Things to do with kids in Santa Ana
Finding fun things to do with kids in Santa Ana can feel hard for busy families and tourists. The city offers many family activities, including outdoor fun, educational programs, and local kid-friendly events.
This blog shares top children’s attractions, parks and playgrounds, museums for children, adventure activities, arts and crafts workshops, and more in Santa Ana. Keep reading to discover new ideas for your next weekend outing with the whole family!
Key Takeaways
- Santa Ana Zoo spans 20 acres and features over 80 animal species, plus attractions like the Conservation Carousel.
- Pretend City Children’s Museum and Bowers Museum offer hands-on exhibits and weekend programs for kids to learn through play.
- Adventure City provides rides and shows for young children, while American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park offers obstacle courses that promote fitness.
- Nickel Nickel 5 Cent Games arcade lets families play games for just five cents each. Kids Castle Indoor Playground gives safe indoor fun for toddlers.
- The Newport Beach Fun Zone has oceanfront rides, arcade games, and a nearby beach; Lyon Air Museum displays vintage aircraft with interactive learning events year-round.
Animal Adventures
Animal lovers will enjoy the Santa Ana Zoo. This zoo features various animals and engaging exhibits for kids. The Irvine Park Zoo also offers exciting animal encounters and a chance to explore nature together.
Santa Ana Zoo
Santa Ana Zoo features a variety of animal exhibits perfect for family activities. Explore the habitats of over 80 species, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles. The zoo offers interactive experiences that engage kids with wildlife education.
Children will enjoy learning through fun programs designed for their age group.
The zoo spans 20 acres and includes picnic areas and a playground to keep everyone entertained. Kids can participate in educational programs while enjoying outdoor fun. Do not miss the unique attractions like the Conservation Carousel; it’s an excellent way to spend time together as a family.
Education meets fun at Santa Ana Zoo!
Irvine Park Zoo
After exploring the Santa Ana Zoo, consider a visit to the Irvine Park Zoo. This family-friendly destination offers fun and educational experiences for kids of all ages. You can see various animals like monkeys, birds, and reptiles up close.
The zoo provides interactive exhibits that engage children and spark their curiosity about wildlife.
Parents appreciate the beautiful setting within Irvine Regional Park. Families can enjoy outdoor adventures after visiting the zoo. Take advantage of picnic areas or rent a paddle boat on the lake nearby.
With plenty of recreational programs available, this attraction makes for an exciting weekend outing in Santa Ana.
Interactive Learning
Kids can explore fun and educational experiences at Pretend City Children’s Museum. They can engage with hands-on exhibits that spark creativity and learning in a playful environment.
Bowers Museum offers exciting opportunities for children to connect with art and culture through interactive displays and programs designed just for them. Kids will enjoy activities that blend entertainment with education, making every visit memorable.
Pretend City Children’s Museum
Pretend City Children’s Museum offers a vibrant environment for kids to explore and learn. This interactive museum features exhibits that mimic real-life settings, allowing children to role-play various professions.
They can work in a grocery store, visit a fire station, or even play in an art studio. Each experience promotes educational programs while sparking creativity.
Families appreciate the hands-on activities available at the museum. Parents can engage with their children through arts and crafts projects or fun games designed for all ages. Visiting Pretend City guarantees hours of entertainment paired with valuable learning experiences for young minds.
After exploring this unique space, families can head next door to Bowers Museum for more cultural adventures.
Bowers Museum
After your visit to Pretend City Children’s Museum, you can explore the Bowers Museum. This cultural gem showcases art and history from around the world. Kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and learning.
The museum hosts various educational programs tailored for families. You can engage in arts and crafts activities that make learning fun. Weekend outings here often feature kid-friendly events, so plan your trip to catch something special.
The vibrant displays invite young minds to discover new cultures, making it an excellent destination for children’s attractions in Santa Ana.
Active Fun
Active fun awaits your family in Santa Ana. Kids can enjoy thrilling rides and challenging activities at local adventure parks, where excitement never ends.
Adventure City
Adventure City offers exciting fun for families in Santa Ana. This amusement park caters to younger children and provides several thrilling rides, games, and attractions. Kids can enjoy roller coasters and bumper cars while parents relax in the cheerful atmosphere.
Adventure City features live entertainment shows that entertain visitors throughout the day.
Families looking for active fun will find plenty to do here. The bright colors and playful designs create a welcoming environment for all ages. After a day full of excitement, head next door to American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park for more challenges and fitness activities perfect for kids.
American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park
American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park offers excitement for kids and families in Santa Ana. Here, children can tackle fun obstacle courses modeled after the popular TV show. They climb walls, swing on ropes, and navigate various challenges that promote fitness and teamwork.
Families appreciate this active fun as it engages both body and mind.
Visitors can also enjoy special events throughout the year that feature friendly competitions. These events encourage kids to push their limits while having a great time with friends.
The park provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor fun combined with healthy activity. Next, explore other thrilling attractions in Santa Ana, like Adventure City or Irvine Park Zoo.
