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Best Playgrounds For A Playdate In OC

playground 610
(credit: Shutterstock)

Playdates are great not only for getting kids together despite the busy schedules of families, but also for parents who can catch up while their kids enjoy playing together. And let's face it, playdates are also great because kids generally get good and worn out after some play time. If you want to get your kids together with a friend, try these playgrounds.

Big Air Trampoline Park
(credit: Big Air Trampoline Park)

Big Air
23251 Avenida de Carlota
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
(949) 305-9788
www.bigairusa.com

Big Air is a trampoline park with different areas where kids can play. One area is basketball, where kids can jump and shoot at a standard hoop. This is good for taller kids, who may try to slam dunk, and for smaller kids who have an easier time getting the ball closer to the rim. There is also dodge ball and a variety of other areas. You pay by the hour here, and usually one hour is sufficient to expend the boundless energy your kids have. This is especially good for a rainy-day playdate.

vista hermosa park
(credit: Sara C./yelp)

Vista Hermosa Sports Park
987 Avenida Vista Hermosa
San Clemente, CA 92673
(949) 429-8797
www.funorangecountyparks.com

A sprawling complex that includes an aquatic center and a variety of athletic activities, Vista Hermosa Sports Park also has a play area where kids can keep themselves entertained as long as you'll let them. There are actually two different playgrounds here - one for bigger kids and one for smaller kids. Both have a pirate theme, and the bigger one has a lot of things for kids to climb on and explore. This playground also has a sand area that will keep your kids busy. Some San Clemente restaurants are nearby, so this is a great spot for a playdate around lunchtime.

Creekside Park
(credit: CJ Y./Yelp)

Creekside Park
25743 Stonehill Drive
Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 248-3557
www.funorangecountyparks.com/

Dana Point's Creekside Park is a big park that is good for all ages of kids and whatever might interest them. This park features two separate playgrounds - one specifically for smaller visitors. In addition to the playgrounds, this park also features a sand area, a rock wall, and a big grassy area where your kids can play the sport of their choice. You'll also find a basketball half court if you have kids that want to use their playdate to practice their game.

Related: Best Playgrounds In Orange County

bluebird park
(credit: Heather G./Yelp)

Bluebird Park
Bluebird Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Situated in Laguna Beach, Bluebird Park has a little something for everyone. The most noticeable thing is the play structure shaped like a rocket - and yes, it is metal just like the play structures you played on when you were a kid. You'll also see two slides built into the landscape of the park. Those alone can keep kids busy for a while. This park also features a basketball hoop, a big central grassy area. and it's not far from Laguna Coffee Company if you want to stop for coffee before or after the playdate. Parking here can be a bit tricky on the weekends though.

bill barber community park
(credit: Junho R./Yelp)

Bill Barber Community Park
4 Civic Center Plaza
Irvine, CA 92606
(949) 724-6714
www.ci.irvine.ca.us

Located in Irvine, The Bill Barber Community Park is a great place to bring your kids to meet their friends if they love a great big playground. Featuring various activities, it's definitely enough to keep your kids busy for a long time due to the size. The park also has a sand area, and a big grassy area where kids can run and kick or throw a ball. If that wasn't enough, the park also features a big picnic area, making it a great spot to enjoy not only a playdate, but also lunch.

Related: Best Splash Parks In Orange County

Gary Schwind is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
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