Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Irvine, CA, in the Heart of Orange County

As a University of California, Irvine (UCI) graduate, I’ve spent my fair share of hours getting to know the city. During my most recent trip, though, I was impressed by the dozens of new restaurants and attractions that have cropped up in the years since I graduated in 2018.

With that in mind, here’s everything you should know about planning a trip to Irvine — what to do, where to eat and stay, and how to get here — from someone who knows just how great it is.

Things to do in Irvine

Bommer Canyon Trail

No matter what brings you to Irvine, exploring the local ranching history is a must. Start at Bommer Canyon Trail, which winds through a 4,000-acre preserve of Southern California’s chaparral ecosystem. You’ll hike for about a mile to reach Bommer Canyon Cattle Ranch, a garden-like space featuring preserved ranching equipment. From here, meander through the interpretive displays before heading back to your car, or head to the main trail for a longer hike.

A walk through Bommer Canyon might make you forget you’re in a city of nearly 315,000 people — aside from the occasional cyclist, I had the trail mostly to myself.

Bommer Canyon Trail: 6400 Shady Canyon Trail, Irvine, CA 92603

Tanaka Farms

Since the 1940s, the Tanakas have grown produce like strawberries and tomatoes in Orange County’s rich soil. Tanaka Farms is the latest iteration of the family’s work — this booming agritourism destination invites guests to pick fresh fruits and veggies right from the field while learning about local farming traditions.

When I visited in early February, sweet strawberries and fragrant bok choy were in season. But thanks to Irvine’s balmy weather, there’s almost always something ripe for the picking here, from melons and blackberries in summer to a pumpkin patch in autumn.

Tanaka Farms: 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

Irvine Historical Society & Museum

Open on Tuesdays and Sundays, the Irvine Historical Society & Museum is another essential stop to learn more about the city’s heritage. Exhibits trace Irvine’s past, first as the territory of native tribes like the Gabrielino people, then as cattle country, and, finally, as the idyllic urban hub it is today.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the staff — chatting with them was one of the highlights of my trip. The Irvine Historical Society & Museum is free to enter, though donations are requested to help cover operating costs.

Irvine Historical Society: 5 San Joaquin, Irvine, CA 92612

Great Park

Established on the site of a former Marine Corps Air Station, Great Park has become a destination for all kinds of family-friendly fun. Sports fields abound, including the Great Park Ice arena — training grounds for the likes of Olympic figure skater Nathan Chen.

You don’t need to be a world-class athlete to enjoy Great Park, though. Little ones will love the playgrounds, while visitors of all ages can relax by the duck pond and get a bird’s eye view of Orange County from the helium balloon.

Great Park is the crown jewel of Irvine’s many green spaces, as the city ranks fourth in the nation for park equity and access. Stop by the San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary to catch a glimpse of marine birds, or head to the William R. Mason Regional Park (a personal favorite during my time at UCI) for a relaxing picnic.

Great Park: 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618

Irvine Spectrum Center

For the shoppers, Irvine Spectrum Center is a buzzing outdoor mall with a wide variety of different stores and restaurants. Families with kids can spend an afternoon at Dave & Busters or cool off in the fountains and water features. On the other hand, if it’s a date night you’re planning, the Regal Cinemas multiplex, Irvine Improv comedy club, and towering Ferris wheel should have you covered.

Irvine Spectrum Center: 670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618

Where to eat and drink in Irvine

The Bow Room at Hello Kitty Cafe

Head to the Ferris wheel in the Spectrum to reach Hello Kitty Cafe. While the regular cafe serves an assortment of pastries and drinks, serious Sanrio fans should make a reservation at The Bow Room — a plush, bright pink lounge serving afternoon tea and cocktails. I highly recommend booking a tea time — you’ll be treated to tasty tidbits like jammy macarons and fluffy pretzel croissants in one of Irvine’s most photo-worthy eateries.

Hello Kitty Cafe: 860 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618

Hive + Honey Rooftop Bar

Though Irvine’s nightlife doesn’t have much of a reputation — yet — buzzing spots like Hive + Honey aim to change that. At this swanky bar atop the Marriott Irvine Spectrum, uber-friendly staff serve a menu of light bites and creative cocktails (ask for drink recommendations, and you won’t be disappointed). While you sip, take in cool evening breezes and sprawling views of Orange County.