Adventure Playground
Adventure Playground offers a unique way for kids to play and explore. Located in Santa Ana, this space encourages creative outdoor fun. Children can climb, build, and experiment with various structures made from natural materials.
They create their own adventures as they engage in hands-on activities.
Parents appreciate the emphasis on free play. Kids develop important social skills while working together on projects. Adventure Playground promotes imagination without screens or distractions.
Families looking for recreational parks should consider visiting this spot for a day of active enjoyment before exploring more attractions nearby.
Other Fun Options
Santa Ana offers many exciting activities for families. From games at Nickel Nickel to exploring the Kids Castle Indoor Playground, there’s something for everyone.
Nickel Nickel 5 Cent Games
Nickel Nickel 5 Cent Games offers a fun experience for families visiting Santa Ana. This arcade features a mix of classic and modern games where each game costs just five cents. Kids can enjoy various activities, from racing games to shooting hoops.
Parents will appreciate the low-cost entertainment.
Families can explore different areas within the arcade. It has a separate space for younger children filled with kid-friendly attractions that are safe and engaging. Fun prizes await those who rack up enough tickets playing their favorite games.
Nickel Nickel provides an excellent option for recreational parks and weekend outings in Santa Ana.
Kids Castle Indoor Playground
After a fun time at Nickel Nickel 5 Cent Games, head over to Kids Castle Indoor Playground. This place offers endless excitement for young children. It features colorful play structures and soft areas for toddlers.
Kids can climb, slide, and explore safely.
Parents appreciate the clean environment and friendly staff. The facility hosts birthday parties and special events too. Kids can engage in arts and crafts while enjoying interactive exhibits as well.
Enjoy family activities together in this kid-friendly attraction that guarantees hours of entertainment.
Newport Beach Fun Zone
Kids Castle Indoor Playground provides fun indoors. It is a perfect way for children to play safely and burn energy. Next, families can head to the Newport Beach Fun Zone. This vibrant area offers exciting attractions right by the ocean.
Families can enjoy rides like the Ferris wheel and bumper cars while soaking up beautiful views. Kids can also play arcade games or grab treats from local vendors. The beach nearby invites families for some outdoor fun after enjoying all the activities at the Fun Zone.
Take a stroll along the pier or build sandcastles on the shore together. Newport Beach Fun Zone truly delivers kid-friendly attractions that are perfect for family outings in Santa Ana.
Lyon Air Museum
Lyon Air Museum showcases a unique collection of vintage aircraft. Families can explore wartime planes and vehicles, offering an exciting glimpse into aviation history. Interactive exhibits captivate both kids and adults alike.
You will find informative displays that educate visitors about each piece on display.
The museum hosts family-friendly activities throughout the year. Special events encourage interactive learning for all ages. Plan a visit with your children to enjoy educational experiences in this historical setting.
This destination is perfect for those seeking recreational programs focused on aircraft and military history in Santa Ana.
Santa Ana Artists Village Farmers Market
After exploring the fascinating displays at Lyon Air Museum, head over to Santa Ana Artists Village Farmers Market. This vibrant market offers a great family outing every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Locals and visitors enjoy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food.
Families will find various kid-friendly attractions here. Children can explore interactive exhibits that showcase local artists’ works. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with music and art, perfect for weekend outings.
With plenty of options for arts and crafts, this farmers market brings fun to your day in Santa Ana.
City of Santa Ana Public Libraries
The City of Santa Ana Public Libraries offers a great space for family activities. Families can explore various educational programs and interactive exhibits. Each library provides access to thousands of books, magazines, and other media for kids of all ages.
Children can enjoy storytelling sessions and craft activities that spark creativity.
Events take place regularly at the libraries, making them kid-friendly attractions. These community events promote learning through fun experiences. Kids will gain knowledge while enjoying time with their families in a welcoming environment.
Santa Ana’s libraries provide an excellent opportunity for recreational programs geared towards youth development.
Conclusion
Santa Ana offers many fun activities for families. Kids can explore zoos, museums, and parks that spark their curiosity. Outdoor adventures await at local playgrounds and adventure parks.
Markets and community events provide chances for arts and crafts too. Family outings in Santa Ana create lasting memories for everyone involved.
FAQs
1. What are some family activities in Santa Ana for kids?
Families can visit local community centers, join arts and crafts classes, or explore recreational parks for outdoor fun.
2. Where can we find kidfriendly attractions in Santa Ana?
Children’s attractions include the adventure park, interactive exhibits at cultural museums, and special educational programs at the zoo.
3. Are there educational experiences available for children in Santa Ana?
Yes; many museums offer hands-on learning through educational programs and interactive exhibits designed just for kids.
4. What weekend outings do you suggest with children in Santa Ana?
Try attending kidfriendly events like local festivals or plan a trip to recreational parks that feature playgrounds and picnic areas.
5. Can we enjoy both indoor and outdoor fun with our kids in Santa Ana?
Absolutely; families have options such as visiting indoor play spaces, exploring art studios, or enjoying outdoor recreation at nearby parks.
