Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Santa Ana, California, is not only the largest city in the region but also a vibrant center brimming with art, eclectic shops, and a diverse dining scene. Its close proximity to popular theme parks makes it an ideal family destination in Southern California. Here’s a curated list of engaging activities to enjoy in Santa Ana with your children.
Top Attractions for Kids in Santa Ana
Begin your family adventure at the Santa Ana Zoo, home to over 80 species of animals. Challenge your kids to spot all 50 monkeys that the zoo is required to have on-site at all times, as per its founder’s wishes. Don’t miss the fun rides on the Zoofari Express train, Conservation Carrousel, and the Fifty Monkeys Ferris wheel.
For a blend of indoor fun and exercise, visit Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park. Kids will adore the open jump areas, climbing walls, stunt bags, and slam-dunk zones. Special toddler times are also available during the week. Just a heads up: you’ll need to purchase Rockin’ Jump’s unique socks for $3.50.
While the Main Place Mall might seem primarily for shopping, it also offers a family-friendly experience. With designated family parking, a colorful play area, and lounges equipped with nursing rooms and changing stations, it’s perfect for parents. After exploring, catch a budget-friendly movie at Picture Show.
If you’re looking to mix education with fun, head to Discovery Cube Orange County, where over 100 interactive exhibits are sure to engage kids of all ages.
For little ones fascinated by firefighting, the Santa Ana Fire Department Museum is a must-see. Located within an operational fire station, it showcases vintage and modern equipment, plus a fully restored 1921 fire engine for hands-on exploration.
If your children love to climb, Sender One Climbing offers a fantastic experience. Kids and adults alike can enjoy Sender City, featuring buildings, towers, and a huge drop slide. The toddler park, with harnesses and helmets, is definitely a cute sight to see.
Kid-Friendly Dining in Santa Ana
Here’s a selection of some top-notch restaurants in Santa Ana that cater to families:
- Gypsy Den: For health-conscious yet delicious meals, Gypsy Den is an excellent choice, offering vegan and vegetarian options that everyone will enjoy. Parents will also appreciate the extensive cocktail menu.
- 4th Street Market: This food hall is situated in the former Santa Ana Swap Meet, featuring 15 vendors and plenty of family-friendly events, including movie nights.
- Tacobar: For a quick meal, check out Tacobar, where you can enjoy a meal while your kids play on the outdoor playground, allowing you to savor your food in peace.
- Hans Homemade Ice Cream: Don’t forget to leave room for dessert at this 1950s-style parlor serving classic and unique flavors such as Nutella krunch and pineapple sorbet.
- Chunk N Chip: Another favorite known for their delightful ice cream “sammiches.” They craft ice cream and cookies in small batches, with options for gluten-free and vegan diets.
Where to Stay in Santa Ana with Kids
When visiting Santa Ana, consider these family-friendly hotels:
- The Courtyard Santa Ana: Offers amenities such as high-speed internet, Netflix, and Hulu, with mini-fridges in every room, and some featuring sofa beds for larger families.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Santa Ana: Provides on-site laundry services, a kid-friendly restaurant, a pool, and cribs – plus, free chocolate chip cookies to sweeten your stay.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson: Includes a hearty breakfast, a pool, a hot tub, and convenient laundry facilities, all while being close to various dining options.
Outdoor Adventures in Santa Ana for Families
Santa Ana is rich in outdoor activities that are enjoyable for both kids and adults:
- Visit Downtown Santa Ana on the first Saturday of the month for the Artwalk, showcasing numerous galleries, vendors, bars, and restaurants, along with live performances and kid-friendly activities.
- For a self-guided adventure, download the app for the Discover Santa Ana Public Art tour, prompting kids to look for graffiti, sculptures, and other artworks throughout the city.
- After a trip to Discovery Cube Orange County, explore Santiago Oaks Regional Park, which features biking and hiking paths, playgrounds, and scenic views.
Explore More with Your Family in Santa Ana
Take a trip back in time at the Heritage Museum of Orange County, where you can explore buildings from the 1890s, including the unique Kellogg House with its ship mast centerpiece. Kids can play with vintage toys, dress up in Victorian costumes, and even observe a working blacksmith shop.
Infuse some culture into your family outing by visiting the Bowers Museum, which houses over 91,000 artworks from around the world. Family festivals are also held here, allowing you to create art and learn about different cultures together. Note that the popular Kidseum is currently closed for renovations.
For gaming enthusiasts, check out the Esports Arena, a sprawling 15,000-square-foot facility that hosts daily competitions.
In summary, Santa Ana is a wonderful destination packed with diverse activities for families. From educational experiences to outdoor adventures and delicious dining options, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Keyphrase: Family-Friendly Activities in Santa Ana
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