Hive + Honey: 7905 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618

Cozy Pine

Hidden inside the unassuming Bacchus Bar and Bistro, Cozy Pine is a little spot that’s quickly gaining a big reputation. When I visited, I chatted with a family from Texas who’d seen the place online.

This cabin-themed speakeasy offers a handful of delicious dishes in addition to a variety of cocktails. I’m partial to the Death Valley — a fruit- and chili-infused tequila cocktail topped with a sprig of smoked rosemary — but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. And in case you were wondering, yes — the atmosphere is every bit as cozy as the name implies.

Bacchus Bar and Bistro: 6735 Quail Hill Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92603

Irvine Grill

Irvine Grill dishes up both traditional and more modern Persian fare. If you’re feeling overwhelmed (like I was) by the enormous menu, you can ask the staff for suggestions. No matter what you order, though, prepare to be impressed by the perfectly spiced meals and the hefty portions. Just make sure to save enough room for a warm cup of chai after you eat.

Irvine Grill: 6507 Quail Hill Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92603

Habana

This hopping Cuban eatery is in the Spectrum, but once you enter Habana, you’ll feel like you’re in Ciudad de las Columnas (or “City of Columns,” a nickname for Havana). The music, decor, and lively ambiance all transport diners to a different time and place. So does the food — dishes like the ropa vieja (stewed beef in a tomato-based sauce) and seared ahi combine Cuban culinary traditions with upscale sensibilities.

If you’re looking for something to sip on, you can count on a complimentary glass of Champagne at the door. But I suggest the non-alcoholic piña colada, an indulgently sweet concoction rimmed with toasted coconut flakes.

Habana: 708 Spectrum Center Dr., Suite 708, Irvine, CA 92618

KIT Coffee

Students, families, and corporate professionals alike flock to KIT (short for Keep in Touch) to grab a morning cup of joe. The melting pot here is so warm and lively that strangers often ask one another for food and drink recommendations. Speaking of, these go way beyond your local Starbucks — think seasonal creations like a decadent strawberry latte topped with flavored whipped cream and freeze-dried strawberries. The regular menu is nothing to sneeze at, either.

KIT Coffee: 2010 Main St Suite 160, Irvine, CA 92614

University Town Center

University Town Center (or UTC, as students call it) is right across the street from UCI’s main campus. Naturally, this shopping center is the go-to destination for students looking to grab a pita wrap from Luna Grill or an almond milk tea at Cha for Tea. Between fast food like In-N-Out and Asian eats like Northern Cafe, there’s something here to suit all kinds of cravings. Outdoor seating is also plentiful, ideal for those sunny Irvine afternoons.

University Town Center: 4100–4255 Campus Drive, Irvine, CA 92612

Farmhouse Grill

Farmhouse Grill is a convenient stop for breakfast or lunch, especially if you want to hit the greens at the Strawberry Farms Golf Club. Sit indoors or outside on the covered patio, where you can people-watch from behind the driving range. If you time your visit right, your meal might include produce from Tanaka Farms, right up the road.

Farmhouse Grill: 11 Strawberry Farm Rd, Irvine, CA 92612

Where to stay in Irvine

AC Hotel Irvine

Among the variety of hotels in Irvine, Marriott’s AC Hotel stands out for its quietude and central location. The hotel also comes with all the modern comforts you’d expect, including a prix fixe breakfast buffet, a fitness center, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. Rooms have been fully updated with stylish furniture, cushy mattresses, and spacious walk-in showers.

Now, let’s talk more about that location. You’ll be right next to a shopping center packed with a variety of restaurants, so there’s no need to go far for a good meal. And, perhaps most importantly, you’ll be within a roughly 15-minute drive of anything else you want to see and do in Irvine.

AC Hotel Irvine: 3309 Michelson Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

How to get to and around Irvine

John Wayne Airport (also known as Santa Ana or SNA) is just outside Irvine’s city limits. A bevy of commercial flights come to and from John Wayne, which is much calmer and more traveler-friendly than other nearby aviation hubs like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Once you’re here, you’ll need a car to get around. Don’t worry, though — you can find more than enough parking just about everywhere you go. Rideshares are also abundant, and buses and shuttles will help you travel near campus.