Orange County, CA

Things To Do With Kids In Orange County This Fall

1. Tanaka Farms - Costa Mesa

Tanaka Farms - Hana Farms is a fun way to spend the day in OC. There were so many things to do, and the kiddos loved it! We started the day by going to the small animal farm, the girls were so happy to see them. We then went to the arts and crafts section where we got to paint pumpkins and mini bird houses. It was nice and cool under the tent.  

We then went on the tractor ride that goes around the flower and pumpkin field. Right after, we headed to pick our flowers, which was the best part of the day! The girls were so excited. They have all sorts of sunflowers and other types of flowers too that you can pick. They even have a watering station where you can quench their thirst once you place them in your vase. They had a blast running up and down the field and being able to touch everything in site. 

The kiddos really loved the animals, so we stopped by again to hang out with them. After that, we headed for the pumpkin patch to pick our own pumpkin to take home. There were so many to pick from it was hard to decide. Overall, a great fall activity! Thank you @TanakaFarms for having us! We had so much fun! #HanaFieldPumpkins #itsapumpkinpatchkindofday

A few tips:  I wish we had brought our wagon such as this one, it would have made the trip much easier. Also, bring scissors or something to cut the flowers with, plus don't forget your sunscreen and water! 

PS. There is another Tanaka Farms in Irvine, but make sure you got to the Costa Mesa one, as this is the one with the Sunflower Field. 

2. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens - San Clemente

Every first Sunday of the month, entrance to the center is free. The location has a small garden and beautiful view to the coast. Not very stroller friendly, so consider bringing a baby carrier such as this one, or allowing your toddler to walk. The best part is, the San Clemente Beach is a short 10 minute walk around the corner. Using our red wagon, we stopped by for Gelato at Caterina's Gelato and a walk along the beach. There are also swing sets right on the sand which looked fun for the toddlers.  

3. Carbon Canyon Regional Park - Brea

Once you enter the park (there is a small entrance fee), you can drive towards the back and park to walk the redwoods trail . After about 15 minutes, it really feels like you walked into the woods. Its a nice place to take family pictures, or simply admire the beautiful scenery. 

4. Sherman Library and Gardens - Newport Beach

Cute place if you feel like walking around and enjoying calm gardens (small entrance fee). You can walk the whole area in less than an hour, so take your time and let your little one enjoy all the different plants and views. If you still have time, stop by the Newport Beach Public Library. 

5. Victoria Beach - Laguna Beach

Even though it is fall, California has great weather, which makes it perfect for going to the beach. Victoria beach is located in Laguna Beach. Once there, try to make a castle to look like the Pirate tower that is there on the beach!  

6. Oso Creek Trail - Mission Viejo

Grab some coffee and head to the Oso trail. This is a very stroller or wagon friendly walk that has paved floors and is shady throughout. There is a small labyrinth along the trail where your little one can explore! 

7. Downtown Disney District - Anaheim

Grab a famous churro (they are actually $6.95, not $20 LOL) or hot chocolate from Starbucks and walk around. They have live bands on Friday nights so you get to enjoy the Halloween decor and dance with your tiny human. 

Tip: Do NOT drop your parking ticket like we did. Make sure to keep it in a safe place and validate it if you buy something. 

8. Angels Stadium - Anaheim

Trust me. I thought this was a bad idea at first but its THE BEST PLACE to take a loud baby. The crowd is cheering and the baby is entertained by all the sounds, the lights, the people, and the fireworks. You will thank me later. 

9. Irvine Spectrum - Irvine

On Friday and Saturday nights they have live bands that play by the Ferris Wheel. There is soft fake grass to sit on and enjoy while your little one runs around. The place decorated overhead, so my little one loves looking at the lanterns and the decorations. There are also many fountains throughout, so you get to stop along the way. If you stop inside Old Navy, they provide a free balloon to the tiny humans.  

Bonus !

10. Pumpkin Hike - Norco

Okay, this one is not in OC (it's part of Riverside County) but I still wanted to add it here as it goes with the theme of Fall. If you're up for a challenge, try the Pumpkin Hike. We were able to bring our little one on a child carrier similar to this one. He never complained since he was comfortable and in the shade. The hike is pretty much uphill, so be prepared to sweat. I recommend bringing hiking sticks for stability, especially when you are walking back down hill with your mini-me on your back. Beware - there will be a long line to take a photo with the pumpkin (it will feel like Disneyland lines- so we went off the side a found a smaller pumpkin as shown with no lines). Many people were dressed up in Halloween gear, so have fun with it! The Norco Animal Control Center is located right at the entrance of the trail, so stop by and play with the dogs on the way back if you have time! 

-Out of Office.

With love, Erica

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