We love this interactive park in Orange County. Adventure Playground at University Park in Irvine is one of those places where kids can just play, explore and use their imagination. There's a mud area, tunnels, obstacles, a huge playground and plenty of space to run around.
When it had its grand opening, we couldn't wait to check it out. We couldn't wait to get a glimpse of the new play space that was so different than other OC parks.
We first visited Adventure Playground when it reopened years ago, and I remember not really knowing what to expect. It had been around since the 70s, but had been closed to the community for quite a while before reopening. The original Adventure Playground was a place where kids could build, play in the dirt and mud, and use their imaginations to play in nature. The newer version is definitely different, but the idea is still the same...let kids play, roam, imagine and explore.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but when I first arrived at the park with the boys, my first thought was AWESOME. It was a lot different than I expected. There are some really fun play structures, but also lots of open space, mud, water and pathways. The entire park is landscaped with native plants and has natural rock and wood structures for kids to climb and explore. And it's completely enclosed except for the entrance, which I always appreciated when the boys were younger.
The Best Park in Orange County
My boys immediately went to play and were totally in awe of everything they could do. To most adults, it may look like there isn't much to do, but there is! Kids can build, dig, run, jump, hide, slide and, best of all...get dirty.
There are sand areas, mud, water pumps and lots of open-ended things to play with. You probably want to bring a change of clothes just in case the kids decide to get muddy, and definitely wear clothes you don't care about getting dirty.
Did you read that? Do not wear your good clothes!!!!
And beware! Even adults are going to want to join in the fun. Adventure Playground is a great park for parents to interact and play with their kiddies. These giant LEGO bricks are a favorite of park guests!
The kids spend hours building forts with the giant LEGO bricks. Seriously, they are so much fun, and kids get to be creative!
Adventure Playground in Irvine (in photos)
Check out some of the photos I took of Adventure Playground on our visit. You will see just how cool this park is!
The playground equipment is super fun, and there are lots of different kinds to try. Rope bridges, slides, climbing walls, sliding poles, and more
There is also landscaping and interactive gardens to explore. Most of the plants that were used to adorn this park are native to Orange County. They are also water-saving and drought resistant.
These water pumps are a big hit with the kids. They love to pump water and see what happens. This is why I suggest bringing buckets. Kids can catch water and play in it. And don't worry. All the water is recycled.
The concrete slides are a fun a different activity from other Orange County parks. You can bring a piece of cardboard to help you slide faster. But they work good without as well.
And there is plenty of sand to play in too! Another reason to bring buckets and shovels. Sometimes you can also check out sand toys or the cool sand diggers. It just depends on if the park has them available that particular day.
We had a blast playing at the new park, and the kids always want to go back. It's always a favorite park to visit no matter if it's summer or not. It's great all year round! I highly recommend checking it out with your kids because of its uniqueness. It's one they will remember!
Things you need to know about Adventure Playground in Irvine
Where is Adventure Playground?
Adventure Playground is located inside University Community Park in Irvine, near the library. There is a small parking lot near the Adventure Playground entrance, plus additional parking around the park.
Does Adventure Playground cost money?
Admission to Adventure Playground in Irvine is FREE. That's one of the best things about it!
Do you need reservations?
For regular family visits, reservations are not required. Large groups, private reservations and birthday parties are not permitted inside Adventure Playground.
What are the hours?
March-October: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily
November-February: 10 a.m.-dusk daily
Hours can change seasonally or for maintenance, so I recommend checking the City of Irvine website before you go.
Does Adventure Playground have bathrooms?
Yes! There are bathrooms inside the park.
Are there picnic tables?
Yes, there are picnic tables near the front of Adventure Playground. They can get busy, though, so I also like the idea of bringing a picnic blanket if you plan to stay awhile.
A Good Resource for Adventure Playground
If you would like more information on the Irvine Adventure Playground, head over to Fun Orange County Parks!
What to Bring to Adventure Playground Irvine
- Clothes that can get dirty
- A change of clothes
- Plastic bag to bring home dirty wet clothes
- Closed-toe shoes or shoes with good grip
- Water
- Sunscreen
- A towel
- Snacks or lunch
- A picnic blanket if you want somewhere to sit
- Buckets and shovels
Basically, come prepared for your kids to get dirty...even if they swear they won't.
Another Adventure Playground in OC?
Did you know there's another Adventure Playground in Orange County? Check out my guide to Adventure Playground in Huntington Beach. It's a very different experience and much, much muddier.
Susan
So much fun!!!!
kate coleman
looks like so much fun! will have to remember that its reopened!
Lizette
looks very cool, i will go soon. thanks!