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Home » Orange County

Fun at Adventure Playground in Irvine

By Jill Parkin • Published: Dec 23, 2015 · Updated: Jan 16, 2023

We love this interactive park that has opened in Orange County. Adventure Playground at University Park in Irvine is one of Orange County residents favorite parks. OC kids of all ages can enjoy unstructured play, a mud section, tunnels, obstacles and an amazing jungle gym.

Adventure Playground in Irvine Photos

We couldn't wait to check it out, so we went over on opening weekend to get a glimpse of the new play space.

Adventure Playground at University Park in Irvine has been around since the 70's, but in recent years has been closed to the community. It once was a place where kids could build, play in the dirt and mud, and use their imaginations to play in nature. and although the new park is not the same as the original, the goal is still the same - to let kids play, roam, imagine and explore. it's only one of three parks in the United States of this kind...what a treat to have it located in the OC.

Adventure Playground in Irvine

I wasn't sure what to expect, but when i first arrived at the park with the boys, my first thought was AWESOME...and that it was a lot different than I expected. There were some fun play structures....but there is also a lot of empty space and areas with mud, water and sidewalks. the entire park is landscaped with native plants and natural rock and wood structures for kids to climb and explore. And, it's completely enclosed besides the entrance so you don't have to worry about the kids getting lost while they play.

Irvine Adventure Playground Orange County Mom Blog

The best park in Orange County

My boys immediately went to playing, 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 boxes, areas of mud and there are also water pumps. you probably want to bring a change of clothes for the kids just in case they choose to play in the mud, and definitely wear your grubbies when you go.

Did you read that? Do not wear your good clothes!!!!

Adventure Playground Irvine Stream
The Mud at Adventure Playground in Irvine

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!

Adventure Playground Irvine Giant Legos
Parents Playing at Adventure Playground in Irvine
Kids Playing at Adventure Playground in Irvine


Check out some of the photos I took on our visit...

Adventure Playground in Irvine Information
Playing at Adventure Playground
Irvine Adventure Playground Rope Bridge
Irvine Adventure Playground Free Admission
Adventure Playground in Irvine, California
Irvine Adventure Playground Water Pumps
Irvine Adventure Playground OC Mom Blog
Irvine Adventure Playground Forts
Adventure Playground Contruction Toys
Adventure Playground Irvine Sandbox
Adventure Playground Irvine Slides


We had a blast playing at the new park, and the boys can't wait to go back. i see this being a favorite place to visit in the summer and all year round for that matter. You have got to check it out with your kids.

Irvine Adventure Playground Telescope

Things you need to know about Adventure Playground in Irvine

Where is Adventure Playground

Adventure Playground in located inside University Park in Irvine, California. It is near the Library for better reference. There is a small parking lot located outside of the Adventure Playground entrance.

Does Adventure Playground cost money for Admission?

Admission completely FREE to get into Adventure Playground in Irvine. No reservations are necessary. However, Large groups, private reservations, and birthday parties are not permitted.

What Hours is Adventure Playground Open?

Adventure Playground is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is even open on Saturday and Sunday. There are always two staffed workers onsite if you need help or if there's a problem. They will have you check in with the names of everyone in your group and ask you to leave a phone number.

Does Adventure Playground Have Bathrooms?

Adventure Playground does have bathrooms located within the park!

Does Adventure Playground Have Picnic Tables?

Adventure Playground does have picnic tables located within the park! The picnic tables are located near the front of the park, so if you want to sit more central to your playing kids I recommend bringing a picnic blanket and lawn chairs. Plus, I have seen them get crowded at times.

If you would like more information on the Irvine Adventure Playground, head over to Fun Orange County Parks!

Adventure Playground in Irvine, CA

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Susan

    December 23, 2015 at 10:36 am

    So much fun!!!!

    Reply
  2. kate coleman

    January 10, 2016 at 9:34 pm

    looks like so much fun! will have to remember that its reopened!

    Reply
  3. Lizette

    December 28, 2016 at 4:25 pm

    looks very cool, i will go soon. thanks!

    Reply

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