Orange Weekend with Kids

Hand-1244783541

Families, especially from out of the area, usually don't explore much beyond Disneyland and the surrounding community of Anaheim. But you'd be surprised at some of the hidden gems that the neighboring city of Orange has to offer. Once you get away from the high-priced hotels and restaurants catering to the theme park crowds, you'll find some good deals for families. And you'll find some fun places to explore.

1Web-leonardo-h14830-h14830_pool_01_j-image
BW Meridian Inn and Suites
Usually ranked as one of the top hotels in the city of Orange, it's ideal for families who need a little more room to stretch out. Suites come with two TVs, a small refrigerator, and a microwave. Unlike most hotels that serve up a cold continental breakfast, Meridian Suites offers hearty offerings of waffles, sausages, scrambled eggs... More >
Usually ranked as one of the top hotels in the city of Orange, it's ideal for families who need a little more room to stretch out. Suites come with two TVs, a small refrigerator, and a microwave. Unlike most hotels that serve up a cold continental breakfast, Meridian Suites offers hearty offerings of waffles, sausages, scrambled eggs, and oatmeal. A great way to start the day. As always, the kids will love the pool, and adults will melt away in the hot tub.
2
Zito's Pizza
The best pizza in the city of Orange, at least according to numerous polls each year. It's the fresh, high-quality ingredients that win them praise. The casual family-friendly atmosphere will make you feel right at home. My kids always ask for pizza when we're on vacation. Might as well get the best that Orange has to offer at Zito's!
Kids will absolutely be enthralled by the historic Ghost Town, and their Wild West Stunt Show is second to none.
3Web-3410439596_cb49bd7b29_b
Orange County Zoo
One of the smallest zoos I've ever visited, but well worth the trip. Located within Irvine Park, a massive 477-acre wilderness park in the city of Orange, the zoo offers a great experience for kids. The highlight is the California Black Bear display, where you can see these beautiful creatures up close. The zoo focuses on animals an... More >
One of the smallest zoos I've ever visited, but well worth the trip. Located within Irvine Park, a massive 477-acre wilderness park in the city of Orange, the zoo offers a great experience for kids. The highlight is the California Black Bear display, where you can see these beautiful creatures up close. The zoo focuses on animals and plants from the Southwest United States, such as coyotes, foxes, mountain lions, raccoons, and bald eagles. Expect to spend more than a few hours here. The admission is just $2 for everyone over the age of 3, although be aware that there is a vehicle admission fee of $3 to enter Irvine Park.
4Web-2492872701_d9b82c244b_o
Irvine Park Railroad
Located within Irvine Park, a massive 477-acre wilderness park in the city of Orange, the Irvine Park Railroad is going to be something your little kids remember forever. The one-third scale train takes children and adults chugging through the park on a nearly 15-minute ride. Admission is $4 for everyone. Be aware, however, that ther... More >
Located within Irvine Park, a massive 477-acre wilderness park in the city of Orange, the Irvine Park Railroad is going to be something your little kids remember forever. The one-third scale train takes children and adults chugging through the park on a nearly 15-minute ride. Admission is $4 for everyone. Be aware, however, that there is a vehicle admission charge of $3 to enter Irvine Park.
5Web-4724276311_e2ff42fe2e_b
Knott's Berry Farm
Knott's Berry Farm plays second fiddle to Disneyland, and often gets overlooked by families visiting from out of the area. But if you're looking for something different, or just someplace a bit less crowded, Knott's is a great alternative. Kids will absolutely be enthralled by the historic Ghost Town, and their Wild West Stunt Show i... More >
Knott's Berry Farm plays second fiddle to Disneyland, and often gets overlooked by families visiting from out of the area. But if you're looking for something different, or just someplace a bit less crowded, Knott's is a great alternative. Kids will absolutely be enthralled by the historic Ghost Town, and their Wild West Stunt Show is second to none. For the older kids, Knott's specializes in wild and wooly roller coasters, some of them record-breaking. You won't find these types of coasters at Disneyland. For the early elementary kids, Camp Snoopy is the ideal place to spend a few hours, with unique kiddie rides and photo ops with the Head Beagle himself. Admission is very reasonable, at $23.99 for kids under 12, and $54 for 12 and up.
Usually ranked as one of the top hotels in the city of Orange, it's ideal for families who need a little more room to stretch out.
Map View Hide Map

About the Author

Phil Corless
Phil Corless
Keep moving forward.
Websitefacebook.com/IdahoDad
More Lists by Phil Corless

Related Lists

×

© 2006 - 2012 Uptake Networks, Inc.

Uptake

Get the best tips and advice by discovering which of your friends have been to Orange, and also reach our helpful and experienced Uptake travel community. Sign in!

×
Uptake

Did you know that your Internet Explorer is out of date?


To get the best possible experience using our website we recommend that you upgrade to a newer version.

Close