Parks & Gardens
Looking for fun things to do in Anaheim beyond the theme parks? You’ll find plenty of fresh air and family-friendly fun at Anaheim’s beautiful parks and gardens. From wide-open green spaces to peaceful nature trails, these outdoor spots are perfect for relaxing, exploring, and making memories. Anaheim’s parks truly have something for everyone. Kids can climb and play on imaginative playgrounds, parents can unwind under shady trees, and nature lovers can enjoy scenic walking paths surrounded by native plants and wildlife. Whether you’re planning a picnic, attending a seasonal event, or just want to stretch your legs, Anaheim’s parks and gardens are some of the best places to enjoy the outdoors in Orange County.
Pearson Park, Anaheim
Located in the heart of Anaheim, Pearson Park is one of the city’s oldest and most beloved community spaces. This charming park blends history with recreation, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Families can enjoy playgrounds, shady picnic areas, and wide-open fields perfect for tossing a frisbee or enjoying a weekend picnic. What really sets Pearson Park apart is its beautiful Pearson Park Amphitheatre, which hosts concerts, movies, and community events during select times of the year. From live music under the stars to cultural celebrations, it’s a gathering place that brings Anaheim’s community spirit to life.
Atlantis Play Center, Garden Grove
Tucked inside Garden Grove Park, Atlantis Play Center is a true wonderland for kids and families. This colorful playground is filled with whimsical animal sculptures, climbing structures, and plenty of space for little ones to run, jump, and imagine. One of its biggest highlights is the water play area, complete with flumes and splash zones that are perfect for cooling off on hot Southern California days—so don’t forget to pack towels and a change of clothes!
Yorba Regional Park, Anaheim
Visiting Yorba Regional Park is one of the top outdoor things to do in Anaheim. This 140-acre park stretches along the scenic Santa Ana River, offering plenty of space for relaxation, recreation, and family fun. Families can enjoy playgrounds, volleyball courts, paddle boats and wide-open picnic areas with barbecue grills, while anglers cast a line in the park’s lakes. This park is perfect for a brisk hike or a ride along the bike paths that connect to the Santa Ana River Trail. Throughout the year, the park also hosts community events, outdoor festivals, and seasonal activities, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
Oak Canyon Nature Center, Anaheim
Oak Canyon Nature Center is a 58-acre natural oasis perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and family-friendly outdoor fun. Trails wind through oak woodlands and a year-round stream, offering a peaceful escape from the city. The on-site John J. Collier Interpretive Center features hands-on exhibits and live animals, making it especially fun for kids. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, with the interpretive center open weekends, Oak Canyon Nature Center is ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy a scenic outdoor adventure in Anaheim.
Orange County Great Park, Irvine
Want to go on a hot air ballon? Orange County Great Park in Irvine is a must-visit park for families and outdoorsy seekers. Built on the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, the park spans over 1,300 acres and offers a wide variety of attractions, including playgrounds, athletic fields, basketball courts, and artist studios. Kids will love the carousel and interactive play areas, while the iconic Great Park Balloon takes visitors up high offering stunning panoramic views of the region, with free rides for children. Throughout the year, the park also hosts seasonal events, community festivals, and cultural activities, making it a vibrant spot for fun, recreation, and family outings in Orange County.
Irvine Regional Park, Orange
Irvine Regional Park is a family-friendly Orange County favorite, nestled among towering oak and sycamore trees with scenic trails, Santiago Creek, and a picturesque pond with a footbridge. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including the Orange County Zoo, pony rides, bike and paddle boat rentals at Irvine Park Rentals, hiking through beautiful trails and fun train rides throughout the track. The park also shines during the holidays with seasonal attractions like the Pumpkin Patch, Christmas Train, and Santa’s Village, making it a must-visit spot for outdoor adventures, family fun, and unforgettable experiences year-round.
