’s a Small World, and Haunted Mansion!
The new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge immerses you in the world of Star Wars, complete with creative dining, thrilling rides and experiences, and plenty of shopping. Disney’s California Adventure Park has exciting roller coasters like the Incredicoaster, the Pixar Pal-A-Round Ferris wheel, and so much more.
Meet your favorite characters from beloved Disney movies, and take in a parade or two with plenty of music, dancing, and fun. With three great Disney resorts nearby and a variety of delectable dining, you’re sure to have a staycation you and your family will never forget!
Mission San Juan Capistrano
Mission San Juan Capistrano is Orange County’s most historic landmark. It was founded more than 200 years ago as the 7th of 21 missions statewide. Today, it is a museum and gallery, a monument to California’s multicultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and European heritage.
According to their website, Mission San Juan Capistrano “strives to serve as a resource by providing a living and learning environment that promotes and nurtures an appreciation for history while providing a place of faith, renewal, and celebration.”
They offer detailed guided tours of the property in multiple languages. Furthermore, they always have exhibits of curated historical and artistic galleries.
There are also plenty of activities to keep your kids engaged, like feeding koi fish in their beautiful ponds (scheduled at specific times throughout the week), a Mission scavenger hunt, and a Mission Clubhouse with hands-on experiences like life-size basket weaving and building a Roman arch. There are also plenty of educational and cultural events for kids and families throughout the year!
Things To Do In Orange County With Kids
Be it whales, Disneyland, or history, there are so many things to do in Orange County with kids. The area is full of creative, fun ways to entertain your family. Start making memories, and book your tickets today!
For more Orange County motherhood content, check out the blog links below. Then, let’s chat about capturing that sweet family of yours!
